Tucked away in Marietta, Georgia, Reef Shac is a dedicated saltwater shop that has earned a devoted following among reef hobbyists across the metro Atlanta area. Owned and operated by the namesake Shac, the store reflects one person's genuine passion for the marine aquarium hobby — and that passion shows in everything from the well-labeled coral frags to the willingness to spend an hour and a half walking a newcomer through their first saltwater setup. The coral selection is the main draw.
Reviewers consistently praise the health and variety of the frags and colonies, with one out-of-state visitor noting that after a rigorous dipping process, they found zero pests — a remarkable feat in the coral trade. Pieces like snowstorm clownfish and fire red shrimp catch the eye of browsers who didn't plan on buying. The store also sells saltwater and freshwater top-off water by the gallon, making it a regular stop for hobbyists doing weekly water changes.
What truly sets Reef Shac apart is the consultation experience. Multiple reviewers describe staff who listen carefully, gauge your experience level, and take the time to explain water parameters, cycling processes, and livestock compatibility without ever making customers feel rushed. One couple recounted arriving with a 100-gallon horse stock tank to fill with saltwater — a request that might raise eyebrows elsewhere — and being welcomed without hesitation.
The staff walked them through everything they needed to know before adding their first coral or fish. The shop also handles special requests with care. One customer called ahead to have corals bagged, packed in a cooler with heat packs, and ready for pickup before a trip to the airport — and everything was prepared perfectly.
Prices are consistently described as reasonable, making the hobby more accessible without cutting corners on livestock quality. For saltwater enthusiasts in the Marietta area looking for healthy corals, clean tanks, and genuine expertise, Reef Shac delivers a personal, invested experience that big-box stores simply can't match.
Caroline Howton
Absolutely the BEST and most informative place to go for your saltwater aquarium fish and coral needs. We have had freshwater aquariums for a few years and wanted to try a saltwater aquarium with coral and fish. We have a 55 gallon tank and we found out that they sell saltwater by the gallon as well as fresh water for top off. ( BUT we were not aware of them at first - here is the back story): We have a 100 gallon stock water tank for our horses that they never cared for. So we loaded it up and was originally headed for Premiere Aquatics but we called ahead while we were on our way and asked them if they would fill a stock tank and the lady that answered the phone although said yes acted like we were weird for bringing a stock tank and said it would take a long time to fill. That was all we had on hand without having to go buy several containers to haul the water, which the tank was going to be covered tightly for no water loss and just pump the water into the tank, we thought it wasn't a bad idea. We searched Google for any other business to see just in case if anyone was closer to ask and got the Reef Shack. We called, explained the stock tank situation and they said yes come on ( no judgmental tone at all). So we headed there instead and I am so glad we did. One of the gentlemen there ( the more seasoned one - not going to say age LOL ) was so extremely helpful. He took so much time with me that he DIDN'T have to do. Went into detail on all the essentials that needed to be addressed before introducing fish and coral to the system ( I mean spent probably about an hour and a half with me). When we have been to Premier Aquatics we always felt rushed and in the way. Both gentlemen working that day NEVER made us feel anything more than comfortable with asking questions and looking around and even filling the stock tank. Even with our 4 year old constantly talking and looking around, we never felt like they just wanted us to buy our items and get out. He wanted to make sure I was thoroughly informed, made sure I understood the parameters needed for the system, and waited patiently as I typed out notes on my phone before going to the next piece of information. We have started our tank set up, we will be back for ALL our needs with the water top off, the water changes and all coral and fish. This is the place to go for anyone wanting to start up a saltwater system. We will only go here for now on. You can go other places for huge displays of fish but you get little to NO information/knowledge like what these gentlemen have, so it is a gamble if you are on the newer side of this. Why risk it? This is NOT a cheap hobby.
Roxanne Janes
9 reviews
Reasonable prices and very knowledgeable staff.
Chris Walsh
22 reviews
Corals looked healthy and the tanks were pretty clean. Pretty good selection and everything was labeled and priced. Nice store!
Meg Stocks
125 reviews
Best place to get corals. Super knowledgeable staff, very friendly and helpful. We're here at least once a week!
Jonathan Straub
11 reviews
Was flying out of Atlanta across the country and decided to stop in for the first time. Very well kept tanks with the variety of coral options. The only aiptasia found was in peppermint shrimp tank. I was also VERY surprised to find zero creepy crawlies during my dipping process!! Bravo! Even with an overnight layover due to storms, corals made it home 24-hours later with no issues.
James Littlefield
64 reviews
Great selection! Great service! Great prices! The only saltwater store I shop at.
Caroline Mason
124 reviews
This is not a chain business. When you come here you are getting quality and consulting. The team here listens to where you are and meets you there. Whether entry level or expert they have a solution and are invested in your tanks success.
Dr. Veda Cook
2 reviews
Great customer service and advice
David Fields
12 reviews
We love Reef Shak, very helpful, very knowledgeable, the coral and fish are very healthy!
Alan Song
15 reviews
First time going in… Ashamed I’ve not made it in earlier. Shac has amazing pieces at incredible prices. Really takes pride in what he does. And is just a great guy. Told him I needed everything bagged and ready to go after I picked up my parents from ATL. And sure enough, came in and everything was bagged perfectly, in a cooler, heat pack, and ready to travel. The only bad thing is now I’m going to be spending a lot more money here. Thanks guys!
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (404) 474-8615 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Reef Shac.
Phone
(404) 474-8615Website
www.reefshac.com/Address
2365 Powder Springs Rd SW #1119, Marietta, GA 30064
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2365 Powder Springs Rd SW #1119, Marietta, GA 30064
February 7, 2026
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