Frequently 

Asked questions

HOW OLD DO I HAVE TO BE TO GET A TATTOO?

You need to be 18 years old or older to get a tattoo in San Diego. No exceptions. It is against California State Law to tattoo a minor even with parental consent. Please remember to bring a valid state or federal ID.

HOW MUCH DO TATTOOS COST?

Sailor Jerry once said “Good work ain’t cheap, Cheap work ain’t good.”

With that being said, tattoo prices can vary depending on the artist as well as the project. Placement on the body, size of the design, subject matter, and style can all play a role in how long the tattoo could take. Larger works are charged by the hour, smaller pieces are priced per project depending on the level of detail, size and placement. Tattoos on sensitive areas like hands, necks, torsos, etc. can run a bit more because they’re difficult areas to tattoo.

Booking a consultation or stopping by the shop with your idea, one of our artists can help provide you a better quote. For smaller pieces we have a shop minimum

For payments, all of our artists accept Cash, however some in the shop are also able to accept Card, Venmo, and/or Zelle. Check with you Artist to see what they prefer!

DO YOU ACCEPT COVER UP TATTOO REQUESTS?

Yes we do! We typically have you book a free consultation to discuss the cover-up with one of our artists before booking. You can reach out to the artist directly or call the shop to schedule your consultation now!

DO YOU TAKE WALK-INS?

Yes! We take walk-ins whenever we can. However most artists stay fairly busy so it’s always recommended to book an appointment to guarantee your spot

HOW DO I MAKE AN APPOINTMENT?

If you have an artist in mind, the best way to schedule is to email the artist directly to book a consultation or you can email the shop if you are unsure who would be best for you. If you need some guidance on choosing the best artist for your project simply fill out our general booking form and one of our artists will help you! Make sure to include your concept ideas, reference images, size in inches and location of the body you are hoping to get tattooed on. * Note that our artists stay very busy and sometimes it can take 5-7 days to respond to emails. General inquiries can be sent via email to finelinesgoodtimes@gmail.com

CAN I BRING A FRIEND?

Unfortunately due to limited space we aren’t able to accommodate having anyone not getting tattooed in the studio. There is some limited seating in the waiting room but we recommend friends or family enjoying the neighborhood during your appointment. Shelter Island offers a number of restaurants, breweries, and views of downtown from the harbor.

Minors and pets are not permitted in the studio. Service dogs and psychiatric service dogs are welcome as required by California Law.

Do You Allow Large Groups or Parties?

Yes — we welcome large groups and can accommodate bachelor parties, bachelorette parties, and group tattoo experiences visiting San Diego, Point Loma, Ocean Beach, and the surrounding coastal areas.

Our shop is a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette party tattoos, offering a clean, professional, and fun environment where your group can get meaningful, memorable tattoos together while celebrating your trip. Whether you’re looking for small matching designs, walk-in style tattoos, or curated flash options, we’ll help make the experience smooth and organized.

Planning a Group Tattoo Visit

To give your group the best experience, we recommend:

Messaging us in advance with your party size so we can plan artist availability.

Texting ahead for same-day group availability if you’re already in town.

• Letting us know your timing, design ideas, and any scheduling needs.

WHERE SHOULD I PARK?

We’re located between Rosecrans and Scott St with parking in the area being fairly easy - there’s 2 hour parking often available in front of the shop or all day parking along the side streets

Brigantine restaurant offers a free parking lot a few blocks behind the shop as well

I’m Visiting From Out of Town — Are You Located Near Any Hotels?

Yes! Our studio is conveniently located in Point Loma, just minutes from many of the area’s most popular waterfront hotels, making us an easy stop whether you’re visiting San Diego for vacation, a wedding, or a special event.

We are a top choice for travelers staying on Shelter Island and in Point Loma because we’re only a short drive or rideshare away — perfect for fitting a tattoo into your trip without needing to travel across the city.

Hotels Just Minutes From Our Shop

We’re located near several well-known San Diego waterfront accommodations, including:

  • Kona Kai San Diego Resort – A favorite for destination weddings and bachelor/bachelorette groups.

  • Humphreys Half Moon Inn – Popular with guests attending concerts next door.

  • Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina – A relaxed marina-front stay within minutes of us.

  • Bay Club Hotel & Marina – Centrally located on Shelter Island with quick access to Point Loma.

Visiting for a Concert at Humphreys?

If you’re in town for a show at Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, we’re just a short ride away — many guests stop in before the show or the following day to commemorate their trip with a tattoo. We frequently work with concertgoers looking for small, meaningful, or spontaneous tattoos while visiting Shelter Island.

Close to San Diego International Airport

We’re also located just 10–15 minutes from San Diego International Airport, making us an easy first or last stop if you’re flying in or out. Many travelers schedule appointments the same day they land or before heading home.

If you’re visiting San Diego and staying in Point Loma or on Shelter Island, we’re one of the most convenient tattoo studios to reach.

Traveling in and want to plan a visit?

Message us ahead of time to check availability or schedule an appointment during your stay!