Coral Reef Aquariums

Coral Reef Aquariums has been a Tampa fixture for decades — literally decades. One loyal customer first walked through the doors at 16 and is still coming back at 43, which says something about the kind of relationships this family-run shop builds. Owned and operated with a hands-on approach, the store stocks both saltwater and freshwater fish alongside corals, live plants, and aquarium supplies.

The saltwater side is clearly a strength. Staff member Gabe has earned praise for his deep knowledge of marine species, and the store maintains a notable selection of eels — enough variety that customers specifically call them out. Corals are also a draw, though buyers should plan on a quarantine period before introducing new livestock into established systems.

Several reviewers have flagged parasites like flukes and flatworms on both fish and coral, so a dedicated quarantine tank is worth having ready. The freshwater side rounds out the inventory, and the store accommodates special orders for customers looking for something specific. That flexibility has helped build a following among hobbyists who are mid-project or re-establishing tanks after a move.

Customer service is consistently the highest point of praise. The staff takes time to walk people through their setups, offer advice on tank maintenance, and provide ongoing support — the kind of store where the owner knows your name and your tank's history. That personal investment is what keeps people coming back.

Not every visit is flawless. A few customers have noted overcrowded tanks and pricing that runs on the higher side. But for the majority of Tampa's aquarium community, Coral Reef Aquariums delivers where it counts: knowledgeable guidance, solid variety across salt and freshwater, and a family-run atmosphere that treats each customer's tank like it matters.