About
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.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Consultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Family-run Tampa shop with multi-decade customer loyalty
- Notable variety of eels and saltwater fish
- Coral selection alongside freshwater fish and live plants
- Knowledgeable staff including marine specialist Gabe
- Special orders available for specific species
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Excelet customer services stars come here I was 16 yrs old and I still go there for fish I'm 43 now”
— JORGE ROMERO5.06 hours ago“Great staff and owner lots to choose from. They help me keep my tank going well. Thanks for the support. I will be requesting a special order once my tank is reestablish after my move. Lot of great eels to pick from.”
— Ed Yackel5.0Edited 2 weeks ago“The customer service was incredible! That being said, both the coral and fish had parasites (flukes and flatworms) and need to be treated/quarantined before they go into the main tank. If you do purchase from the store, I highly advise that you quarantine and treat for your fish and coral to avoid introducing parasites to your main tank.”
— Lady Audrey Trawick4.0a month ago“Gabe was amazing ! He knew everything about the fish ! Would highly recommend this store they have a variety of salt water fish”
— Abby Pitiur5.02 months ago“Super Aquarium shop. Owner is awesome and his staff is very knowledgeable and helpful. Would highly recommend”
— Melanie Engberg5.03 months ago“Another great aquarium spot in Tampa. Good variety and very helpful staff. Salt and Fresh water fish and supplies. A must stop for your aquarium needs.”
— Aisha Martinez5.04 months ago“Overpriced and tanks were overcrowded and dirty.”
— jay2.04 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (813) 915-8626 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Coral Reef Aquariums.