What better souvenir to get from your Thailand holiday than a special tattoo to remind you of your travels? Though tattoo studios are found throughout the country, you’ll notice a higher concentration of tattoo artists and studios in popular tourist destinations, such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya and, of course, the Thai islands.

The island of Koh Samui is a particularly popular spot to get a tattoo with a number of tried and true studios to choose from, whether you’re wanting to experience being tattooed with machine or bamboo, obtain a traditional Thai-style tattoo known as a sak yant or have a full custom back piece in mind. Most of the island’s tattoo shops are located in the central resort areas, like Lamai, Chaweng and Bophut, where owners are known for being skilled artists and dedicated tattooists who have often spent years dedicated to their craft and offer both machine and bamboo tattooing along with body piercing.

Below are some of the best places to get a tattoo in Koh Samui. While walk-ins are often welcome, it’s a smart idea to contact the studios ahead of time to check availability and pricing before deciding on which tattoo studio or artist to go with.

Samui Ink Tattoo Studio

Perhaps the most well-known tattoo shops on Koh Samui – and one of the most highly recommended studios – Samui Ink Tattoo Studio is conveniently situated just off Chaweng Beach Road in Bophut, next to Hard Rock Cafe. Here, owner Mr. Bond leads a full team of talented tattoo artists who cover all different styles, including Japanese, Celtic, Thai, American old school, tribal, portraiture and more.

All the artists have years of experience and the shop prides itself on using high-quality inks while maintaining strict hygiene standards. COSI guests receive 10% off at Samui Ink – to find out more, talk to a COSI Crew Insider!

Thai Lamai Tattoo

Near Lamai Beach, the aptly named Thai Lamai Studio is headed by Mr. Tak. After graduating from art school in Bangkok, he became a tattoo artist in Koh Samui, where for more than a decade he has been inking large, intricate pieces in Japanese or fantasy styles and coverups for travellers.

Home Art Tattoo Lamai Beach

Also located in Lamai, Home Art Tattoo, owned by artist Mr. Kit, prides itself on painless tattoo done with both bamboo and machine. Along with standard tattoos, Mr. Kit also does cosmetic tattooing and henna art, and is committed to continuing his education in the art of traditional sak yant.

Starcat Tattoo

Located right on Chaweng Beach Road in Bophut, Starcat Tattoo is a fun and friendly tattoo studio offering a range of styles, including Japanese, Thai, tribal and free-hand.

Extreme Tattoo by Add

Another studio just off of Chaweng Beach Road, Extreme Tattoo by Add has been in business since 1998 and has a small team of partner artists covering every tattoo style imaginable.

Blue Eye Tattoo

This clean, welcoming studio in the heart of Lamai has been around for nearly two decades. The shop is owned by artist Mr. One who does both machine and bamboo tattooing while specialising in realistic portraits and scenes.