

Custom Island Style Piece
A custom Polynesian tattoo designed to fit your story and the natural shape of your body.
A More Personal Way to Wear Your Story
I begin by learning what you want the piece to represent, along with the placement, scale, and visual references that speak to you. From there, I develop an island-style composition with intentional spacing, directional flow, and details that work together as one design.
The tattoo experience is calm and collaborative, with time to review the concept and make thoughtful adjustments before the session begins. During the appointment, I focus on clean execution and a balanced result that feels connected to you rather than taken from a template.
Ideal For
First Polynesian-inspired tattoo
Meaningful custom body art
Clients planning a larger composition
Island-style tattoo refresh or expansion
How It Works
Share Your Idea: Tell me about your story, inspiration, placement, and preferred scale.
Shape The Design: I develop a custom composition and refine the details with your input.
Tattoo The Piece: We confirm the final plan, then I tattoo the design with care and precision.







About
I am Derek, a San Diego tattoo artist creating American Traditional, Neo-Traditional, and Polynesian work at Pacific Beach Tattoo. I help clients turn meaningful ideas, favorite stories, and bold imagery into tattoos built to be seen and enjoyed. My approach blends strong composition, expressive color, and respect for the traditions behind each style, while leaving room for your own story. Whether you have a clear concept or need help shaping an idea, I make the process collaborative from the first conversation to the finished piece.

About
I am Derek, a San Diego tattoo artist creating American Traditional, Neo-Traditional, and Polynesian work at Pacific Beach Tattoo. I help clients turn meaningful ideas, favorite stories, and bold imagery into tattoos built to be seen and enjoyed. My approach blends strong composition, expressive color, and respect for the traditions behind each style, while leaving room for your own story. Whether you have a clear concept or need help shaping an idea, I make the process collaborative from the first conversation to the finished piece.
Services
01
Custom Tattoo Design
I create custom tattoos shaped around your ideas and story.
02
American Traditional
I tattoo bold American Traditional designs with strong color and linework.
03
Neo-Traditional Tattoos
I create colorful Neo-Traditional pieces, from flash to larger projects.
Services
01
Custom Tattoo Design
I create custom tattoos shaped around your ideas and story.
02
American Traditional
I tattoo bold American Traditional designs with strong color and linework.
03
Neo-Traditional Tattoos
I create colorful Neo-Traditional pieces, from flash to larger projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact
Tell me your idea and let's get you in the chair.
Contact
Tell me your idea and let's get you in the chair.
San Diego, CA, USA
TattoosbyBigTuna@gmail.comSan Diego, CA, USA
TattoosbyBigTuna@gmail.com