About
Tucked into Las Cruces, New Mexico — not exactly a hotbed for marine life — Ocean Aquarium and Ponds has become a destination store that saltwater and freshwater hobbyists drive hours to visit. Owner David (Dave to his regulars) runs a shop that punches well above its weight, stocking live coral, reef fish like anthias and gobies, anemones, clownfish, and a saltwater selection that has impressed enthusiasts from Alamogordo to El Paso. But this isn't a saltwater-only operation.
Dave carries a solid freshwater lineup including tropical fish, koi, freshwater shrimp, live plants, bottom feeders, and decorative driftwood — much of it priced at or below chain store levels. Multiple reviewers mention picking up everything needed for full tank setups, from a 55-gallon build to aquascaping supplies, all in a single visit. The store has even passed an Aquarium Co-Op inspection, a detail that speaks to the cleanliness and care visible in every tank on the floor.
The pond side of the business is real, too. Dave and his team handle koi pond cleaning, algae removal, and natural-looking hardscape features. One customer's before-and-after koi pond looked brand new, complete with a naturalistic hideout built for the fish.
What comes through most consistently across dozens of reviews is Dave himself. He remembers returning customers, recalls which fish they bought a year ago, takes time to educate newcomers on saltwater basics, and makes first-timers feel like regulars. One family with toddlers noted how welcome they felt browsing without pressure.
Another reviewer drove two hours and left feeling like a longtime customer. The store carries a broad inventory of aquarium equipment, fish food, medications, and accessories alongside the livestock. For anyone in southern New Mexico maintaining a reef tank, a planted freshwater setup, or a backyard koi pond, Ocean Aquarium and Ponds is the real deal — a locally owned shop with the stock, expertise, and pricing to keep hobbyists coming back.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Tank SetupPond ServicesTank CleaningConsultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Owner Dave is highly knowledgeable in both saltwater and freshwater fish
- Koi pond cleaning and maintenance services
- Live coral, anemones, clownfish, and reef fish selection
- Freshwater shrimp, plants, and tropical fish available
- Customers drive hours from Alamogordo and beyond to visit
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Go here before you try any big box stores. This guy's Great!”
— Sean D5.0a month ago“Hands down the Best fish store! David the owner is very knowledgeable about Salt water fish and Fresh water fish. The store is well stocked with fish essentials and more. The fish selection is Superb!! Don't hesitate to stop by so you can begin your fish journey or continue to increase your hobby here”
— G to the M5.0a month ago“Very knowledgeable and courteous staff. Store is stocked with a great deal of quality products associated with the hobby.”
— victorro uddin5.02 months ago“I've been going to him for awhile and he's great 👍🏼 very knowledgeable always has new fish to look at and the owner is a super nice guy 10/10 would recommend”
— Mr. Hobbs5.02 months ago“Nice to see a store fully stocked with everything a salt water hobbyist would want and need. Friendly helpful owner.”
— Elena Flores5.03 months ago“They cleaned our koi pond and it looks brand new. No sign of algae left at all. He fixed a little ‘hideout’ for the koi that looks very natural. I highly recommend them! Super happy with the job.”
— Pam Kingdon5.03 months ago“Process higher than competitors and basic stock”
— Timothy Workman3.03 months ago“I had a chance to stop in for the first time after almost doing my shopping at the local chain stores. Dave was very knowledgeable, ready to help with suggestions, and had variety of products, fish, and plants. I’m glad I visited and know where I’ll be going for all my fish and aquarium needs from now on.”
— Manuel Sanchez5.03 months ago“Beautiful fish!!”
— Mary Faraci5.03 months ago“Friendly and helpful customer service!”
— Mary & Robert Fulton5.04 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (575) 259-5033 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Ocean Aquarium and Ponds.