Inked: Top Ten San Diego Tattoo Parlors

eTattoos have been a worldwide custom for thousands of years and are considered one of the earliest forms of human tradition.

In today’s day and age, tattooing has evolved into a new age art form and we are lucky to have so many San Diego tattoo parlors that know their way around needle and ink. While there are plenty of places to get marked up in San Diego, there are certainly a select few shops that are willing to go above and beyond for its clientele.

Whether it’s a cute and fun memento you’ve been visualizing for months, or something a little more hardcore, you’re sure to be pleased with the artwork produced by San Diego tattoo professionals. From Full Circle Tattoo in Ocean Beach and Guru Tattoo in Pacific Beach to Two Roses Tattoo in Barrio Logan and Studio 1904 in Normal Heights, discover the top ten San Diego tattoo parlors.

Flying Panther Tattoo in Golden Hill

Taking pride in being the only tattoo parlor in the ever-expanding Golden Hill neighborhood, Flying Panther Tattoo is home to a spread of die-hard professionals with an extreme passion for their needlework. Having recently celebrated its five year anniversary, this tattoo shop has garnered a reputation as one of the best tattoo parlors in the county. To view portfolio work or schedule an appointment, please call 619.238.5713.

Full Circle Tattoo in Ocean Beach

Owned by award-winning artist Bill Canales, Full Circle Tattoo Studio is home to some of San Diego’s most experienced and professional tattoo artists. With only six full-time artists, Full Circle Tattoo takes pride in every piece of body art they create. Whether it’s the size of a nickel or it spans the entirety of your back, Full Circle’s veteran staff will help you envision your design and make your dream become a reality. For further questions, please call 619.226.6575. 

Guru Tattoo in Pacific Beach

Arguably one of the most popular tattoo shops in Pacific Beach, Guru Tattoo is a collective of professionals that know their way around a needle. With plenty of tattoo artists on staff, each with their own signature style, there will certainly be someone who can help you ink up properly. To view portfolio work or schedule an appointment, please call 858.270.1070.

Avalon Tattoo in Pacific Beach

With a large staff of 12 full-time tattoo artists split up between two locations in Pacific Beach and Normal Heights, Avalon Tattoo has helped thousands of people get their first ink. While an appointment is required for nearly all services, this shop has been proven to be well worth the wait. For more information or to view portfolio work, please call 858.274. 7635.

Church of Steel in Downtown

Owner Arturo Aguirre has put more than 20 years of work into his career in piercing and body modification. Don’t think he’s an expert? One look at him will have you changing your tune. Willing to offer assistance to any individual in need, Aguirre takes upmost care of his downtown studio and offers all newcomers into the relaxed environment. To view Aguirre’s portfolio work or schedule an appointment, please call 619.232.5752.

Propaganda Tattoo in Point Loma

Since opening its doors to the public in 2005, Propaganda Tattoo has made sure to reward every customer that enters their doors with exactly the design they want. Working one-on-one with clientele, this tattoo studio will work with you and point you in the right direction on each issue. Feel free to stop in and ask questions about custom designs or work, they’ll be ready. For further questions, please call 619.226.6192.

Vivid Tattoo in University Heights

Smack dab in the middle of University Heights, Vivid Tattoo boasts an upscale environment sets the mood for a very clean and comfortable experience. The talented staff specializes in custom works, realistic features, fine-line, Asian, color-bomb, portraits and piercings. Vivid Tattoo also offers piercings, if that brand new tattoo just isn’t enough for you. To view portfolio work or schedule an appointment, please call 619.487.0237.

Studio 1904 in Normal Heights

Professionally licensed since 1985, Studio 1904 has built its business around positive feedback and customer referrals. Specializing in custom work, this tattoo parlor has also expanded into a piercing studio as well. It’s a one-stop body modification shop and walk-ins are always welcome. To view portfolio work or schedule an appointment, please call 619.283.5007.

Above All Tattoo in Pacific Beach  

Located in the heart of Pacific Beach on Garnet Avenue, Above All Tattoo is a custxom tattoo shop that requires all their customers to make appointments in person, so that you can pick out the tattoo artist of your choice. This ensures that you will be satisfied with both the service and tattoo artist as well as seeing the previous works of the artists. Their staff is booked weeks to months in advance, so it is good to make an appointment well in advance. To view portfolio work or schedule an appointment, please call 858.270.8287.

Two Roses Tattoo in Barrio Logan

A rare hybrid barber/tattoo shop, Two Roses Tattoo caters to all different types of crowds. Whether you are stopping in to chop a little off the top or add a little ink to your birthday suit, the friendly staff will be sure to accommodate you at a fair price. To view portfolio work or schedule an appointment, please call 619.702.4822 or visit Two Roses Tattoo in Barrio Logan.

Are we still missing one? Leave a comment below to share your favorite San Diego tattoo parlors to get inked with us.

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