Compared to the other local fish stores (6th ave, aqua forest, etc), this place is just not up to snuff. For one thing, it's quite difficult to find, tucked away in a sketchy alley with homeless people loitering right outside the doorway. While the sheer number of tanks and the plant growth inside them were pretty impressive (1st star), it soon became apparent that they are primarily populated by guppies. I saw that the reviews stated there are many rare fish, but frankly I only saw a few other species scattered among hundreds of guppies. The owners were fairly nice, and at least tried to be helpful (2nd star), though it was difficult to communicate in English. Ultimately, their lackluster selection was not a problem, as I was seeking female Endler guppies, which they had a plentiful stock of. Unfortunately, they tried to charge me $9 per fish! Even Albany Aquarium across the bay (priciest I've seen thus far) only charged $3 per fish. In the end, I didn't want to drive all the way across the bay for a couple fish, and was able to negotiate the price down to ~$5 per fish. Hopefully the fish are as healthy as the other reviews claim. Either way, definitely never coming to this store again as there are plenty of superior options.

Edit 1/31 Returned today after a really long hiatus from this store. The lady tried to charge me $60 for three white cloud mountain minnows. A common fish that sells for 5 bucks or less everywhere else. Appalled, I didn't have the energy to argue about the $18 glowlight danio and $5 feeder guppies shed already bagged. Got charged 170 bucks for 18 fish( 4 common danio, 3 adult, 5 fry feeder guppies, 2 paradise fish, 4 rainbow shiners). Don't shop here if you've checked out every other fish store in the city and have some idea of what's common and what they cost. Unless you want to buy 15 dollar cardinal tetra. Never again. 3 star 》》1 star. Great selection of fish but the prices are fairly high with some common fish one would expect to be 3-4 bucks sold for 8-10. Wish they’d list prices so it didn’t feel like they were making them up on the fly. Used to love it here until I went to another local store and was able to get 20 of the same fishes there for a third of the price.

This man is the truth. I followed his method and listened it took me three months and I have an amazing tank! Be patient and enjoy watching the miracle Grow. I do not have to change the water. It’s clearer than anything I’ve ever seen and it’s an immaculate tank. used no chemicals and just bacteria and this beautiful natural balance emerges.the plants clean the water the fish Nourish the plants.We call it our “Hopi” tank in respect to the teacher. I am ever thankful for learning how to manage A tank properly. When you go to Ocean aquarium you’re not only paying for a product but for 30+ years of wisdom and insight that in today’s world is very hard to find. If your wanting to start a tank and looking for someone or already have a tank this is the shop. So many stores sell you on so many products ocean aquarium has a love form aquariums and will teach you how to run a tank in a biologically effective manner and only sell you what you really need for a beautiful aquarium

I've been coming to Ocean Aquarium for years now. I was introduced through a friend and have recommended them to everyone I know who has any fish or aquarium plant needs. The owners, Justin and his wife Adi, truly care about their fish and will usually only sell their fish until after they test your water quality to ensure your tank has been properly cycled and is balanced. Justin knows his fish and Adi knows her plants. Even if I haven't been there in months, they always remember what kind of fish I have, what plants I like and even what kind of fish my mom and my friends have. They have saved me from an infection spreading throughout my tank, helped me breed my own Rams, Corys & others and have always been able to answer any questions I've had. I'd recommend them to beginners, experienced tank owners and anyone in between. Quality, trusted local fish stores are hard to come by but Justin and Adi love what they do and they are great at it.

After 30 years of shopping at Ocean Aquarium, I got, sort of, kicked out of their store! I asked for 6 stems of Hornwort and 6 stems of Wisteria. The 6 stems of Hornwort would not even fill an 8oz cup. They wanted $36 for these plants. I only had $20. I said I could only afford the Wisteria. That is when Justin grabbed the bag of plants from me and said no more sales to me that day. It took me a year to get the courage to go back and try tocdo business again, and get in their good graces. I bought a goregous female KOI Betta for $25. They seemed happy to see me. All is now well. Just be aware of four things... 1-Their fish are very healthy. 2-Select strains of high end Guppies show up regularly. 3- Unique fish of all types, all freshwater are only found there. and, 4-Their prices are on the high end, so shop wisely. Mark

I've been going there for about 20 years. No kidding. He and his wife Adi, have been so helpful over the years. I got my first aquarium there and went on to get bigger ones with more complicated setups including plants. Justin is a plant guru. He is also a wizard Discus breeder. They are always glad to see me and say hi Paul. I feel like I'm one of the family. It's a great little store. So much packed into such a small area. You must come in and check it out, even if it's just for window shopping they'll be glad to see you and give you all the help you need from beginner to advanced practitioner. I just re-started a 20 gal. show tank with a lot of plants and co2. Some of the new plants are already showing new growth. Good Luck to you Justin and Adi. Keep up the good work!

I happened to be working in the area, I looked out across the alley and I saw Ocean Aquarium over a small door in the side of the building. I knew what it was as soon as I'd seen it, this store was touted by Cory of aquarium coop as his favorite store, and one of the best places for planted fresh-water aquariums. Very knowledgeable owners and they are extremely helpful. He even went out of his way to make a drip setup for free, to aclimate my shrimp that I purchased. The selection of plants here can't be beat, and each tank is decorated to give you an idea of what you can hope to achieve in your own tank. If you are looking to get into the hobby or are a seasoned aquarist, you should stop by and support this awesome local shop.

The name of the shop is misleading, its almost all freshwater aquariums. But holy crap. It's my favorite fish store in the entire bay area. Its like walking into another universe when you walk into his store, it's small as hell and just covered in overgrown amazing looking planted tanks. The owner, Justin, answered my questions for like a solid hour even though I only bought a couple small things. He's upset that the internet makes it seem so over complicated to just do a planted tank and I completely agree. Someone needs to start a website with this guy because he's old and archaic but his knowledge of the planted tank is master level.

I'd lived in San Francisco for years without knowing about this place till a friend in the Czech Republic, who has never even been to the USA recommended I check it out. He'd heard about it through the Internet. My experience at this shop has radically changed the way I approach my freshwater fish tank care. While the fish are expensive, they're the healthiest in the city and usually outlive the fish I get from anywhere else. I'm to the point where I just won't buy some types of fish (like dwarf gourami's) from anywhere else. Totally worth it!

Coming from a town that does not cater to the hobbyist like San Francisco does, this place was amazing! It was dirty, small, unorganized with no prices listed on the tanks for livestock or plants, but none the less, one of the heaviest stocked, unique fish stores I have ever been in. The proprietors, who have been in that location for 30 plus years, were very knowledgeable and willing to share some of their secrets to being successful. With rare fish and hundreds of aquatic weeds to choose from, this place is a must visit!

This is the best freshwater aquarium store in the city! I've been to almost all of them! Their fish are extremely healthy and he cares that you keep them that way! Justin is extremely helpful whenever I have a problem with my tank. He also has great advice on how to breed different types of fish and different lighting/CO2/plant setups. Trust him on how to set up fish tanks. I had tried different methods before moving to SF and his method is so worth it in terms of reduced maintenance and effort in the long run.

This is the first fish store ever in my time as a hobbyist where the owners are so eager to help you and educate you not only on basic things but the sciences behind a healthy tank . I was so overjoyed with my visit here. I think tank keepers of any ability should pay a visit. Great selction of rocks and wood. Fish and plant variety was a little aboce average but with some harder to find species in stock. Excellent customeer service. Will visit again and definitely recommend to family and friends

A little $$$ but very knowledgeable great place to go if you are having fish tank or fish problems. Their fish are very healthy they are happy to help you get your at its best it can be. Like letting you know that cleaning your tank isn't good for your fish it destroys the tanks ecosystem. They will explain why if you ask them. Very friendly people, if you are having tank issues I recommend giving them a call. They have lots and lots of different kinds of fish and plants for your tank.

If this lovely couple was not located here., I would not have an aquarium. They have a lovely store, and a great work ethic. I've found it pointless to buy live plants and animals online in my experience. They also have something most salespeople do not have in San Francisco. Wisdom & kindness. One of the best and only remains of a once beautiful and proud City. Professional to the utmost. I visit weekly, I recommend it over any Bay Area Store I've been to most from SF to Colma.

Mama and Papa fish are the most wonderful pet store owners I’ve ever encountered. Their shop is a wonderland of fish, shrimp, plants and every supply or food item you could imagine to keep your fish happy and healthy. They are also both extremely knowledgeable, and will help you with any question. I can’t recommend this store any higher than five stars, seriously if you’re in the market for some beautiful fishies, shop local and visit mama and papa fish!!!

Just an absolutely amazing place to visit if you are serious about tropical fish. The plants in each display are incredible and I've never seen such healthy fish in a store before -- Ever. The owner and his wife do this because they love their fish and are very passionate about it.Justin was very helpful with great advice. I could've stayed all day. Note it is tucked away in an alley and the inside of store is very tight to navigate.

Addie and Justin, they are the best. They have the best choice of healthy fish, I drive all the way from Concord to purchase fish from them. Justin even helped me with a device that acclimates my fish from their water to my own. He knows his fish, what they are like, where they came from. It is always such a joy to look around their place. It is a hole in the wall that is so so important to aquarists all over northern California

Most genuine and honest experience in a store I have ever had. I was met with open arms and a plethora of valuable information with the backup of the quality of his fish tanks to show proof in his knowledge. I was more than happy to spend my money here and am absolutely looking forward to my next opportunity to visit. Thank you Ocean Aquarium for your dedication to what you do. It was an honor to visit.

Absolutely beautiful tanks. I disagree with the bad reviews here, the woman and man working there were friendly and were happy to explain how they set up their tanks. Some dead fish here and there (happens in every fish store) but the majority of them thriving. Resourceful/eco-friendly store, great place to browse even if you aren’t looking to buy. A hundred mini-ecosystems, so cool.

Omg! This aquarium is amazing! I was lucky and went when no one else was around and the couple who owns this place were so unbelievably helpful. They gave me advice and we’re so nice! I used to go to 6th ave aquarium but they have dead fish in the tanks and they just don’t care as much as this place. Do yourself and your fish family a favor and go to this aquarium store.

Incredible! 6 stars! When I checked out I almost wished my total was higher so I could support this couple even more! The owner spent 40 minutes explaining his entire approach to fish keeping. This man is rare in our hobby. A true OG who has forgotten more about aquariums than I will ever know. Quote for all new hobbyists from the owner “raise your water not your fish”

Best fish store. They have a lot of classic common fish as well as unusual fish particularly fish from Burma. They take beautiful care of their stock, and offer excellent advice to both the novice and the experience to fish keeper. This couple really likes fish! And really likes their business! And really likes their customers, so it's tremendous all the way around.

Justin and his wife are awesome people they truly care for their fish. Every single tank is wonderfully planted with its own ecosystem to ensure healthy fish. I have found some of the rarest most beautiful fish at this store you are sure to get a healthy quarantined fish every time. One of the best stores in the bay area hands down.

If you're a fish nerd this place is awesome. All of their tanks are heavily planted and they have a really cool variety of fish despite not having as many tanks as some bigger aquarium shops. Its worth visiting just to admire their aquascapes. The owners were friendly and you can tell fishkeeping is a passion for them.

I have never been to a more beautiful aquarium store. I wish I could give them over 5 stars. You can tell they care about the fish asking if your tank is right, your parameters, your hardware and everything. Some people may not like that but you have to learn that others can know more than you and take their advice.

The owners were some of the nicest people I've ever met. It doesn't get more mom and pop shop than this local business. They were very informative and super helpful with all of my questions. Their shop was no frills and straight to the point. If you have planted aquarium questions, they have answers.

One of the best stores I've visited, the owner Justin and his wife Ady were super nice and extremely helpful. They'll give you tips and show you around even if you're not going to buy anything, and it's so obvious they care a lot about fishkeeping and the aquariums. Cannot recommend enough!

Amazing selection and customer service! The shop looks tiny from the outside but it's actually very spacious in the back and the variety of fish and products is excellent. The woman who sold me the fish also took the time to carefully explain how to care for it, acclimate it, etc.

Wish I lived closer. I live in Spokane WA and have watched Justin's tour YouTube twice to get the details. I'm setting up a 75 gallon tank and calculated that I would need 225 lbs gravel to avoid water changes. That's a lot so hoping I can phone Justin later to make sure.

Amazing store and amazing couple owners. They shared many tips on how to be successful at fish keeping and maintaining my aquarium. I love to see the dedication they have towards their fish and plants. All fish and plants that I bought there are healthy and thriving.

The owners are extremely nice and knowledgeable. They can help you make the right choice for you and your tank, not trying to rip you off and care about the fish youre taking home. Always awesome to meet someone whos so willing to share their passion with others.

Owner Justin is amazing. His approach in helping his customers is so much different, but professional! His store his very small, yet large. It's like a basement store. Many, many tanks with many types of fish and plant tanks. Absolutely worthwhile a visit!

Great, friendly ,knowledgeable and very helpful staff. They have huge selection of . If you are looking for a place to leave your pet fish while you are on vacation then this is your place as well. They charge 2$ per day and are open 7 days a week. …

The healthiest fish you can get! They take good care of the fish and quarantine after the shipments. The couple who run this place are kind and helpful. This place also has the best looking and most variation in betta fish. Definitely recommend!

My favorite aquarium store! I come to buy fish and plants even though I now live out of state. :) The owners are incredibly knowledgeable and kind. The fish and plants are healthy and beautiful, plus they often have rare and interesting species

Amazing place for buy fishes and plants. This couple teaches me about tank and water etc, a lot of things that I tough I know. If you’re planning to buy fishies. Took some pictures or bring it some water. They tell you what fishies to buy.

Good morning everyone! I'm writing from Italy. I discovered Justin and his shop through youtube video. I would like to ask him some tips, but I don't know how to contact him. Someone can give me a contact where I can write? Thanks, Chiara

Very knowledgeable and kind owners! The gentleman took his time to teach us why and how to properly upkeep our tanks in an entirely different way then we have been and were so welcoming. We will definitely be back!

Bonus for being a mom and pop store. Make sure you ask for the price before you decide on any fish. I feel like they price according to your interest. Relatively small selection but the fish seem very healthy.

The owners are the sweetest people…so knowledgeable and helpful…I also bought a beautiful painting that was painted by the husband. Absolutely talented and I think I will buy another betta in a couple weeks!

Very interesting place! Amazing guppy collection! Parking sucks but we found some. Prices are up their for a pair of guppies but they are very unique! Wish I would of brought more cash! Next time I will

This is the only aquarium store I'll go to. Perfect for beginners and pros. They really care about your fish and your plants. Plus, going in to look at the waterscapes is just a nice way to spend time.

Fish Hobbiest Dream!!! Justin and Ady are a weather of knowledge. When you first come to the place it's in an ally and you think your in the wrong place till you walk in!!! Amazing place!!!

Hands down best aquarium store I have been to! Justin and his wife are experts at their craft. Stop by and ask about his unique and money saving tips for freshwater planted aquariums.

Must-visit for aquarium hobbyists. All their tanks are densely planted and have the right amount of fish so they don’t need to do water changes. They’re open and limiting guests.

A wonderful, wonderful store, unlike anywhere else you will ever go. Owners are extremely kind and helpful. Fantastic selection of fish and plants. Highly recommended

Quality service I absolutely adore this little shop. The owners are knowable and share what they know with you. I could stay in that shop all day!

Very unique aquarium stop in San Francisco. Purchased a few pieces of wood for our new set up. Glad we stopped by!

I saw your shop from youtube. Great guy with passion for aquarium, I would love to visit your shop one day.

The owners are very kind and helpful. Very beautiful fish and good assortment of guppies and endlers.