Kristin is amazing. So talented. She's the only artist I go to for my tattoo work. After 30 tattoos and many years of visiting tattoo shops, I'm glad I found the perfect shop. read more

Matt is a wonderful artist and has done high quality work on myself and several of my friends. The recent piece he did for me was above and beyond my expectations. A true gentleman and a very talented tattoo artist. South Seas is just the best and artist like Matt keep it that way. Aloha ! read more

I had been wanting a cover up for a few years and got in contact with south seas before my trip to Hawaii to see my family last week. I was able to schedule something with Mia and she was so great and communicative about what I wanted. We had great conversation the whole time during the actual process. It feels SO GOOD having my old tattoo covered and a piece that means a lot to me now. I'm beyond happy with the work she did and will always come back here when im visiting the big island :) highly recommend this place, whether you're a local or just visiting read more

South Seas Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Thank you Doug for a beautiful tattoo Great conversation and an awesome nap Highly recommend him read more

South Seas Tattoo - Coconut my myna bird - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

I called the shop on our last full day in Hilo and Kristen was able to fit us in later that afternoon. The shop was clean and comfortable. Kristen's demeanor is professional and to the point. She was kind and worked with us briefly to design our tattoo souvenir from our time on the Big Island. Her work healed beautifully! read more

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Thank you so much Matt! I reached out to the shop a few weeks before our trip to Big Island and Matt responded right away. He was able to book my niece and I back to back, which was great because we were driving from the opposite side of the island. We sent him some ideas of what we had in mind and he took care of the rest. Far exceeded our expectations for our tattoos, and definitely the best customer service and shop cleanliness that we've ever experienced. I may not ever want anyone other than Matt to tattoo me again! read more

South Seas Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Doug did an amazing job! Had a pleasant conversation and service couldn't have been more efficient. Great experience 5/5 would recommend! read more

South Seas Tattoo - Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

matt was the one who took my request and did a beautiful job. for one of my tattoos i asked for shading to be added and it's safe to say that i'm obsessed with the shading work he did!! he was super kind, the atmosphere is really nice, and i really enjoyed my session :,) read more

South Seas Tattoo - custom cardbox moving box tattoo with shading and custom text - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Cannot recommend these folks highly enough! I visited them over two years to complete my pieces and always experienced the highest professionalism, care, and integrity. In that time I've seen Kristin, Doug, and Matt all turn out remarkable pieces- truly wonderful artists and kind people, all of them. I worked with Kristin on this piece. I was blown away by her technical skill, body placement, color work, and stylistic interpretation of my idea/concept. We did long sessions (4-6 hours each) and I appreciated how she would let me know when she was coming up to a pause or color change so I could stretch, throw some food in my face, or use the loo. The shop was always clean, bright, and a comfortable atmosphere with good music playing. Once in a while there would be a joke or banter among everyone in the shop, but it was clear that when you were with an artist you and your work were the focus of their attention. I always felt safe in the space, and in especially felt in good hands with their clear and diligent Covid-19 protocols. 10/10 will be back for more! read more

South Seas Tattoo - Octopus ( he'e ) tattoo South Seas Tattoo Hilo - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Thank you Doug Mendoza! We are visiting and had a small window to get tattooed. Doug fit three of us in and was professional and kind. We are all three extremely pleased!!!! read more

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While we were waiting for mochi nearby, we had this crazy idea about just inquiring about getting a tattoo at a local place. Yeah...inquiring turned into actually getting my first tattoo with my best friend #yolo #noragrets. We were a walk-in and Matt was our tattoo artist. We showed him what we wanted and he sketched both our inspirations and made changes until he got it exactly how we wanted it. He was very patient and so chill. The process was really easy, a little painful, but bearable! He answered all our questions about the process and shared with us aftercare instructions for our new tattoos while they healed. Still can't believe I got one in Hawai'i #yolo #noragrets. Thank you Matt! read more

Just got another tattoo today. The communication was impeccable, the customer service was top notch and professional, the studio is clean and beautiful, the owner Kristin is super talented. I have only great things to say about this tattoo studio and recommend it to anyone. Kristin, the owner, did an amazing job on my tattoo, super happy and will return many more times! Thank you, South Seas Tattoo! read more

What initially won me over with this shop was how the owner, Kristin, handled comments on Yelp. Even in the face of a few remarks that were challenging, she faced them head on with grace and clarity. I really respected that. Plus the talent all the artists exhibited was spot on-there was no question about where I was going. Because I'm not a local and only visiting I knew I'd have to be flexible with who did my piece, and this worked for me because from the looks of it, everyone there has extreme talent. I was lucky enough to have Henry do my tattoo-and I couldn't be more thrilled. I came in with an idea and while completely cliche for being here on vacation, he was kind and enthusiastic about probably what was "another" turtle tattoo. He gave his professional opinion on the size and actual elements about it (ie a little more definition in it's lines were needed). He was spot on with the color choices-they couldn't have been more perfect. The end result pleases me so much, "Henry" the sea turtle is by far my favorite tattoo. The shop was clean and airy. It was really great how while they had music playing, it wasn't chest bumping like in most tattoo shops. It really set the tone for the chillness of the place. So, look no further and without a doubt allow Kristin and her crew to give your vision life. Anyone of the talented artists could make it happen; but of course I'm partial to Henry who did an amazing job and deserves nothing but my highest accolades. Thank you Henry! Mahalo! read more

South Seas Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Highly recommend this shop! My husband and I decided to get a couple tattoos to remember our trip to the Big Island. We walked in this afternoon and were greeted by Doug, who was super friendly and professional. He was open to our ideas and had them drawn up and ready to go in a very short time. The shop is super clean, all of the staff were great and it was clear that everyone getting ink loved their pieces! We will definitely be returning to the Big Island, and to South Seas in the future. Thanks again Doug!! read more

South Seas Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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Professional and friendly! Thanks Doug! Healing perfectly and it is beautiful!! Much mahalo read more

South Seas Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Thank you so much to Kristin for the amazing artwork! The first thing that stood out to me about the shop was how professional, open, and clean it was. Brightly lit with big windows and lots of fun artwork across the walls, it was a welcoming sight in a tourist district full of close-packed and musty shops. Their wall artwork is fun, including a hilarious sign that said "if you can find it cheaper, we'll be happy to fix it for you". I came in just over a week ago and told Kristin "I want these two volcanoes (Kilauea's Pu'u 'O'o vent and Mt. St. Helens) on my forearms". We set the appointment date for the last day of my visit so that I would not be kept from beach activities by new ink. When the day came, I was blown away by the art she'd drawn! It was better than anything I'd imagined. She'd even added native flowers and trees near the bottom of each volcano! It was so cool to see her get really into her artistic groove - as she was putting the finishing touches on both my pieces, she would stand back, look and then dive right in to bring them to life. I've always wanted art on my skin, and she made me feel like a living canvas in the coolest way. I'm thrilled with my new art, and thankful for Kristin's talent and effort. read more

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I'm from oahu, visiting family on big island and I've always wanted to get tattooed up here, just so happened I found this little shop. I wanted to check it out and I'm super glad I did! Staff: super friendly! I came back two days in a row got tattooed by Matt first and the second day Leilani. Ben and Kristin were also very friendly, the whole crew treats clients like family, I love it all. The atmosphere was just awesome. Tattoos: AWESOME, I will be back hoping to get tatted by every artist :) Cleanliness: very very clean. I don't even question it because they do everything in front of you, I couldn't ask for more. Check them out you won't be disappointed I love my tattoos read more

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My bf got tatted by Henry. He is absolutely in love with it. It really is the best tattoo he's gotten, would definitely come back and get another one. Really really amazing skills Henry has. He is very pleased and highly recommends this place to any and everyone. read more

South Seas Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Doug and everyone in the shop is so kind! This is my second tattoo I've gotten, the first one is a "doodle" I drew and gave to the owner/artist Kristin. They are unbelievably kind, respectful, ask and make sure you are comfortable with your tattoo, and give you the safe place to speak up and voice any concerns or questions you may have. This is definitely the best tattoo shop in Hilo, let alone the big island. read more

South Seas Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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Made an appointment and received a quick confirmation. Then the day before the artist asked me to come an hour and a half earlier...then he cancelled on me (at 9:30 on a Friday night.) Disappointing and suspicious. I asked if another artist could do the simple design and got no reply. Unprofessional and not recommended. There's lots of other tattoo places in Hilo and on the BI so don't waste your time here. read more

Had a great experience with Doug here! He was able to fit 4 of us in today & did an amazing job! This place is great! read more

South Seas Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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I arrived to see Simon for my first tattoo. He was incredibly patient, crafting my vision for my tattoo on my rib cage. The place was very clean. Loads of beautiful art and jewelry catch your eye in the waiting area. Simon was very professional: honest with the sensitivity of the selected area and clear with after care instructions. I would highly recommend Simon for any work you are planning to have done. read more

South Seas Tattoo - Simon working his magic - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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Matt did an amazing job on my little tattoo. I told him what I liked and he did a wonderful job at giving me a custom and unique version of what i had showed him for inspiration. Light hand, calm demeanor, and the tattoo turned out great. Keep in mind it hadn't completely healed in this picture yet:) read more

South Seas Tattoo - By Matt - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

I absolutely love south seas and will always reccomend the shop to anyone looking for a tattoo. I've been in numerous times. Kirsten has done a whole sleeve on my arm that I absolutely love. Very detailed work for a reasonable price. You definitely get what you pay for. Nothing but satisfaction from here. Such amazing artists definitely would reccomend you call to make an appointment if you're looking for a new tattoo. read more

South Seas Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

If you are looking for the best professional Tattoo artist this place would stand out among the rest. The shop was super clean. Artist were professional and personable. No sales gimmick and not pushy Tattoo Artist Henry is a high caliber ink master. He has outstanding artistry. He allowed me to select between three drawings, Two from him and one My sister had sketched. Several people have suggested Henry and I'm completely 100% satisfied. Mahalo Henry. read more

I had a tattoo done by Kristin and she was awesome. I brought in a handful of pictures and she sketched out a perfect juxtaposition of what I wanted but had hard time explaining. The shop is really clean and she was a professional. She was really patient with my fidgeting and toe wiggling. A whole lot of hours later I had a beautiful tattoo that I love. I will definitely go back to her and make my husband switch shops because his guy isn't so fantastic. read more

Comfortable professional place. The do great "tribal" work. I went with a detailed color tattoo. Great communication while Matt was drawing it up. We went through a few drafts and he responded to my changes and suggestions. Thanks for a great piece. read more

South Seas Tattoo - Finished, 4 hours. - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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We were in town for a couple of days and had a few hours of downtime the afternoon we arrived. We both desired to have work done, yet never took the time out of our busy schedules on the mainland. We researched Yelp for direction to a reputable tattoo parlor in Hilo, and walked into South Seas. We were greeted by Kristin, who had just finished a project. She asked for specifics regarding what we were looking for and informed us she normally didn't take walk-ins. However, if we were ready we would be her last clients of the day. She was fast and efficient and we both felt we received exactly what we described. The store was clean and prices seemed reasonable. read more

Very nice location, nice clean beautiful shop, very relaxed atmosphere. I walked in Wednesday and Matt took me in Thursday. I chose this place not just because of the yelp reviews but a more than a few people I know and recently meet recommended Matt! He did a phenomenal job free hading a very meaningful tattoo for me. I will definitely be back and spread the word. He blended my lotus flower perfectly with the wave and even found space for my " I am greater than my high and lows #type1diabetic! read more

South Seas Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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I hadn't intended to get another tattoo for a while. A couple days into our Hawaiian vacation I decided I'd like to get something to commemorate seeing a volcano for the first time in my life (something I have wanted to do ever since I was really little) and to celebrate my 66th birthday. Decided to go here soon after they opened for the day so I stood a chance of getting an appointment. As it turned out, there was no one else in the shop so they could take me right away. I walked in with a confused and vague idea of what I wanted and tried to explain it to Leilani. She thought about it for a bit and asked if she could just freehand something and let me see if I liked it. I liked it! So now I have a small tribal style rendition of a volcano on my wrist. It is absolutely perfect. Thank you Leilani and South Seas Tattoo! read more

For true, unique tattoo art, don't go anywhere else A fabulous shop with fabulous artists. I had the pleasure of working with Kristin on a large and complicated half-sleeve. The design process really turned into a true collaboration, although I did make the wise decision to let Kristin really take the lead on the design specifics. Frankly in the end this wasn't very difficult as the more the design progressed the more I absolutely loved it. I couldn't imagine it looking any different, which I think is a true testament to Kristin's skill as an artist. I met most of the other people working at South Seas and they were all super nice. There is a nice range of artistic styles amongst the staff so I think all tastes would be well represented. The shop specializes in unique designs so come prepared with ideas and a willingness to collaborate. Added bonus (especially when putting in 17-18 hours under the machines): great music! It's also definitely worth mentioning that this is probably the cleanest tattoo shop I've run across. Always an important consideration. So when getting work done in Hilo and the Big Island, South Seas is your best bet, in my opinion and experience. read more

This was THE BEST tattoo experience I have ever had. The staff (Matt in particular) was super accommodating, super professional and made me feel very welcome. The shop itself was very clean and comfortable. My little sister and I got matching tattoos and they turned out ABSOLUTELY STUNNING. 10/10 would do again. read more

This tattoo parlor is my absolute favorite I've been to, both in Hawaii and on the mainland. Douglas was the artist that did my piece and was super kind and open to anything. My wave and mountains were pretty basic white girl, but he was super great about everything and took me right away. I'm very happy that I decided on a last minute trip to the tattoo parlor before heading back! read more

I'm giving this place two stars due to poor customer service. After doing a bit of research, I was looking to get a tattoo in Hilo during my vacation. My grandfather and both my parents were born in Hilo so it's always been a very special place to me. I found South Seas via Yelp and when I checked out their webpage, I found a perfect example of a simple script tattoo that I loved. I called the shop and they recommended that I email the store's email address to speak directly with the artist. I was hoping to schedule an appointment with her the following Saturday and she told me she was booked for Saturday but recommended her co-worker. I booked my appointment with her co-worker and spoke with him a day or two later. He mentioned that he was going to get a sketch to me but was fairly busy. I told him not to rush but was looking forward to hearing from him. I never got a response. I wasn't feeling super pumped about this place and decided to cancel my appointment when I walked by the day before my appointment and the studio was completely empty. What upset me was that on Saturday morning of my appointment, I saw the original artist I was interested in walking around the farmers market and then passed by the studio twice...both times she was standing at the front counter with NO clients. She explicitly told me she was "all booked" on Saturday when that was clearly not the case. Maybe it was just that my the tattoo I wanted was too simple? Or maybe she had another reason, but pretty frustrating to know that she lied about being booked when she was open. I ended up going to another studio, the tattoo took 5 minutes and I couldn't be happier. Yes, it's a simple tattoo as it's just my last name but it's meaningful to me and I had been looking forward to going to this studio. It's a bummer that I had such a negative experience as number of people seem to love this studio. read more

Had a great experience with my tattoo. Was fortunate to get an appointment with Henry. First meeting I told him what I wanted, in the between time, he drew up a sketch and it was spot on! Great ink, great conversation, and has healed nicely. I choose this location because a year before, another artist did a first tattoo on my 18 year old daughter, who also did a fantastic job! Thank you guys, I will be back! :) ( I dont see an option to post a photo, sorry) read more

Aloha in the ink! Just want to support this local business that does its part to support the community. read more

Came to south seas on my last day in Hawaii, Rob was super nice and a absolutely incredible artist. I was wanting a colorful piece, a hibiscus flower and a orchid to tie in with my art I already had on my arm and he did exactly that. He's got that super gentle touch making the experience very relaxing throughout the whole five hours of my arm piece. Loved all the great artists and vibes at south seas, I'll defiantly be returning for more artwork soon!! read more

South Seas Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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Showed Matt what I wanted and asked him to change a few things with the photo I showed and he drew the exact tiger I Was looking for. Defiantly recommend if you're looking for a place that will give you exactly what your asking for, thank you Matt! read more

South Seas Tattoo - Finished with color - Tattoo Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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We were on vacation in Dec 2016. Getting a tattoo was the furthest thing on my mind but, my husband was interested. After meeting Doug, I knew that this was the time. even though we were his last clients for 2016, he took his time with me and my nerves. He asked me why I wanted what I wanted. (Phoenix raising out of the ashes) gave me the pros and cons of having a small one on my shoulder and when he hand drew one on my calf, the full length of my calf, I fell in love with it! He took his time and knew I was scared. The best part, after I told him a little about my life and why I wanted that, he saved putting the wings on last. When I asked why, he said because now, I could fly and be free. So touching and a great way to end 2016. Now my beloved dog passed and I want his paw print done. I will wait until we are in Hilo in 2018 as I only want Doug to do something that special to me. I love his energy and just who he is. Thank you for making my 1st experience incredible! I love my tat!!!!!!!!!! read more

I decided to go Hawaii for my 17th birthday and get a tattoo. And I am so lucky to have Matt as my tattoo artist. He did an amazing job and I love my tattoo so much! It was my first tattoo and he was very nice about it. I do only have one complaint though. Towards the end is my tattoo session he began rubbing the paper towel on my skin harder which caused me to move more. Anyway, I have received so many compliments on my tattoo and I can't stop looking at it myself. I asked for a dream catcher with tribal designs and he made my tattoo perfect. It was a hundred times better than what I expected! Thank you so much Matt!! read more