Popular Tattoo Designs: Timeless Tattoo Ideas
Explore popular tattoo designs & timeless tattoo ideas! Find inspiration and learn the symbolism behind popular tatt
Read more →Premier Tattoo & Piercing Shop · Santa Monica
Cutting-edge tattooing and creative piercing for precise, stunning body art — one of the top tattoo places in Los Angeles.
“The studio is stunning and the staff so friendly. When I saw Blue's sketch of my tattoo, I fell in love. His work is truly stunning.” — Kaci Campbell
28 styles, custom work, fine-line to realism.
Explore →Curated ears, body & intimate, fine jewelry.
Explore →Welcome to Apollo
At Apollo we're more than a premier tattoo studio — we're a creative sanctuary where art meets identity. Every tattoo and piercing is rooted in self-expression, designed with care, and executed with unmatched precision, making Apollo one of the most trusted tattoo places in Los Angeles.
We've earned our reputation as a premier Los Angeles tattoo shop through uncompromising excellence in craftsmanship and client care.
Explore one of the best body-jewelry collections in LA — BVLA & Kiwi Diamond pieces in a range of styles, shapes, precious metals, and stones.
Elevating the body-art experience with top-notch equipment, strict safety standards, and detailed take-home aftercare instructions.
Get your next masterpiece from seasoned pros with impeccable attention to detail, hygiene training, and relentless dedication to your artwork.
No appointment needed
Whether it's a spontaneous decision or a curated addition to your look, Apollo offers expert walk-in piercings in Los Angeles seven days a week. We use only the highest-quality jewelry from BVLA, Junipurr, and Anatometal — because every detail matters. Stop by our Santa Monica studio whenever the moment feels right.

Luxury Body Jewelry
We proudly carry BVLA, the gold standard in handcrafted solid-gold body jewelry — alongside Junipurr, Anatometal, and Kiwi Diamond. Every piece is implant-grade, nickel-free, and curated to your style. See the materials, gauges, and curation that set our jewelry apart.
Tattoos
At Apollo Tattoo Studio we hold ourselves to the highest standards in tattoo artistry. Our skilled artists cover a broad spectrum of styles — from the intricate precision of fine line to the bold flair of neo-traditional, the expressive detail of illustrative, the striking contrast of blackwork, and the meticulous patterns of dotwork. We specialize in fully custom designs, plus a premium selection of flash tattoos and our “Get What You Get” option.
Piercings
Experience world-class piercing where precision meets artistry. From classic ear piercings to custom nose piercings, refined eyebrow piercings, and gentle ear piercings for kids — every service is safe, stylish, and beautifully executed. We use only the highest-quality surgical titanium and 14k gold jewelry from top brands like Junipurr and Anatometal.
Two piercers, one moment
Multiple piercings don't have to mean multiple moments of tension. With Apollo's tandem piercing, two expert piercers work in perfect sync to place paired or symmetrical piercings — all in one smooth, simultaneous motion.
No waiting, no flinching twice — just expert coordination.
Especially great for nervous clients or sensitive placements.
Two artists. One shared focus: precision, comfort, and balance.
“Blue and Bunny pierced both my lobes at once — no flinch, no second-guessing. Fast, precise, and the calmest piercing experience I've ever had.” — Maya C., Google Review
Tattoo Library
Meet the Apollo creative team
Founder, Master Artist & Piercer
@bluetattoo
Founded Apollo with a vision to elevate LA body art — 20+ years specializing in fine line, photorealistic portraits, tribal, traditional, and cover-ups, plus two decades of ear-piercing mastery and flawless placement.
Expertise: Fine line, realism, tribal, traditional, cover-ups; advanced ear curation, cartilage & industrial piercings.
Experience: since 2004
View portfolio →
Artist
@apollotattoo.raa
A master of photorealistic tattooing, bringing portraits and nature scenes to life. Clients travel from across the country for his hyper-real style.
Expertise: Photorealism, portraits, nature scenes, black & gray.
Experience: since 2012
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Piercing Artist
@apollotattoo.bunny
Known for her artistic eye and ear curation — beautifully balanced arrangements from simple lobes to complex cartilage compositions.
Expertise: Ear curation & styling, cartilage piercings, multiple-piercing sessions, jewelry stacking.
Experience: since 2019
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Artist
@apollotattoo.david
Classical artistry meets modern tattooing — fine-arts trained, excelling at capturing emotion and likeness in portrait work.
Expertise: Portraits, color realism, memorial pieces.
Experience: since 2014
View portfolio →
Jr. Artist
@hannahloreink
Fresh energy and meticulous attention to detail, specializing in delicate fine line work, script, and minimalist designs.
Expertise: Fine line, script, minimalist, small tattoos.
Experience: since 2025
View portfolio →Why clients choose Apollo
Our artists use cutting-edge design software to preview your custom tattoo before the needle touches skin — ensuring perfect placement and satisfaction.
Not sure what you want? That's where our experienced artists shine. Your consultation is the first step toward a one-of-a-kind piece made just for you.
Not quite sure what you want, or can't find the right image? No problem. Your artist is here to create the tattoo of your dreams.
With detailed aftercare and modern technique, your artist guides your tattoo through a clean, comfortable healing process.
We use only state-of-the-art machines for precision, consistency, and comfort — so your session is smoother and results are sharper.
Once your design is finalized, your artist prints it directly to stencil with laser-precise accuracy, so the final piece looks exactly as envisioned.
Santa Monica's Most Loved 2025
2625 Main St., Santa Monica, CA 90405 · Mon–Sun, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Our top inks — Fusion, Eternal and Dynamic — are vegan tattoo inks, with no loss of quality.
In the News
Apollo Studio has earned attention for our artistry, vision, and impact on modern tattoo culture — featured by outlets including:

Awarded 'Best Tattoo Shop in Santa Monica' for 2024 — recognized for top-tier service and experiences.
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TMZ spotlighted a unique tattoo story involving rapper Saweetie and soccer star Jadon Sancho.
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On choosing the right tattoo artist for fine-line work, with Apollo founder Blue Mason.
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Blue Mason is an award-winning tattoo artist and a master with ink.
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Highlights a fundraiser for homeless youth led by Apollo founder Blue Mason.
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Award-winning tattoo artist Blue Mason — an experienced ink magician and studio visionary.
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Tattoo fans can dive into a realm where creativity knows no bounds at Apollo.
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The story of how Apollo's founder turned a changed path into a luxury studio.
Read more →What clients are saying
“We are in love with our new tattoos! Very clean, spacious and vibey studio. Brianna tattooed both my boyfriend and I for walk-ins and the experience was fantastic.”
“I had a wonderful experience. Bunny is the goat. It barely hurt when I got my navel and nostril done. The studio is very sterile and inviting. I loved my experience ♥️”
“I was a walk-in and they took me right away. Very flexible with adjustments. Clean and efficient work — in & out within 1 hour and super happy with my two delicate fine-lines!”
Meet the founder
“My mission is to inspire beauty and confidence through the art of tattooing. When I created Apollo, my vision was to establish LA's premier tattoo destination — a space of luxury and unrivaled craftsmanship. Our focus each day is creating custom, meaningful tattoos that enhance your unique style and story. Join us to create your next masterpiece.”
Our mission
Your safety and a smooth healing process are paramount. Our team provides thorough aftercare guidance to ensure your new body art heals well — with detailed care instructions on the day of your appointment and ongoing support throughout your healing journey. For full details, visit our aftercare page.
From the Studio

Explore popular tattoo designs & timeless tattoo ideas! Find inspiration and learn the symbolism behind popular tatt
Read more →
Find the best hypoallergenic earring for your kid's piercing. Safe jewelry options in 14k gold, 925 sterling silver
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Considering ear piercing for your baby? Learn at what age can you pierce baby ears, how to best get their ears pierced s
Read more →Good to know
Well, it’s not like summoning a genie from a lamp, but it’s pretty straightforward. Pick up the phone, send an email, or drop by the shop. Just remember, your tattoo artist isn’t the Wizard of Oz – they can’t work miracles if you don’t reach out. The best way to schedule with us is with a phone call or if you want to schedule a consultation, or you know the artist you want to work with, you can schedule online
Think of it as a first date for you and your tattoo artist. You wouldn’t marry someone without getting to know them, right? A consultation helps you and your artist get on the same page and make sure your tattoo love story has a happy ending.
Getting a tattoo feels like a cross between a kitten’s gentle kiss and a chainsaw massage. It’s the kind of pain that makes you question every life decision you’ve ever made, especially if you’ve chosen a spot that’s as sensitive as a politician’s Twitter account. So, in short, it hurts, but hey, beauty is pain, right?
Well, let me put it this way, if you’re getting a tattoo from your buddy Bob who moonlights as a tattoo artist in his garage and sanitizes needles by blowing on them, then no, it’s not safe. But if you go to a reputable tattoo parlor with a licensed artist who actually knows what sterilization means, then yeah, it’s about as safe as crossing the street (unless you’re in New York City, in which case, good luck). Just make sure you don’t opt for a DIY tattoo kit from the back of a comic book, and you should be fine.
Well, kiddo, the age to get inked varies depending on where you are. In some places, you gotta be at least 18, which is basically the age when you’re legally allowed to do everything cool. But some areas might let you sneak into the tattoo shop at 16 or 17 with parental consent, so you can still feel like a rebel before hitting the big 1-8. Just remember, tattoos are for life (unless you want to quadruple the pain to your skin and wallet with laser removal down the line), so take your time deciding what you want, whether you’re 17 or 70.
Well, it’s not like getting ready for prom, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, don’t show up wasted; your artist ain’t your bartender. Second, make sure you’ve had a decent meal – passing out in the chair isn’t a good look. Lastly, if you’re going for a marathon ink session, bring some entertainment because it can get boring as heck. Oh, and shower. Your artist will thank you. So, to sum it up: sober, fed, clean, and entertained – that’s your pre-tattoo checklist.
Well, congratulations on the bun in the oven! But here’s the deal, getting inked while you’re cooking up a little one might not be the best idea. Let’s not make your unborn child’s first experience an impromptu tattoo needle serenade, shall we? And as for breastfeeding, it’s a tough world out there for those tiny taste-testers. So, maybe hold off on the ink until you’ve got a babysitter lined up.
Yes! Apollo offers walk-in tattoos 7 days a week. Whether you’re craving flash, a spontaneous piercing, or a same-day consultation, we welcome walk-ins at our Santa Monica studio. Located on Main Street, you’ll find ample local street parking and a nearby parking garage. We look forward to seeing you!
Absolutely. We host complimentary consultations in-studio or virtual, giving you relaxed time to chat concepts, sizing and placement, jewelry curation, and artist selection. Expect honest design advice, detailed pierce-and-ink healing tips including tailored tattoo aftercare and an open ear whether this is your first tattoo or addition to a growing collection. Our goal is to turn every thumbnail sketch into your personal inked reality and make the journey just as memorable as the art itself.
Whether you’re settling up for fresh ink or dazzling jewelry, you can pay the way that feels easiest: credit card, Venmo, CashApp, Zelle, PayPal, or classic cash. Many studios still run cash-only, but we believe luxury should be friction-free tap, swipe, or send and you’re golden.
Oh, the joys of teenage rebellion. Sure, your folks can sign the permission slip for that school field trip, but getting them to sign off on permanently etching your favorite band’s logo on your bicep? That’s a whole other ballgame. So, kiddo, maybe wait until you’ve got a bit more facial hair, both literally and metaphorically.
Well, if your sickness is of the “I can’t resist the urge to get inked” variety, then maybe it’s time for an intervention. But seriously, getting tattooed while you’re under the weather isn’t the brightest idea. Your body needs all its energy to fight off those pesky germs, not to mention the extra discomfort from the pain. So, maybe let the flu run its course first.
Absolutely! Tattoo artists aren’t running a used needle emporium. They’ll use fresh, sterile needles for every session. Your health and safety are top priorities – you’re not at a flea market!
Painkillers? Sure, if you want to turn your tattoo session into a blurry, drugged-up adventure! Seriously, consult your artist and a medical professional. Pain is part of the tattoo process – embrace it like a warrior!
Well, if you’re taking a daily dose of ‘Ibuprofen with a Side of Wisdom,’ you should be okay. But it’s always wise to consult your artist and a medical pro. Tattoos and prescription labels don’t usually hang out at the bar, but if you ensure no surprises they should mix without any knock-down, drag-out brawls breaking out.
Tattoo pricing in Los Angeles depends on factors like the artist’s style, the complexity of your design, and placement. At Apollo Tattoo Studio, we begin every session with a detailed consultation to understand your vision and provide a personalized quote.
Los Angeles is home to a wide range of tattoo shops from street-style studios to high-end custom spaces. Apollo stands out for its private booths, award-winning artists, and luxury-level care. We’re known as one of the top-rated tattoo places in Los Angeles.
Tattoo costs vary across California based on style, artist expertise, and customization. At Apollo, we focus on artistry and transparency. Every tattoo begins with a consultation to ensure clarity on design and care.
The fastest route is our online “Book Now” calendar, which displays real-time openings for each artist and piercer. Peak slots fill up quickly, so claim yours early. If you’d rather talk it through, call the studio. An attentive team member will match your idea to the perfect pro, secure your time, or happily help reschedule if life throws a curveball.
Ah, the waiting game continues! You see, your tattoo might look like a vibrant work of art right after it’s done, but healing is a bit like watching paint dry – a tedious process. The surface healing typically takes about two to three weeks. During this time, you get to enjoy that lovely peeling skin and itching that feels like a hundred mosquito bites. Fun, right? But wait, there’s more! The deeper layers of your skin are in for the long haul. It takes a good few months for those layers to fully heal and for your tattoo to reach its peak glory. So, while you’re enduring the itchiness and resisting the urge to scratch like a maniac, just remember – the best things in life (and tattoo healing) take time!
Ah, the human canvas – it’s a fickle thing. While some parts of your body might heal up like a champ, others can be a bit diva-like in their recovery process. The bony, high-maintenance areas like your elbows, knees, and feet tend to be the slowest healers. So, be patient, my friend, and give those temperamental spots some extra TLC.
Well, if you’re a true tattoo aficionado, you know there’s no bad time for some ink, right? But let’s get real; winter might not be the best pick. Imagine trying to flaunt your fresh ink while bundled up like an Eskimo – not exactly the fashion statement you had in mind, is it?
Ah, the eternal struggle of art versus nature! Hair’s a stubborn little thing, and it’ll keep doing its thing through your tattoo. But don’t worry, your tattoo artist won’t be held responsible for any hairy surprises. You’ll just have to work on your new look as a walking, talking art gallery!
Swimming with your fresh tattoo? Sure, if you want your artwork to dissolve into the pool like a modern art experiment gone wrong! Seriously though, give it at least two to three weeks. The pool will still be there, but your tattoo needs some quality alone time.
Imagine mowing a freshly landscaped garden. Not a good idea, huh? Shaving over your new tattoo is a bit like that. Wait at least a few weeks, or you’ll end up with a garden full of regrets!
Time, sunshine, and maybe a little too much scrubbing in the shower – that’s the recipe for fading tattoos. So, if you want your ink to stay vivid, try not to turn into a vampire who avoids sunlight, and be gentle when you’re soaping up your artwork.
Sure, you can donate blood, but you might want to hold off right after getting inked. It’s not because your tattoo is secretly a vampire bite, but it’s better to let it heal properly before becoming a blood donor superhero.
A chef’s secret recipe, perhaps? Well, not quite, but get 100 artists in a room and ask them how to heal a tattoo… You’ll have 100 different options to choose from! These days a lot of artists will have you use a medical grade bandage to protect for a week or so, then if anything some light (and very lightly applied) tattoo aftercare ointment will do the trick. Follow your artist’s instructions, or risk turning your artwork into a hot mess – and not in a good way!
Good news – you don’t have to live the rest of your life in a stinky bubble. You can shower, but be gentle! No aggressive scrubbing, or your new tattoo might turn into a modern art piece, and not the good kind.
It’s not a snake shedding its skin – it’s your tattoo healing. Keep it clean and moisturized and resist the urge to pick at it like you’re saving up for your prized scab collection. Patience is key, grasshopper.
Unless you’re getting a tattoo on your eyelids and can’t keep your eyes open, you’ll probably be just fine. No need to book a post-tattoo vacation. Life goes on, even with a bit of ink under your skin!
Sure, you can, but remember, your artist is the real Picasso here. They might suggest some tweaks to make it work on the unique canvas that is your skin. So, feel free to bring your inspiration, but be open to a little artistic collaboration!
Well, what’s a rainbow without colors, right? Of course, it’s going to cost you a bit extra for that vibrant palette. But hey, who wants a tattoo that looks like it’s been drawn with invisible ink? Live a little – go for the colors!
Instant gratification, huh? Well, your artist isn’t a vending machine. Quality takes time. Expect to wait a week or two to see that masterpiece come to life on paper (or if your artist is busy, it may be weeks or days ahead of your appointment date) – patience, young grasshopper!
Forever and ever, or until you turn into a cyborg. Tattoos are for life, not just for the weekend. So, make sure it’s something you won’t regret when you’re 90 and telling your grandkids about your wild youth.
Tattoos and milkshakes? Sounds like an odd combo. But if you’re still lactating, you might want to hold off on the ink. Your tattoo artist isn’t equipped with a ‘baby-friendly’ sticker.
Don’t expect your artist to spill the secret sauce recipe. They use high-quality tattoo inks, not your grandma’s homemade tomato sauce. Rest assured, it’s all safe and legit.
Most likely, yes. Tattoos age like fine wine – they get better with time but may need a little top-up now and then. Your artist will let you know when it’s time for a tattoo tune-up.
Inner lip tattoos? Sure, if you’re looking for a secret message only your dentist can read. But beware, they fade faster than your New Year’s resolutions.
Well, it’s not a daycare center. If your kids are future ink enthusiasts, maybe introduce them to the art when they’re old enough to appreciate it. In the meantime, leave them with a babysitter – it’s not a playground.
Tipping isn’t just for waiters and waitresses, folks! If your tattoo artist created a masterpiece on your skin, show some appreciation. Tipping is the socially acceptable way to say, “Thanks for making my body a canvas!”
To schedule an appointment, you can call us during business hours at (310) 331-0605, or you can book in advance anytime through our online booking page. Have questions or want a quote for a new piercing? Call us or fill out the piercing inquiry form.
At Apollo Tattoo & Piercing Studio, we are committed to providing the highest level of service and care for each and every one of our clients. To uphold this standard of excellence, we offer piercing services to minors under strict guidelines to ensure safety and compliance with legal requirements.MINOR PIERCING POLICYPiercings for minors start at 8 years old. We do not pierce children under 8. To pierce minors 8 and older, a parent or guardian must present a valid state or federal photo ID (such as a state driver’s license, state ID card, military ID, or passport) along with the original birth certificate and a photo ID for the minor in question (e.g., school ID). Please note that expired forms of ID are not recognized as valid.The specific age requirements for different types of piercings are as follows:8+ years:Earlobes13+ years:Simple Cartilage (Helix only)14+ years:Complex Cartilage (rook, tragus, conch, etc. excluding industrial piercings)Nostril16+ years:SeptumEyebrowNavel18+ years:BridgeSurface/Single-Point (Dermals)LipTongueNippleGenitalBy adhering to these age-specific policies, we ensure a safe and appropriate piercing experience for our younger clients. We are dedicated to maintaining a private, stress-free environment where all clients can fully relax and indulge in the art of body piercing, without any compromise to their experience or our exacting safety protocols.We look forward to providing you with the highest quality piercing services and ensuring your complete comfort and satisfaction, from the moment you step through our doors to the successful completion of your piercing journey.
We recommend scheduling an appointment (or at least calling ahead) to guarantee the availability of our skilled piercing artists. This allows us to dedicate ample time to guiding you through the jewelry selection process and consulting with you on the perfect placement.That said, we understand that inspiration can strike at any moment. If you happen to be in the neighborhood and simply want to stop by, we welcome walk-ins during our regular business hours. Our talented team will do their absolute best to accommodate you on the spot, or assist in booking your preferred appointment time.Whether you plan ahead or decide to visit spontaneously, you can count on the Apollo Studio experience to be exceptional. We’re committed to providing the highest level of service, from the moment you step through our doors to the successful completion of your piercing journey.
Wait times may vary (unless you have an appointment). For walk-ins, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have to wait, your patience will be richly rewarded. Our skilled piercers are in high demand but trust us—the stunning results are well worth any brief wait.Plus, we’ll do our absolute best to minimize your time in our luxurious lobby. After all, the only thing you should be anticipating is the thrilling reveal of your latest body art masterpiece. Clients with scheduled appointments will be our top priority, ensuring your experience is seamless from start to finish. But even if you decide to visit us on a whim, our team will move heaven and earth to get you in the chair as quickly as possible. Because at Apollo Studio, we believe exceptional service is just as critical as exceptional piercings.So sit back, relax, and soak in the ambiance of our stunning studio. We promise the end result will leave you walking on air – or perhaps with a stunning new piece adorning your ears, nose, or beyond. The only question is, which work of art will you unveil to the world today?
Piercing prices start at $75 and every piercing includes a stunning titanium or gold piece selected to complement your unique style. Of course, the final cost may vary depending on the jewelry you choose and the piercing’s placement. At Apollo Studio, you can trust that our pricing is always transparent, with no compromises when it comes to safety, quality materials, or the precision of your piercing. We’re committed to providing the best piercing experience without compromise.
We proudly feature an exceptional collection of piercing jewelry, meticulously selected to satisfy the most discerning tastes and particular styles.You’ll find an array of internally threaded and push-in styles from renowned brands like BVLA and Kiwi Diamond. Our offerings include stunning pieces crafted from surgical-grade titanium, as well as gleaming 14k gold in both white and yellow. Of course, we understand that your personal style is unique. You’re welcome to bring your own jewelry, but our piercing art experience truly shines when you take advantage of our jewelry consultation services. We’re happy to accommodate custom jewelry orders, working closely with you to bring your vision to life.Our team will guide you through the pre-order process, ensuring your new adornment exceeds your highest expectations. Stop in or schedule an appointment for a jewelry consultation.
We take cash, all major credit cards, Venmo, and Paypal.
Your safety and successful healing process are top priorities at Apollo Studio. During your piercing appointment, you’ll receive thorough aftercare instructions to ensure your new body art heals perfectly.Additionally, we’ll send you a comprehensive aftercare guide via email immediately following your visit. Our expert piercing team is also available to address any questions or concerns that may arise throughout your healing journey.You’re welcome to reach us by phone, email, or by visiting our studio – we’re here to support you every step of the way.
We know that bringing your own pieces can feel convenient, but to keep every service clean and safe we only pierce with jewelry that arrives at the studio in sealed, hospital-grade, sterilization-verified packs. Each item is autoclaved on site, then handled with one-time use equipment and disposable gloves—standards that let us guarantee impeccable cleanliness from tray to triumph. Apollo isn’t a fly-by-night street parlor; it’s a luxury body-art temple built on rigorous safety protocols and state-of-the-art practices.
Discover the pinnacle of body art at Apollo Tattoo Studio in Santa Monica — serving Los Angeles, Venice, downtown LA and beyond. Award-winning artists and expert piercers, state-of-the-art tools, and the highest-quality materials. Ready to elevate your look?
Book a consultation