Bali is one of the best places in the world to get tattooed — a thriving scene, artists from across the globe, and the chance to carry a permanent mark from your trip. But with hundreds of studios across the island, knowing how to choose, what to pay and how to heal in the tropics makes all the difference. Here's everything you need before you sit.
Choose a clean, reputable studio first
Before style or price, the single most important thing is hygiene. A professional studio uses single-use, sterile needles, fresh setups and gloves for every client, and keeps a clean, dedicated space. Don't be shy about asking — any good studio is proud to show its standards.
Then look at the work: a real portfolio, healed photos (not just fresh ones), and genuine reviews. Check the studio's Google reviews and Instagram, and make sure the artist actually specialises in the style you want.
Where to get a tattoo in Bali
Most of the island's best studios are clustered in the south-west — Seminyak, Canggu and Kerobokan — close to where most visitors stay and surf. It's an easy area to reach for a consultation or a walk-in. Blacklow Studio sits on Petitenget Street in Kerobokan, right between Seminyak and Canggu.
Walk in, or book ahead?
For small or flash pieces, walk-ins are often fine when the studio has space. For anything larger or fully custom, book ahead — especially in high season — so your artist can design for you and set aside the time. Message the studio with your idea, size, placement and a few reference images to get started.
What does a tattoo cost in Bali?
There's no fixed menu — price depends on size, placement, detail and the time the piece takes. Always get a quote first by sending your idea to the studio. And don't choose on price alone: for something permanent, hygiene and skill matter far more than saving a little. (At Blacklow we also run an online promo — three small tattoos for $100.)
Pick a style — and an artist who specialises in it
Bali has incredible range. A few of the strongest:
- Blackwork — solid black, bold and graphic; ages beautifully.
- Dotwork & ornamental — stippled shading, mandalas and sacred geometry.
- Dark realism / black-and-grey — portraits and depth built from fine detail.
- Blackletter & lettering — script and words carried for life.
Whatever you choose, find a specialist. You can see our resident artists and their work to get a feel for what's possible in solid black.
Before your session
- Sleep well and eat beforehand — being rested makes a long sit easier.
- Stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol the night before.
- Wear comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the area being tattooed.
- Bring valid ID and your reference images.
Aftercare in Bali's climate
This is where many holiday tattoos go wrong. Bali's heat, humidity, sun, sea and pools are the enemy of a healing tattoo. Keep it clean and lightly moisturised, and avoid direct sun, swimming and heavy sweating for around two weeks while it heals. Plan your tattoo for earlier in your trip if you want beach days after, and always follow your artist's specific aftercare advice.
A few final tips
- Trust your gut on the studio — clean, calm and professional beats cheap.
- Never haggle on hygiene or rush an artist.
- Healed photos tell you more than fresh ones.
- If you're thrilled, leave a review — it helps the next traveller find good work.
Blacklow Studio is a dedicated blackwork studio in Bali — solid black, dark realism, dotwork and ornament, drawn by hand and worn for life. Still have questions? See our FAQ or message us any time.
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