About
Sea of Marvels Inc. in North Liberty, Iowa is the passion project of Hung (also referred to as Han by some customers), a saltwater aquarist whom multiple reviewers call one of the most experienced in the entire state of Iowa. His specialty is reef aquariums — the store houses several display reef tanks that have been running for over a decade, serving as living proof of his expertise.
Hung personally travels to wholesalers to handpick the fish he stocks, a level of dedication that's rare for any local fish store, let alone one serving the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City corridor. The focus here is firmly on saltwater, with reviewers praising the quality and variety of marine livestock and supplies. Hung offers tank maintenance services and is known for generous, unhurried consultations — customers describe him as always happy to answer questions, whether about setting up a first saltwater tank or troubleshooting an established reef system.
His pricing is noted as very reasonable, and the overall vibe is more hobbyist workshop than retail chain. Several reviewers call it the best aquarium supply store in the Cedar Rapids–Iowa City area. There are a few things prospective visitors should know.
Sea of Marvels operates on very limited hours — primarily Saturdays from noon to five — and accepts cash only. Multiple reviewers have driven significant distances only to find the store closed during posted hours, a recurring frustration that shows up again and again in the reviews. Calling ahead can be hit or miss, as some report the phone number being out of service.
If you're planning a trip from Moline, the Quad Cities, or Coralville, it's worth confirming through social media or other channels before making the drive. When you do catch Sea of Marvels open, the experience is worth the effort. Hung's decade-plus reef displays are genuinely impressive, the livestock is healthy and carefully sourced, and the one-on-one expertise is the kind of thing you simply can't get from a big box store.
Just bring cash and double-check the hours.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Tank MaintenanceConsultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Owner Hung personally handpicks fish from wholesalers
- In-store reef aquarium displays running for over 10 years
- Regarded as the most experienced saltwater aquarist in Iowa
- Cash-only with limited hours — primarily Saturdays noon to 5pm
- Serves the Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty area
From keepers
Customer reviews
“The owner is a great guy who is more than willing to provide advice on any questions you may have. Be aware that they only accept cash and are open for very specific hours.”
— Mark Humphreys5.010 months ago“Open Sat 12 till 5 Awesome place and great owner many saltwater items A++”
— Andrew Skola5.0Edited 10 months ago“I have called multiple times and it says the number is no longer in service… only open one day of the weekend and non through the week.”
— Cora Barton1.0a year ago“Hung is definitely the man if you are into aquariums of any kind he's the guy to know for all your needs and supplies thanks buddy”
— Todd Carr5.0a year ago“The fish Master !”
— Edgar Bristol5.04 years ago“Drove all the way from Moline and your store is closed it says you're supposed to be open till 6 nice business Ethics. It's only 4:45 pm thanks”
— steven lowder1.06 years ago“Best aquarium supply store in the Cedar Rapids / Iowa City area that I have found. Helpful, knowledgeable and a fun place to visit if you like fish like we do!”
— Jamason Stayton5.06 years ago“Tried to visit this place twice and its never open even when business hours say it is. The business hours on their store front are the same as listed on google yet they aren’t open. We tried waiting around since there was a car parked out front but half an hours has gone by and we are giving up on this place.”
— A W1.07 years ago“Really nice guy and the fish look great.”
— Krystal Holder5.07 years ago“Han is probably the most experienced salt water aquarist in the state of Iowa. He has several reef aquariums in-store that have been running for over 10 years. He has a wealth of knowledge and is always happy to answer any questions. Very reasonably priced. Sea of Marvels is a must have LFS for anyone serious about starting a salt water tank.”
— Chris5.07 years ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (319) 665-2277 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Sea of Marvels Inc.