Steve Hendricks

Steve Hendricks is a pivotal figure in the history of Gold Coast Tattoo and Piercing in Monterey, California, having taken over the shop from founder Jack Massey in 1977. His journey in tattooing began with an apprenticeship under Massey, quickly moving full-time into the craft. Hendricks’ passion for tattooing extended beyond Monterey; he founded Banzai Tattoo in Oahu in 1982, now the oldest shop on the island, and later Pirates Cove Tattoo in the Philippines in 1986. Throughout his career, Steve developed a deep appreciation for traditional Americana designs, including eagles, anchors, globes, and daggers, heavily influenced by his experience tattooing military personnel. He also witnessed and contributed to the evolution of tattoo culture, from the prevalence of flash sheets to the rise of custom work. Known for his commitment to accessibility and the artistry of the craft, Steve fostered a team environment where client happiness was prioritized over strict profit margins. His career is rich with unique stories, from tattooing celebrities like Niki Taylor to navigating memorable custom requests and learning from legends such as Jack Rudy, whose fine line and black-and-gray stippling left a lasting impression. After building Gold Coast Tattoo into a lasting legacy over four decades, Steve passed the shop on in 2018.