About
Walk into Amazing Aquariums & Reefs in Orange, California, and you'll quickly understand why some customers drive two hours just to shop here. Owner Ali has built something special — a saltwater-focused store where every coral looks like it belongs in a photography spread. Reviewers consistently single out the health and vibrancy of his coral inventory, from kryptonite trumpets and green slimmers to a deep selection of SPS and LPS varieties that serious reef hobbyists will appreciate.
Ali himself is the heart of the operation. He's been described as the most authentic and genuine hobbyist-owner around, someone who genuinely wants your tank to succeed. He'll walk you through pairing clownfish with an anemone, offer water analysis for your home aquarium, and share tips on keeping marine livestock thriving long after you leave the shop.
There are no sales gimmicks — just honest conversation from someone who clearly lives and breathes the reef hobby. The store carries tropical marine fish alongside its impressive coral selection, including rare and unusual specimens that draw collectors from across Southern California. One reviewer called it "the mecca of reef shops," and while the layout leans more working hobbyist than polished showroom, the quality of what's in those tanks speaks for itself.
Every animal looks well cared for, with corals showing excellent extension and color under the lights. What sets Amazing Aquariums & Reefs apart from other Orange County saltwater shops is the personal touch. Ali takes time with every customer, answering questions at length and sharing practical knowledge built over years in the hobby.
He's fostered a loyal following that extends well beyond the local area — people make this store a destination, not just a stop. If you're building or maintaining a reef tank anywhere in the region, this is a shop worth knowing about.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- ConsultationWater Testing
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Exceptional coral selection including SPS, LPS, kryptonite trumpets, and green slimmers
- Owner Ali provides in-depth, no-pressure consultations for reef hobbyists
- Draws customers from across Southern California — some drive 2+ hours
- Water testing services offered for home aquariums
- Clownfish and anemone pairings with expert advice on care
From keepers
Customer reviews
“I was so excited to bring home a pair of crown fish and anemone with him! They look so healthy, and I can't wait to see the crown fish swimming around the anemone. Plus, he shared some great advice with me.”
— Sawinee Ssc5.0a week ago“Very pretty, animals are well taken care of”
— Stephanie S5.02 weeks ago“Coral looks really healthy and owner was ready to answer questions. Beautiful shop!”
— Holden A5.03 months ago“I have not had the pleasure of visiting the store yet but I can vouch for the way these people run their business and guarantee great and friendly customer service. Dladi jooooooon”
— Patrick C5.04 months ago“life-changing; the mecca of reef shops.”
— Billy Sprout5.06 months ago“Ali has the best corals i have personally seen (i've seen many aquatic/reef shops). His corals are beautiful, thriving, and vibrant in color! Ali is highly knowledgeable in his area of expertise, has a easy going personality, & he gives amazing tips to help your marine tank thrive as well. Unfortunately, I'm not a local, but that doesn't stop me from driving 2 hrs just to buy some corals from him. 10/10 recommend!”
— Linda5.09 months ago“Friendly. Knowledgeable and Eager to help. Great corals and prices.”
— Danny Castaneda5.010 months ago“Visiting the area from Riverside, I stopped by to check the LFS. Tanks all looked healthy. Corals had great extension and color. Bought myself a kryptonite Trumpet and Green slimmer at a great price. Good vibes.”
— Ray “Accidental Reefer” Mejia5.011 months ago“I've been in the hobby for decades and Ali is the most authentic and genuine hobbyist/owner around. He wants you to have a successful tank and will take the time to educate you if you have any questions. Really grateful, thanks!”
— Matthew Bryenton5.0a year ago“Very knowledgeable”
— Matt Jones5.0a year ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (714) 928-5299 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Amazing Aquariums & Reefs.