About
Oceans Paradise is Bismarck, North Dakota's go-to destination for saltwater aquarium enthusiasts, and in a landlocked state far from any reef, that's no small feat. The store — run primarily by Josh and Brandon — has built a loyal following by stocking healthy, vibrant marine livestock and a coral selection that multiple reviewers describe as the best (and often only) option in town. Soft corals draw particular admiration, and customers have spotted rare species that would surprise even seasoned hobbyists in coastal cities.
The shop's saltwater focus is unmistakable. Tanks brim with clownfish, angelfish, and colorful reef inhabitants, and the store sells RO water and pre-mixed saltwater at reasonable prices — a genuine convenience for reefers who'd otherwise have to produce their own. Frozen fish food options cater to picky marine eaters.
While freshwater livestock is limited (several reviewers note they had to look elsewhere for freshwater fish), the store does carry some freshwater options including shrimp and guppies, plus live rock for aquascaping. What sets Oceans Paradise apart is the hands-on service. Josh, in particular, earns near-universal praise for his patience and willingness to walk customers through everything from species compatibility to tank troubleshooting.
The store offers tank setup and ongoing maintenance — one longtime customer described how Josh personally maintained her father's aquarium for years. When a customer needed a tank urgently after a six-week wait elsewhere, Oceans Paradise had one ready the next morning, bigger and cheaper than the original order. The store does share space with Fire 'n Ice, a reptile business, so you'll find bearded dragons and other reptiles alongside the marine livestock.
Some reviewers flag occasional tank cleanliness issues — aiptasia and cyano have been spotted — and a few feel the sales approach can be pushy. But the overwhelming consensus is that for anyone running a saltwater setup in the Bismarck area, Oceans Paradise delivers quality livestock, solid coral variety, and the kind of personalized expertise that box stores simply cannot match.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- CoralsReefClownfishAngelfishShrimpRare SpeciesLive Rock
- Services
- Tank MaintenanceTank SetupConsultationCustom Tanks
- Specializes in
- FreshwaterSaltwater
Highlights
What makes them special
- Premier saltwater and coral selection in the Bismarck area
- Sells RO water and pre-mixed saltwater at reasonable prices
- Full tank setup and ongoing maintenance services by Josh and Brandon
- Rare marine species not typically found in landlocked states
- Patient one-on-one consultations for new saltwater hobbyists
From keepers
Customer reviews
“It is awsome they will answer every question! I highly recommend.”
— Elias Peltz5.0a day ago“What more can I say about a place that ready has the name "Paradise" in its name. This little gem is worth the travel for all of your Saltwater needs. The coral selection is always top notch and reasonably priced. Their livestock are always healthy and well cared for. I've seen some rare species here which is awesome for a land locked state like Norh Dakota. I would never hesitate to being anything home from here. They sell RO water and pre mixed saltwater at a super reasonable price as well as a wide selection of frozen food for your picky eaters. Definitely check them out!”
— Shaun Flick5.03 months ago“Nice little place. It is mostly salt water and every fish in there looks like it is thriving. I bought a couple angel fish and price was below all others in town. And the young man who helped me was not in a big rush he took time to answer the questions I had. Nice to see fish so well taken care of. They also have reptiles. I will be going back.”
— Penance Grace5.08 months ago“I faithfully bought from them for 2 years and I hit a point were I couldn't keep my tank and I called them up and ask if they would come help tear down my tank they said yes I asked about all that they were gona do wen he got here and in the end he didn't finish but left with all the live stock saying he'd b back Thursday maybe.....but they already gotten the over 2 grand in livestock and coral from me y come back 2 finish wat u said u was gona do”
— Matt Duchene1.09 months ago“The fish shop exceeded my expectations with their wide selection of fresh fish. The cleanliness and organization of the shop made my shopping experience pleasant. I will definitely be returning for more fresh and beautiful fish!”
— Bob Eckroth5.0a year ago“The fish shop provided top-notch service and the freshest nice looking fish I've ever looked at. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, making my shopping experience delightful. I highly recommend this fish shop to anyone looking for good quality fish .”
— Easton Delzer5.0a year ago“This is a great place! New to saltwater aquariums and so happy with my clownfish and goals! Will definitely be going back.”
— Missy Tesky5.02 years ago“Always love going here. Kind service and good atmosphere. All kinds of neat critters to see.”
— Tyler W (Tyla)5.02 years ago“If it's saltwater related. You gotta go to. Oceans paradise. Knowledgeable, friendly, and very helpful. From the first time to the pro, these guys are the best. And if they don't have it, they'll get it. So your tank is how YOU want it.”
— Alex Browning5.02 years ago“Staff is very knowledgeable about the fish, reptiles, etc. Very friendly too.”
— Tinkerbellbadass L5.02 years ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (701) 391-7049 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Oceans Paradise.