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RIMPAC 2026 Is Underway: Military Tattoos in Hawaii

Key takeaways

  • RIMPAC brings high demand and limited availability
  • The best tattoos during this time are intentional, not rushed
  • Timing your tattoo around your schedule matters
  • Hawaii’s environment affects healing
  • Talking to an artist before committing makes a difference

RIMPAC 2026 is here.

From June 24 through July 31, Oahu is once again filled with service members from around the world. What started as preparation and coordination on the water carries over onto the island, bringing a different kind of energy to places like Kailua.

At Loyalty Tattoo Kailua, this is a time we know well.
Every RIMPAC, we see the same thing. People come in wanting to mark the moment. Not just with any tattoo, but with something that actually means something.

If you’re thinking about getting tattooed while you’re here, the approach matters.

RIMPAC Changes the Pace Around the Shop

The announcement covered what RIMPAC is. Now that it’s underway, the reality is different.

Schedules are tight. Time off is limited. Shops get busy.

During this window, we see:

  • more walk-ins than usual
  • groups coming in together
  • clients working around unpredictable schedules
  • last-minute decisions

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get tattooed. It means you need to be more intentional about it.

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Tattoos Shouldn’t Be Rushed

One of the biggest mistakes we see during RIMPAC is people trying to fit everything into a short window.

A tattoo tied to service, deployment, or a moment like this deserves more than a rushed decision.

The strongest tattoos we do during RIMPAC aren’t the quickest ones. They’re the ones where someone took just a little time to think through:

  • What it represents
  • Where it’s going
  • How is it going to age

If you’re not sure where to start, it helps to understand your options first. You can start with our guide on choosing the right tattoo style before committing.

Timing Matters More Than You Think

Between training, travel, and time on the island, timing becomes one of the most important parts of the process.

We always recommend:

  • Don’t get tattooed right before heavy ocean or sun exposure
  • Give yourself at least a few days to manage aftercare
  • Plan around your schedule, not against it

This is especially important in Hawaii, where sun and saltwater can affect how your tattoo heals.

Walk-Ins vs Planning Ahead

We know not everyone has the luxury of planning weeks in advance.

During RIMPAC, we do our best to accommodate both.

Walk-ins are always welcome, but availability can change quickly. If you have a specific idea or want a larger piece, booking ahead gives you more control over the outcome.

If you’re deciding between the two, take a minute to understand the differences between walk-ins and appointments, so you know what to expect when you come in.

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What We See Every RIMPAC

There’s a reason this military exercise stands out.

We see:

  • First tattoos marking a career milestone
  • Pieces tied to units or deployments
  • Tattoos that represent time spent in Hawaii
  • Returning clients, adding to the work they’ve built over the years

Some of the most meaningful tattoos we’ve done have come out of RIMPAC.

Not because of the timing, but because of the intention behind them.

Loyalty Tattoo Kailua During RIMPAC

Being a veteran-owned shop, this time of year is personal for us.

We’re not just another stop while you’re in town. We understand what goes into the experience you’re here for.

Whether you’ve got a clear idea or just know you want to leave with something meaningful, we’ll take the time to work through it with you.

If you’re in Kailua during RIMPAC, stop by the shop, talk with one of our artists, and we’ll help you figure out what makes the most sense for you and your schedule.

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