About
Tucked into Eastchester, New York, Aqua Reef Aquatics Inc is a saltwater-focused shop that has quickly earned a devoted following among local reefers. Owner Nelson runs a tight operation — reviewers consistently highlight the pristine tanks, crystal-clear water, and healthy livestock as standout features. This isn't a sprawling big-box operation; it's a compact, meticulously maintained coral and marine fish shop where the owner knows every piece of livestock personally.
The coral selection is a major draw. SPS colonies with eye-popping coloration, quality LPS pieces, and standout mushrooms fill the displays. One reviewer raved about a uniquely named "New York Knicks Torch" coral, and multiple visitors describe the shop as having the best corals in the area.
Nelson curates his inventory with a hobbyist's eye — you'll find ruby red dragonets, Pakistani butterflies, copperband butterflies, and pairs of clownfish alongside the reef invertebrates. What sets Aqua Reef apart is Nelson's approach to customer service. He doesn't hover or pressure — visitors describe being able to browse comfortably and then engage in detailed conversations about tank pairing, care recommendations, and reef-keeping strategy.
Multiple newcomers to the saltwater hobby have noted how encouraging and patient he is with questions, making the shop a welcoming entry point for those transitioning from freshwater planted tanks to reef setups. The dry goods selection, while modest, hits key items that serious reefers appreciate: Reef Roids, Hanna checkers, Radion lights, salt mix, frozen foods, and test kits — all at fair retail prices. The shop is clean and well-organized, with prices clearly displayed throughout.
Open seven days a week with easy parking, Aqua Reef Aquatics has become the kind of local fish store that hobbyists feel genuinely lucky to have nearby. Nelson's combination of deep reef knowledge, quality livestock, and honest pricing has turned first-time visitors into regulars remarkably fast.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Consultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Exceptional coral selection including vibrant SPS, LPS, and mushrooms
- Pristine, meticulously maintained saltwater tanks throughout the shop
- Owner Nelson provides patient, knowledgeable one-on-one consultation
- Stocks specialty reef products like Reef Roids, Hanna checkers, and Radion lights at retail prices
- Healthy marine fish including dragonets, butterflies, and clownfish
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Was in the area and stopped in just to take a look and ended up spending an hour talking to the awesome guys there! Honest, helpful and you can tell there hobbyists at heart! Will definitely be back when my tanks cycled”
— Michael Oliveira5.021 hours ago“great store great fish great. prices. very kind owner.”
— geovanni osbourne5.0a month ago“I saw great reviews for the shop so I just wanted to swing by to check it out. I ended up walking out with two amazing ruby red dragonets and an awesome looking mushroom. He had a great selection and very reasonable prices. Everyone was friendly and very helpful. Will definitely be back”
— Ryan Shores5.0a month ago“It's good to see a A familiar face still in the hobby. It's my first time into the shop .it was very clean Coral and fish great shape. I end up buying a few pieces to stock my 45 jbj Great customer service. I definitely will be back. Thanks, Nelson 💪🏾”
— Derrick Kennie5.0a month ago“Great purchases . Pakistani butterfly and copper band butterfly both in perfect condition”
— Victor Cinquemani5.02 months ago“Went in for a pair of clowns today. The shop is neat and clean. Will be back for more livestock and corals!”
— Roberto LICEA5.03 months ago“Came in on a Sunday to check out the frozen food selection and of course see the livestock. Nelson offered his help and I could not be more pleased. You are not bombarded, are able to comfortably look around and if you do have questions, Nelson is there. As a new person to the hobby, I asked a load of questions and Nelson was engaged and encouraging. What surprised me the most---and I can't emphasize this enough--is the cleanliness, both in the shop itself AND the fish/tanks. All fish tanks looked pristine, water clear, no gunk. Product selection was wide, although they did not have one thing I needed in stock. Will definitely be returning for fish and coral.”
— Amauri Borrero5.07 months ago“Gorgeous coral garden”
— Talha Tariq5.010 months ago“Love this store, purchased several times from them. Fishes are very healthy. I will recommend to everyone.”
— Robert Cholewka5.0a year ago“Mr. Nelson is a highly knowledgeable and experienced individual who is always willing to assist hobbyists with their questions and concerns. His shop offers a wide variety of corals, fish, and invertebrates at competitive prices. I highly recommend visiting his shop for your aquarium needs.”
— Daniel B. Kharran5.0a year ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (914) 202-7100 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Aqua Reef Aquatics Inc.