Big Island Mike

Michael Castillo a.k.a. Big Island Mike is actually from Makakilo on Oahu, Hawaii. He started riding BMX at age 12. In 1991 he met Chris Moeller of S&M Bikes and with Chris’s help, he was able to travel around the world and compete in Mat Hoffman’s Bicycle Stunts Series. After a few years of riding contests and winning a couple overall titles in the amateur division, Mike transitioned to judging competitions. During that time Mike was working for Mat Hoffman and his bike company, Hoffman Bikes, doing graphic design work and photography. Mike has also judged the X-Games since day one, it’s been 25 years now. After working at S&M Bikes, Hoffman Bikes, and shooting photos for the BMX industry, Mike started getting more involved in the Tattoo world. Professional BMXer, Rick Thorne, introduced Mike to Mark Mahoney of the world famous Shamrock Social Club, where Mike apprenticed under Mark, Freddy Negrete and Rick Walters. After a couple years apprenticing Mike moved back to Hawaii to open up his own shop, Hale Nui Tattoos, in beautiful Waikiki. Mike still goes back and forth from Hawaii and Hollywood to work at Hale Nui Tattoos and the Shamrock Social Club. If you are lucky, you can also make an appointment with him at the exclusive Secret Ninja Warehouse on Oahu, Hawaii. Mahalo to everyone who supports Big Island Mike and his endeavors.