Background

Musée du Coquillage: A Shell Collector's Paradise

Discover a world of marine wonders at Les Sables-d'Olonne's Musée du Coquillage, home to a vast collection of seashells from around the globe.

★★★★★4.4 (1488)

The Musée du Coquillage (Museum of Shell) in Les Sables-d'Olonne is home to an impressive private collection of over 50,000 seashells from around the globe. Visitors can admire the diverse shapes, colors, and textures of shells sourced from various oceans, including the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Pacific.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Museum of Shell

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
8 Rue du Maréchal Leclerc, Les Sables-d'Olonne, 85100, FR
Monday
2 pm-6 pm
Tuesday
10 am-12:30 pm
Wednesday
10 am-12:30 pm
Thursday
10 am-12:30 pm
Friday
10 am-12:30 pm
Saturday
10 am-12:30 pm
Sunday
10 am-12:30 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Museum of Shell.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Allow at least an hour to fully explore the museum's extensive collection.
Bring a translation app, as some descriptions are only in French.
Check the museum's opening hours, as they vary depending on the season.

Discover more about Museum of Shell

Venture into the fascinating world of marine life at the Musée du Coquillage, a privately owned museum in Les Sables-d'Olonne dedicated to the wonders of seashells. This unique museum houses a collection of over 50,000 shells, showcasing the incredible diversity of these natural treasures. Visitors can explore shells from around the world, including specimens from the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Pacific. The museum also features displays of taxidermied sea creatures and coral reefs, offering a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems that create these shells. Exhibits highlight the use of shells in art and decoration, displaying delicate jewelry and elaborate sculptures crafted by local artists. The Musée du Coquillage is a captivating destination for visitors of all ages, offering a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty and diversity of marine life.

Explore places near Museum of Shell

    See all →

    Unlock the Best of Museum of Shell

    Find tickets, tours with entry, and experiences available for this location.

    Buy tickets

    No tickets available

    Book tours with entry

    No tours with entry available

    Book tours without entry

    No tours without entry available

    Getting There

    Walking

    The Musée du Coquillage is located at 8 Rue du Maréchal Leclerc in Les Sables-d'Olonne. From the Les Sables-d'Olonne city center or the main beach (Grand Plage), it's a short walk. Head north along the waterfront, then turn left onto Rue du Maréchal Leclerc. The museum will be on your right.

    Public Transport

    The Oléane Mobilités bus network serves Les Sables-d'Olonne. Several bus lines stop near the city center, from which you can walk to the museum. Check the Oléane Mobilités website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A single ticket costs around €1.

    Driving

    If driving, paid and free parking options are available near the museum. Free parking is available at Esplanade du Vendée Globe, a 5-minute walk away. Consider using a parking app like Parclick to find and reserve a spot. Be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak season.

    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    File:Les Sables d'olonne beach 01.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

    More about Vendée Coast

    Discover the Vendée Coast: A serene blend of golden beaches, lush forests, and charming coastal villages on France's picturesque Atlantic shoreline.

    Tell me more about Vendée Coast

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.