//
Hop aboard the Bleu Marin for a guided visit to the oyster and mussel beds, including a chance to see the shellfish at various stages of their life cycle as they grow on underwater ropes from larvae to harvest. The commentary is very comprehensive and peppered with banter, though unfortunately is only conducted in French. However, the chatty crew of two warmly welcome English-speaking passengers and provide sheets to read which give a rough summary of the commentary.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
Port de pêche et port de plaisance
The town's delightful little harbour should be the focus of your visit. Traditional wooden fishing boats are moored alongside flashier-looking yachts and all sorts of pleasurecraft. There are four different jetties to walk down, each with its own character and slightly different view. Take a wander past the colourful shack on the easternmost quay nearest the plage des Pyramides; you might see the boat repairman in his blue overalls pottering about on the various crafts under his care, not really working as such, but looking, listening, musing at what needs doing, and often pausing to greet passersby.
Interesting museum all about life in and on the Étang de Thau in all its forms. The first part of the exhibition charts the history of the shellfish industry in Bouzigues from the 19th century to present, including many artefacts from fishermen past and present. If the subsequent aquarium of étang marine life, complete with cooking suggestions for each of the species displayed, seems a bit farcical, you will enjoy the third part of the visit much more. This is a rather in-depth look at the biology of the étang, with a focus on conservation and finding a balance which works for wildlife, the fishing industry and tourists equally. The museum is kid-friendly, and most of the information panels contain translations in English and German.
A space has been cleared through the seaweed for swimming - stay between the floats. If you paddle softly enough, you will likely see fish basking in the warm shallows. Views over to Balaruc and Sète, and easy access to walks along the étang (see below).
Discover the pretty backstreets and squares of the old town, admiring the colourful buildings which press in on either side. Try not to miss the old communal well on chemin des Aiguilles, or the charming little garden on the south side of the town church, rue Jean Jaurès. The church (Église Saint-Jacques le Majeur, daily 10:00–19:00. Free.) merits a look inside, as it is the final resting place of the feudal lords of Bouzigues. Finally, if you're standing on place du Général de Gaulle, and wondering why half of the square is 2 m higher than the other half, it is because this was the original harbour; where people and traffic now pass through was once underwaterǃ Take care on some of the narrower streets, as some drive their vehicles recklessly fast.
Sinaué
Environmentally-friendly and silent electric boats which you can rent without a permit, and take for a day's fishing, sightseeing or offshore swimming. The company train you in navigation and safety before letting you loose, and can recommend itineraries upon request. Wheelchair-accessible boat available by reservation. Contact the company to confirm operation and prices.