About
Monarch Tattoo was founded in 2012 by licensed tattoo artists and husband-and-wife team Mike and Laura Naylor. Located in Hauula on Oahu’s North Shore, the studio sits just steps from the beach on the island’s serene east side, offering a calm and welcoming environment for custom tattoo work. Originally from New York, Mike and Laura began their creative journey in the arts before transitioning into tattooing after moving to Hawaii. With over a decade of experience, they specialize in large-scale custom tattoos, including black and grey, color, cover-ups, and traditional and contemporary Polynesian-inspired designs. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting Hawaii and looking for a meaningful souvenir tattoo, Monarch Tattoo Hawaii offers a thoughtful, collaborative consultation process to bring your vision to life.
Inquire today to schedule your tattoo consultation.
Laura Naylor
Owner, Artist
Laura is a co-owner and lead tattoo artist at Monarch Tattoo Hawaii, with 20 years of professional tattooing experience and a strong foundation in fine art.
She holds a BFA from SUNY Purchase College and an MFA from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Laura began tattooing in 2006 after apprenticing under Suluʻape Riccy Boy at the Polynesian Tattoo Factory in Hauʻula, where she developed a deep respect for traditional and contemporary Polynesian tattooing. She later worked at House of Ink in Kailua before opening Monarch Tattoo in 2012.
Laura specializes in large-scale Polynesian and floral tattoos, designed to flow naturally with the body’s anatomy. She is especially known for her custom cover-up tattoos and surgical scar cover-ups, which she finds rewarding due to their ability to transform and heal. Her work is featured in Tricia Allen’s book The Polynesian Tattoo Today.
All of Laura’s tattoos are fully custom. Each piece is a collaboration, often drawn freehand directly on the body to ensure a perfect fit, longevity, and a truly one-of-a-kind result.
Outside the studio, Laura finds inspiration in nature, travel, gardening, and community volunteer work, particularly environmental restoration on Oʻahu’s North Shore.
Mike Naylor
Owner, Artist
Originally from New York City, Mikey earned his BFA from Purchase College and an MA in Education from The City College of New York. Before moving to Hawaii in 2003 with his wife Laura, he worked at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and taught art in New York City schools.
In Hawaii, Mikey spent a decade with the Hawaii State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, collaborating with local artists and organizations, and developing a deep appreciation for Polynesian culture and design.
Mikey and Laura opened Monarch Tattoo Studio in 2012, and he has been tattooing professionally ever since. With 14 years of experience as of 2026, he works across a variety of styles, from bold traditional American tattoos to flowing Polynesian patterns. He especially loves drawing and tattooing sea creatures and enjoys blending Polynesian designs with unique, freehand elements.
He’s known for being easy-going and clear about what’s possible, respecting his clients’ time while ensuring each tattoo is done carefully and thoughtfully. Mikey loves collaborating on large, multi-session projects, though he also works on small tattoos, tailoring each design to the client’s vision.
When he’s not in the studio, you’ll find Mikey tending his garden, caring for his animals, exploring Oahu’s mountains and beaches, diving, fishing, or just enjoying a quiet day at home.
Contact
Important Information for Your Appointment
We do not tattoo anyone under the age of 18—no exceptions. Your safety and the law are our top priorities
A deposit is required to book your appointment. Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
If you need to reschedule, please give us at least 48 hours’ notice. This helps us manage our schedule and accommodate other clients.
Avoid sunburn before your tattoo. Sun-damaged skin can affect the quality and healing of your tattoo.
Please avoid alcohol the night before and the day of your appointment—it can cause excessive bleeding during the tattooing process.
Come well-fed and hydrated! It’s always more comfortable to get tattooed with a full stomach.
We want your experience to be safe, comfortable, and result in a tattoo you’ll live for life. Mahalo for helping us keep our studio professional and welcoming!