About
Total Aquariums in Oceanside, New York operates as both a retail fish store and a full-service aquarium company, and it's the service side that truly sets them apart. Owner Martin has built a loyal following across Long Island by combining genuine expertise with a no-pressure approach. One customer recounted how Martin lent them UV filters for free and spent 15 minutes on the phone walking them through how to save a sick fish — no charge, no angle.
That kind of care defines the Total Aquariums experience. The retail side stocks a solid selection of both freshwater and saltwater fish, with reviewers specifically praising their African cichlids, unique tropical species, and coral tanks. The coral displays draw repeat visitors who come just to browse, and the livestock is consistently described as healthy and vibrant.
They also carry aquarium equipment, fish food, and supplies — enough to keep you away from the big-box pet stores nearby. Where Total Aquariums really shines is their home and office tank services. Rob, Carlos, and the rest of the crew handle everything from initial tank setup and custom builds to ongoing maintenance.
One customer described how Carlos transformed a neglected, algae-covered 55-gallon freshwater tank into a spotless showpiece in under an hour — gravel immaculate, not a drop of water on the floor. Another has trusted them with saltwater tank care for over a decade. They've moved tanks, installed new lighting, and managed water chemistry including calcium, magnesium, and alkalinity testing.
A note for walk-in shoppers: several reviewers have arrived during posted hours only to find the store closed, and the operation increasingly runs by appointment. Call ahead or text Martin directly — the team is responsive and flexible. For those who do connect, the relationship tends to be long-lasting.
As one four-year customer put it: the in-store stock is excellent and healthy, and they'll track down whatever you're looking for. Total Aquariums rewards the customer who values expertise and trust over convenience.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Owner Martin offers personalized consultations and has lent equipment to customers free of charge
- Strong selection of African cichlids, saltwater fish, and corals on display
- Full-service tank maintenance with staff like Carlos and Rob handling home and office tanks
- Custom tank builds and complete setup services available
- Water testing for calcium, magnesium, alkalinity, and more
From keepers
Customer reviews
“First place”
— Jason Pasquale Romano5.07 months ago“My son love to come here.”
— Sonja Williams5.02 years ago“NOT where it said it was on Google maps. Called got an answering machine, found the place but reviews said it wasn't a retail store anymore so went elsewhere to purchase”
— Joe Pep1.05 years ago“Not 24hrs no hours appt only cane from queens wasted my gas money and time thanks for not disclosing”
— Richard Probst1.05 years ago“Total Aquarium’s set up our tank over 10 years ago and has been taking care of it and us ever since. Rob takes great care of the tank. We have a saltwater tank that gets many compliments from our friends. Highly recommend this company”
— Mark Spivack5.05 years ago“I use total aquariums at my house and my office. I find their staff to be very knowledgeable and most importantly trustworthy. They have access to my home and office without me being there. They are also very good with dogs. Under the guidance of the owner the work they do from setting up my tanks and the maintenance of them is phenomenal. If you are interested in a tank, talk to Martin. He will make your vision become a reality.”
— Thomas Montemarano5.05 years ago“These guys are the best! I am crazy neurotic and know very little about fish and Martin is super patient with me and understanding. Our tank is gorgeous and we get tons of conpliments! i highly recommend them!!”
— Jessica Torres5.05 years ago“Great selection of fish coupled together with a very well informed staff has made it a go to for my aquarium supplies. Try it, you'll like it.”
— Joe Cohen4.06 years ago“I called Martin for advice on a sick fish I have that I’m extremely attached to. He had lent me uv filters for my tanks a few months back. That’s right, lent me! Refused to take any money for this. I was on the phone with him for 10-15 mins and he understood what I was going through and took the time to explain all the steps I needed to take to try and save my fish. The pet store employees try to help but a lot of their advice is opinion and not fact. I have complete confidence in Martins advice. I’m just so grateful he cares enough to share his experience, time, and expertise w me when there’s nothing in it for him. Not too many people out there who are willing to do this anymore. Thanks so much Martin!”
— robert heffernan5.06 years ago“Have a 55 Gal. Freshwater tank that has not had fish in it for over a year but left filter (uncleaned of course) running during that time. Tank was REALLY gross with brown algae and wanted to rehabilitate it and add some fish. Shopped around for tank maintenance guys. They either charge by the gallon with a minimum charge and all sorts of extra fees and add-ons or charged a tremendous amount per visit and tried to get a multiple visit guarantee. Called Martin at Total Aquariums and he was not only affordable but didn’t pressure the sale. He said “if you want us to handle everything we can, if you want us be less involved we can, whatever your needs are.” So I booked a home tank cleaning for the next day. Carlos came at the exact time scheduled and was done within the hour. I couldn’t believe it. The clean up job would have taken me at least a day. Carlos was respectful and personable. Not a drop of water was left for me to clean up in the surrounding area. Tank is spotless, filter cleaned out and set up again. Gravel immaculate. Just perfect and ready for fish in the next couple of weeks. No eyesore anymore. Carlos and I discussed possible fish, tank design, a new light I requested etc. My kids are excited again about the fish they may get. I can’t wait for our next visit. Dealing with Total Aquariums was an absolute pleasure. Carlos, Martin and I texted throughout so no phone tag which was great for me bc I had one kid home sick and had to work as well. VERY VERY HAPPY with their service. I highly recommend them. Will give an update following their next visit when they come to install the fish, do another water change/test water, decorate etc.”
— Eli Rosenbaum5.0Edited 7 years ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (516) 887-5048 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Total Aquariums.