Walk into Aquatica Corals and Custom Aquariums in San Marcos, California, and you'll immediately feel the nautical vibe — tanks brimming with vibrant corals, seahorses, gobies, peppermint shrimp, and marine creatures that rival what you'd see at Scripps Aquarium. This is a saltwater-only shop, and owner Steve has built it into a destination for reef enthusiasts across San Diego's North County. The coral nursery is the centerpiece.
Reviewers consistently rave about the variety and quality of coral specimens, including species rarely seen at other local fish stores. Steve is known for walking customers through individual coral pieces with genuine patience, explaining care requirements and compatibility. If something isn't in stock, he'll source it — one customer recounts Steve tracking down a pair of Black Storm clownfish, then boarding them for ten days while the buyer was traveling.
That kind of personal investment in a customer's reef success defines the Aquatica experience. Custom aquarium builds and relocations are a major part of the business. Steve and his crew have moved 400-gallon systems up multiple flights of stairs with professional-grade equipment, set up Red Sea Reefer 750XXLs, and helped customers transition from 30-gallon Innovative Marine tanks to 90-gallon Red Sea setups.
They carry Red Sea salt and equipment, and the shop stocks a growing selection of supplies alongside its livestock. What sets Aquatica apart from a typical retail shop is the ongoing reef maintenance service. After installation, Steve's team returns for consistent tank cleanings and feedings — a service that lets homeowners and offices enjoy stunning saltwater displays without mixing salt or hauling buckets.
Multiple customers describe this as a game-changer. Steve is refreshingly direct. If a fish isn't compatible with your setup, he'll tell you no and steer you toward a better choice.
That honesty, paired with deep reef-keeping knowledge, has turned Aquatica into a gathering spot where longtime hobbyists drop in just to talk shop. It's the kind of local fish store that makes you want to start a reef tank — or upgrade the one you have.
Ruby Arroyo
7 reviews
They will help load your water if you need it.
Corryn Kivett
19 reviews
The most BADASS place to spend your time and the best team to work with! Steve is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to coral and fish, plus he’s hands down one of the best people to be around. Not only are you going to be in awe of what him and his team create, you’ll be surrounding yourself with incredible people. I highly recommend working with Steve and his team, or going to their shop if you want to be blown away!! I definitely am every time I go!
Ron Vaca
15 reviews
They only have salt water fish
Keith McLaurin
20 reviews
Aquatica Corals and Custom Aquariums provides excellent service! Their team is knowledgeable, friendly, and truly passionate about what they do. Whether it’s helping with aquarium design, custom builds, or coral selection, they go above and beyond to make sure everything is done right. I highly recommend Aquatica to anyone looking for top-quality aquariums and outstanding customer care.
Tom Stiel
2 reviews
Steve's store is amazing, and he's so knowledgeable and friendly!! Can't recommend him enough.
Ryan B
11 reviews
Love this company. Had to have a waterbox 130.4 relocated for a new larger fish tank to take it's place. Approximately 400 gallons total water volume glass tank weighing over 700 pounds that needed to be moved into my house up two sets of stairs. Steve and company were amazing. They were able to move my current tank and get the new tank up to the proper location and set upon the stand without any difficulty. All under 4 hours. Price was reasonable and Steve kept good communication throughout the planning process. Would highly recommend Aquatica for anyone looking to have a fish tank moved.
Alexis Piotrowski
2 reviews
I don’t know what’s better, the selection of marine life or the wealth of information that Steve & his team possess. This store is great for beginners and seasoned hobbyists. They had some great starter tanks and as a novice I appreciated how thorough and kind Steve was. If you’re in the area stop in, you may even the “The Worlds Deadliest Fish” 🐠
Jenni Scott
5 reviews
Called with a quick question, owner was super rude and condescending
Keith Zinn
70 reviews
Steve has been professional and courteous in every way possible. Staff is top notch and not overly opinionated. Selection is near limitless as onsite ordering is available. Support your LFS and join the reefing community!
Jordan Enright
11 reviews
The storefront is so fun to visit! The knowledge about saltwater and saltwater animals that every staff member has is incredible. Beyond the storefront, they do so much more than install, they perform consistent cleans/feedings of the tanks once installed in your home/office which allows for a beautiful aquarium in your home without having to perform the upkeep yourself. Highly recommend!
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (760) 597-0445 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Aquatica Corals and Custom Aquariums.
Phone
(760) 597-0445Website
aquaticacorals.com/Address
500 S Rancho Santa Fe Rd #101b, San Marcos, CA 92078
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500 S Rancho Santa Fe Rd #101b
February 7, 2026
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