Koral King

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.