American Traditional Tattoos in Honolulu, Hawaii

American traditional is built on bold black outlines, a limited palette and classic imagery that stays readable for decades. It's tattooing at its most timeless, and it's a good fit if you want a tattoo that looks great from across the room. Black Palette Tattoo & Piercing artists put a modern, island-aware spin on the classics.

Popular American Traditional Ideas

  • Roses, daggers, eagles, panthers and snakes

  • Anchors, ships and swallows

  • Hibiscus, plumeria and other island florals

  • Sea turtles, sharks and ocean animals

  • Classic flash and custom designs

Explore Other Tattoo Styles

Meet Our American Traditional Tattoo Artists

Why Traditional Tattoos Last

Heavy outlines and solid color saturation keep this style crisp as skin ages, which is one reason it has endured for generations. Island sun is still tough on any tattoo, so cover and protect yours while it heals and keep sunscreen on it afterward.

American Traditional FAQ

Can I get flash as a walk-in? Often, yes. Browse our Flash Designs page, then text (808) 649-2627 to check availability.

Can I customize a flash design? Yes. Bring your idea to a consultation and your artist can adjust it.

How big does a traditional tattoo need to be? Bold designs hold up best at a medium size or larger, and your artist will advise on sizing.

Walk-ins welcome. Text (808) 649-2627 to check availability, or Request an Appointment.

Request An Appointment

Located in the
Heart of Waikiki

Black Palette Tattoo Studio is located on the 3rd Floor of Waikiki Shopping Plaza on Kalakaua Avenue. Our studio is a 5-10 minute walk from virtually all hotels in the area and even faster on a Biki! Waikiki Shopping Plaza offers convenient & affordable parking for residents and visitors staying outside of Waikiki.

Get Directions

What People Are Saying

“We went from a dinner conversation to let's get a tattoo. The four of us called and let them know we were all getting something and they were accommodating. We were welcomed warmly. They took time with us in designing our tattoos. Beautiful location. Everyone in there were very nice.”

— Maisha L.
Atlanta, Georgia | Review from Yelp.

“Black Palette Tattoo is so awesome. The artist here are super friendly and deliver quality work. I would definitely recommend anyone wanting to get a tattoo to get one from any of the artist here. The shop is very nice and is a great place to be. Highly recommend checking these guys out!!”

— Jordan M.
Honolulu, HI | Review from Yelp.

“"I had such an amazing time! My tattoo artist was Raquel and she was super kind and did great work! Everything was super sanitary and she made sure that I was comfortable. I really appreciated that she took great care of me and the guests I had with me. I love my tattoo so much! Totally recommend this shop and Raquel is a great tattoo artist."

— Kat Y.
Los Angeles, CA | Review from Yelp.