Caribbean Forest LLC

Walking into Caribbean Forest LLC in Rochester, New York feels more like stepping into a curated aquarium gallery than a typical fish store. Reviewers consistently remark on the beautifully laid-out space, with immaculate tanks and an atmosphere that captivates adults and children alike — one family mentioned their kids were "blown away" by the fish, coral, and the store's resident parrot. The shop's core identity is reef and saltwater, stocking a strong selection of corals, anemones, and saltwater fish.

Customers report that the livestock is notably healthy, with one reviewer pointing out that their coral and fish from Caribbean Forest are still thriving long after purchase — a contrast to less reliable shops they'd tried elsewhere around Syracuse. Quality clearly takes priority here, and while some note that prices reflect that premium positioning, the consensus is that you get what you pay for. Beyond the saltwater offerings, there's more to explore upstairs, where the store keeps a plant collection that at least one reviewer urges visitors not to miss.

The shop also carries a solid range of dry goods, equipment, and fish foods, making it a well-rounded destination for aquarists building or maintaining a reef setup. The owner is a standout presence. Multiple reviews describe her as knowledgeable, pleasant, and genuinely passionate.

She's also a skilled woodworker — all the custom woodwork in the store is her handiwork, and she takes on custom projects for customers willing to invest. That personal craftsmanship extends to the store's overall aesthetic, which feels intentional and carefully maintained. Staff across the board earn high marks for being helpful and attentive, taking time to recommend the right livestock for each customer's setup rather than pushing sales.

8-star rating across nearly 250 reviews, Caribbean Forest has clearly built deep loyalty among Rochester's reef-keeping community. If you're serious about saltwater in western New York, this is a destination worth the drive.