I got my first tattoo at almost 60. It was when my daughter asked for one, and I was thinking to myself, why not go do it with her. That was five years ago. For our 30th anniversary, my wife and I went to Maui for a week. The best vacation we've ever had. When it was almost time to pack our suitcases and leave Maui, we were thinking why not get a tattoo to commemorate the vacation, as well as the anniversary. We looked up several tattoo parlors. While at Paia we paid a visit to one, but it needed a booking in advance. Another one in Kihei, we encountered a rude tattooist who (almost) practically threw us out because we weren't so sure what tattoo we wanted to get... and then, when we were close to giving up, we found Zen Tattoo. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Greg was free, and said he would love to help.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We looked up several images, and picked one. And then the magic happened. But not before we were watching in awe how Greg was preparing. He put on a pair of surgical gloves and started sterilizing EVERYTHING. The trays, the machine, and everything that could get in touch with us. Better yet, he wrapped EVERYTHING in Saran wrap. And I mean everything. Then he took of the gloves, threw them away, and put on a new pair. Only then he started to prepare the candidate skin for the tattoo we selected. At the end, he cleaned the area well, and applied "Second Skin", a modern aftercare method that keeps a new tattoo consistently hydrated using ointment or medical-grade wraps. This approach prevents hard scabbing, reduces fading, and accelerates healing, though it requires strict cleanliness to avoid bacterial growth in the moist environment. In retrospect - a good choice to make when considering a tattoo. He worked meticulously, and the results were spectacular. When he finished with my wife and it was my turn, we were amazed to see that Greg went through the entire set of rigorous sterilization, again, not skipping one step, including two sets of surgical gloves. Then he did mine. So three comments: 1. Greg is excellent at tattooing. Outstanding work. 2. Greg is extremely obsessed with cleanliness and sterilization. 3. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Greg was the nicest person. He reassured us throughout the process[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. Bottom line: considering the preparation, the professionalism, the personality, and the outcome - when in Maui considering a tattoo - choose Greg 100%. read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

[[HIGHLIGHT]]I highly recommend Greg! He was awesome.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] My wife and I got our signatures tattooed. My wife and I took our signatures to the tattoo shop and he was able to stencil it and tattoo it exactly how we wrote our signatures. [[HIGHLIGHT]]You can tell he really cares about his customers.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] If you want a tattoo in Maui, I recommend you only go to this man. The best tattooist in the island. read more

Was looking for a tatto shop didn't know which one to go with I went with zen and my artist was Kai [[HIGHLIGHT]]I 100% recommend going here they were very nice, very clean they treated me good[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I started to feel a litttle dizzy [[HIGHLIGHT]]they got me a water the vibe was just awesome[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I would go here if you want a tatto read more

Kai was awesome he was able to do a custom tattoo. He pretty much had what I was envisioning. [[HIGHLIGHT]]He took time to make updates when I asked[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] is honest and would not tattoo something he wouldn't want you to brag about. They also have his work on their website too. read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - This what's the custom art I got. He was very friendly and too his time to get to know what the art was about. - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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Mahalo Zen tattoo! This hospitable establishment lives the aloha spirit. My husband and I wanted to get matching flower tattoos on our wrists. Sam, from Zen tattoo, did a lovely job on our wrist tattoos. We had a picture of a flower and Sam did a super job. He is a talented artist and a kind human. I can't wait to return in April to get a turtle tattoo. I have a lot of tattoos and this one is my favorite of them all! read more

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Masao was the best. I was lucky enough to get him. He did an excellent job. I love my tattoo and he was so quick and gentle. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I was able to talk my husband into getting a tattoo by him as well, which he not been willing to do until now.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We will for sure have to go back and get another one for sure on the next visit. The shop was very clean and good vibes. I would highly recommend this shop for your tattoo. Melissa did one for our friend and it was just what she wanted. Her husband got one from Masao and it was what he wanted as well. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Super fun day![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

So after spending 10 days in Hawaii, the wife looks at me and says, I have three things that I have left on my to do list. 1) eat Poke at Secret Beach...(DID IT). 2) Swim with turtles...(ran out of time and will have to do the next time), 3) Get a tattoo. So after looking around and seeing reviews we found Zen Tattoo. We walked in, very clean and well organized place and the wife states that she is wanting to get a tattoo. The gentleman behind the counter looks up and states, well that depends on what kind of tattoo you want. So the wife shows him a picture and describes what she is hoping for and he says, how soon do you want to do it? She says now, and he says let's do it. After about 10 mins of sketch work, Masao - gentleman whom was helping us provides a sketch to my wife and she says that's it. Before I know it, she is on the table and the ink is starting to go. With a deft touch, and calm and easily Zen personality, Masao carefully but diligently places a tattoo on the calf of my wife that she had been wanting. It was a Celtic symbol for new beginnings with an island flair that Masao suggested. After not more than 45 mins, the tattoo was completed and we were on our way. After five days, the protective covering was removed and the beautiful tattoo showed flawlessly. Without question I would easily go again to get work performed here and by Masao. This is the place to go to, and you will not be sorry you did. read more

After doing some research, looking for a tattoo artist who would do a beautiful vivid tattoo on my leg, I found Sam. There was a tattoo in his portfolio that I really really loved. He agreed to the one I chose. He was friendly, professional, and did an excellent job. It was exactly what I wanted. I am extremely happy and would recommend this place to anyone and I would recommend Sam for anyone looking for a beautiful bright vivid tattoo. read more

Masao is a super talented tattoo artist! I made a spontaneous appointment the day of, and was out the door in less than 45mins! I showed him a picture of what I wanted, he traced it, and made a few adjustments. Super quick and efficient! read more

Went there on recommendation from a local and I'm glad I did. Melissa is the artist who I set everything up with, I showed her a picture of basically what I wanted and left her open to her interpretation and it turned out fantastic. The location on my arm is even better than what my first thoughts were (she lowered it ever so slightly) plus we discussed adding to it in the near future. I'll be back for the additional work within the year plus she'll be doing some of her art on my girlfriend. read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

MASAO is an accomplished artist and friendly. Really enjoyed the experience and professionalism. I had researched many artists and wanted to find someone with strong tribal roots and super attention to detail. What a great job. I was impressed with his staff as well. I see myself going back again next time I visit Maui. Definitely make an appointment but it's island time and easy going. Mahalo. read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - Tribal shark tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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Went to zen Tattoo in Kihei Maui after doing lots of research on Tattoo shops and artist in Maui . Found Melissa I'm super glad I went with Melissa she is a great artist. She gave me exactly what I wanted. read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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Business was kind enough to take me as a walk-in. My tattoo artist was great and I love what I got.

Awesome place! Masao gave me and my friend two very beautiful tattoos. It was comfortable and chill. 10/10 recommend

Masao was a kind, welcoming and Incredibly talented! Walked in with no appointment and he happily made it happen! Mahalo read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - Three plumerias representing my 3 children. - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

Melissa was awesome. She fit us in and stayed late to make my vision come to life. Loved her vibe and her work was awesome. If I am ever back Maui I will be scheduling another appt with her. Thank you again for an amazing job. read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

I called on Sunday and inquired if there were any openings for Monday. We were leaving Maui early Tuesday morning. The woman suggested I fill out the inquiry form, and the owner would get back to me. On Monday, Masao reached out to me with availability. I told him what I had wanted, and he drew my traditional Polynesian sea turtle free hand, then had me check placement and approve the drawing. I am completely in love with my little piece of Maui. Thank you Masao! read more

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Don't consider any other tattoo place to go in Maui! You will not be disappointed very professional and experienced. Very impressed anyone looking to get a first tat or a new one should go to Zen read more

Went in for a consultation about a cover up. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The guy (who I believe is the owner) literally smirked at me and rolled his eyes. It made me feel horrible.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]He could have just said they what they could and couldn't do, like the other 4 tattoo shops did.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]There are other reviews saying the staff here was rude. I totally agree and highly recommend going somewhere that won't act in a condescending manner to customers.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

What a happy experience. My sister and I are seniors and we wanted a tattoo before we left to commemorate our vacation together. We were so happy to find Zen. Our artist was John, and we highly recommend him. Cordial, funny and CUTE. Can't wait to come back again. Thanks John. You were a joy. . Linda & Laura read more

Horrible experience. I walked in and was greeted by a guy named john. very rude and unprofessional. Would answer my questions in a very passive aggressive way and looked like he didnt care. He also smelled like a brewery. Go elsewhere read more

Took my Sister yo get her nose pierced for her birthday by the ultra talented Brandi Koalska over at Zen Tattoo! My sister was slightly nervous but Brandi's amazing demeanor and customer care put her right at ease. In and out in less than 20 minutes. Highly recommend going to her for all your piercing needs on Maui! read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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Great experience recently with Zen Tattoo! My wife and I both got tattoos and we love them! The owner went over their ink ingredients with me to make sure the ink they use is vegan, and it is. They were very professional, talented and fun to hang with for a couple hours! Great experience! read more

I was visiting on vacation and contacted the shop about a week before the trip. They easily got me scheduled on my last day. Masao did my piece, a red hibiscus on my left wrist. Absolutely beautiful and detailed. read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

My little squad consisting of my bf and best friends decided to get tattoos the night before our flight back to CA. Brian was so amazing! He drew my octopus and did all four of our tattoos back to back from 8pm-1am. I so appreciate his help in making my tattoo vision into a reality. I'll always carry a piece of art (octopus) on my back now. read more

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Love this place. Came here two years ago with Erick on my last trip. Went to Oahu this trip and on a coin flip at dinner decided to come Maui and had to come back for another tattoo. Masao was really chill. Got my second tattoo by Splat. Very awesome dude great artist and person read more

My wife and I visited Zen Tattoo while on vacation. She met with Kevin Reinert and felt instantly comfortable with him. He was very patient and after leaving started emailing her ideas. Kevin was a true professional and responded quickly to every email. The day of the tattoo he made some last minute adjustments and really interpreted her vision and turned her tattoo in to a beautiful work-of-art! This is the most beautiful tattoo I have ever seen. I watched the beginning, middle and end and this was an awesome experience. My wife is in love with her life long piece of art. Thank you so much, Kevin. We will be back!!! read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - By Kevin Reinert - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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Very accommodating we walked in early morning and checked in to see if they would take any walk in appointments. Brian fit 2 of us in. We wanted the same tattoos and he made it happen. read more

Big mistake if you dont utilize these amazing artists at Zen Tattoo!! Such a great atmosphere when you walk in and everybody is so friendly and professional. All seem incredibly talented. This is my second time getting something done from Melissa, and what can I say? She's INCREDIBLE. She takes her time drawing out your ideas and during the session itself, doing it right, and it always ends up being just what I'm looking for. She's nailed my ideas both times! Never seems to shy away from a challenge either. Can do such a wide scale of things, in color or B&W. Such a sweet person too! So grateful. read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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Melissa is a sweetheart! I emailed Melissa on pretty short notice and she was able to get me an appointment the very next day and even stayed after hours to make sure we finished the tattoo. If you're unsure about where to go, come here to zen tattoo! Definitely worth it and I will be returning to this shop again because of her. 10/10 excellent service read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

I've been waiting 10 years to cover my old tattoo because it was no longer noticeable. I chose Masao because he friends and reviews say he has plenty of experience with cover ups and tribal art. He is very communicative. He's so cool! I gave him different designs that I liked and he did so well incorporating all- it turned out better than I thought! I picked a dragon because I was born the year of the dragon. I love my tattoo. Mahalo Masao! read more

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Melissa is a skilled and focused and detailed oriented tattoo artist :) the other guys are good too

I really love the work done by Melissa. She did an amazing custom nautical compass with an old-world map in the background. She was extremely easy to communicate and collaborate with. I love artists that bring their own ideas and style into their work. I live in Los Angeles and will fly all the way to Maui to get my next tattoo done by her! However, I would price this place on the higher end, but well worth it. read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - Compass tattoo by Melissa. - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

Did our research before deciding on Zen. The others we looked into were just not the right vibe. From the moment we walked into Zen, we knew we chose the right place. Eric was super friendly and helped us decide what would work for us. We made our appointment and went back a couple days later. Erik did my tattoo and I can not be more thrilled with the outcome. I have had so many compliments on the detail and coloring. Rick did my husbands and it looks amazing. Super chill environment. Erik has a soft touch and the hours flew by. This isn't our first rodeo but I have to say...best experience yet. We will definitely be headed back to Maui and will stop in for some additional work. Mahalo Erik!! read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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NOTHING BUT AWESOME!!!! Melissa is incredible. She is a true artist!!! Not only that but the best tattoo artist I have ever worked with. She takes her time, she has patience and she really values what you want and her work!!! And again an amazing artist!! The entire shop is friendly and welcoming! Go there....and see Melissa!!!!! read more

My husband and I were visiting Maui for our vacation, and we both decided to get tattooed here. The idea was spontaneous and unsure until we came across Zen Tattoo after we had lunch at Coconut Shrimp Cafe next door. We talked to Masao, looked at his portfolio and decided to make an appointment with him. Masao is an incredible artists with years of experienced and because of his professionalism. I was already blown away by his line work on my tattoo of a peony and some mandala patterns. And he free handed my husband's tribal tattoo on his ankle, it came out unbelievably good. Highly recommended to whoever is looking for getting their tattoo done in Maui. read more

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In 2011, I had Masao tattoo my family crest on my arm and he did an amazing job. He even offered to touch it up the next time I was in Maui but it wasn't necessary and it healed perfectly. 2 years later, my family and I came back to Maui and my wife and I both decided to get some more work. This year, I wanted to cover up my tattoo from when I was a young teenager. I didn't have anything really concrete in mind, I just wanted to start a sleeve and cover up the old tat. My wife, on the other hand, knew exactly what she wanted. She wanted script on her outer forearm that read "Per Sempre Con Amore" which roughly translates from Italian as "Forever with love" in honour of her Father who passed away 10 years ago. This trip was very special to her as it was the 10th anniversary of his passing and Hawaii was somewhere he always wanted to visit. A few days after arriving in Maui, we dropped into see Masao who happened to be away in Oahu and met one of his other artists Kevin. Kevin was super kind and welcoming and was happy to throw a few different mock ups on my wife to see how it would look in different placements and sizes. Kevin also explained how the lines of script would become thicker over time which was an important detail. He left the stencil on her arm so she could see how she liked the placement and size. This was a great idea because only by wearing the stencil did she realize that a) she liked the placement and b) she wanted the script a little smaller than the originally script that was designed for her by a friend. A few days later, we returned to the shop and Masao was back and we discussed what we both wanted. My wife explained to Masao that she wanted the script altered a bit, the lines finer and the capitals not as big but wanted the same script style or look. As for me, initially, we discussed a Phoenix wrapping around my arm but after a couple of sketches (which he sent me over the next few days) I could tell he was reluctant and I sensed correctly that he felt that it really wasn't working and I felt the same way. As a result, I asked him to forget the bird and start a sleeve piece in the traditional Japanese style with waves. He agreed that this was probably a better way to go. A few days later, on Boxing Day we returned to his shop Zen Tattoo Art Gallery and Masao worked his magic. He even opened the shop extra early for us as we were leaving Maui that evening. My wife was first and Masao showed her the revised script based on her request and he put the stencil on her arm again to double check size and placement. It was a good thing he did as my wife wanted a slight change to the spacing of the words. Less than thirty minutes later she was done and it looked great. Then it was my turn. First, he started out with a couple of felt pens and started sketching out the design free form right on to my shoulder. Then he had me stand up so we could see it from a different perspective; which is quite helpful as a tattoo can appear one way in one position and then totally change in shape and angle when the limb or any particular body part is manipulated. Once we were both happy with positioning and design he began tattooing. What makes Masao so amazing is not only his professionalism but the complete mastery of his art. Most tattoo artist would need to trace out a design on to transfer paper and then apply the outline to the chosen body part which they would then follow to accurately tattoo the image. Masao, on the other hand, was able to free form sketch with felt pens and still maintain beautiful lines in the correct proportions of the design. But above all what blew me away was his shading. How he was able to shade from darker to lighter evenly and so effortlessly; it truly amazed me. Masao is a true artist. There are a ton of tattoo shops on Maui but I am certain there a very few true artists of Masao's level. I am not a tattoo expert but I do know artistry when I see it; and as a long time student of the martial arts I can recognize when someone is a master of their art. As for my old tattoo, it's barely visible and only if you knew it was there or what to look for. To anyone else...it never existed. Thanks for another great piece of work Masao! I'll be back to continue the sleeve for sure. You are a true artist. read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - My family crest with traditional japanese style waves - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

Managed to call a couple days before my departure and score an appointment with Eric Tyler. (Definitely call before and make an appointment if you can!) I didn't really have a clear idea what I wanted but knew I wanted a poly-esque koru design with some deep personal meaning and fun customization. Eric took the time to step-by-step hand draw on a design that I loved straight onto my shoulder and we worked together through every detail. I ended up with a piece of art that is so clean and customized that makes me feel so confident. The amount of effort that Eric put into making me happy and making sure that I got something that I loved was phenomenal and is the mark of a truly amazing artist and human being. I'm definitely going to be coming back for future pieces by him. His Instagram handle is @pacifictradetattoo read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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We are very happy with our tattoos. Eric did a great job on the gecko and Rich did a great job on the lettering. read more

Zen Tattoo Maui - We are very happy with our tattoos. Eric did nice detail on the Gecko. And Rick did mine. Nice and clean. I recommend Zen. - Tattoo Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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We got our tattoos spontaneously on the very last night of our trip. 4 of us went in at 8 pm and didn't leave until 1 am, with our artist, Brian, working tirelessly on making sure our art was crafted to perfection. This man hustled like it was nothing for 5 hours after already working a full shift! We all left Zen Tattoo feeling satisfied with the beautiful creations that Brian drew up for us. I feel it a little extra being it was my first tattoo ever! Highly suggest this place for travelers and locals! read more

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