About
Tucked away in an industrial corner of Ferndale, Michigan, Detroit Reef Club (DRC) has built a devoted following across southeast Michigan and beyond as the region's premier destination for reef-keeping. " The massive facility is immaculately clean and thoughtfully organized, housing what many customers call the best selection of corals within a three-state area. The coral inventory spans the full spectrum — from $20 beginner-friendly frags to high-end collector pieces — and new stock arrives frequently enough to keep regulars coming back.
Beyond corals, DRC carries a solid lineup of saltwater fish, clean-up crew invertebrates like snails and starfish, live rock, and the dry goods and equipment needed to run a reef tank. Pricing is a recurring theme in reviews; customers routinely note that DRC undercuts competitors, and Zach has a reputation for offering deals before anyone even asks. What truly sets this shop apart is the depth of knowledge behind the counter.
Staff members like Zach and Steve take time with every customer, whether they're explaining water chemistry to a first-time reefer or helping an experienced hobbyist source a specific coral. Multiple reviewers mention the team staying late to answer questions and going out of their way to ensure livestock compatibility. One customer drives 30 minutes each way and says he'd happily drive ten times that distance.
DRC also ships livestock, though experiences with shipping have been mixed based on at least one reviewer's account. Weekend-heavy hours can be tricky for some schedules, so planning ahead is worthwhile. For anyone maintaining or building a saltwater reef tank in the Metro Detroit area, Detroit Reef Club delivers an experience — and a selection — that's genuinely hard to match anywhere in Michigan.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Massive coral selection ranging from $20 frags to high-end collector pieces
- State-of-the-art warehouse showroom in Ferndale's industrial district
- Owner Zach and staff known for exceptional patience and deep reef-keeping expertise
- Competitive pricing frequently cited as the best in the Metro Detroit area
- Clean-up crew, saltwater fish, live rock, and reef equipment all under one roof
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Great place for Corals”
— David Hardy5.03 weeks ago“First time going to the Detroit Reef Club and, it was as good as I've heard it was. Huge selection on all reef items, and very a knowledgeable staff. I would recommend this store to anyone in the reefing hobby.”
— Scott Staten5.0a month ago“Very knowledgeable and helpful. Nice amount of stuff to select from and look at. Easy for a beginner to walk out with some coral that will not break the bank.”
— Gsxr Fire (Sylver)5.02 months ago“Truly amazing state of the art set up. Has to be seen to be believed. Zach and his staff are extremely knowledgeable. His corals and livestock are in great shape and very reasonably priced. I love going to this place.”
— James Bardwell5.03 months ago“Great selection on corals and everything else too Good prices as well good people work there too”
— Michael Johnson5.05 months ago“Awesome place to get coral everyone is extremely knowledgeable”
— Josh Loudz5.05 months ago“DRC is my favorite places to get coral, they have a great selection and get in more awesome inventory frequently! The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful every visit. I’ll continue visiting for exciting coral, livestock, clean up crew, and the great vibes!”
— Hayden Hayes5.05 months ago“One of the best stores in south east Michigan. Amazing selection of corals and other supplys. The staff there are amazing as well very helpful with me being a beginner into saltwater. I definitely will be going back”
— Ando Francek5.05 months ago“Excellent assortment of livestock and dry goods! Zach is extremely knowledgeable and friendy going out of his way to help new reef keepers! Highly Recommend!!”
— Tim Hall5.05 months ago“Nice selection and service”
— Steve Ball5.05 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call ahead to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Detroit Reef Club.