Traditionally, only women chose dolphin tattoos; however, more and more men are also selecting designs that feature dolphins. Men who enjoy being near the ocean are particularly attracted to these tattoo designs.

The most common type of dolphin tattoo depicts the dolphin leaping out of the water, with a spray cascading behind it. An experienced tattoo artist can render this scene quite beautifully, adding realistic elements to both the dolphin and the water. The result is a stunning, colorful piece that captures attention and invites many compliments.

Other types of dolphin tattoos are also becoming popular. Rather than using realistic waves, some wearers choose designs that use colored tribal patterns or scrollwork to represent water. Others choose non-traditional scenes, such as two dolphins enmeshed to create a yin-yang, or two dolphins touching noses and tails to form a heart.

Dolphins can also be coupled with Celtic knotwork – this combination has gained quite a bit of attention in recent years. The dolphin may be encircled by a Celtic pattern, or may appear on top of a pattern or symbol. Three dolphins may even be used to create a Celtic knot by overlapping their tails.

Dolphin tattoos are used to express grace, kindness, wisdom, and other ideas. Thus, they often hold deeply personal meanings for their wearers. Dolphins can be used to create works of body art that are both beautiful and highly symbolic.