For over a century, the Mediterranean coast has been attracting more and more people, but few of them take the time to discover and respect its many riches. The transparency, temperature and quality of the bathing waters (Blue Flag beach since 2000 and Blue Flag Harbour since 2002) invite you into a colourfull world of tranquillity.
Six Fours is involved with the preservation of ecosystems. Brusc Laguna, listed by Natura 2000, is a cradle of marine species and completely protected.
Six Fours les Plages is also an scuba diving paradise with many spots accessible to all levels, notably around the Embiez archipelago. Scuba diving and flipper, mask and snorkelling excursions can be enjoyed year round.

The Paul Ricard Oceanographic Institute on l'Ile des Embiez has been fighting against water pollution for over 40 years. It is dedicated to research and, thanks to its aquarium, allows the public to discover Mediterranean ecology. Over a hundred animal and plant species offer a panorama of Mediterranean undersea life.

PROTECTED SPECIES…
(The trapping, removal, or sale of these species is completely prohibited and illegal.)

…flora

• Posidonia herbarium is not an algae but a flowering plant. It forms vast undersea herbaria that are essential to the Mediterranean marine ecosystem. They can grow to 40 metres in depth and protect the shoreline from erosion. Posidonia herbaria are a source of oxygen and are spawning grounds and nurseries for many animal species. 
• Cymodocea resembles Posidonia but its leaves are thinner.

…fauna

• Great mother of pearl
• Flat lobster
• Sea date (European date mussel)
• Giant limpet
• Diadem sea urchin
• Grouper
• Cetaceans
• Loggerhead turtle
• Monk seal

RESPECTING NATURE…
…sea urchins
Along the French shoreline collecting is authorized from the first of September to 30th April with the exception of Bouches-du-Rhône where collecting is only authorized from 1st November to 31st March.
Quantities are limited to 4 dozen per person on foot and 12 dozen per sea boat.
The minimal size of capture is 5 cm in diameter without spines.
It is forbidden to sell what is caught.
Professional fishermen must also follow regulations and respect the time operating periods.

USEFUL ADDRESSES
- Swimming Water Quality: Qualimer:low cost call: 0825 838 000, click here to learn everything about the sea water quality of Six Fours les Plages.

-The Maritime Office