About
Walk into Cardinal Aquariums in Clearwater, Florida, and you'll quickly realize this isn't just another pet store — it's a reef shop run by people who genuinely live the hobby. Owner Shawn, a marine biologist by training, has built a reputation among local reefers for his deep expertise and hands-on approach. Whether he's diagnosing a brown jelly outbreak and nursing a tank back to health in two days, or building a custom 80-gallon shallow reef plumbed to a 20-gallon mushroom tank, Shawn treats every customer's system like it matters.
The coral selection is the main draw. Reviewers consistently praise the variety and quality, noting that Cardinal skips the overpriced "brand name" coral trend in favor of genuinely beautiful pieces at fair prices. If you're stocking a saltwater reef tank, the inventory of corals, marine fish, and invertebrates is substantial for a shop this size.
They also carry a solid lineup of dry goods, including Bulk Reef Supply products, so you can grab essentials without ordering online. Tank maintenance is a cornerstone of the business. Shawn personally services clients' home aquariums on a regular schedule, and multiple reviewers say their tanks have never looked better than under his care.
He's also helped newcomers from their very first fill-up through stocking, offering patient guidance without sales pressure — a detail that comes up again and again. Staff member Jamie draws her own loyal following, with customers specifically visiting on Sundays for her expertise and customer service. The whole team reflects that same ethos: knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely invested in helping people succeed with their reef tanks.
Cardinal Aquariums is also expanding, with plans to double showroom space, add freshwater options, and increase operating days. For Clearwater's saltwater community, this shop has already earned serious loyalty — and it's only getting bigger.
What they offer
Fish & livestock for sale at Cardinal Aquariums in Clearwater, FL
Cardinal Aquariums stocks corals, reef fish, invertebrates and saltwater & freshwater fish for sale in Clearwater, FL. As an aquarium store serving Clearwater, FL, it also carries dry goods and offers tank maintenance, aquarium setup, aquarium consultations and custom tank builds.
- Livestock & products
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Owner Shawn is a marine biologist who personally builds and maintains customer reef tanks
- Extensive coral selection at competitive prices without inflated 'brand name' markups
- Carries Bulk Reef Supply products alongside a solid dry goods inventory
- Staff member Jamie draws dedicated Sunday customers for her reef expertise
- Expanding showroom, adding freshwater options, and increasing hours to five days a week
From keepers
Customer reviews
“I don’t know the man’s name but he had short brown hair. He was super knowledgeable and great to talk with, I’m not doing a saltwater aquarium but if I were to this will be the only place I go to!”
— Corbin T5.02 weeks ago“Andres was extremely helpful and knowledgeable when I came in today to check out the freshwater fish selection. I brought home 2 mystery snails, an electric blue acara, and a rainbow fish 🐟🐠 Thank you so much, I’ll definitely be back!”
— Kristi Livingston5.02 months ago“We stumbled upon this store today and what a gem! The customer service was excellent and personable—everyone was very knowledgeable and happy to help. The tanks were beautiful, clean, and well-maintained, and all the fish looked healthy and thriving. They also had a great selection of coral frags. We will definitely be back!”
— P G5.02 months ago“Cardinal Aquariums is the best! Shawn and his staff are super helpful and knowledgeable. They always take the time to answer questions and are happy to educate you about the different coral and fish in their shop. If you’re in need of saltwater and freshwater fish, corals, or supplies, this is your one stop shop. They are truly passionate about their business!”
— Stacia Wampler5.02 months ago“Nice selection of coral and coral needs”
— Shawn Phillips5.0Edited 2 months ago“Super knowledgeable staff and a great vibe. By far, it is my favorite local fish store!”
— James Whelan5.0Edited 5 months ago“Good selection of corals. Very knowledgeable and has a solid inventory of dry goods.”
— Cody Beck5.05 months ago“This store is amazing! They are friendly, polite, and very knowlegeable! They are expanding the showroom and inventory by double. They are adding fresh water choices. They are going to increase the number of days they will be open to 5 days a week. Its great to have a local choice for aquarium supplies! 6 stars, I highly recommend this business.”
— Michael Scribner5.0Edited 6 months ago“Built and services my tank monthly. Shawn is extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Prices in store are good and staff is friendly. Highly recommended!”
— Emmanuel Vestas5.07 months ago“The Staff was very knowledgeable and helpful. Good selection of fish, corals and dry goods”
— Rhonda Garner5.07 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (727) 470-9025 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Cardinal Aquariums.