Don't let the name fool you — that's the refrain you'll hear from nearly every customer who walks into Aquatic Reef Design in Ocala, Florida. Yes, this store has a stunning coral and reef selection that lives up to its name, with vibrant, meticulously maintained saltwater livestock that rivals shops twice its size. But the freshwater side is equally impressive, stocked with a huge variety of fish, live plants, driftwood, and decorative rock that keeps planted-tank enthusiasts and goldfish keepers coming back.
The store itself is notably clean — no funky fish-store smell, no algae-coated glass. Tanks are crystal clear and the livestock looks healthy, a detail reviewers mention again and again. They also sell pre-mixed fresh and saltwater by the jug, ready to add directly to your aquarium, which is a genuinely useful convenience for hobbyists doing regular water changes.
What truly sets Aquatic Reef Design apart is its staff. Names like Ben, Kevin, Leslie, Michael, Cameron, and Eric come up constantly in reviews, each praised for deep product knowledge and a patient, no-pressure approach. Ben in particular has earned near-legendary status among customers — multiple reviewers marvel at his ability to answer any question on the spot without hesitation.
Michael gets specific praise for saltwater tank maintenance and honest setup advice. The team doesn't upsell; they guide customers toward what actually makes sense for their tanks. Beyond retail, the store offers tank setup services, coming to customers' homes to install equipment and walk them through everything.
They also provide maintenance consultations for reef tanks that need professional attention. With plans to expand their pond fish offerings, they're clearly thinking about growth in a way that serves the local community. Pricing is competitive — several reviewers who've shopped across multiple states confirm that Aquatic Reef Design matches or beats other stores.
9-star reputation through substance, not flash.
Jodie Griggs
9 reviews
Best fish store everrrrr!!! If you love, or want to fall in love with fish keeping you need to go to Aquatic Reef Design! Incrediblely friendly, educated staff, great prices and very healthy fish, plants and marine life! They have both fresh and saltwater dont let the name fool you!
Jonathan Kane
55 reviews
Couldn’t have asked for a better experience getting back into the hobby. The staff were super responsive and knowledgeable. Suggesting what is right for you and not upselling you on things you don’t need. When they came to help set up my tank they were super professional and made sure I understood the equipment that I purchased with the tank. I will only do my business with them from this point onwards.
Kayla Coudoux
6 reviews
So much more than saltwater! Very happy i stopped by never seen tanks so nice and well maintained! The staff helpful the fish look amazing! Freshwater and Saltwater fill station. Top tier can wait to go back 💙🩵
John Coudoux
81 reviews
Don’t let the name fool you! This place is more than salt water and corals. They have a HUGE variety of fresh water fish, plants, rocks and wood. The fish looked amazing and the prices were fair. The store looked, and felt nice and no bad odor. Staff was friendly and were easy to converse with. Will be back again and might just be my new go to place.
Richard Lee
12 reviews
Ben was absolutely PHENOMENAL and INFORMATIONAL. These guys rock and the place is loaded with everything you needs. See you again next week!!!!
Ryan Taylor
72 reviews
This is a beautiful store inside with a lot of different fish. The guy that helped us was nice
Jonathan Grant
52 reviews
Spent just a little time there and can see this is the go to place for all types of fish. It is not just what I thought was a salt water fish store. Stop on and check it out. I can't wait to get back in there!
Raul Fernandez
This is hands-down the top aquarium store in the area for both freshwater and saltwater fish, as well as corals and reef fish. Everything is incredibly vibrant, very healthy, and clearly well cared for—no issues with quality here! The staff are extremely professional, super knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful. If you need expert maintenance or a solid, professional opinion on your saltwater tank setup, definitely ask for Michael—he’s outstanding and gives honest, reliable advice. Thanks to the whole team!!!
Angelyn Muko
8 reviews
Great selection of salt and freshwater fish, coral, tanks, accessories. Knowledgeable staff who are very helpful. I love this store!
Jam
2 reviews
Very friendly staff! They have always been helpful for us and our tanks!!!
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (352) 629-1011 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Aquatic Reef Design.
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1725 SW 17th St, Ocala, FL 34471
February 7, 2026
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