Laguna Tattoo

Two years in and Danny is still the only person I trust with my arms. He's been building out my…read morepatchwork microrealism sleeves session by session and somehow keeps getting better. The detail work he pulls off at a small scale is genuinely hard to wrap your head around until you see it up close. I've had strangers stop me just to ask who did it. The shop itself is a whole vibe too. It overlooks the ocean which already makes it one of the coolest locations you could ask for, and the interior matches that energy. It looks sick in the best way possible. Everyone there is super welcoming and easy to talk to, just good people doing great work. If you're serious about getting tattooed and want someone who actually cares about the craft, go see Danny. He's the real deal.

Rene did an amazing job on my fine line tattoo. He understood exactly what I wanted and brought it…read moreto life. I walked in and was able to get my tattoo done within the hour. Nice, clean shop with good vibes.

Before shot of my right ear

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Bare Bones Tattoo

4.8(75 reviews)

7.3 mi

My friend and I took the train from LA. We toured the Mission, explored the market and I decided to…read moreget a tattoo. They open at 12, it's cash only and you should have an idea of what you want before you arrive. Alex was patient and we found something I was happy with. It didn't hurt too much and I'm very happy with the end results. It's a $100 minimum.

The best tattoo shop in sjc. Amazing customer service, the artist themselves are so nice and…read moretalented. Glad that this is the one and only tattoo shop in sjc. One of a kind ‍ will be back forsures

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Inkyard Tattoo Studio

4.8(102 reviews)

0.4 mi

Emo is not just a great tattoo artist, he's a very nice guy. I'm a returning guest and he never…read moredisappoints. His work is clean, colors are vibrant and crisp, and his work heals beautifully. Show him references of what u want and he will collaborate with u and bring ur idea to life. Shop is clean and he is very professional.

Stopped in to get walk ins with my brother & boyfriend and all of the tattoos were incredibly well…read moredone & quick too. Emilio has 30+ years of experience and is super easy going. Stop in while in the area or on vacation like we did!

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Tattoo by Emo

South County Tattoo

4.5(92 reviews)

7.5 mi

AMBER IS THE BEST!!! She covered up a tattoo for me and it came out perfect!! She's also just fun…read moreto be around. Ask for her ‍‍

I went in a couple times to get ear piercings from Kylee. I was pleased with her service when my…read moreconch got infected; she took it out, cleaned it, and offered to repierce it once the area was healed. Once that time came, I reached out to her (multiple times) but was unfortunately left on delivered. Because of the unreliability, I would not recommend coming here. If you want to get a piercing, it would be wise to go to a dedicated shop for it

Healed on the left and fresh on the right

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Dana Point Tattoo

4.8(61 reviews)

My artist, Seth, was professional, respectful, and easy to work with--qualities I really…read moreappreciate. The shop itself was clean, organized, and clearly well maintained. Even though it was fully booked at 6pm on a Saturday, the atmosphere remained calm and relaxed. The music wasn't loud, and the TV was kept at a low volume, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Thanks

Went in yesterday and talked to the owner Nick. I needed some update on an existing tattoo to help…read morecover a scar. Nick came up with an idea and it came out perfect. The shop is very kickback and everyone is friendly. I will definitely return for some more ink.

Tattoo

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Tattoo

White Lotus Tattoo

4.6(290 reviews)

My wife wanted a second piercing in one ear. We came in and Irene explained everything clearly,…read morehelped her pick out the jewelry and did the piercing. She was friendly, nice and patient with my wife's questions. We'll be back, if she wants a third.

I came back! I've gotten a tattoo every year for my birthday and for my quarter life crisis (25th…read moreb-day) I got a "lost my mind" tattoo I am obsessed with it and it came out exactly like I wanted it. Amy was awesome and she did such a great job. I always get the pre-tattoo anxiety and she was so patient with me. It honestly didn't even hurt, I almost fell asleep. Was very fairly priced! See you guys next year~

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My secret and it's MY BODY!

Black Ink Tattoo

5.0(1 review)

3.6 mi

Like most of the other reviewers I had an excellent experience with Ilya! 30 years since my last…read moretattoo, I wanted to go big and do a large complicated tattoo on my arm. Ilya was excellent in helping to visualize my piece and working with me to make sure it's what I wanted. 2 sessions, which were easy to book with him. Great communication over text and in person. Pricing was very reasonable. I actually got another tattoo as well. He did an awesome job and I am happy to recommend him and support him. I will be returning in the future for more ink!

From the owner: Hi there, I am professional tattoo artist with a great experience. more then 5 years. Are you…read morelooking for unique/professional tattoo? definitely I will help you with. Great service and your satisfaction is guaranteed. This is my Instagram: eltsov_tattoo

My work

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My work

Get My Point

4.8(199 reviews)

•$$$

I went here about a week ago due to having earring that was getting embedded. It was done and…read moredownsized elsewhere, but this was the closest location to my work so I rushed here after I was and got here not too far away from their closing time. Karla was able to help me right away, she got the earring out and put a longer post in without it hurting too much! She was super helpful and friendly I will be going here for any future piercings and to down size when it is time. A week later my ear is doing so much better!

I was in South Orange County for business and decided to stop in because the shop's reviews were so…read morestrong. That's unfortunately part of why this experience was especially disappointing. I was considering getting a piercing here today, but I left without getting pierced because the consultation made me feel unheard, pressured, and uncomfortable. I think it's fair to come in expecting a conversation where I could show a reference photo, explain my placement preference, hear the piercer's professional opinion, and then decide whether to move forward. Instead, while I was trying to pull up the reference image, I was repeatedly interrupted. I asked several times for a moment to finish finding the photo and explaining what I meant, but the piercer kept making remarks and insisting that she already understood. She told me the piercing wouldn't look right on me before I'd even been able to fully explain what I was asking for. To be clear, the issue wasn't that she had a professional opinion. I respect the expertise of piercers and understand that they may need to advise against a placement for anatomical, safety, or aesthetic reasons. They're the professionals, and I'm open to being guided by that expertise, of course! However, I've already had a number of piercings and have never felt as disregarded during a consultation as I did today. A piercing decision should be a collaborative conversation. The piercer should be able to share their professional assessment, while the client should be given the space to explain their priorities, ask questions, and decide whether they feel comfortable moving forward. I should feel respected the same way I show respect to professionals. And I would've welcomed a respectful explanation or alternatives. But what really upset me was being discouraged and spoken over before I was given a real opportunity to clarify what mattered to me, and as a result I did not feel respected in the slightest. We also clearly weren't on the same page, despite her repeatedly saying that she understood what I wanted because she kept focusing on the lower crystal not being visible. The thing is I already understood that and wasn't concerned about it. My priority is on the placement and being able to see the top of the vertical helix. I tried to explain that distinction, but I wasn't given enough space to do so before more assumptions were made. I've also consulted multiple other professional piercers who've said the piercing is possible, so I was hoping for an actual discussion of options rather than having my request dismissed from the start like that. She also spoke to me as if I didn't understand ear anatomy, even though I have multiple piercings and was simply trying to communicate my own preference. She referred to my ear ridge as a "speedbump" and commented that my existing helix piercing wasn't very visible because of it. That wording may have been meant as humor, but it didn't feel professional or reassuring in the context of an already tense consultation. Visibility wasn't my goal with that piercing either, since I got it with the intention of wearing a hoop there once it healed. Comments like that made me feel like assumptions were being made about my anatomy and choices without first asking what I actually wanted. Because placement was my main concern, the way the consultation was handled affected my confidence in moving forward. If I couldn't get my preferences understood before the procedure, I didn't feel comfortable trusting that they'd be understood during it. The interruptions, assumptions, and overall attitude left me increasingly overwhelmed, and I ultimately had a panic attack. I left feeling talked down to rather than treated with patience or respect. Regardless of intent, the interaction made me feel unsafe, disrespected, and unable to trust the process. And honestly I really am especially disappointed because this shop has such strong reviews, and I understand my experience may be dismissed as a one-off because of that. Still, I don't think that means it should be brushed aside. I'd strongly urge anyone who is naturally anxious, needs time to communicate clearly, or is very specific about placement to consider whether they'd feel comfortable in this kind of consultation. A client should be able to ask questions, show a reference, and explain their priorities without feeling rushed, spoken over, or made to feel difficult. At the end, I told her I didn't appreciate the attitude I was receiving and that I was no longer interested in continuing the consultation. She didn't respond, and I left. I hope the shop takes this feedback seriously, because technical skill matters in piercing, but so does listening, respectful communication, informed consent, and making clients feel safe enough to ask questions before someone performs a procedure on their body.

EDDIE THE MAN

Septum and labret piercing

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Forward helix piercing

Ivy Room Tattoo

4.9(64 reviews)

6.1 mi

Got my neck done here by Paige and on other occasions & I am obsessed…read more The vibe of the shop is welcoming. This isn't my first tattoo or shop experience and I can say that all of them that work there are all very professional, welcoming, and nice. Paige and Scott have done my tattoos for the last 16 years, so obviously they are talented. Oh they also have snacks !!! Will keep coming back!

What an amazing experience! Booking with Paige was so easy. I had such a vague idea of what I…read morewanted and she talked me through it and came up with a cute design I loved. The tattoo took about 4 hours and I love how it turned out! Would recommend the shop and artist again in a heartbeat.

Most recent work. Done by Paige

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The Black Lantern

4.8(65 reviews)

•$$$$

They are a well run tattoo shop with the best artists anywhere. Kind.,friendly & accommodating. I…read moream a fan of this shop & will use them over any other..

Daniel was amazing to work with! He was very professional. He booked the entire day to work on both…read moreof our tattoos. My partner's tattoo is bigger and more detailed. Daniel sketched the design after listening to what he wanted. He was patient and put his own twist on it. It came out better than we could imagine. Daniel took his time as well. Mine are simple and he was able to complete 2 smaller ones in about an hour but the quality is still top notch. I highly recommend Daniel. The shop itself is also clean, nicely decorated and even have phone chargers! There are a few parking spots in a small lot or street parking.

LIBATE // The Black Lantern : REDUX

NOSTALGIA // The Black Lantern : REDUX

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Grizzly mama bear

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

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17 reviews that are not currently recommended

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

Sammie E.

0

4

0

10 years ago

I called as a walk in one day because I saw one of the artists work online and instantly fell in love. The guy who answered told me to come in between these times, so I did. I was helped by the artist that I had wanted to tattoo me and was pleased.. At first. I waited for a text or a call for 4 hours (he had a client he "had to finish up") however I saw him leave, close up shop, and get in his car. Is it so hard to be honest with me if you don't have time or you're going to get food? Doesn't seem hard for me. So anyways, I proceeded to wait to hear back from him.. Nothing. I drove past the shop to see it was still closed and the car the artist drove was no longer parked in front of the shop. He obviously didn't return that night. I constantly tried contacting him through many different forms of communication and never heard back from him. VERY POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE. I even gave this shop the benefit of the doubt and called back two months later, and they turned me away. So I went down pch to ink gallery and got an AMAZING piece done by Scott! I will never TRY going to Laguna tattoo ever again. They don't care about their customers, or their shop apparently. read more

C L.

0

1

0

14 years ago

the vibe and atmosphere at Laguna tattoo is awesome. I've never felt so welcomed at a tattoo shop, usually when you walk into a shop its like, what do you want, give me money and bounce out but at LT you feel like you are apart of the family. ive had a wonderful experience getting tattooed and felt that i would go back anytime. the people that work there are real genuine people and as for the work that ive seen and have also gotten is amazing. the artists are laid back and are happy to help you turn your ideas into MASTERPIECES! love the location. i would recommend anyone to LT. personally i get tattooed by devin mena, his work goes beyond my expectations everytime. stephen crome, the owner is an awesome man for establishing such a great business, and hiring nothing but the greatest artists, i havent had the pleasure to meet ALL the artist but i have heard and seen nothing but great things,.. they do what they love and i love what they do. 5 stars and 2 thumbs way up for LT!!!! read more

Gary W.

0

3

0

15 years ago

I have been getting tattoos at LagunaTattoo for eleven years, all of them by Steve with the exception of one. The shop is extremely clean. Steve and his artists have always been very cordial to myself and my family. Steve has always acted in a professional manner every time I came in to get a tattoo. Very laid back atmosphere. I highly recommend Laguna Tattoo to anyone who is interested in getting work done there. Steve and crew will tell you like it is inregards to having work done on your body. Definitely thumbs up. read more

Denise C.

0

4

0

1 year ago

Three tattoos in a short period from Brian. The most recent was a piece that took a couple of hours and required me to be on my side. Brian was very patient as there were many times I had to take a break and stand up due to pain in my side/hip and leg cramps which is the story of my life. He was very understanding and each time seemed to be unbothered by my dramatics, lol. His work is phenomenal and I can't say enough about the vibe and his patience and talent. read more

Penny W.

5

8

28

12 years ago

After many great reviews on several websites I decided this would be the place I would go for my 1st tattoo. I had a vision in my head that Devin Mena placed on paper & then in ink. He listened intently to what I wanted and he is a true artist as it was just what I had visioned. This was in memory of a beautiful person and I could not be more pleased. The detail of the monarch butterfly is amazing flying off of a teal ribbon. read more

Debbie S.

100

2

8 years ago

I was visiting Laguna Beach from out of town for a few days and decided on this beautiful butterfly tattoo in memory of my dad who passed away 6 years ago . Marcus did an awesome job at designing the 3D look I wanted appearing like it just landed . This one will never leave me .. A fun group of friendly guys who clearly love what they do and amazingly talented . Thanks Marcus ! I'll be back :-) read more

Karen H.

0

5

0

5 years ago

I got my first tattoo at 62 years young. Brian was so patient with me and my nerves. The quaint little shop was very clean and Brian wore his mask the whole time and followed good sanitary procedures. During all this Covid stuff, I really did feel very safe. While I don't think I'll be going in for another tattoo, I highly recommend Brian and Laguna tattoo for anyone who is looking to get one. read more

Tina A.

0

1

0

13 years ago

I had the best experience with Laguna Tattoo. Steve did my tattoo for me and gave me exactly what I wanted. He was so accommodating and made me feel very comfortable. I was very happy with the experience and extremely happy with my Tattoo it is beautiful, he is a true artist. read more

Carrie Z.

0

2

11 years ago

I just got my FIRST tattoo last Monday!! I had a custom made design and Marcus my tattoo artist did a phonomenal job!! Laguna Tattoo is where is all started and they run a very successful business with talented artists! Would definitely reccommend them!!! read more

Elizabeth C.

0

1

0

16 days ago

I was in Laguna on vacation and wanted a cute tattoo to memorialize our stay. Brian was responsive and accommodated my last minute whim. He did a beautiful job on my fine line tattoo. I'll be back next year for another one read more

Brady M.

323

13

25

9 years ago

I have been tattooed by Fabian for years! He is so artistic and values each piece he creates! I would never go to another artist! His colors and imagination are completely unique! read more

Paul D.

0

2

0

1 year ago

Awesome shop with an amazing artist! Highly recommended this shop. Brian is a great guy as well - super chill and honest. We will come back for another soon!! read more

Scott B.

0

1

0

1 year ago

Can you duplicate this tattoo rt arm I am on blood thinners but cardiologist says ok let me know if it's doable 315-690-9424 Scott

Ben H.

0

1

0

1 year ago

Brian really created an incredible experience! Very personable, professional and his years of experience shows in his work.

Riley S.

0

2

0

4 years ago

Highly recommend Laguna Tattoo. Overall amazing experience. The artist Brian was great! So happy with the results.

Sam S.

2

12

0

13 years ago

I just got my second tattoo here the other day and i love it!! Im coming back to get my first one covered up = ]

Shannon A.

131

26

5

11 years ago

Great small tattoo shop!

Laguna Tattoo - tattoo - Updated October 2026

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Emo is not just a great tattoo artist, he's a very nice guy. I'm a returning guest and he never…read moredisappoints. His work is clean, colors are vibrant and crisp, and his work heals beautifully. Show him references of what u want and he will collaborate with u and bring ur idea to life. Shop is clean and he is very professional.

Stopped in to get walk ins with my brother & boyfriend and all of the tattoos were incredibly well…read moredone & quick too. Emilio has 30+ years of experience and is super easy going. Stop in while in the area or on vacation like we did!

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My artist, Seth, was professional, respectful, and easy to work with--qualities I really…read moreappreciate. The shop itself was clean, organized, and clearly well maintained. Even though it was fully booked at 6pm on a Saturday, the atmosphere remained calm and relaxed. The music wasn't loud, and the TV was kept at a low volume, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Thanks

Went in yesterday and talked to the owner Nick. I needed some update on an existing tattoo to help…read morecover a scar. Nick came up with an idea and it came out perfect. The shop is very kickback and everyone is friendly. I will definitely return for some more ink.

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Great environment, very nice people and great art; I just had Chas do my knuckles and it was an…read moreabsolute great and swift process. Thank you guys so much listening to me ramble and talk music while giving me a great piece! ill definitely update when i can!

I have never had a bad experience here -- not once in the two plus years I've been going here…read more Everyone is welcoming, friendly, and respectful. I see Brian specifically and I can't recommend him enough. I wish I would've been able to meet him sooner. He's covered up a few tattoos seamlessly and I've had a several more larger pieces done by him. They're absolutely beautiful, and something I am truly proud to wear for the rest of my life. I brought a friend to Brian to get her first tattoo and he walked her through everything with patience and respect, making her feel comfortable the whole time. A lot of times when I am out and about, people ask me where I got my tattoos done at and compliment the work he has done. Brian's level of talent is exceptful and reflects through his work. Each piece clearly shows the amount of hardwork, thought, and diligence put behind it. If you're looking for a tattoo shop that is welcoming, passionate about their work, and respectful, look no further and come on in. Below are a few pictures of the tattoos Brian has done for me.

True At Heart Tattoo

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Booked my second ink job here with Jordan for a memorial dog paw of my Sadie that was 15 1/2 when…read moreshe passed 4 weeks ago to the day . Jordan took his time making sure to get Sadie's paw print just right before making it person me . I really love my finished product it looks beautiful- thank you so light Jordan and thank you for our previous tattoos my sister and I got for my big birthday in September- our- FAITH - tattoos that also turned out very nice . I feel confident and comfortable coming here as it's home in Dana Point and the guys here are cool and do follow all the safety and hygiene precautions to protect the customers and themselves while working. If you are looking for a new ink job come check these guys they do some awesome work here at True At Heart -Thank you Jordan again for making this a really special experience and heartfelt tat for life .

Jordan did a great job on the artwork and ink! He made the whole experience enjoyable! Definitely…read morewill be returning! Thanks

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Like most of the other reviewers I had an excellent experience with Ilya! 30 years since my last…read moretattoo, I wanted to go big and do a large complicated tattoo on my arm. Ilya was excellent in helping to visualize my piece and working with me to make sure it's what I wanted. 2 sessions, which were easy to book with him. Great communication over text and in person. Pricing was very reasonable. I actually got another tattoo as well. He did an awesome job and I am happy to recommend him and support him. I will be returning in the future for more ink!

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Wen is an amazing artist and at first I was hesitant because she has a home studio but the set up…read moreand process was very professional and comforting. She provided the option to design a custom tattoo or use something I already had. Scheduling an appointment is free if no custom design is required to design a custom tattoo required a 50$ deposit which went into the total cost of the tattoo. As my first time getting tattoo I was glad I chose this place for the price and hospitality.

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