








Tucked into the Hollywood/Dania Beach stretch of South Florida, Aquatic Jewels has built a loyal following among saltwater hobbyists drawn to its consistently deep coral inventory. Reviewers regularly call out the store's impressive frag and colony selection—pieces that many describe as unique and hard to find at competing shops. The coral focus is unmistakable, though the store also stocks saltwater fish like clownfish (including striking white clowns), dottybacks, tangs, banded shrimp, and hermit crabs.
Freshwater options, by most accounts, are minimal to nonexistent, so this is primarily a reef and marine destination. The retail space isn't huge, but it punches above its weight. Display tanks are often praised for their cleanliness and visual appeal, and the dry goods section carries respected brands like Red Sea, Hanna instruments, and Julian Sprung products—solid picks for anyone building or maintaining a reef system.
A convenient drive-around water fill station lets customers load up on saltwater or RO water without hauling jugs through the shop, a small but appreciated logistical touch. Staff members Sebastian, Chino, and former manager Stephe have each earned personal shoutouts for taking time with customers—walking through coral care, explaining tank setups, and offering honest advice on compatibility. Multiple reviewers mention the store's willingness to educate newcomers on modern saltwater systems and equipment.
One customer even learned they could hand-carry coral on a plane, saving over $100 in shipping fees. The store has seen ownership changes, and some recent reviews suggest a dip in livestock health and customer engagement under newer management—diatom blooms in store tanks and less attentive staff have been noted. Other recent visitors counter that they still found clean tanks and helpful service.
As with any local fish store in transition, visiting in person will tell you the most. But for coral variety, reef supplies, and saltwater livestock in the greater Hollywood, Florida area, Aquatic Jewels remains a name that comes up repeatedly in enthusiast circles.
Justin Davenport
13 reviews
Been shopping here forever. Always have a big stock of nice coral.
Manny Guzman
49 reviews
One of the best LFS's in South FL.
Daniel Cegielski
11 reviews
staff was completely disinterested in helping me with anything and coral health isn't great and are expensive. fish selection is good though
Sara butler
33 reviews
Great customer service
David Zimmerman
5 reviews
To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to share an unfortunate and disappointing experience I had with Aquatic Jewels, located in Dania Beach, Florida. I feel it is important to provide feedback for both the business and potential customers, especially those who are new to the saltwater and reef aquarium hobby. As a beginner, I entered the store seeking guidance and support in building a healthy and sustainable reef tank. The owner himself assisted me and recommended the purchase of a clown tang and a Desjardini sailfin tang, both of which I was told were appropriate additions to my newly cycled tank. I explained that my tank was still in its early stages, with only three fish added as part of a controlled startup process to ensure proper cycling and acclimation. Despite this, I was advised to purchase these fish along with live coral, under the assurance that they would thrive together. However, within a short period of time, the Desjardini tang exhibited extremely aggressive behavior—ultimately killing the clown tang and consuming the coral. This level of aggression and incompatibility is well-documented among experienced aquarists, and it is troubling that such a recommendation would come from a professional retailer. I reached out multiple times via text to explain the situation and seek resolution. While I initially received vague responses suggesting the issue would be addressed, the communication eventually turned accusatory, with the owner implying that I was being dishonest—an unnecessary and unprofessional reaction, especially considering I was transparent and respectful throughout. To compound the matter, during our early interactions, the owner casually mentioned his desire to sell the business—an odd and disconcerting comment to make to a first-time customer who was trusting the business for expert advice and long-term support. In the end, I’ve taken this experience as a lesson learned, but I feel compelled to caution other potential customers—especially those new to the hobby. The advice I received from Aquatic Jewels in Dania Beach did not reflect the level of professionalism or integrity I would expect from a specialty store in this space. Misinformation, lack of accountability, and poor customer service should not be the standard for any business, especially one that holds influence over living ecosystems and customer trust. Sincerely, David
1130bm Rene
45 reviews
Aquatic Jewels is a really good place to shop if you have a salt water aquarium really nice corals too
Hoochers
5 reviews
Great little shop! Everything was clean and you could tell the folks working here are both knowledgeable and passionate about the hobby. Great selection of corals at reasonable prices and some very nice display tanks! Also stocked with quality non live goods like Red Sea and Hanna and Julian Sprung stuff. Sebastian was very helpful and shared great knowledge/advice to make my own tank better. Some other shops in the area often seem dirty/neglected and filled with miserable vibes, so I’m happy to have found this shop! Good vibes!
Micky Rively
35 reviews
I wanted to see the store since there is a new owner..I found the most welcoming puppy dog then the owner helped me very kindly to make my choice,I was thrilled..I will go back , I highly recommend this store..I bought 2 gorgeous white clowns,I had never seen white clowns before...thank you very much I will be back.., i also want to ad i bought a banded shrimp and a orchid dotty back,,also with the kind help of the gentleman there
L B D
144 reviews
Update 4/5/25 There must be new ownership or at least new management bc the quality of the livestock and overall store condition has gone dramatically downhill. The staff is now the opposite of helpful, and if they are knowledgeable, I can't tell bc they don't interact with customers, or do so resentfully. The saltwater I would regularly purchase for water changes now results in lots of diatoms in my own aquarium, which I noticed in the aquariums at the store as well. It makes me wonder about the quality of their R/O water. Their livestock looks unhealthy and lots of dead or dying fish left in display tanks, and the corals are shrinking and dying! There is a brown film all over everything...it's sooo sad to see. It's like the love of the hobby left this place. I'm looking for a new aquarium store. The staff is knowledgeable and helpful (looking at you Billy), the aquariums are clean, livestock is healthy and well cared for. Prices are fair and location is convenient. I highly recommend this place for beginners (lots of quality supplies available to get up and running) or experts looking for a reliable spot for water, livestock and excellent service. This shop isn't big in size but it's huge in quality.
Stephen Cheng
9 reviews
Very patient and kind people. Took time to talk to me about setting up a saltwater tank and answered my questions. No pressure, just helpful education. I have a lot of experience with freshwater aquariums for 30+ years but my one attempt at a saltwater tank decades ago didn't go well. The staff helped me understand today's systems and techniques and gave me some confidence to try saltwater again. Their fish are beautiful and healthy looking.
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (954) 966-8389 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Aquatic Jewels.
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2832 Stirling Rd, Hollywood, FL 33020
February 7, 2026
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