Port City Tattoo | Long Beach

Great shop that stays true to traditional style. Came in for a walk in and was instantly taken care of. Amazing artists doing quality and clean work. Ernie was easy to work with and does an amazing job.

I live very close to the shop and stopped by to get an idea of timing/pricing for a tattoo I’ve been wanting for years. Ben was really welcoming and talked/sketched some ideas with me really quickly. I made an appointment to see him again a few days later. I’m beyond happy with the results, and am already thinking about what I’d like next! My husband was also impressed with the shop and Ben and spent our time there coming up with ideas for what he wants next. The shop is extremely clean, everyone there was so friendly, and the whole process was super quick. Thanks Ben!!

Amazing experience! This is my 4th time coming to the shop—I’m never disappointed with my artist. Damien did a wonderful job on my throat, made sure I was comfortable and okay, and I really felt like he took his time to make sure the details were all there.

I was really nervous about my son getting his eyebrow pierced, but Megan Martini (gotta love the name) was honestly super chill and made the whole thing way less stressful for both of us. She explained everything step-by-step and told us exactly what was going to happen and what to expect, which helped a lot. She was really clean and professional, but most important she was gentle and careful which I appreciated. My son had barely any swelling, no bruising at all, and everything is healing perfectly. The piercing was quick and way better than he expected. I wouldn’t do it any other way and would definitely recommend her, especially if you’re nervous like my son.

I’ve been coming to Cole Strem at Port City Long Beach for a few years now. I love Cole’s style and he delivers really quality work. He makes the whole experience really easy, from booking and working on ideas to getting the placement just right! He always seems as excited to do the tattoo as I am to get it. Everyone else I’ve interacted with here has been nice and professional. They have cool art covering the walls and good tunes playing.

We had a great experience at Port City Tattoo yesterday. John has been wanting to get his tattoo for a long time. Ben did a great job and was not heavy handed. I would go back again

Experience was excellent. Walked in on our honeymoon and was greeted immediately. The design process was quick and the tattoo came out amazing! Eli is a master of his trade and a solid human being. Great crew at Port City Tattoo, will definitely be returning here!

Everyone at Port City was very helpful and friendly. Me, my husband, and my sister came in as walk-ins and were quickly greeted and assisted. Ben and Cody did a great job on our tattoos.

I love coming to PCT Long Beach, especially since Jack Mauk has been finishing my japanese sleeve! He packs in the color so beautifully, he's super talented, and great with folks who have a hard time with pain definitely coming back to Jack when I'm ready for some more quality work / a new sleeve‼

Second time at this shop! It's going to be a go to stop every time I'm traveling and in town. Came last time for a Friday the 13th flash day and that was the first time I met Cole. I get so many compliments on my cat tattoo he did. I had to come back and get more tattoos. The shop is always welcoming and very clean. The work here by every artist is solid. If you're looking for a shop or an artist this would be my top choice in the area!

The BEST experience! Ricky at the customer service front end was exceptional! My artist was Cody and the detail and work was immaculate! Also he worked in a re work from a prior tat from another state. My daughter got her first tattoo from Ben and he made her SO comfortable. Her boyfriend got his first tattoo thing piece from Damien and he was VERY impressed! I cannot tell you how impressed we are!

My cousin recommended me to Cody at Port City, and I wanted a matching tattoo with my mom. We showed up and the shop was really mellow , chill and comfortable. Cody helped us figure out the right sizing and placement. It was my mom's first real tattoo and he was super helpful and patient with us. He got them both done in under 3 hours and was hilarious and fun, making jokes with us the whole time. Thanks so much, they look great. I couldn't be happier with the result, We appreciate you Cody!

These guys talk way too much. What should have been a 3 hour day turned into 8! They couldn't stop talking to each other, my calf tattoo got way over worked and is healing so bad. So many squirrelly lines that aren't straight. Charged me $500 for really 2 hours worth of work. The other 6 hours were him talking and not paying attention to me. Their after care is poor. They don't seem to respect anyone's time.

Ernie is a great tattoo artist. This location is a relaxed and a clean environment. He offers reasonable prices.

I walked in the other day. I had a simple heartbeat tattoo. It just took a few minutes. Damien was very friendly and professional and did the tattoo perfectly. I'd go back if I decide to get another one.

We didn't have an appointment and just walked in, but Cody and Cole welcomed us with open arms. They were incredibly kind, empathetic, and made us feel comfortable right away. We came in to get tattoos in honor of my dad, who passed away three weeks ago, and they handled everything with so much care and understanding. From the start, they were super flexible with our designs. We sent in our ideas, explained what we wanted to tweak from the original references, and they listened exactly to what we envisioned. The final designs, stencils, and placements were executed perfectly. This was my fourth tattoo, and I can confidently say they have incredibly steady and light hands--it was one of the most pleasant tattoo experiences I've ever had. On top of that, the pricing was more than fair. Not only are they insanely talented artists, but they're also just great people. I'll definitely be coming back here for any future tattoos, and I'd recommend this shop to anyone--which says a lot because I can't say the same for other shops I've been to.

Ben smith (@benson_dunkle) took me as a walk-in 30 minutes before closing and helped me out with a few cover up tattoos from my high school 'stick and poke' era He was very calming (I was super anxious) and we breezed right through it, very light hands and some cool African terminator art to boot

Wwnt to Santa Ana to see Beto. Great shop. It was a very comfortable environment. Beto was easy to work with and he did an awesome job with my tattoo. It was my first one and he gave me exactly what I wanted. We went back and forth on the design until it was perfect, and it turned out better than I expected. Highly recommend.​

If you want a good quality tattoo! This is the shop you want to go to! I got my first and all tattoos here! The artists are super cool.. Eli has done all my tatts and they still look amazing after 15+ years. Check em out you won't be disappointed with their work!

COLE STREM! Amazing human and great artist. He was able to bring my dream piece to life. This location is bad*** and super inviting. 1000000/10

I'm in LOVE with my tattoo! I sent in an inquiry via the website and got a response in a few hours (my piece is simple enough I could just walk-in). Got to the shop, digitally signed my waiver, and got to working with my fantastic artist, Ernie, in no time. There were several other people getting work done at the same time - all beautiful. Everyone was chatting and having a good time; it was a nice vibe. Ernie was very professional but warm and accommodating; and worked with me to get exactly what I wanted the tat to look like. Having me look at it and confirm the placement multiple times. He also took his time and properly placed the lines so they would flow with my wrist and sit nicely in multiple positions. The tattoo itself took no time and ended up being more perfect than I had imagined. Thank you Ernie, and thank you Port City Tattoo!!!

Thanks Cole!!! I feel very lucky for stumbling across you. You're a very nice and welcoming person. You're also very passionate about what you do which is inspiring to see. My tattoo is everything I wanted and more!

Port City tattoo is the best shop in Long Beach for my money. I wouldn't go anywhere else. the artist are top notch. Tom did my first tattoo and I'm looking forward to many more to come. you can't go wrong with Port City Tattoo 5 stars all the way .

Cole did an amazing job with our "sisters" tattoos. He is so friendly, kind and professional. This was my first tattoo and Cole made me feel very comfortable. The studio was beautiful, clean and comfortable. I'm ready for my next one!

I am so in love with the matching tattoos me and my siblings got this Thursday. It was quick and not as painful as I thought it'd be. Cole was very chill and calming. The three of us are beyond satisfied and we can't wait to come back and get more art. Definitely worth every penny.

I have been getting tattooed here for the past two years. I get my ink done by Frankie and have always had the best experience in terms of professionalism and cleanliness in the shop. Not to mention every artist in there is amazing and they do walk ins also. Just recently got some work done and am always impressed, thank you guys!!!!

What can I say about Eli, what a great tat artist. Got my first tat by him about 15 years ago & those tats still look like fresh ink. Just went back to him to complete a tat that another tat guy (not an artist) started & Eli had no problem picking up where the last guy failed. I regret not starting the tat w him but hindsight is 20/20. Solid tat artist & an even more solid dude. Tom the owner was welcoming too. I rarely give 5/5 but this place deserves it. Photos to follow.

Randomly walked into the shop with out an appointment. My best friend and I were looking to get a small tat and we found this shop a long our way home. We were helped right away, all their work is amazing! I can definitely see myself coming back to the shop for more work.

Cole Strem is an amazing tattoo artist! He does a fantastic job and is highly entertaining throughout the experience. Port City is a very clean and mellow tattoo shop always playing great music.

I came here spontaneously this past month for a tattoo to celebrate my 30th birthday. I didn't make an appointment & just showed up a little before they opened. I chose to go with a tattoo of the poppy flower since it resembles my birth flower. I had the pleasure of getting Eric as my tattoo artist. Considering that it was my very first tattoo, I was a little nervous. Eric was friendly and made me feel very comfortable. He also gave me a great tip on where I should place my tattoo. The process took about an hour. The sketch that he had did not include shading or as much details on the leaves. However, after I told him that id like a little more details and shading, he did just that! It didn't hurt and the process was easy. They did mention that they would email over the after care procedures...however, I never received it. But eric did briefly go over it with me.

I went to port city for two tattoos and was to get a second tattoo on my chest. I tried several times to set up another appointment with Ben for the chest tattoo but they or the store never responded to my calls or emails. I went to Paper Crane Tattoo to get the dragon on my chest.

The tattoo that Damien did for me is awesome!! I came in with a pic and Damien made it my own. I will definately be back, the service was great!

Huge shout out to Noel... Amazing artist-couldn't ask for better contemporary traditional work. This was my first tattoo and I couldn't have asked for a better experience.

Port City Tattoo rules! I got tattooed by Frankie yesterday. Her tattooing is super clean and amazing. Plus, she's an all around great gal. She drew a rose to fit the spot and it turned out beautifully. I highly recommend her for your black and gray needs.

Best place to get a tattoo in Long Beach! The service is always top quality and always willing to answer any questions you have. I have gotten my cover ups done here by Miguel and he's honestly the best. If you live in Long Beach or just visiting I would stop by to get tattoo. You won't regret it

I am down in the LA/Long Beach/Irvine area and wanted to get a tattoo while I was here. I walked into Port City Tattoo, and Ben Smith got me in right away. I gave him a picture of what I was looking for, and he gave me exactly what I wanted. Thank you!

First I would like to say the shop is huge and clean . Parking is easy as well . The lady in the front was very helpful and she was very knowledgeable as far as his finger tattoos work and ink spread . This pics I have posted are touch ups and as well as add ons . I will be back for more ink and also this shop is walk- ins as well .

Excellent service from walking in the door to leaving with a tattoo. They make sure to get the tattoo exactly like you want it and placed in the right spot wanted by the client. Ben Smith is a great tattoo artist that has done three of mine so far and will be doing my next one. He makes sure that I like the design and that is exactly where I want it. Very hygienic environment. Prices are very good and worth it. Ask for Ben Smith and you won't be disappointed.

Been a few years since I've had work done. Came as a walk in. First thing i noticed was a few tattoo artists working here didn't wear a mask, however, it wasn't a big deal for me. But contradicted the sign they have outside that requires you to wear one. The gentlemen who attended me was very friendly. He asked me what I was looking for & I gave him an idea of what I wanted. He recommended me with the tattoo artist Ernie. When telling Ernie what I would like, he didn't seem at all interested. Mainly due to the lack of artistic input he gave me. When I told him "what do you suggest? I just want it to look nice", he would tell me " it's whatever you want". Even when telling him the ideas I had & asking for input & suggestions, he would still give me that response. To me, it just seemed like he wasn't engaged into the conversation when sharing my ideas. In the past, all tattoo artists I've gone to would give me their creative input & brainstorm ideas with me. I appreciate someone who is suppose to be experience & artistic, who has been doing tattooing for a living , give me their input. However, Ernie did not. When he showed me the final sketch, I did like it & decided to proceed with it. Unlike other artists, he didn't ask me if I needed a break during the tattoo. He was uncommunicative with me & when trying to make small talk, he was very short. When the tattoo was finished, it was not how I expected it but assumed it was going to look better after the healing process. During the healing stage I notice that the shading & lining was not complete, it was all faded & looked like a old tattoo. When I called they told me to wait 2 weeks to come back to fix it. However, It's been 4 weeks & frankly, I don't want to go back. I don't trust they will do a good job since it wasn't done right the first time. They do amazing traditional tattoos but if you're coming for something on a different spectrum , I wouldn't recommend Ernie. In conclusion, I have many tattoos & have never had a bad tattoo experience until now. What I recommend is, if you are coming here, don't make the same mistake as I did with trusting them to pick out a artist for you. Don't do walk-ins & make sure you do your research with the artists. Lastly, make sure you go with someone who is actually engaged in your ideas. After all, that's what you're paying them for.

Francesca was awesome. This was my first tattoo and she was very gentle and delicate. I left very happy and satisfied with her work. It wasn't painful, and it was very fast. I'll be back here for the second, third... Highly recommended.

Went in to get my fingers tattooed as a walk - in & the vibe was pretty chill!! The receptionist & Frankie ( my artist) was very friendly! Definitely would recommend this shop especially Frankie, she has great work and enjoyed her vibe'

Did a walk-in here for simple and small tattoos, since it's pretty close. I got Cory, I believe, and he was ok. He wasn't a talker, but I did raise a question about being a tattoo artist and my interest, and he was condescending about it. I came back when my tattoo healed for a touch up, and I asked to darken the fades he did for a lettering I had, and he did a whole new lazy text for it. He inked over the existing ones instead of darkening it. He had to touch up 3 of my (small) tattoos and only did 2, and I didn't say anything. Just tipped and left so he doesn't fuck up the last one. Shouldn't have tipped, but I respect artists, just not ones with a stick up their bum. Hope they realize that they don't have to be dcks to be cool.

Had the best experience yesterday at this location! Came in as a walk in with my cousin but had NO CLUE what we were doing for our matching tattoos. The girl who helped us up front was very welcoming and didn't rush us like most places, she was friendly and inviting. Once we finally picked something we were helped by Ben and Damien. Damien did my tattoo and wow! Painless and quick! He was very welcoming and quick, making sure I liked the placement and size. 10/10 would recommend going here.

I got tattooed by Cole, and it was a great experience. The shop is clean and professional. Cole tattooed a custom traditional piece, and he was fast, easy to talk to, and just a nice dude. It healed very nicely as well!

Went in and was immediately seen! It's been over a year since I got a tattoo! So I was looking for some good line work. It was about maybe 11:30 when I went in. Front desk lady was extremely nice! I was also a walk in, so I was pretty surprised they accepted me. Anyways, Cody was my artist! And he was really nice! Small talk was good too. I hardly felt any pain. Was done in about 2 1/2 hours. I am sooo happy with how it turned out. To be fair though, it was a little expensive but that's because they are right at the heart of traffic circle. But anyone who's looking for a tattoo, I recommend Cody. There was also another artist working on a leg piece & let me tell you it was looking so dope! The vibe in there was great. Everyone was cool. Def recommend this place.

First and foremost all the tattoo artists are extremely talented. I had the pleasure of being tattooed by Ernie and he absolutely nailed it. Came in for a walk in and the woman that asked if I needed help was very welcoming and helpful. Will definitely be getting all future tattoos done by Ernie. Give this shop a try, you will not be disappointed.

Maybe I caught them on a bad day. The shop is nice and clean, but the whole experience was distasteful. I'm not one to leave reviews, but I'm still thinking about the way they talked to me to this day. First off, the woman answering the calls doesn't have the best attitude, neither on the phone or in person. I was going in for my 2nd tattoo & I tried asking her for advice on a Jaguar warrior design & all she said 'idk it's not my tattoo.' As if I didn't already know that, I was just asking for a second opinion but she was not interested in helping. 2nd, the artist also had a dry attitude. I shouldn't have asked, I should've just taken the pic but I asked if it was cool. His response 'No you're moving a lot right now so just wait till we're done to take a picture' I have a 3rd tattoo now and I've gone to three artists, he is the only one who's had a problem w me taking a pic of the process. I WASNT EVEN MOVING. Bro was acting annoyed. I was charged $180 for this. & I tipped him $20 bc he didn't have any change to break the 20, I only wanted to give him $5 tip tbh. He didn't even do it where I wanted it, he insisted to write it on the other side just in case I wanted more work done in the future. I regret not sticking to my gut. I hope they improve on their customer service for future clients. They act like if they're doctors and they're stressed/mad.

I came here for the first time and I am happy I did. I originally went to the one in Costa Mesa but because it was New Year's Eve, they didn't open. But this location- Long Beach-was! Super nice staff. I was helped right away. And Frankie did my tattoo. She did an amazing job of my tattoo and was so nice. I was in an out in about an hour. I also loved her dogs! I will be coming back here for my next tattoo.

I always enjoy getting a tattoo here. Ben has done almost all my tattoos, very clean work. It is a very clean tattoo shop and everyone is welcoming!

Service was decent. The guy was cool. Had a good vibe in there. Great work. $$$$$ really brings down the value of this business.

Just finished up second tattoo session, wonderful customer service and the ambiance is perfect.

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.

Archie at Port City is a great tattoo artist. Laid out the design perfectly and did an amazing job.

Came to the shop today, my second time being tattooed here. All I can say is that these are the best tattoo experiences I have had. I got tattooed by Cole, very talented artist and amazing at his craft. Vibe was chill, had a great time talking with the whole crew over at Port City. Can't recommend this place more!

Awesome shop! You definitely feel that Long Beach vibe once you walk in. Artist are friendly, Hilarious, and dedicated to their art. Been making the drive from Glendale to Long Beach for 10 yrs now. The owner Tom, has been working on my body body suit for yrs now and all I got say is that I get complements on his work all the time. So if you're in Long Beach and thinking of getting work done, definitely stop by and check them out!

My daughter recently stopped by port city to get a quote on a tattoo she wants. She explained that she is turning 18 next week and this is her first experience. Whomever she spoke with thought she was perfect for taking advantage of. Quoted her $500 on a tattoo that should cost no more than $300. Shop around people. This place is out for your money. I've contacted 3 other local shops and received genuine service and better pricing.

Easy tattoo. They took me in right away. I brought my own design. This is my 4th tattoo at port city in the lbc. Definitely my go to pla