The Love Aquarium

Tucked into Escondido, The Love Aquarium has earned a devoted following from fishkeepers across the San Diego region — some driving 45 minutes or more to shop here instead of settling for closer alternatives. Owner Doug, who reviewers note is actually a marine biologist, runs a store stocked with a serious mixed selection of freshwater and saltwater fish, corals, live plants, natural décor like rocks and driftwood, and a full range of tanks and equipment. The showroom itself is part of the appeal.

Dozens of well-maintained display tanks line the store, many set up as inspiration pieces for aquascaping. One reviewer mentioned the store even has a dedicated area where customers can play around with décor to plan their layouts before committing. Kids love walking the aisles tank by tank, and the staff is notably patient about it.

Doug's expertise runs deep — and sometimes delightfully specific. One customer recounted how he was able to sex and identify female Black Tiger Badis and Scarlet Badis from their stock on separate occasions, a skill that borders on wizardry for anyone who's tried it. Staff members like Jake and Ethan get called out by name for steering newcomers through their first cycles, recommending compatible fish, and even talking customers out of unnecessary purchases to save them money.

The freshwater selection spans community staples like minnows and blood parrot cichlids to live plants like elodea (popular enough that local teachers regularly stop in for biology labs). Saltwater hobbyists will find fish, corals, and live rock, though a few reviewers note the saltwater inventory can be inconsistent. Live foods like daphnia also make occasional appearances — a nice touch for betta keepers and specialty feeders.

Pricing draws mostly positive remarks, with several customers highlighting competitive deals on tanks and stands, especially during emergencies. The Love Aquarium fills a real gap in North County San Diego — a dedicated, independently owned fish store where the staff genuinely cares about the health of what leaves the building.