Love Port City Tattoo Ive been coming here and bringing friends here for over 7 years, my artist is JD he is amazing such a solid great guy, Spencer up front is friendly and always makes you feel comfortable. The entire staff is great you can't go wrong with anyone here Read Less

Moved to Long Beach recently and happened to walk my dog by this shop nightly. I wanted to get a piece and looked into the artists here and really like Daniel's work. He specializes in Black/Grey detailed work. Goes with all the others I already have. I got in touch w/him and told him what I wanted and we went from there. Came out better than I could hope for and have since gone back for another one too. Shop is nice and the other artists here seem to be good too. A tad bit on the pricier side but you get what you paid for. No complaints. Read Less

I'm leaving this review because this place left a very bad taste in my mouth. I can't speak to the quality of the work because I didn't end up getting tattooed here, but the short experience I had was enough.I stopped in to see if I could get a walk in appointment since there was a scheduling issue with my regular girl in LA. This place had good reviews and is close by so I figured it would be quick and easy. All I wanted to get was some small and VERY simple designs on the front of my ankles so I assumed this would be pretty fast and under $150 (judging from my previous tattoo experience). We walk in and wait about 20 minutes while they bend over backwards to help a man in front of us and give him a quote for $300 for a super detailed chest piece. When they finally notice us waiting, I ask if they have availability (which they did) and give them a description and send emails of my ideas. We wait another 10 min and the guy comes back with some comments and a quote. He said that my simple design (a branch with literally lines and small details) was "complicated" and would be hard to get around the ankle. After some blank stares, I told him it didn't need to go around the ankle and that it really isn't that complicated. The other tattoo was literally two arrows. I'm sorry, but if that is "COMPLICATED" maybe you're in the wrong business and I'd honestly hate to see this persons other work. After all this, they quote me $250-300, which I think is a joke...until he was serious...Not sure if they thought they could pull one over on me, or if it's because I'm a woman, but they must be on some other level (arrogance or crack) to think I'm paying $300 for something that literally requires the minimum.I saw some reviews about racism on here, but you can probably add sexism to that list too, bye. Read Less

Called before going in to confirm they can take a walk in and they said yes. Got there 10 minutes later and was told they were super busy and for us to come back in an hour and they gave us a quote for the tattoo. Came back and hour later like we were told and waited for 1hr and 20 minutes before we were seen. At that time they told us the tattoo would cost $40 more. At this point we just agreed to it . Tattoo only took 35 minutes to complete and the "hourly rate" they have posted in the shop was cheaper than what they charged us. The quality of the tattoo was nothing better than we could have gotten anywhere else . Probably won't be returning . Gave the 2 stars because the waiting room was spacious and the guy working the counter was polite. Read Less

This place stole my money ... they made me pay a 60$ deposit ... I had to reschedule cause of work and they rescheduled me for Christmas Eve .. the tattoo artist never even finished my drawing .. all their attitudes were very rude with a  racist vibe. I wouldn't recommend this racist place to anybody .. Read Less

I've been to this shop 4 times. For anybody who doesn't want to read a paragraph, let me summarize for you:Professionalism: 3/10.Quality of tattoo: 10/10.Price: you get what you pay for; a little more than other shops, but not outrageous, and as you can see from above- their quality of work is great so it's worth it.Cleanliness: 7.5/10. Never a problem with ink or needles so what matters most is good; but work stations are kind of messy which doesn't help keep a sterile environment (from dust, particles, etc.) I've received 3 tattoos here; all from different artists, spanning from December 2016 until a month or two ago. I moved close by the shop and went there on a recommendation from a friend.1st tattoo: Went perfect without a hitch.2nd *attempt* at tattoo: Came as a spur of the moment walk-in; asked the front desk guy if they could fit me in and we went over what I wanted, etc. All of the artists were with other clients and he wasn't sure if/when they'd be free that day-- which is understandable. He promised he would call and let me know either way so I left to go home. He never called me so I never got the tattoo from them. I'm not bothered if you can't fit me in as a walk-in, BUT don't tell me you'll call me and don't.3rd tattoo: Went beautifully; up until I was leaving. The artist did a fairly intimate tattoo (I had to take off all of my top.) He did a REALLY good job and I could tell he was proud of his work so he took a picture (not showing anything inappropriate of course) for his portfolio I presume before wrapping it up.In the excitement of getting a really, really great tattoo- I forgot to take a picture or have him take a picture with MY phone. Of course I'm all giddy and want to show my friends, but unwrapping the tattoo right after I got it I know isn't smart. I realized this about 3 minutes after I left the shop (I didn't even start my car yet.) I go back in, find my artist and tell him I forgot to take a picture and ask him if he would mind sending me the one he took. He gave me a weird look (I didn't think this was a strange request) but said yes and had me write down my phone number. I did and then I left. He NEVER texted me the picture. I don't know if he got busy, wasn't comfortable texting a stranger from a personal phone (which I would understand- he could have said so instead of saying yes,) or if he thought I was trying to hit on him (I wasn't. If I didn't hit on him when I had no shirt on, why would I do it now?) BUT again, very unprofessional to say you'll do something and not follow through. I tipped him well, too.4th tattoo: No real problem. Tattoo was fine, just how he drew it out, but as I went to pay I realized the artist did NOT quote me a price before he did the tattoo (which of course I could have asked as well.) His price was fair and I had no issue with it, BUT if he did end up charging me something outrageous, I would have not been happy. Just something else unprofessional I observed.Would I go back here? If I want an impulse tattoo and they *actually* have time to take a walk-in right then, probably, because it's close and I know they do good work. But for a tattoo I would plan ahead and make an appointment for I will most certainly go elsewhere. Read Less

I brought my 81-year old dad to Port City Tattoo for his, no joke, millionth tattoo. He'd been there before and had a great experience with JD. This was my first time in a tattoo parlor and very interesting! JD allowed me to sit next to them and observe the ink artistry. He was kind and careful with my father, and did a great job with the tattoo. I chatted with Wade for a few minutes while waiting for my dad - he was very friendly and engaging.My dad was very happy with the finished product and I have a feeling we'll be back! Read Less

Ernie your the best! Loved my tattooand you killed it. Everybody seeing it keep on asking me where did I get it done and I highly recommend Port City. I will come back here with no regrets. I recommend this place to my family too. Great ambience too... Read Less

Not sure what his name was but there's an old guy there who is one of the most pretentious person i've ever met. I came in for my first tattoo and all he did was criticize my design and tried to make it his own, buddy it's not your tattoo mind your damn business and just do what the client requests. Read Less

This place is amazing! Extremely clean with a cool vibe! While all of the artists have incredible talent, I was lucky to get Jack for this piece. I came in with a few ideas and his brilliant mind took it to a place that exceeded all of my expectations! It's more beautiful than I imagined it could be! Thanks Jack! I'll be back for sure! :) Read Less

Port city is amazing! I always always recommend my friends and family to come here. Stopped in today for a quick little piece and I was seen right away. Daniel did an amazing job!!! Shop is always clean and accommodating to everyone, they let at LEAST one guest sit with ya while you get your tattoo. Read Less

Came in today wanting a spur of the moment tattoo and Port City delivered. Chris Smith was my artist and I was blown away by his mannerism & professionalism. He took the time to explain what he was gonna do for me and what he couldn't do. Initially I was a little sad my piece couldn't be a bit smaller (cos family functions haha) but after seeing the end result, I was blown away. I'm glad Chris knew what would be best in terms of sizing and the shading. If I was misinformed, I could've ended up with a messy ink splotch instead done by someone who couldn't care less about the quality. The whole session took 2 hours from when I walked in to when I finished and the pricing was extremely reasonable. Words definitely cannot describe how pleased I am with my lovely work of art. Thank you Chris for a great experience! I will most definitely be back when I get the urge to get poked again :) Oh. Asides from my personal experience, the studio was damn clean and gorgeous with high ceilings that made the place feel airy. I loved it. Even my BF pointed that aspect out to me so ofc I have to write about it. & everyone working there exuded chill vibes :) Read Less

Port City Tattoo in Santa Ana is an extremely clean and beautiful tattoo shop. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable! I highly recommend Tim McAlary! I have had the honor of getting eight tattoos by Tim and every single piece is beautiful and unique. The time, energy and attention to detail he puts into the process is visible in his work. I am stunned by Tim as an artist from his line work and color selection. Bottom line if you are searching for a tattoo shop with professional artists go to Port City Tattoo! Read Less

I walked in around 5:30 pm on a Sunday with no appointment and told them what I wanted. They printed it out and it was perfect right away, a simple crescent moon. I was in the back about 15 minutes later with JD who did a great job! He was thorough, pleasant and informative. I also really liked the atmosphere and spaciousness. A lot of natural light which gives GREAT vibes. You don't feel like you're trapped in a tattoo dungeon. Very clean too. Will be back again! Read Less

I came here for my 10th tattoo, and I absolutely loved it! I am from NY, and I was looking for somewhere to get a small tattoo on my inner arm. The guy at the front desk was super nice, and so was Eric, my tattoo artist! They made sure I was comfortable, brought my idea to life, and even charged my phone for me when I realized it was low and I needed to request a Lyft. Super clean, friendly, and talented shop and employees! Read Less

This was my first time at Port City Tattoo and I was very pleased with my tattoo! Jack did a fantastic job! This was my second tattoo and he went above and beyond with the details of my tattoo, unlike my previous tattoo artist. I highly recommend this tattoo parlor and would definitely come back. Read Less

I recently got my first ever tattoo here! I wanted something simple and they gave me just that without trying to push me to get something more extravagant. I got a sun while my friend got a moon, I had a guest artist and she had Wade who was funny and made us feel more comfortable--not to mention good at what he does! Only taking off a star because my artist hadn't told me that he only accepted cash before the tattoo so I had to drive to an ATM and go back, but that was because he is a guest artist so for the regular people card is fine. Read Less

This place is seriously the best. This is my 2nd tattoo I've had done here and I love them both. I was a walk in both times and they helped me out right away. Everyone here is super friendly and such rad artists that it makes the experience that much better. Wade did my tattoo and I would definitely recommend him. He's so funny and easy to talk to and makes the time there more enjoyable. Most definitely never going anywhere else but here. Read Less

Had the pleasure of having Erika give my mom and I matching daisy tattoos, and we love them. She also touched up my other tattoo for me and it looks way better now. Erika was so sweet and made sure my mom was comfortable since it was her first time getting tattooed. Erika does amazing work if you are looking to get a tattoo definitely check her out. Read Less

I got my first tattoo, done by JD, at Port City Tattoo. They were super accommodating with scheduling and my design desires. My tattoo was exactly what I wanted. The studio is beautiful and I will definitely be coming back. Thanks! Read Less

Eric was one of the best tattoos artists I have had the privilege of working with. He was so nice and insightful. Pretty much everyone was super rad here, the tats were amazing and I would certainly come back for some beautiful traditional work. Thanks guys! Read Less

After sifting through a few different google searches for the best shops in Orange County, I kept finding myself being drawn back to Port City's website and their artists. I spent a lot of time in Wade's portfolio, and called to ask about their appointments since I live in HB- I went in later that day to set one up, but I was able to be taken as a walk in- with Wade as my artist! This was only my second tattoo and I was very nervous/excited the whole time- Wade was awesome- he made conversation with my boyfriend and I and customized the design I brought in PERFECTLY. House min is $80, appointments require a $60 deposit, and I believe the hourly rate was $180. This guy is about 3 inches at its widest point and cost $200; wayyyyy better price and quality than a lot of the local shops I know! 10/10 service, I would 1000% recommend these guys- they're my new go to! :) Read Less

Came in asking questions for a friend and I ended up getting a tattoo myself then and there. I love how it came out! Absolutely loved my experience here ; everyone was so nice and helpful. Definitely recommending to my family and friends. And for sure I'll be coming back soon to get more ink done Read Less

Came in needing a quick tattoo while on vacation and they accommodated nicely. @Jack_Mauk was very professional and did great freehand work. Pricing was reasonable for such and exclusive shop. I will definitely recommend Port City Long Beach to friends and FAMILY! Read Less

It was my husband's and I first tattoos. We were very nervous until we had a talked with JD St Berdoo. He made us feel very comfortable. He talked to us about our piece and how it would look better. The day of our tattoos he welcomed us and took the time to explained how does the machine works 🤔. He was very nice in answering all the first timmers questions we had lol. He made conversation with us and all that. At the end of the day we love the finish product. Over all a very wonderful experience ♡ we go back. Read Less

I came in for a piece that I had been thinking about getting for a few years.  Ernie did an amazing job with it from the design to the execution. It turned out better than I ever imagined.  This was my first time getting any color in a tattoo, and I was worried about it because I didn't know how it'd look on my skin tone.  Ernie explained it to me in a way that made total sense, and now I'm so glad I decided to go with the color. I'll definitely be back for future ink.  Highly recommend. Read Less

My first tattoo done by Daniel, who happens to be the right Artist and the right kind of day. He is versed in the meaning behind the Phoenix, which i am grateful. This is pure awesomeness!!! I am so happy with the outcome. Love it! Read Less

I was referred to Port City by a friend. I went to somewhere else and had a cover up done on my sleeve. Needless to say, the artist that did my sleeve cover up totally messed up. I was supposed to have bright roses with henna style designs. But my tattoo turned out black. You couldn't see the roses. For months, I walked around with a black arm and felt totally insecure and always wore long sleeve shirts, so no one would see my arm.I was referred to Eli Morris, who has a reputation of turning a mess into and beautiful master piece. Eli has a talent that I've never seen before. His creative flare kicks in and he literally was able to turn a disaster into something great. I'm now able to show off my sleeve with confidence. After one session, my tattoo looks amazing. And it's all thanks to Eli. You truly are a talented soul who makes miracles happen and you help build confidence in people, through your work. Everyone at Port City are amazing. The shop is always clean, the artists are always professional and really down to earth. The shops are always busy, which says a lot about their reputation and quality of work you get. Thank you Eli Morris and Port City, for my beautiful piece of art and amazing service. I will definitely be returning for future work. Read Less

Clean and professional. My Daughter and I came here for one of her first tats and luckily Jack was available. He put something on paper and made an appt. it came out great and we came back just now to add something to it and again jack came up with a great version of the photo we gave him. They r cool with your friend or dad sitting next to you for support. Great place and jack does a good job! Read Less

This is my first tattoo and my two daughters and granddaughter got the same tattoo. Wade was very patient and he distracted me so I could sit through the teeny tiny tattoo that I got. I would come back without a doubt.  My daughter who is a veteran tattoo person, says two things could happen. One, I will never get another tattoo or two, I would get addicted to it and have many more. Read Less

I was referred to Port City Tattoo by my neighbor I had wanted to get my first tattoo for years and years and finally decided it was the time to just do it! I wanted a female tattoo artist because it was very important to me that my tattoos were dainty and feminine. I found my girl!!! Erika was amazing I came in for a consult, I showed her a picture and she just understood what I wanted and we made a appointment. I came in today and was very nervous and excited. Erika made me feel calm and we talked and laughed the entire time. I can't recommend her enough!! She made my first tattoo experience one to remember! The shop is very clean and everyone there was very niceThank you again Erika, I'll be back soon!! Read Less

Great tattoo place. I would recommend to anyone who is looking for any size piece of art. My sister and I went here to get matching tattoos and artist JD was amazing. We got Yin and Yang on the side of our wrists. They look very nice and we loved them. I would upload a picture but it's at an awkward angle from how Im used to taking pictures. It is a very professional and clean environment. JD made the experience of my first tattoo a real easy process. I will definitely return for another tattoo here. Read Less

Jack is my dude, my friend Noel works there as a tattoo artist, and when I told him what I wanted, he referred me to jack. Noel could have took my money for a tattoo he wasn't an expert on, but he didn't, he lead me to the guy who knew about the subject i wanted done, very honest and humble for an artist to pass up work like that for the good of the customer. super clean tattoos, light hand and an expert in many fields. he was the only person I spoke to who knew who fudo mayo o was. that was the initial tattoo idea after digging into the history of esoteric shingon Buddhism. very pleased Read Less

My husband and I were looking for a tattoo shop were they can take our ideas and draw it and make it our way! Thank god we found this place and especially that we got referred to Mr. Wade! He is absolutely awesome! My husband and I are extremely happy with our tattoos! Thank you Wade!!! Read Less

Got tatted by Wade. Super cool dude who made sure everything was perfect before he started tattooing. I walked in right when they opened on a Saturday morning and they drew up the work, had me fill out some forms, and got tattooed. The staff is fast and efficient so the whole process took about two hours. Shop is clean and sterile. Would definitely come back for more work. Read Less

I've had a lot of ideas, for a-lot of ink work, for quite a while. unfortunately I hadn't found somebody who's style of work I actually liked. That is, until I stumbled into port city tattoo, and met Ernie! After becoming familiar with his work we started putting together a concept for my sleeve. Which is turning out beautifully. Ernie provides a great customer experience in a friendly environment. He will collaborate with you when designing large pieces, and will tell you from an artists perspective the best way to implement your ideas in the form of a tattoo. If you are living in the 562 or surrounding communities and are interested in having some work done, check out Ernie's IG: @Ernie_portcity Read Less

Went in there on a walk-in and I was tatted by Uzi. He did an amazing job, and had a great experience. I will definitely be back for more tatts.The shop looks truly amazing and i higly recommend Port City Tattoo. Read Less

This place is so cool! I was a walk-in and they got me in super quick! My tattoo was done by Wade Hex, and I’ve never had such a nice tattoo artist before! He put me at ease and made the experience very comfortable. He listened to exactly what I wanted and the price was affordable and reasonable. I will definitely be coming back here for all future tattoos! Read Less

This place is so cool! I was a walk-in and they got me in super quick! My tattoo was done by Wade Hex, and I’ve never had such a nice tattoo artist before! He put me at ease and made the experience very comfortable. He listened to exactly what I wanted and the price was affordable and reasonable. I will definitely be coming back here for all future tattoos! Read Less

A diamond in the rough!  I got my first tat here and could not be happier with the kindness, steady hands and excellence of the staff.  I loved my experience with the artist, JD, and will definitely be returning for more. Read Less

My girlfriend and I came in here in hopes to get matching tattoos, we had to wait a few minutes to speak with Chris while he was finishing up. Once done we talked to him about the tattoo we wanted, let us know we get fit us both in right then. Gave us a great deal and it looks amazing. I really enjoyed the service we received from Chris did an excellent job and I would recommend him for others that are looking for work to be done or just touch ups. Read Less

Found after a Yelp review. Large location. $100 minimum. Had to wait and everyone that came in had to wait. Not sure if just busy location or understaffed. My 4 words $120 script is okay. Clean establishment. Friendly guy that helped me and daughter Read Less

I can't even begin to say how much I appreciate Tom and the rest of the Artists/Staff at Port City Tattoo. I came in last Saturday for the 1st session on my 1st Tattoo. Before I get into that experience, I wanted to tell you about the events leading up to the first session. I've wanted a tattoo for quite some time, but always just put it off to later because I didn't ever find the perfect example out there. While perusing websites of tattoo shops within San Pedro, Gardena, Hermosa, Redondo etc, I came across Tom's work. I was immediately hooked by his style. I emailed him just to find out if my design ideas were doable and if he had availability and he got back to me within a few hours. I came in for a quick consultation and to give him some ideas of what I was looking for and we set up the first session about 10 days later. So far so good. He was even accommodating to the request to push our initial session back a few hours because I was given plans by the wife. I ended up showing up about 30 minutes earlier than scheduled. He showed me the drawing and I was amped and ready to go. Tom works efficiently and he outline of my entire 3/4 sleeve was done in just under 3 hours. Being my 1st Tattoo I cannot tell you if he is gentler than others, but outside of the last 20 minutes of the session, I was more than comfortable the entire time. I cannot wait to go back to get the shading and color done. Looking forward to wearing this art for the rest of my life. Read Less

My daughter and I had our memorial tattoos done by JD and Eric. I wish I could post the beautiful tattoos on the review's, but I don't see where I can show you their work. MY son died in a fatal car crash and my daughter's twin brother, so we are so greatful that we found theses fabulous artist to remember Jacob with. I would recommend Port City Tattoos to everyone, they will make you happy! Actually, I will be back for my third tattoo. Thank you JD and Eric! Deb Evans XX Read Less

From Utah- was in Cali for a few days and wanted to get a tattoo. My best friend and I got tattoos from Uzi at the shop in Long Beach. Great artist and great work on both our tattoos. Super professional staff. They played Pink Floyd The Wall while I got tatted.... super chill. Call ahead and set an appointment cuz they're busy. A plus. Read Less

This is the only shop that I will ever get a tattoo from going forward. Uzi gave me the most incredible American traditional tattoos I have ever seen. People stop me on the street to compliment me. 5 stars! Read Less

Port city tattoo is an awsome tattoo shop. Easily accessed by the outer traffic circle in Long Beach. Lots of parking. All of the artists are very welcoming and knowledgeable about their craft. Always very clean and safe. Appointments are easily made and they are always ready. My husband and I have been going there for 5 years and Wade Hex has always welcomed us with his great smile and awsome demeanor. If you are looking for your first tattoo or new ink, give them a try. You will be very happy. Read Less

We had some issues getting the right image for my tattoo but once me and Daniel got that sorted out he got busy and did a kick ass job on an Impala for my leg. He did everything in his power to make sure I was happy. Can't wait till I get the next tattoo done. Thanks again Daniel Read Less

Port City Tattoo is one of the most incredible tattoo shops in Southern California. JD has been tattooing me for a year now and continues to be one of the most creative, inspired, and wonderful artists to get a tattoo from. Not only does he have incredible raw talent, he's an amazing person with a huge heart that cares an unbelievable amount about his work. I recommend JD to anyone who is interested in getting a tattoo. He's that talented. It also doesn't hurt that he has a great sense of humor and is a pleasure to hang out with for the duration of the tattoo. JD rocks.. enough said. Read Less