About
Tucked into El Paso's sprawling desert landscape, Planet Reef has built a devoted following among saltwater hobbyists who appreciate its curated coral selection, healthy livestock, and genuinely personal service. Owner Julio runs this family-owned shop with unmistakable passion — multiple reviewers describe him opening the store on his day off or before regular hours to accommodate customers, including one visitor from out of state. The coral inventory is the star attraction here.
Reviewers consistently praise the quality and cleanliness of the frags, with one experienced reefer noting that after dipping their purchases, they found next to no pests — a telling endorsement. The selection spans common varieties to rare and unusual pieces, and if something specific isn't in stock, Julio will work to source it. Beyond corals, the shop carries saltwater fish including clownfish (with rare variants spotted by visitors), hippo tangs, and massive display anemones that customers say are worth seeing even if you're not buying.
Clean-up crew packages of snails and crabs are available at competitive prices, and the store stocks essential dry goods — filtration, lighting, frozen fish food, and other reef-keeping supplies. Several reviewers mention that Julio previously maintained a 900-gallon aquarium in nearby Socorro, and that professional maintenance background shows in the pristine condition of the shop's display tanks. Pricing comes up in nearly every positive review.
Customers describe Planet Reef as having the best saltwater prices in El Paso, and Julio is known for working within stated budgets and offering deals. For newcomers to the hobby, he takes time to educate — one first-time saltwater keeper described leaving with a complete tank setup after an impromptu lesson in reef basics. The shop also carries reptiles, adding another dimension to an already compelling visit.
Planet Reef may look compact from the outside, but the depth of its saltwater inventory and Julio's hands-on expertise make it a destination worth the drive across El Paso.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Extensive coral selection praised for cleanliness and minimal pests
- Rare clownfish varieties and display-quality anemones in stock
- Owner Julio known for opening outside regular hours for customers
- Widely cited as the most affordable saltwater shop in El Paso
- Family-owned with hands-on consultation for reef tank setup
From keepers
Customer reviews
“I’ve been in the reef aquarium hobby for over 10 years, and Planet Reef is one of those local fish stores you’re glad still exists. On my last visit I picked up three fish, and Julio was incredibly helpful throughout the process. He took the time to answer questions, made solid recommendations, and clearly knows what he’s doing. No pressure, just good advice and genuine care for the livestock. Experiences like this are why supporting a good LFS matters. Highly recommend Planet Reef.”
— jordan licon5.06 days ago“This place is definitely interesting The fish seemed healthy spend about $400 the guy gave me a couple of deals. Not to mention he open the store when it was closed. I thought it would be a little more for what I spent for the deals but it definitely was worth it No complaints. After getting fish more than a couple had ick had a couple die already Not to mention seeing ick on a couple of fish when I was there it seems like once the guy gets the money from you he kind of just goes to the next person and ignores you after he gets the money doesn't tell you that he treats the fish I've had better luck with fish purchases online Just sketchy all around when it comes to saltwater fish especially when the lighting is very low.”
— Christopher Stidham3.0Edited 2 weeks ago“Just moved to the area and I am glad I found this coral shop many I have been to are either overpriced or have bad quality fish and corals. This place is very professional and helpful, the owner is willing to work with you I came in with a budget and he was able to help me out. 10/10 I will continue to give my business to this wonderful place if you guys need some healthy corals and fish don’t miss out on this gem of a shop!!”
— Jose M5.03 weeks ago“I am definitely going to be coming back. Great customer service. Friendly atmosphere. Excellent water quality. And fish.”
— Marc Yanez5.04 weeks ago“This family owned business has a very unique style. I love the set up, great people, and great merchandise. Come and check them out. Highly recommended. 👍👍👍”
— Gilson Garraton5.0a month ago“Great experience at this shop! The owner came in to open the store for me on his day off. Had a great selection of rare clowns. Got exactly what I needed. Thanks so much!”
— Ruben Garratt5.0a month ago“Owner and the family are fantastic people. Store is small enough to not overwhelm the cleaning so each tank is pristine- but store is large enough for a great variety of unique corals”
— Daniel “Dann” Dykema5.0a month ago“Buen servicio y excelente servicio.”
— Ana Pena5.0a month ago“Best service and quality assistance when asking questions. Love the friendly environment...not to mention best prices in town. Not like others saltwater places now days.. that's my go to from now on..”
— Ernie Nunez5.0a month ago“Bought some clean up crew there good prices and great service”
— alex hernandez5.0a month ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (915) 329-3177 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Planet reef.