Kulture Tattoo Kollective

Thad was amazing!
We were visiting the island for my mom's 80th birthday. Mom decided to get her 1st tattoo while we were there and she had a very specific ask. Finding a talented artist on short notice proved difficult, but we got super lucky!!
Thad was able to accommodate us on mom's birthday. He was gentle and gave her exactly what she wanted. My sister and I also got into the spirit with a flash tattoo that turned out great!!
If you are on Kauai, we recommend Thad!!!

My man and I came to Thad while visiting Kauai, best tattoo decision I’ve EVER made! We both got rib pieces, a sea turtle and a hook. His parlor is clean, welcoming and SUPER comfortable (we watched movies while getting ink). Thad was very light handed and listened to exactly what we wanted, putting his own artistic expertise into it. DO NOT put any numbing cream on your body! They don’t use it here. That being said, my guy and I were able to take the pain on a pretty tender rib spot. I will definitely come back to Kulture Tattoo, Thad specifically :) I have the most stunning sea turtle and it is truly my favorite piece out of many❤️

My session with Sam and Kulture Tattoo Kollective will forever be a life changing experience. Decades of experience, exposure to numerous Polynesian, south sea artists and designs, as well as vast wealth of knowledge of each Polynesian culture and the meaning and history of each symbol/design used. The reverence and humbled respect he has for the Polynesian culture and their people was inspiring. This is in addition to his amazing skill and artwork…highly, highly recommend Kulture Tattoo and their amazing crew!

This was my second visit to Kulture tattoo. Thad Nakao was very accommodating and professional with his work and made the experience memorable. I asked for a sea turtle tattoo with Polynesian design. What I got was more than I expected. Not only is the line work perfect, Thad added his personal touch with shading, coloring and Polynesian symbols that made this piece of art a masterpiece!!! I will not go anywhere else for a tattoo on Kauai. I highly recommend Kulture tattoo if your are looking for traditional Polynesian work. Thank you Thad for exceeding my expectations with this one. Mahalo!!!!

My husband & I went with one of our BFFs to get her a tattoo. She had an appointment. Long story short - TONY, the artist who has been doing this type of artwork for 40+ years, also did matching tattoos (a sea turtle) for my husband (back of calf) and me (arm) in addition to our BFF’s! ** BONUS! :)
It was my first tattoo; BFF and hubby already have multiple tattoos.
For me, being a first timer, the experience was much better than I imagined. I’m very happy with my new tattoo - as are the other two in our little party! :)
YES! If you’re in the market and are able to make an appointment with TONY, do it! TONY definitely knows what he’s doing, gets right to it and the prices are fair! TWO THUMBS UP!! :)

Sam has done two of my tattoos. He is creative, detail oriented, compassionate, knowledgeable, and a true master of his craft. I will not go to any other artist after my experience at Kulture Tattoo Collective. Samuel makes sure that your piece is exactly how you envisioned it, and puts thought and care into making your experience a positive one. Mahalo nui loa Samuel!

Kulture Tattoo Kollective is the best place in the WORLD if you are looking for true artists and tribal tattoos. Kalin Mier is the best. Kalin began my left arm in 2019. I have finally returned to Kauai post covid August 2022 to be back on the island and to have Kalin add on. I have one more visit and the sleeve is complete. I consider Kalin a treasure and a true blessing in my journey. Mahalo-Salamat-ALOHA Kalin!!! Much love from Cat in Ventura, California!🤙🏽♥️🌈

I made an appointment to meet Thad a couple of days before we left Kauai. I had asked for a specific design and when I arrived at his shop he showed me how he had worked my design into a unique Hawaiian motif. It was beautiful--a combination of what I had provided with his own Hawaiian-themed embellishments.
Thad was very careful about the size and placement of the tattoo (my first, by the way). When we had agreed on the final product and placement, Thad prepared the tools and work area with a thorough cleaning with alcohol wipes. Hygiene was paramount.
Once the actual tattooing began, Thad was focused and efficient. Two and half hours later I had my tattoo. It is a work of art that I will be proud to wear for years to come.
If you're on Kauai and you're interested in getting a tattoo, Thad is the man to see.

Another fantastic visit. This is my second tattoo with Thad. Always an amazing job, light hand, clean lines. Love it!

I got my first tattoo from Thad on October 28th 2022 (Late review I know). Overall it was a fantastic experience all around. I gave Thad a few ideas I was thinking of and he had drew the entire piece. When he showed me the sketch I was absolutely amazed. I couldn’t have been more happier with the end result. Thad also provided me a step by step aftercare program, which made my tattoo heal perfectly.

The shop was very clean and gave me positive vibes. I’d give Thad and the shop 10 stars if I could. I plan on going back in February to finish my sleeve. THANK YOU THAD