About
Tucked away at the back of a commercial complex in Gainesville, Florida, Koral King is a reef-focused shop that draws hobbyists from well beyond the city limits — some driving from as far as Ocala just to browse the selection. Owner Alan and his team, including Dan and Ian, have built a reputation for deep saltwater knowledge and genuinely fair pricing that doesn't rely on gimmicky weekend sales. The store specializes in live coral, and Alan's passion for reef keeping is immediately apparent when he walks you through his inventory of coral fragments, including varieties like gonis and other show-quality pieces.
The livestock extends beyond corals into a wide range of saltwater fish and invertebrates, all kept in clean, well-maintained systems. One customer raved about purchasing a blue face koi scopas tang — and came back two weeks later for another, along with a pair of goniopora corals. That kind of repeat business speaks volumes.
Koral King also handles phone and online orders, shipping fish to customers who can't make the drive. The staff takes time to explain care requirements and share practical reef-keeping tips, making the shop a genuine resource for anyone building or maintaining a saltwater aquarium. The physical space is compact but meticulously organized, and reviewers consistently note that photos don't do the animals justice — the corals and fish look even better in person under the store's lighting.
Parking is limited, and you'll need to look for the Koral King sign to find the entrance, but the treasure-hunt aspect only adds to the experience. What sets this shop apart in Central Florida's saltwater scene is the combination of consistently reasonable pricing, healthy livestock, and staff who treat customers like family rather than transactions. Alan's deep-rooted passion for the hobby permeates every interaction, making Koral King a destination worth seeking out for serious reef enthusiasts across the region.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Extensive live coral selection including gonis and coral fragments
- Consistently fair pricing without reliance on weekend sales
- Ships fish and handles online/phone orders
- Draws customers from across Central Florida, including Ocala
- Passionate and knowledgeable staff including owner Alan and team members Dan and Ian
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Really clean, associate was very informative. Very upbeat attitude. Love the products.”
— Ellen Reeves5.0a month ago“Ian was super helpful and knowledgeable. They had a really cool variety, with reasonable prices. Great gem of a shop.”
— Jaclyn L5.0a month ago“We spoke to the guys at the shop and they are just the best. They treat you like family. They have a very large selection of corals, fish, and invertebrates. Prices are very reasonable and they are very knowledgeable. So it's hidden away at the back of the complex. So look for the big sign that says koral kings. Parking is limited, but overall worth checking them out.”
— Michael (Mike)5.0a month ago“I purchased large blue face koi scopas from this people and it is awsome,person on the phone is nice and helpful so far this is definitely place that I would order online. 2 weeks later i purchased another koi blue face scopas for the same deal and 2 awsome gonis . Very nice people to shop”
— Mehmet Eker5.0Edited 3 months ago“Alan has a deep rooted passion for reef tanks and saltwater aquariums! He showed me tons of beautiful different coral fragments! He explained to me some basic and useful tips and how he got into the Koral King way of life! Excited to visit again! Thanks Alan!!!”
— Carnivore Connection5.03 months ago“Koral King is a really nice store hiding in Gainesville! I stopped by during a trip. Very helpful staff that actually care about the hobby!”
— Alex Rivera5.04 months ago“Tucked away, off the main road you can find saltwater gems. Fish, coral, and more. The pics do not do the animals justice. Customer service is top notch. Alan knows his stuff!!”
— Angie Eberling5.04 months ago“I drive from Ocala to support this shop. Best selections in Central FL. My local shop price gouges just so they can advertise sales over the weekend but this place keeps prices down all the time. If you want a place to shop that has the best and you don’t have to wait for the weekend sale to shop then this is your place. Alan and Dan will take good care of you.”
— Chris Steen5.04 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (352) 579-8888 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Koral King.