Aquarium Paradise

Fantastic experience: Erik was the best! He is extremely knowledgeable about fish and how to set up your tank. Highly recommend!!

Fantastic experience: Always helpful and knowledgeable love this place been going here for over 18 years! Back here on vacation from New mexico had to stop in and found almond leaves for my planted tank.

Fantastic experience: Awesome little fish store. Staff was great with helping me understand different fish species, and how well they interact with one another. I highly recommend to anyone in the hobby to check em out.

Fantastic experience: I started buying my fish from Aquarium Paradise almost a year ago, and every single one is still thriving. This is also where I come to buy plants and tank accessories.

Positive experience: Pretty nice fish supply store.

Fantastic experience: This place is lovely, clean with a huge selection. Staff was respectful and knowledgeable.

Positive experience: Very helpful staff and good amount of aquarium needs.

Positive experience: Nice selection of fish, tanks, and accessories for your tanks. Very helpful and attentive store caretakers. All-in-all, a very nice place. EDIT: So we went in today(6/1/2025) and it was a shit show. Never have I ever had any issue with customer service, or feeling like I did something wrong by asking about getting a pleco. First I was shown the fishes, I asked if all of them were 1$19.99, like it said on the tank. He went to ask and I was then told they can’t sell because they needed to be quarantined. There was no sign, or any type Of notice stating that. I suggested they should put one up because well, quarantine. Dude went on to say that they didn’t want to sell a sick fish.Totally understandable. We Walked over to the guppies And I asked If they had any “fancy” types. Nicer than the ones I already saw. He showed me the ones I saw. Then I walked over To the where the last row of tanks were and saw there was a different type of pleco. I called my daughter to ask them what they wanted me to do. That they wouldn’t sell me the basic one, but then the dude came back saying that the darker one I was asking about was $19.99. I then stated “oh. So now you’re going to sell me It? This is not what was told to me, and that they were in quarantine” The red hairs tall ass dude came up from behind me and was Like “mam. Mam. Mam” really loud. “ we were really busy this morning and just got the fishes. I usually look them over. I just did”… OKAYYYYY. And then they BOTH just stood there, in my personal space. Like WHY? Just listening to the convo I was having with my daughter about it all. Literally walked out saying I hate when people listen in to my phone calls. That their people skills are lacking. The place Is great. But the service kinda sucks ass. I’m def not going back. Period. No thank you.

Fantastic experience: Very helpful and informative staff. Store was very clean and organized. Prices seemed very fair AND they do fish rescues. Check them out!

Fantastic experience: Great customer service. I always call the own Paul Wall line coming here.

Fantastic experience: All the employees I spoke to were friendly and very helpful with all my questions about fish care. This is a wonderful place!

Fantastic experience: I’ve been coming here for years. Great place to start if you want to get into the hobby.

Fantastic experience: Always have great experiences here, everyone is super helpful and they always take the time to answer all of my questions and offer advice. I'm pretty new to keeping fish in general and they've been a great resource for supplies and information and it's definitely a bit more personal than going to a big box store and trying to find someone that knows what they're talking about. Definitely recommended!

Fantastic experience: What store was super clean and they always carry the fish that other stores in the area don't. Kylie suggested you're into the hobby, you need to stop by

Positive experience: First time it took 20 minutes to get water didn't get the salt water fish I was looking at and it was more like just pay and go didn't ask for phone number 4 stars because it's normally better

Positive experience: Been here twice and the staff are always friendly and helpful. They have alot of fish and equipment you'd need. But I've walked out empty handed both time. I'm giving three stars because of the prices on most things. I'm all about supporting local stores but when I search an item up and can get it for $5 cheaper at petco/petsmart that's the move I'm gonna have to make. I came in for a tank and stand but found cheaper options elsewhere. I then came in for a pleco but they were quarantined (which is understandable). But I also wish they sold there decor with the attached plants.

Negative experience: Freshwater selection is okay. Saltwater selection sucks and overpriced.

Fantastic experience: Very nice shop.and customer care.

Fantastic experience: Just getting back into fish and aquariums since middle school, you got petco and petsmart. In just the last week I've gotten more help, recommendations, and even just good educational conversation then I would have gotten from the major stores EVER. Very knowledgeable team great, amazing personalities, and very easy to work with as long as you yourself are courteous and respectful. They have helped me start my tank and get the best equipment and material for it while also making sure the tank was safe before giving the go ahead to put fish in. Prices are competitive with the big chains but still reasonable. Will always recommend this store and these people

Fantastic experience: Great place for freshwater and saltwater fish and supplies. Knowledgeable and helpful staff make it a great place. Just be careful when petting the cat. She can get a bit spicy.

Fantastic experience: Been going to this store off and on over a year now that im addicted to the hobby and learning new things. They have a large selection of fish from nano to larger selections. The fish and plants always look super healthy and I have yet to have any problems. The staff is awesome and knowledgable on questions and even helped me out on a solution to blackbeard algae. (If you know, you know how evil it is). They have a good variety of items for people who are new to aquascaping or want to try out the hobby. If interested in the fishing hobby dont miss out on this gem and give their shop a visit.

Positive experience: Expensive but the people there are knowledgeable and kind, and the cat is very friendly

Fantastic experience: My go to fish store - Im a beginner shrimp keeper so it's been great having an in person shop with knowledgeable staff that can answer all of my questions.

Positive experience: Owners kinda rude. Staff is really friendly. Bunch of empty tanks. Great selection of marine aquatics.

Fantastic experience: Store has everything you'd need. Staff if super cool and friendly and knowledgable. 100% come here if you need anything relating to aquariums at all. Owner is obviously in the business for the right reasons. Fish all seem healthy. Starter guys and Advanced fish keepers, this is the place for everyone.

Fantastic experience: So incredibly helpful and such a cool store. Lots of salt water fish

Fantastic experience: I get all my saltwater necessity's here! Cool place for a person who loves fish!

Fantastic experience: The moment I walked in I was met with friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful people.

Fantastic experience: Great place for all your aquarium and fish needs, friendly and helpful staff.

Fantastic experience: Great little place to get well kept healthy fish and snails from knowledgeable and helpful people

Fantastic experience: bought two of my 8-12in beasts here and they’re happy and healthy - places like this should be replacing big name pet store companies

Fantastic experience: This is what an aquarium store should be. Yes, the fish were a little more expensive then other chain stores, but only by a few cents. The staff was friendly knowledgeable and they were very helpful. The store was packed when we went in. I didn't even know these kinds of places got this busy. But I see why. I will be doing all my future aquatic needs through them.

Fantastic experience: All kinds of fish and tanks good place love the people

Fantastic experience: Great little shop, has a nice selection of fresh and saltwater, plus shrimp/planted tank gear

Fantastic experience: My favorite place to go for my aquarium. The staff is always so knowledgeable and friendly. Also I have had no issues with any of the fish or snails I have purchased, always healthy

Fantastic experience: Gave a 5 Star only because I haven’t shopped here yet and only spoke with them on the phone. The employee was very knowledgeable and answered all my questions. I will visit this tropical fish store this weekend and provide my experience then. Looking for some South American cichlids for my tank.

Fantastic experience: Every time I come in, they are very helpful and always able to answer any questions I have. I have never had a bad experience here.

Negative experience: I went in and asked questions which they were great about answering. They sold me a ghostknife fish claiming that they will get along well with all fish in the tank. 8 days later I found him floating at the top of the tank. My water parameters were perfect and even the people told me they were. After I brought him in they said they only have a 7 day return policy on their fish, but they should be able to exchange him. When I went to exchange him they would only give me a discount and I could hear the guy in the back say it wasn't there fault so they refused to exchange them. Who else's fault could it be? I told them who I had in the tank the size, and they said the water was perfect. They claimed the other fish killed him which I don't see as possible especially since I saw him right before he died and his fins were pristine. Don't go here. Either my fish attacked it after they told me they were compatible, or he starved after the employee told me to stop hand feeding him, or he was a sick fish they sold me who died and the fins got eaten. Again DO NOT buy fish from here because they refuse to take responsibility which is crazy to me, especially since I've bought hundreds of dollars of product. I returned all things I was going to purchase there and I will make sure none of my other aquarium friends don't go there either

Fantastic experience: What a great shop! There was so many options here and I loved the layout. The staff was extremely helpful. I got a few plants and shrimp that day, I took time to do a drip transplant on all of them but I lost most of the plants and shrimp. My tanks have fish and have been stable for a few months so I'm not sure what happened. I'll give them another chance and maybe take my water for testing next time.

Fantastic experience: Staff are nice and answered my questions, and got healthy fish and shrimp for my beginner tank.

Negative experience: This place has high ratings and I'm not sure why. I walked in and asked where the plants were and was directed to the location and told they would be right over to help me after they rang up a customer. I never found him again I looked all around the store and waited and waited and never got any help. The plants all looked dead and slimy. The place was really dark and creepy. Would not recommend or go back here ever again.

Fantastic experience: Great local shop! Owner was super cool, very helpful! 100% Better than any Petco or Petsmart. #supportlocal My new go-to fish store!

Fantastic experience: My dad buys his salt water tank fish, Coral, and everything else that is needed for his tank. I have been here and seen on first hand if I could afford a tank like my dad's he!! YEAH I would shop here. These people help my dad along with his tank and slowly my dad teaches me. Amazing place!

Fantastic experience: Best store around for cichlids. I won't go anywhere else. I picked up a pike last visit, he is great

Fantastic experience: Erick was super knowledgable and helpful. He took the time to help us and answer all of our questions. 10 of 10

Fantastic experience: Huge Thank you to Erik! Today we walked into the store and was immediately welcomed by Erik. Once he was finished with one customer, he came over to see if we had any questions. We did. We had soo many. I cannot say enough about him. He was super knowledgeable, patient and calm. We didn't feel any pressure or feel like he was in any hurry. He was completely present with us and it felt great to have such awesome customer service. Thank you Erik - you are awesome!

Fantastic experience: The employees are super involved and helpful! So many fish both fresh water and salt Water. My child loved looking at all the different fish and there were so many options for tanks, plants, etc. Definitely coming back here

Fantastic experience: I enjoy going here, although it is far from Capital Hill. The people working there seem very chill and they always have a good selection of fish

Fantastic experience: The team here is extremely helpful and createt a comfortable environment. Always a good time anytime I visit for supplies or fish.

Fantastic experience: Great place with friendly staff and a huge selection of tropical fish to choose from

Fantastic experience: Super nice staff not trying to oversell anything. The people are honest and helpful. The selection of freshwater and saltwater life is amazing! Definitely worth the drive to check out!

Fantastic experience: Huge selection of fresh/salt water aquatic plants and fish, supplies and aquariums. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff. This is my one stop and trusted business for my tanks and an outdoor pond. You could spend hours looking at all the fish and a featured large saltwater reef setup.

Fantastic experience: Elli was a great help from start to finish. It has been a long while since being an aquarest and there was a lot I just couldn't get answers to my questions at other "chain" stores. Elli was happy to answer the question give me expert advice and suggestions as well as make me feel there's no rush. The cost of the hobby has definitely gone up, although with it to stores like this so has the info for people that just need get first hand information. Left with 2 new pets and going back this week for the mate to a pair. I really appreciate the time and knowledge you shared with me Aquarium Paradise

Fantastic experience: Best selection of breakfast cereal, milk, and sushi I’ve had in a long time. Love me some aquarium paradise- it’s good ahit

Fantastic experience: The employees are helping, knowledgeable and nice. They didn’t try to sell me anything and gave me a ton of information on my tank.

Fantastic experience: I bought a 90 gallon Aquarium Masters tank and stand here which they loaded into my truck for me. I returned a few weeks later for fish and other supplies. Dominic, Elly, and Lindsay have all been incredibly nice and patient working through decisions sharing their knowledge, thoughts, insights, and opinions. Elly and Lindsay even stayed past closing on a Saturday helping my wife and I pick our school of fish. They never once made us feel rushed or pressured to get out the door. That is so appreciated as we will have these fish for years to come. I can tell they enjoy what they do and it shows in their great service and well cared for fish stock. I absolutely will make the 30 mile drive south again and again.

Positive experience: It was a nice, somewhat big store, good customer service, a couple dead fish here & there and quite a few fish out of stock.

Fantastic experience: Very cool aquarium shop! Variety of different fish & other aquatic animals. Can be pricey but I'd rather support this quality shop than the chain stores. Photos: 1. Ramshorn 2. Ramshorn 3. Nerite

Fantastic experience: Very knowledgeable and friendly staff. Great selection of fish

Fantastic experience: Elli and his coworker were so helpful today! They answered all our questions and helped us with picking our perfect fish. Highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: Very nice people, very clean store, very professional , very knowledgeable staff. Fish tanks very clean and well managed. Lots of tanks and accessories. Highly recommend to anyone and everyone.

Fantastic experience: Lovely place very nice employee Lots of fish to see and buy We only got plants

Fantastic experience: Very helpful staff. I’ve been slowly setting up a tank for a month and they’ve pointed me in the right direction multiple times. I bought 6 corydoras from them today and they’re very healthy. Not a bad price either. Nice clean family owned shop

Fantastic experience: My favorite fish and all things aquarium related retailer hands down. Amazing fish and hard to find species of cichlids in stock. They have fish and aquarium related stuff for anyone who has or is interested in starting out with fish aquariums. Know and helpful staff. They have fish tanks for sale in sizes small to huge and prices are unbeatable.

Fantastic experience: I recently had the pleasure of visiting Aquarium Paradise, and I can confidently say that Eli is the unsung hero of aquatic enthusiasts! From the moment I stepped into the store, his passion and expertise shone through, making my experience truly exceptional. Eli's guidance was invaluable in selecting the perfect glofish for my tank. His wealth of knowledge about the different species, their unique characteristics, and compatibility factors was impressive. He took the time to understand my preferences and provided insightful recommendations that perfectly aligned with what I envisioned for my underwater haven. What truly sets Eli apart is his genuine commitment to ensuring the well-being of the aquatic life and creating a harmonious environment. He didn't just stop at helping me choose the right fish; he went above and beyond to assist me in preparing my tank for their arrival. Eli shared invaluable tips on water conditions, and even suggested the most aesthetically pleasing tank accessories to enhance the overall visual appeal. In the realm of aquatic expertise, Eli stands out as a true maestro, orchestrating an underwater symphony of colors and life. If you're a novice looking to start your own aquatic adventure or a seasoned enthusiast seeking expert advice, look no further than Eli at Aquarium Paradise. His hands-on approach and genuine passion for the hobby will undoubtedly elevate your aquarium journey to new heights. Kudos to Eli and the entire team at Aquarium Paradise for creating a haven where passion for aquatic life meets unparalleled customer service. My glofish and I couldn't be happier with our new aquatic home, and it's all thanks to Eli's expertise and the exceptional experience provided by Aquarium Paradise!

Negative experience: Mid selection.. says one stop but they don’t really sell any exotic salt water fish.. only wanted a octopus but still.

Fantastic experience: Over all a good experience. The people that work there are so nice, eager to help and knowledgeable. They have a good selection of fish and accessories I have not seen at other stores. A bit of a drive but worth the trip.

Fantastic experience: Great family owned shop with polite and very knowledgeable employees. One of my favorite places to visit.

Fantastic experience: Extremely knowledgeable and very friendly staff. Have a wide variety of species to choose from, everything from fresh water to salt water. Best experience ever.

Fantastic experience: Best store for fish around the area

Fantastic experience: Great place to buy fish n accessories. Ask for Eli. He's so knowledgeable. Whether you're a novice and just getting started or someone who has been at this awhile the staff are very competent. Large selection to chose from.

Positive experience: This is certainly the best option in the area that I've found so far. The fish were very healthy, and the ones I brought home are thriving. They seem to have a great selection. I'll definitely be back often.

Fantastic experience: Great place helped my daughter with her first axolotl and how to keep it alive amazing service

Fantastic experience: I appreciate that the staff treat all their customers the same. I have a small guppy tank, and they are just as excited to help me as someone with an expensive saltwater tank. Thank you!

Positive experience: I really like this this shop so far I drive all the way out from olympia just to come here. Very helpful, they seem to be pretty knowledgeable and great customer service. Always there to show you around and give you advice and information.

Negative experience: Every fresh water fish or invertebrate I get here dies…I’ve always enjoyed how nice and helpful the owner and employees have been but not a satisfied customer. The other fish and aquatic animals I have bought from other fish stores have been thriving for the past 4-5 months.

Negative experience: Unless you're a marine Biologist don't go in this store. If you don't have a good understanding of Aquariums don't go to this store. They don't "have the time" to explain things to you nor the customer service skills or patients. Matter of fact it's almost insulting the way talk to you. I'll spend my money else where and so should you . Now wonder small business are failing they don't know how to treat people.

Fantastic experience: healthiest fish i’ve ever seen! bought some snails and they look gorgeous. they have so many healthy breeds of fish and coral and plants, and they are so affordable! they helped so much and were really knowledgeable about everything. helped us choose and when i went to petco they didn’t even know the gender of fish! super helpful and never going to a chain petco again.

Negative experience: I am going to say this once… save the axolotls. This place has a bunch of employees that literally have no idea what they’re talking about as far as axolotls. Granted we went in without knowing anything about them but felt confident that we were on the right track with our little guy with all the “knowledge” they were pushing on us… although we walked away feeling like idiots and as if the employees were being condescending… A little baby axolotl who was in a BARE tank with nothing but an obnoxious blue light, a pump, no substrate whatsoever and a plant. We were told that he should be fed every 2-3 days (as a baby?!) and that we shouldn’t put sand at the bottom of his aquarium, oh and we were also told a 3.5L tank would be fine for him. Well, we’ve had this baby for three months now and his growth has been CRAZY stunted. After going to another pet store “The Pet Works” in Olympia (HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PLACE) we were told we were doing it completely wrong. Babies need to be fed DAILY. 2x DAILY. They should have hiding places, especially with ours being leucistic, the aquarium he’s in should be DARK no fancy lights… dark and in cool places. Oh, plus, we weren’t told any other food besides blood worms… thankfully we did do our own research as we weren’t seeing him grow. Now, he’s in a 20L tank with fine substrate and aquatic plants… getting fed two times a day and living his absolute best life. YOU SHOULD NOT BE SELLING ANIMALS YOUR EMPLOYEES KNOW NOTHING ABOUT. It’s unfair to the animals and it gives owners an unfair chance at giving a loving home to them. **picture of our baby to spread happiness**

Fantastic experience: This store is almost an hour away from me but worth the drive! They have lots of fish, shrimp, snails, plants etc. to pick from as well as aquarium supplies. The staff is also very knowledgeable if you have questions. They also keep track of you purchases too so if you need to know what you bought from a past purchase etc they can pull it right up.

Negative experience: Some lady was helping me perfectly. Then a man with a scar on his head interrupted and made me tell the whole story again. Then only then did he care. 2000 gallon pond... I went to asian gift and aquarium. Guy hooked me up with advice and great fish. Paridise missed out on a big sale....

Fantastic experience: Great place to get anything that pertains to fresh water, salt h20, supplies. Different variety of fish.. great customer service with a smile...thanks Eli and Dominic.. Support local buisness

Fantastic experience: Staff are very knowledgeable about fish. Owners are working owners and fish lover themselves. Its also great to support local business!

Positive experience: The owner is always willing to answer questions and give good advice. Staff is attentive and polite. I would like to see more of a selection for chemicals and supplies although the scurrent selection is adequate.

Fantastic experience: Our first time there today just a few minutes ago and it was a very great experience we learned a lot from the staff. Made my mother and niece very happy. We will return larger tanks. Thanks for everything Dante.

Fantastic experience: Let's start with the fact I'm a big guy in a wheelchair. It was super easy to shop here, the isles were nice and wide and it was easy to look into even the top tanks. The staff was so friendly and helpful. Letting us know about potential issues with fish combinations. The selection here blew my mind! Beautiful fish and even turtles! I can't say enough good things about this place. Staff, service and selection were all amazing!

Fantastic experience: Might cost you a little bit more than PetSmart, but you're buying expertise. Local business with well trained excellent customer service. Seems to be properly staffed leading me to believe they pay competitively. Overall, a nice place to shop. Can't wait to see more when their renovations are done!

Fantastic experience: This is definitely a diamond in the rough! If you want good quality fish advice and stuff and beautiful fish this is the place to come. My BF and I went on a fish adventure today and I knew this place would not disappoint!

Positive experience: Staff is very knowledgeable. The place gets busy so I'll often leave and come back when it slows down. I love that they don't rush you out the closer it gets to closing time.

Positive experience: This is a small store with some pretty unique fish and coral. Then one saltwater tank in the back that was extremely nice and well kept. Some of the other things looked a little bit dirty and the tanks that have plans look unhealthy. This place would be a good place to find fish and they had a very good wide selection of fish supplies.

Fantastic experience: Lots of cool fish and options! The employees are super helpful and always check up and ask if your ready or need anything. Supreme customer service! They have a good selection on fresh and salt water, as well as great prices. Definitely check them out!!

Fantastic experience: The staff are very knowledgeable. Pricing on many items is the same or less than the big pet stores. Do not go to those big stores for fish or anything else. Update 4/22 Always great service! A must if you have fish!

Positive experience: Overall a pretty nice shop. Fish seemed well cared for and not too cramped. I was specifically looking for live plants and was slightly underwhelmed by the selection, but the quality seems good!

Negative experience: Ehhhhhhh... stopped by just to see their selection. Couldn't find anything I wanted, but they had a large selection with some interesting fish. And now for the reasons I gave two stars: Heard an employee telling a kid he could keep a cory cat in his 1.5gal tank because "they stay small". First off, while yes the do stay *small*, most species hit 2inches easily. Secondly, they need buddies! No way a group of 4-5 can humanely live in a tiny tank like that! Not great. To give the woman credit, she did warn the kid off from getting Mbuna. On top of that, may fish were sickly looking, had ich, strangely skinny, or had dead fish floating around in there. Prices for fish were pretty high in general but especially for common cichlids that I could buy bigger and healthier anywhere for wayyyy less. Bettas were in chain store sized containers, and somehow even looked worse than they do in petsmart. A few of the tanks for larger fish (the tiger oscar tank specifically) were tiny! I get that in a store space is limited but at least give them space to move. I estimate there were about 8-10+ oscars in the tank, so cramped with each and two monster plecos they could hardly move. Fairly certain they couldn't turn around. The saltwater tanks looked fine (I'm not a saltwater expert but they all had space to swim, looked fairly healthy).

Fantastic experience: Sharp and helpful staff. Clean and well organised stock; fish, tanks, food, plants, pumps and the like. Never had a problem with a fish or snail. Prices are comparable. Above all, a friendly and devoted staff who have become my teachers and support network. This is the only place I get my fish now. No more chain stores. Please shop locally and give these folks a try. Thanks all!

Fantastic experience: Awesome place for getting fish for our fish tanks and any supplies you need awesome family owned business with great customer service keep up the great work.

Fantastic experience: First time in. Picked up large oscar to add into my aquarium. Not only do the fish in the store look amazing, the owner completely walked me through introducing to my tank. Very thankful. I will be back!

Fantastic experience: Nice, clean place, good assortment of fish and products. Very friendly and helpful staff. Prices are what you would expect from an LFS.

Positive experience: What I like the most about this place is that if you can't take care of your fish anymore they take them by donation, that's important for someone who loves their animals, but can no longer take care of them for Any reason. In my case I received a transplant and I couldn't continue with my little ones. I left them there and I know that they take good care of them and surely someone who takes care of them in the same way or better.

Fantastic experience: I drove past it a couple times looking for it, but it was worth the drive! They have a broad range of fish and supplies. They leave the decorations and basic supplies to the chain stores, but they take wonderful care of their fish and have a great variety of them! The owner is working on having an even broader variety. The woman that helped me knew her fish! She recommended that I didn't get two types of fish that I wanted because of my mbunas. She cares about her fish, unlike the chain stores! She also took the time to teach my son about a couple fish. Best variety of saltwater that I have seen in a store from there to the Pacific Ocean. I don't know about north of them or south of Tumwater. Excellent selection of mbuna, haps, and Victorian and other cichlids. They also have the larger freshwater fish that I've heard of but have never seen, such as bichir and arowana. As for the smaller freshwater fish, they have a wonderful selection, strive for quality, and have lower prices on fish than the box stores. I will return!