Balboa Tattoo

4.6 (171 reviews)

ModerateTattoo, Piercing

Open • 12:00 pm - 7:00 PM

Updated 2 months ago

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Balboa Tattoo - Sister tattoos!! - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Balboa Tattoo - Healed after a couple of months, still looks fresh and amazing! - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Balboa Tattoo - Tj fucking rules - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Balboa Tattoo - Ink getting tattooed - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Reviews With Photos

These guys and gal(Steph) Never fail me! Another Friday the 13th in the books. Thank you Rick & Steph!!

Eboni V.

This is my favorite tattoo spot. I love coming here, it's like hanging out with my super talented friends!

Kathleen M.

Our second time back! Thank you for being patient with my indecisiveness! Thank you TJ!

Great art work!thank you so much Jess!love my new tat! Highly Recommended! Great Pricing! Highly flexible! Super understanding! Love the color

Lois K.

Jess did such a good job on my two tattoos and healed very quickly. I love them so much! Would recommend her

Christina S.

Jess and TJ are both great artist and people! My wife and I came as walk-in's and were greeted with good energy and left with clean looking tattoos! Highly recommend the shop and the artist(s).

What a great experience! My daughter and I came to Newport Beach for her spring break and decided to get matching tattoos. Not being from the area, I did some research on the net and said research brought me to Balboa Tattoo and it did not disappoint. Rick and Jess were kind and professional and knew exactly what they were doing! Because of Rick's work, I added on a simple tattoo while still on the table getting the first one done. I walked out with three and my daughter walked out with her first one! Great atmosphere and great experience! Go now! You won't regret it!

Healed after a couple of months, still looks fresh and amazing!

Micaella D.

Guys I've been here several times, along with my best friend and every time I come back it's to get tattooed by Jes, she's the absolute bestttt and her line work, shading, and accuracy is perfection!! She's so fairly priced and she deserves alll the hype, i can't speak about her highly enough....let me just tell you, if i didn't think the world deserved to know about her awesomeness then I'd definitely be gatekeeping her haha. Go get tattooed and pierced by her!

5 x 40 somethings from AZ walked in with an idea for matching tattoos....they were so accommodating & professional! We love our matching friendship tattoos!!! TY!!

Freshly done color with Jess on my second session. Will post another once it's healed.

Celi B.

Absolutely great experience here! The vibes are chill and Jess is an amazing artist! She was super helpful and patient with me throughout the whole process. Super responsive and professional. My tattoo took two sessions and both were great. She definitely made sure I was comfortable and she made my experience wonderful. Thanks Jess! I will be back for sure.

My daughter with Rick Williams the best tattoo artist ever!

I took my daughter to Balboa Tattoo today for her first tattoo. I have many tattoos by Rick and I wouldn't have trusted anyone more! His work is top notch, his shop is clean and cool and they just make you feel comfortable. Would highly recommend!!! Thanks again!

Jellyfish tattoo Jess did back in 2022! If you look closely you can see the white tentacles, I get THE MOST compliments on this one

Melissa S.

The BEST shop. I followed Jess here from her previous shop, because she's absolutely amazing at what she does. I stick with line work mostly and her light and steady hand always makes them come out top tier. Oh, and she also does piercings, what more could you want?! Typical tattoo shop vibes here, love the whole crew. 10/10 recommend Jess for your next tattoo!

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Leann Z.

119

2

1

3 months ago

I have come to Balboa Tattoo twice now to be tattooed and both times truly exceeded my expectations! The staff is always very nice and accommodating and they are definitely great at what they do. TJ tattooed me last time and it was great, he executed exactly what I wanted and it came out amazing! I could not recommend this tattoo shop more! read more

Business owner information

Jessica H.

Leann, thank you so much for coming back to us and for taking the…

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Lori M.

Elite 25

1

223

203

10 months ago

Can't say enough about this place! They are awesome! Wonderfully talented and if you're undecided they give you suggestions on what to choose or how to place your tattoo. They make you feel so comfortable too! I got my first tattoo here, and I came back to TJ for another. Highly recommend! read more

Balboa Tattoo - Memorial tattoo for my Mother. TJ is awesome, exactly what I wanted - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Nevaeh M.

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4 months ago

They are absolutely amazing and I would always recommend coming here for your dream tattoo

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Jessica H.

Thank you for coming in!!

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Eboni V.

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11 months ago

This is my favorite tattoo spot. I love coming here, it's like hanging out with my super talented friends! read more

Balboa Tattoo - These guys and gal(Steph) Never fail me! Another Friday the 13th in the books. Thank you Rick & Steph!! - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Business owner information

Jessica H.

Eboni it’s always so much fun having you come in! We love that you…

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Kathleen M.

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10 months ago

Our second time back! Thank you for being patient with my indecisiveness! Thank you TJ! read more

Balboa Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Jessica H.

Thank you for coming in Kathleen! We loved having you in and love…

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Stephanie S.

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1

1 year ago

Great art work!thank you so much Jess!love my new tat! Highly Recommended! Great Pricing! Highly flexible! Super understanding! Love the color read more

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Jessica H.

Good afternoon Stephanie. We are so glad you loved your tattoo that…

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John E.

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3

1 year ago

TJ and the crew took my 5 friends and I as walk ins. Knock everything out in 2 hours and made it fun and chill. Highly recommend their shop. Different artists with different styles. Super friendly! read more

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Jessica H.

Hi John thank you to all of you for coming in and being patient with…

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Kinsey R.

18

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1 year ago

Very friendly and professional staff. They made us feel welcome and comfortable. We decided on the quick flash tattoos they had to choose from and were happy with the beach-themed designs. I would get another tat there. read more

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Jessica H.

Thank you for coming in and hope you and your family have a wonderful…

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Jackie F.

278

14

5

1 year ago

Came in for a spontaneous tattoo and it became a whole amazing thing. Cj was very sweet when we came in and made it an incredible experience. The vibes at the atmosphere were exactly what we'd been looking for. Rick was the one who did our tattoos and he was so light handed I was shocked to find out I was already finished with my design. Lines were sharp and the black was perfectly packed in. 10/10 experience and would def come back again !! read more

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Lois K.

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7

2 years ago

Jess did such a good job on my two tattoos and healed very quickly. I love them so much! Would recommend her read more

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Rana T.

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9 months ago

Had a great experience at Balboa Tattoo! I'm a first timer and Jess was so patient with me answering all of my questions. We sent her my design ahead of time and when we came in she had the design available in different sizes for us to see. Everything was so quick once we decided on sizing. She is so talented and was able to complete the tattoo quickly (doing a great job). I highly recommend this place, make sure to ask for Jess! read more

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Jessica H.

Thank you Rana! Jes said you were an amazing client and hops to see…

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Laralee M.

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10 months ago

Walked in girl stayed sitting looking at her phone. Super rude no customer services not helpful so i left before I could purchase anything. Zero rating! read more

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Christina S.

137

8

7

2 years ago

Jess and TJ are both great artist and people! My wife and I came as walk-in's and were greeted with good energy and left with clean looking tattoos! Highly recommend the shop and the artist(s). read more

Balboa Tattoo - Palm tree tattoo by TJ - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Wendy V.

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6

2

1 year ago

What a great experience! My daughter and I came to Newport Beach for her spring break and decided to get matching tattoos. Not being from the area, I did some research on the net and said research brought me to Balboa Tattoo and it did not disappoint. Rick and Jess were kind and professional and knew exactly what they were doing! Because of Rick's work, I added on a simple tattoo while still on the table getting the first one done. I walked out with three and my daughter walked out with her first one! Great atmosphere and great experience! Go now! You won't regret it! read more

Balboa Tattoo - Rick in his element doing his thang. - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Balboa Tattoo - The cactus done by Rick! Don't mind the 90s ankle wrap tattoo. lol - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Jessica H.

We absolutely loved having the two of you in! Hope you both have a…

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Micaella D.

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2

4

2 years ago

Guys I've been here several times, along with my best friend and every time I come back it's to get tattooed by Jes, she's the absolute bestttt and her line work, shading, and accuracy is perfection!! She's so fairly priced and she deserves alll the hype, i can't speak about her highly enough....let me just tell you, if i didn't think the world deserved to know about her awesomeness then I'd definitely be gatekeeping her haha. Go get tattooed and pierced by her! read more

Balboa Tattoo - Immediately after getting tattooed, Jes is incredible and fast, too! - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Balboa Tattoo - I get compliments on this koi fish allllll the time, one half of my best friend tattoo. - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Balboa Tattoo - Full best friend tattoo, looks so good! - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Kristy K.

0

1

1 year ago

5 x 40 somethings from AZ walked in with an idea for matching tattoos....they were so accommodating & professional! We love our matching friendship tattoos!!! TY!! read more

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Celi B.

4

2

1

3 years ago

Absolutely great experience here! The vibes are chill and Jess is an amazing artist! She was super helpful and patient with me throughout the whole process. Super responsive and professional. My tattoo took two sessions and both were great. She definitely made sure I was comfortable and she made my experience wonderful. Thanks Jess! I will be back for sure. read more

Balboa Tattoo - Freshly done color with Jess on my second session. Will post another once it's healed. - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Damien L.

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1

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1 year ago

I went in to get a tattoo and i was surprised. The artists here were super layed back and funny and it made you feel comfortable. This is definitely the type of shop you want to come back to read more

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Shayla M.

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2

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2 years ago

Jess worked with my group of four family members including my grandma whom got her first tattoo. great communication of what was wanted, Explains well and was a pleasure work with. read more

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Rach T.

5

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2

2 years ago

I took my daughter to Balboa Tattoo today for her first tattoo. I have many tattoos by Rick and I wouldn't have trusted anyone more! His work is top notch, his shop is clean and cool and they just make you feel comfortable. Would highly recommend!!! Thanks again! read more

Balboa Tattoo - My daughter with Rick Williams the best tattoo artist ever! - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Balboa Tattoo - My daughter showing off her in memory tattoo of Liam Payne from One Direction - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Melissa S.

0

12

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2 years ago

The BEST shop. I followed Jess here from her previous shop, because she's absolutely amazing at what she does. I stick with line work mostly and her light and steady hand always makes them come out top tier. Oh, and she also does piercings, what more could you want?! Typical tattoo shop vibes here, love the whole crew. 10/10 recommend Jess for your next tattoo! read more

Balboa Tattoo - Jellyfish tattoo Jess did back in 2022! If you look closely you can see the white tentacles, I get THE MOST compliments on this one - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Balboa Tattoo - Shaka tattoo I got for my friends in Hawaii, also done by Jess! - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Balboa Tattoo - Friday the 13th Bart my brother told me to get and "it's ok" tattoo from 2022, both done by Jess - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Mandy B.

1

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72

3 years ago

This review is overdue. I waited a couple years to hear back from business . Not sure if they ever received letter . So we went during Covid - appreciate there was a place open. TJ was super nice and so was his coworker. Unfortunately, the "G" didn't come out very well . The top portion was a bit overdone (ink bleed) - much darker and the bottom faded really fast (photos attached ) . And didn't really look like a G . Lots of people questioned me as to what it is / was . I'm sure it's harder to do this type of tattoo . It's small - the area . Definitely don't want to bash anyone. TJ did tell us that he wasn't the greatest at this type of tattoo - so I was surprised that he went on to draw it. Honestly , I probably shouldn't have proceeded. Cost me $80 for the tattoo and so far $500 to work on removal process. Don't live in the area so I couldn't go back to address. But did send a letter and was hoping for some compensation. Live and learn . Like I said , don't want to bash anyone but definitely not happy with the results :( Looking at reviews , most people are happy with their results at Balboa so that's good. read more

Balboa Tattoo - Letter to business - photos of tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Balboa Tattoo - After several Tattoo removal treatments- top part hard to remove (ink bled) - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Omar N.

0

3

1

2 years ago

Jessica was great! The place was clean and really friendly! It was quick and easy and there's not much more you could ask for! read more

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Janine W.

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2 years ago

I've gone here for both a tattoo and a piercing and both times I had a great experience both times. The shop is clean and it's a laid back vibe there. Jess has done both my tattoos and piercings, and she's the absolute best. Jess cares about the work she does, and always has her client's best interest in mind. read more

Balboa Tattoo - Tattoos both done by Jess - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Balboa Tattoo - Conch piercing done by Jess - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Stacie W.

15

3

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2 years ago

I've had multiple, extensive tattoos done by Rick. He is so incredibly talented with a light hand and an insane level of artistry. I have been beyond thrilled with every final product. He will give you honest feedback and contribute creativity to your vision. Very patient, no nonsense cool dude. I highly recommend Rick. TJ and Jess are absolutely awesome humans as well!!! The shop is very clean and well set up. I could go on and on. Just book your session, but like, don't take my regular time slot!! read more

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Jeremiah W.

0

2

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2 years ago

TJ IS AWESOME,did a fantastic job on my stan lee portrait, so lifelike..I would highly recommend Balboa tattoo ,always professional, and actually listen to you,very knowledgeable, and great artists. Very chill shop they make you feel welcome.i would give more stars if possible,and Jess is awesome as well great artist and so knowledgeable, about tattoos and piercings..love this shop.... read more

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Heather H.

0

1

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2 years ago

My friend and I have had two tattoos done from here and we are always so satisfied with them. The staff is friendly and easy to work with on your design. We listened to punk rock while getting inked and really enjoyed the vibe. We will definitely go back. It's around the corner from our favorite bar so that always makes it fun and easy. Very grateful for the experienced artists. read more

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Claire W.

0

2

1

2 years ago

jess did so amazing on my tattoo!! she is very talented and the tattoo exceeded my expectations!! cannot recommend this place enough :) will definitely be coming back read more

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Annastasia R.

3

41

49

5 years ago

Awesome spur of the moment decision, we did a walk in, prices reasonable, artists were nice an I liked the artwork from Jeff It was mom/son matching tat Symbolic of freedom an and allowing my son to grow up an fly read more

Balboa Tattoo - Moms tat - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Balboa Tattoo - Sons tat - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Rachel B.

218

22

4

3 years ago

Best service I've had at a tattoo establishment! Very professional and friendly environment. The atmosphere is great thanks to Jessica really making the experience absolutely perfect! 10/10 would come again! read more

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Alexa H.

0

2

0

2 years ago

My experience was awesome!! I was just visiting for a week and I walked in to their shop and was treated so nice told them what I wanted, they gave me a reasonable price and we set up an appointment. Even day of my appointment I asked to come in a little earlier and they were so accommodating. They gave me a great little tattoo and I will def go there again when I visit:) read more

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Renu M.

191

3

15

2 years ago

Highly recommend. Jessica is awesome she was very responsive and accomodating. Clean friendly and painless! read more

Balboa Tattoo - My daughter got her cartilage and I got my nose pierced! - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Beth F.

0

3

2

2 years ago

TJ was absolutely AMAZING! His art work is spectacular! He's so gentle and did an amazing job and above and beyond with my sister and I's tattoos! read more

Balboa Tattoo - TJ went beyond to make it ours! He made sure my bee was placed in a complimentary position to my other tattoos. - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Sofia B.

0

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28

6 years ago

Very funny to see the level professionalism from Jeff G. of Balboa Tattoo! Good luck with your business, and I hope future customers get treated with respect. Love, Sofia B. read more

Balboa Tattoo - the tattoo that the guy was trashing... - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Balboa Tattoo - It's one thing to have unprofessional workers, a whole other thing to have an unprofessional shop owner - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Business owner information

Jessica H.

Karen,…

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Briana D.

0

5

1

4 years ago

Thank you TJ for the amazing tattoos! I love them so much! Will definitely be back for more! read more

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Ryan P.

0

3

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2 years ago

Walked in with a friend and the team was able to see us immediately. Jes helped us out with getting our design dialed in and was extremely helpful and attentive throughout the whole process. During the work Jes made sure I was comfortable and taken care of as this was the first sizable tattoo I had gotten. After the piece was done, it turned out better than the original idea we had. Can't recommend this place enough, extremely happy with the work as well as the friendliness and professionalism of the staff and owner! Will be coming back again next time I'm out here! read more

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Daniel W.

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1

2 years ago

Came here with my fiancé spontaneously we wanted to get a small matching tattoo. One of the artists was available for walk in, he was patient as we picked our design, and asked the right questions to make sure it was what we wanted. I agreed on the price and we could not be happier! read more

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Aimee D.

48

5

2

3 years ago

THANK YOU TJ, Rick, and Jess for being so patient with three ladies coming in with a spontaneous tattoo day. Love these people. Definitely stop in! read more

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Jenny L.

2

8

9

4 years ago

Thanks jeff for the amazing tattoos as always!!! I have only been tattood by jeff starting at 18yrs old im 27 now and i wouldnt trust any other artist. My friends and family also get tattoos by jeff and im constantly being asked whos my artist when im out . Jeff really takes his time to hear out your ideas and has helped me so many times with me being so Indecisive on my tattoo placements the shop is very clean and staff is friendly and welcoming and they follow covid precautions. If anyones looking for somewhere to go for their next tattoo please call up balboa tattoo and ask for jeff you wont regret it read more

Balboa Tattoo - Bee done by jeff - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Balboa Tattoo - Done by jeff - Tattoo Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Hi Y.

1

116

18

5 years ago

They actually told me to F off because my nephew mom said no. He is 18 wants a tattoo and they were so rude never in my life. I never faced anything like this. All we wanted was that tattoo on another part of the body and the guy still told us to F off. Really I wasn't even being rude. I just wanted to talk to him they wouldn't allow it read more

Business owner information

Jessica H.

Disclaimer: You did not get a tattoo here.…

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More info about Balboa Tattoo

2233 W Balboa Blvd
Ste 106
Newport Beach, CA 92663
Directions
(949) 650-1562
Call Now

Hours

What time does Balboa Tattoo open?

Balboa Tattoo opens at 12:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Balboa Tattoo close?

Balboa Tattoo closes at 7:30 PM on Monday.Balboa Tattoo closes at 8:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.Balboa Tattoo closes at 11:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.Balboa Tattoo closes at 7:00 PM on Sunday.

Mon 12:00 PM - 7:30 PMTue-Thu 12:00 PM - 8:00 PMFri-Sat 12:00 PM - 11:00 PMSun 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Balboa Tattoo take Bitcoin?

No, Balboa Tattoo does not take Bitcoin.

Does Balboa Tattoo take credit cards?

Yes, Balboa Tattoo takes credit cards.

Services

Is Balboa Tattoo by appointment only?

No, Balboa Tattoo is not by appointment only.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Balboa Tattoo have bike parking?

Yes, Balboa Tattoo has bike parking.

Does Balboa Tattoo have parking?

Yes, Balboa Tattoo has parking options. Private Lot Parking, Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Balboa Tattoo wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Balboa Tattoo is wheelchair accessible.

Does Balboa Tattoo have free WiFi?

No, Balboa Tattoo does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Celebrating 40 years of tattooing in Newport Beach, CA! Whether you’re stopping in for a quick walk-in piece or planning a full sleeve, our team at Balboa Tattoo is here to bring your ideas to life. Our artists specialize in a wide range of styles—from fine line and black & grey to traditional and full Japanese sleeves. With over 65 years of combined experience, you’re in skilled, trusted hands. We also offer professional piercings using clean, sterile equipment and high-quality jewelry. Our piercer carries a wide selection of options to fit every budget, including implant-grade titanium and 14k gold. Your vision, our expertise—come see why Balboa Tattoo has been a Newport Beach staple for four decades.

History

Established in 1995.

A Newport Beach Tattoo Legacy 40+ Years Strong. Founded in the early days of Newport Beach’s tattoo scene, Balboa Tattoo has been a long-standing staple in the community for over four decades. We’re proud to be one of the area’s longest-running tattoo studios, built on a foundation of craftsmanship, consistency, and genuine care for our clients. Across the years, our shop has grown with the art form adapting styles, adding talented artists, and continuing the tradition of quality tattooing that keeps generations of clients coming back. Today, our team brings 65+ years of combined experience, offering everything from classic traditional to modern fine line, black & grey, and full Japanese pieces. In addition to tattooing Balboa provides safe, professional piercings with clean, sterile equipment and high-quality jewelry. From locals to visitors discovering Newport Beach for the first time, we’re honored to be part of your story. Balboa Tattoo 40 years of art, history, and community.

More Info

Special Hours

Review Highlights - Balboa Tattoo

“THANK YOU TJ, Rick, and Jess for being so patient with three ladies coming in with a spontaneous tattoo day.”

Mentioned in 30 reviews

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Women-owned & operated

Luxury

Today, my 18-year-old daughter and I had the pleasure of meeting Charlot. We knew right away how…read moreprofessional and clean her Ink Therapy Studio was. Little did we know that we were about to meet the sweetest tattoo artist we could've ever wished for. This was my daughter's first tattoo for her 18th birthday. As a mom you want to make sure that your daughter is in the best of hands. And THAT she certainly was! Charlot immediately made us both feel so comfortable and taken care of. The before and after care was amazing! She always checked in with my daughter to make sure that she was OK during the tattoo. Our conversations flowed, and we both felt so connected to Charlot. It felt as if we just met an angel without wings on earth. Please do not hesitate for one second to choose Charlot at Inc Therapy Studio for your next tattoo. She's AMAZING and you will love her and her work, especially. My daughter's tattoo came through... "Good people find good people!!"

I found Charlot through instagram and knew IMMEDIATELY I had to get my next tattoo done by her! My…read morefirst reaction to seeing her work was "she is incredibly talented!", then I got to know her through messaging and now through our session, and I can confidently say she's everything you expect and more!!! Not only is she amazing at her art but she is also a genuinely great person with a heart of gold She captured everything I wanted in my floral wrap. It was even more beautiful than I imagined!! I learned she also paints (watercolor and oil) and you can truly tell through her work! I can't express enough how happy I am to have her art work tattooed on my arm. To say im obsessed with it is an understatement

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Lilies and orchids

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Cleopatra Ink Tattoo & Piercing Orange County Studio

I went in to switch my jewelry for my nose piercing twice and Nat was always super helpful and…read morepatient! I felt very comfortable and she always gave great tips on healing my irritation bump and how to keep my piercing clean. Great studio, very professional, and Nat is amazing!!

This review is for my consult experience; I decided to not go with this studio because of it. This…read moreis a very nice/upscale studio in Costs Mesa. My appt time was 10:30am on Sat 2/21/26, and they asked me to be there 10 min early, so I was. They checked me in and pointed me to the couches, then just ignored me for 45 min, and finally took me 50 min after my scheduled appt time. No offer for water or coffee/tea, no acknowledgment about the wait (until the very end of my wait). They opened at 10am and weren't doing a damn thing the entire 50 min wait! Two were playing chess when I walked in. When they finally took me, they didn't inquire about my "why" regarding the piece; they just asked for a description and some inspiration examples. They then drew up the design digitally, which was good but not epic. I was only getting black and grey. The price... $2,500 for 8-16 hrs in the chair. Wtf. Even if the piece takes 16 hrs (which I don't think it will), it comes to $156.25 per hr, before tip. Umm, that seems rather steep to me. Their work, from what I've viewed, is good. Studio is professional. Their handling of me for this appointment was offensively impersonal and unprofessional. I will never go back, and hope this review hits a button for them on their lack of care on the customer experience.

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Agape Art Collective

4.7(207 reviews)

1.1 mi

•$$

My fiancé and I wanted to get matching tattoos for our son…read more I called and Hunter said he was available to help us out! We got his number and he was very friendly and responsive. We sent him over some pictures of ideas we wanted and Hunter made drawings for us and they were amazing!! We went to see Hunter at the shop and he made sure our tattoos fit the areas we wanted perfectly, and made some tweaks to make them the best looking they could be! We would definitely recommend Hunter to anyone looking to get any tattoos! He is so knowledgeable and very talented! I want to finish my sleeve and my fiancé wants to start his and we will definitely be going back to Hunter thank you so much!!

I contacted Jake in Franklin, TN (Nashville area). He has a shop set up there as well as in Newport…read moreBeach. I told him what I was looking for, sent him photos and an explanation of why I wanted the tattoo. When I showed up for my appointment, I knew I had chosen the right artist. He did an amazing job of capturing the image of my 18 year old cat who had died a few months before. George Washington, the cat, was a beloved family member and I wanted to always keep him close to me. The tattoo turned out perfect. Everything was exactly as Jake and I had discussed and it exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend Jake to anyone.

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My Tattoo

4.9(583 reviews)

7.2 mi

•$$

Everyone was very welcoming even with other clients/people that were there. Maddie did a fantastic…read morejob with my tattoo and even took the care and consideration into making something better than I could've imagined. I 100% would recommend this to others.

This shop was by far the most fun and welcoming place I've ever been to! The vibe was super chill,…read morefull of laughs, and everyone made you feel right at home! Jeff was my artist, and he was incredible--super friendly, open to my tattoo idea, and funny! He and the other artist made this experience very enjoyable. Thank you guys again! We will be back!

Photos

Koi by Jess Yen

Fullback piece Hannya by Jess Yen

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Samurai Helmet by Jess Yen

Tonna Sky Ink

5.0(64 reviews)

6.2 mi

just now New This was…read moremy first time getting a tattoo. One was a tribute to my Mom. I gave Tonna a picture of my Mom's heartbeat and had it incorporated into the tattoo. She totally surpassed my expectations. I will forever have my Mom's heartbeat with me. My second one was a cross with with semicolon was for me. This type of tattoo was exactly what I was looking for.

I highly recommend Tonna Sky Ink. She is an amazing artist. I adore and love my 2 tattoos that she…read morehas done for me. I plan on taking my son to her for his 1st tattoo. She has a cute little private studio. Tonna is very friendly and nice You will love her work! Just send her an idea or she can help you create one.

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Small guitar tattoo

Tattoo

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Tattoo

Life After Death Tattoo

4.9(27 reviews)

4.9 mi

•$$

Christopher did an amazing job on my aunt and my tattoos. Mine was a coverup of a previous wrist…read moretattoo that I didn't feel peace about. Christopher not only did an amazing job with my new tattoo but also prayed over my previous tattoo and gave me peace about it before we covered it up. I look forward to looking down at my beautiful and meaningful to tattoo for the rest of my life. If you want a God centered tattoo experience and a high quality tattoo I 100% recommendation Life After Death Tattoo! Thank you Christopher!

OMG I'm so glad I chose to come here and so glad he had a slot for me same day…read more I just wanted a couple of simple stars but I wanted it to be done well. I've seen so many ppl with bad blurry/bleeded lines and I wanted clean and as perfect as possible. I got that here with Chris. First off his decor is pretty cool and I enjoyed staring at every detail and even touching them. He was so sweet and he prayed for me before we started and it was an awesome prayer. And he doesn't even know me, but I felt like he knew me. He obviously has the gift of prayer. I was scared of the pain but it was ok actually even without any numbing cream. Anyways he even recommended I shade it in and it became even more beautiful! I know it may seem silly and girlish but I love it! Kudo points bc he kinda knew who BTS was. hehehe I'm sure he can do wonders with alot of intricacy bc I saw his ig posts and let me tell you...it's very different from this yelp page. So take a look there! @lifeafterdeathtattoo

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Wrist tattoo coverup

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Jason Lewis medical tattoos

4.6(11 reviews)

3.1 mi

After having breast cancer surgery and losing my nipple, I felt so much less a woman. Getting out…read moreof the shower, I'd get a glimpse of myself in the mirror and hated what I saw. After consulting with a breast plastic surgeon, he recommended Jason to me. We met several times as I was nervous never having a tattoo before. Jason explained everything, in detail, and let me think about it until I was ready. One year later, I can tell you with total conviction, it was the best thing I have done. Jason is a true artist! The shading and matching to my other nipple are beyond perfect! Several of my doctors have seen it in person and immediately asked for his info to give other patients. I happily show women who've had breast cancer a photo of it on my phone to encourage them to see if it's right for them. Many people stare at the photo a long time because they say they can't tell the difference! Thank you, Jason, for giving me my confidence back! You are a blessing!

I was quoted and agreed to $1,000/1 hour min. for tattoo camouflage revision on some superficial…read morescars (that would total a 3-inch square surface) on a few surgical scars. That gal that booked this made the decision to meet at Jason's medical office. Post procedure, I was quoted $1,200 by Jason. I told him I was quoted $1,000 & he agreed to the $1,000.00. However, the gal that booked this, told me via phone directly afterwards that the price was $1,600.00!!! She was very abrasive, confrontational, and argumentative to say the least. I immediately knew I was scammed, and this gal had a flip side that life is too short to deal with. I would rather pass this scam game on to others to be aware, than waste time arguing with someone who lives to argue. It's important to be productive in a positive manner & expose this scam game so others won't be horrible dupped as I was. I am deeply saddened to be scammed, and being treated so disrespectfully, especially when dealing with such sensitive issues as scar revision on my body, which is already an emotionally difficult issue & nobody should be subject to this abuse! Please know that it I was also going to do areola tattoo at another time for another $1,000.00. I will have this done else ware, as I am sure this will just be another scam.

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Jason Lewis tattoo's, medical tattoos, Orange County

In the middle of a medical procedure.

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Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

41 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Judi M.

0

2

0

4 years ago

Horrible job done by TJ. Didn't even spend a full 20 minutes on my tattoo. I have gone to him before and thought he did good work but this is a disgrace. I added my picture for reference. I did ask to change to more of a sunflower/daisy type flower but otherwise wanted the tattoo verbatim. The constellation is uneven with the dots and doesn't create straight lines. The stems don't line up to each other and flowers are so poorly done it's comical. The best part is sitting there talking with the tattooist who wouldn't stop going on about an old tattoo friend of his who molested a child and got arrested for it. I don't judge him or think he's a bad guy for once being friends with the predator, but he easily could have chosen a better conversation topic. When I called to complain they changed the time of when a manager would be in twice and didn't offer any resolution to the issue. Overall a horrible experience and do not recommend. read more

Aidy H.

0

1

3 years ago

Absolutely amazing place to get your tattoo done. Rick is one of the most humble, kind and genuine people you could meet. I went by yesterday to talk about what I wanted, he drew up 2-3 different ideas last night. I went in today looked at what he prepared and he got to work immediately. He had really spent time on capturing the details I wanted. He also did a brilliant job blending it into the tattoo I have beside it. The flow from one to the other is flawless even though they are very different. I would highly recommend anyone to get their tattoo work done at Balboa Tattoo. They do all styles, but really focus on your ideas, not what they want to draw. I will definitely be back. Thank you Rick for your time, creativity and professionalism. read more

Teddy B.

0

3

2

8 years ago

I would first like to start this by saying I came here 4 years ago for my first tattoo and asked to get a compass with a friends initials encorporated in it. I had the "artist" named Jessica Abbey volunteer to do it and I came back the next week to get it done. She was either hungover or loaded when she did my tattoo ALSO she had invited one of her friends to come in while she tattooed me without asking. Her friend only talked about all the coke they did the night before and clearly was distracting her. I received a pretty horrifying tattoo for the first tattoo I have gotten. I just wanted to warn people of the work and lack of professionalism done. Jessica thank you for making my arm look like trash. read more

Tylee N.

0

49

11

5 years ago

Jeff the owner to this disgusting establishment is unprofessional. He loves to resolve conflict by calling people Karen's when we are giving our opinion. JEFF look at your other reviews!!! They are also saying your artists as well as you are unprofessional and racist!! I'll give another recommendation, I suggest you all to go to Yorba Linda his @ is poisonappletattoo and he is amazing. Does great work and he is very well priced!!! Again Jeff I hope you and your business do well but you do not deserve the customers are not looking to be yelled at or be bullied by you!! Btw I didn't get a tattoo there because of your racist remarks and unprofessionalism read more

Jessica H.

0

2

1

2 years ago

Absolutely love coming here. It's always an amazing time getting tattooed and pierced at Balboa Tattoo! Everyone is awesome and super clean and fair on their prices. If you have a budget they are more than happy to work with you! And the selection of jewelry is amazing too!! With jewelry prices for every budget. And new jewelry coming in all the time! If you're looking for something the piercer will sit down with you to find what you're looking for and help you order it. read more

Jeff K.

89

2

6 years ago

Balboa Tattoo is One of the Oldest and Finest Tattoo Shops in Orange County. The Artists are Experienced and the Environment is Welcoming and Friendly Custom Designs Created on Demand in all Styles of Tattooing, Carefully prepared to your preferred specifications. Located in Beautiful Newport Beach. Next to Water and the Pier to combine a Great Day at the Beach, Brunch, Dinner and a Tattoo, Definitely 5 Stars and the Eschelon of a Tattoo Adventure read more

Jennifer M.

0

1

4

7 months ago

I had the Best Therapy Session today as a walk in, Tj, Jess, & Rick are fantastic artists and down to earth. 6 hour session tattooing was so fun! Tj has a gentle hand and I was never in pain. I can't wait for sessions to come! Tj gave me my first tattoo 25 years ago and he is helping me navigate through cover ups, while giving me a sleeve! Excited to have this shop right down the street from me! read more

Josephine T.

0

1

0

2 years ago

Went to Balboa for my first tattoo. The experience was great! Very quick, painless, and comfortable. There's just great vibes. My tattoo artist was Rick, and he kept everything cool and clean and easy. It was such an awesome experience and I am so grateful for the great service! Would recommend to my friends and family, and would definitely go back. Thanks a billion! read more

Kathy L.

109

8

12

4 years ago

My niece and I decided to spontaneously get a quick tattoo and went into Balboa Tattoo. I got a small quote from Mary Poppins, and Kinkaid was Practically Perfect in Every Way. He made me laugh and kept me from being nervous. He kept up the conversation the entire time and made the time fly by. He was great, and I would gladly go back to him again. read more

vail p.

0

1

2 years ago

awesome place with awesome artist who make you feel like you have known them for years. I have never been disappointed with any of the work I got done from them. they are very understanding and patient, they will make sure your tattoo turns out exactly how you want it. TJ and Jess are the best and they are amazing at what they do!!! read more

Martin R.

0

2

1

4 years ago

I've gotten two tattoos from this shop and both times left completely satisfied with not only my tattoos but the experience as a whole. JT and Jeff are two of the artist I've been fortunate enough to meet and they are some of the nicest and down to earth guys you'll ever meet. Could not recommend Balboa Tattoo enough. read more

Jens2girly4u P.

0

3

0

4 years ago

I had the best experience getting my Van Halen tattoo that I was so afraid to get. The guys were so awesome and put up with me talking their ears off . I absolutely LOVE my tattoo!!! So glad I did it here!! I highly recommend this place if you want an excellent tattoo experience as well as top notch artwork!! read more

Ami V.

2

1

4 years ago

Went here for my first tattoo. The shop's walls are decorated with beautiful and unique artwork. My artists were Kincaid and TJ; I got a traditional style flash tattoo, and it was done professionally, quickly, and I'm in love with it. This was an amazing experience and I'd happily get work done by them again! read more

Leslie C.

0

2

0

4 years ago

I loved Jeff, Rick, and TJ! I visited Newport Beach from Texas, and I found Balboa Tattoo on line. I talked to Jeff a few days before my visit and liked him right away. I came in for my first Tattoo and liked them so well that I came back the next day for another one!! read more

Wendell U.

0

1

0

2 years ago

I met with Rick at baobao tattoo. We discuss a piece, I wanted. He told me he was able to do it so he set a date. I am extremely happy with the outcome. He does amazing work . The atmosphere in the shop was very friendly and clean. I Highly recommend this tattoo shop. read more

Joshua F.

0

2

0

4 years ago

I made an appointment with TJ, and picked out a piece drawn by him to get done. Beyond welcoming and he was precise with the whole process. I left the shop with an absolute work of art. There isn't a question on where to go for your tattoo. It's Balboa Tattoo read more

Ashley M.

46

4

3

4 years ago

T.J. Did an amazing job! He did mine and my husbands matching tattoos... so welcoming, friendly and personable, with a light hand! We live 6 hours north, but we are talking about coming back for more work. Thank you! We love them. #Always&Forever read more

Brook S.

0

1

0

4 years ago

Came here on a whim to get a quote for a tattoo I had in mind. Kincaid helped me and drew up exactly what I wanted. Within 5 minutes I was out of the chair with a beautiful tattoo !! 10/10 recommend if you want precise and beautiful work read more

Kylie H.

0

2

0

5 years ago

came in w my bestie to get a simple design done. jeff was so nice with us, explained everything really well, and did an excellent job with his work. very professional and also personable. hopefully i'll be back sometime for another!! :) read more

Sam B.

0

1

0

4 years ago

I just got tattooed by TJ for the 1st time and I gotta say he's great at his work! He's a nice, respectable guy and easy to make conversation with:) I definitely recommend coming to him to get a tattoo done. Overall a great experience. read more

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41 Balboa Tattoo reviews that are not currently recommended

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

41 reviews that are not currently recommended

Balboa Tattoo - tattoo - Updated May 2026

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