About
Aquarium Designs has earned a loyal following in San Antonio as a go-to destination for saltwater hobbyists, and it's easy to see why. Owner Jason and his team have built a reputation on clean tanks, healthy livestock, and a coral selection that keeps reefers coming back for years. Customers rave about frags that started as single heads or polyps and grew into showpieces in their home tanks, a testament to the quality of what's on the racks.
The saltwater collection is clearly the star here. From bangaii cardinals to a rotating selection of reef fish and coral frags, the store caters heavily to the marine side of the hobby. Jason is personally involved in tank maintenance for local clients, handling cleaning and offering hands-on guidance for everything salt water related.
That level of owner involvement creates a shop culture where the staff genuinely knows the livestock they're selling and the systems they're going into. Freshwater enthusiasts will find some options—a handful of tanks with tropical fish and a limited plant selection—but this isn't really a planted-tank destination. One reviewer noted they wished for more variety on the freshwater side, and that's a fair observation.
If you're building a reef or maintaining a saltwater setup, though, the inventory of fish, corals, and reef equipment is robust for a smaller independent shop. The store itself is consistently described as immaculate. Multiple reviewers single out how clean the tanks and shop floor are, which matters—it reflects how the livestock is being cared for behind the scenes.
Staff members like Lauren have drawn praise for their warmth and willingness to field endless questions from newcomers. It's worth noting that Aquarium Designs does not currently offer a fish guarantee, which frustrated at least one customer who lost several fish shortly after purchase. That's something to keep in mind when budgeting for new additions.
For San Antonio reef keepers looking for quality coral, reliable saltwater fish, and a shop owner who will remember your tank's specs, Aquarium Designs delivers where it counts.
What they offer
Fish & livestock for sale at Aquarium Designs in San Antonio, TX
Aquarium Designs stocks corals, reef fish, aquarium plants and freshwater & saltwater fish for sale in San Antonio, TX. As an aquarium store serving San Antonio, TX, it also carries aquarium equipment and offers tank cleaning, tank maintenance and aquarium consultations.
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Standout coral frag selection with proven growth results in customer tanks
- Owner Jason provides personal tank cleaning and saltwater maintenance services
- Exceptionally clean store with healthy, well-maintained livestock
- Strong saltwater and reef equipment inventory for a boutique-sized shop
- Bangaii cardinals and diverse marine fish regularly in stock
From keepers
Customer reviews
“I've had aquariums all my life, so I know a lot about them - or at least I think I do. The staff was helpful and willing to share their knowledge. Prices seemed a little high, but then it's been a long time since i've been shopping. Great selection!”
— Judy Reeves5.03 weeks ago“Looks small on the out side. But lot of good stuff on the inside. Worth the drive to get there”
— John Vernon5.0a month ago“Bought fish from this aquarium and all of them died within two days. They didn’t look healthy from the start, so I believe they were already sick. I contacted the owner, but he refused to take responsibility. Be careful before buying from here.”
— Zere Velazquez1.02 months ago“This is by far my favorite local fish store in the San Antonio area. Great selection of frags, reef equipment fish and freshwater. Owner and workers are kind, friendly and assist with anything I need. Highly recommend!!!”
— kenda adkins5.04 weeks ago“Been my #1 source for a couple years now for anything fish and coral related. Always see the same people working. Everyone is very nice and helpful. They never make you feel like your putting them out. A few of the corals that I have from them are in the pics. Some started with 1 head or polyp.”
— Cory Smith5.02 months ago“my husband just started a fish tank and I love going with him to Aquarium designs, they do take pride of their fish and coral, everything is always super clean and they are very friendly. from all the fish stores with salt water fish we have visited this place is beyond the best!”
— Gabriela Perez5.02 months ago“Good selection of fish and accessories”
— Dwight Meadows5.02 months ago“This store is a favorite for supplying our salt water tank needs and desires. Very knowledgeable and friendly staff. Gorgeous tanks, healthy fish, what more could you want. 🐠🪸”
— Kacy Norgan5.03 months ago“Jason is very helpful and will go above and beyond to help his clients, he’s cleans my tank and helps with everything salt water related and has some of the best stock for fish in town. Thanks Jason !”
— michael eisenhauer5.04 months ago“Este lugar necesita ser más inclusivo con los niños!! De lo contrario no deberían permitir que entren niños.”
— Jacky Aviña1.06 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (210) 495-7333 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Aquarium Designs.