Kamaka Hawai‘i, Inc. is a manufacturer in Honolulu, HI. Open: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Sat–Sun Closed. Phone: (808) 531-3165. Average rating is 4.9 stars from 63 reviews. Website: http://www.kamakahawaii.com/.
Kamaka Hawai‘i, Inc.
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The entrance of Kamaka Hawai‘i, Inc. with signage and hours.
4.9 63 reviews Today 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Crafted in Hawai‘i: Authentic Kamaka Ukuleles Since 1916

Experience over 100 years of Hawaiian ukulele mastery at our Honolulu factory – tours, premium instruments, and island legacy await.

About Us

Nestled in the heart of Honolulu at 550 South St, Kamaka Hawai‘i, Inc. stands as the unrivaled pinnacle of ukulele craftsmanship. Founded in 1916 by master luthier Samuel Kamaka Sr., this family-owned icon has shaped Hawaiian music for more than a century. Now guided by the third generation, we handcraft each ukulele with koa wood sourced from Hawai‘i’s native forests, blending time-honored techniques with innovative precision.

Step into our factory and breathe in the rich aroma of fresh koa shavings as skilled artisans shape solid wood bodies, perfect the flawless finishes, and string each instrument to sing with pure aloha spirit. Rated 4.9/5 from 63 glowing reviews, visitors rave about our immersive tours that reveal the soul of ukulele making – from rough lumber to concert-ready perfection.

More than a store, Kamaka is a living testament to Hawai‘i’s musical heritage. We've powered legends from Israel Kamakawiwo‘ole to modern virtuosos, proving our ukuleles aren't just instruments – they're portals to the islands’ heartbeat. Whether you're a collector seeking a custom HF-3 or a beginner craving that first strum, discover why Kamaka defines 'ukulele excellence in the place it was born.

What We Offer

Dive into the Kamaka experience with our signature factory tours, offered Monday-Friday at 10:30am – no reservations needed, just pure inspiration. Witness every step of ukulele creation: koa selection, shaping, binding, and final tuning by fourth-generation craftsmen.

Browse our onsite store brimming with premium models – from the versatile Pineapple ukulele to pro-grade tenors and baritones, all 100% made in Hawai‘i. Custom orders bring your vision to life with personalized inlays, woods, and scales.

Ukulele enthusiasts, elevate your sound with genuine Kamaka strings, accessories, and repair services from the experts who build them. Feel the difference of instruments tuned for Hawaiian slack-key, ‘ukulele orchestra, or global stages. With a legacy trusted by musicians worldwide, every purchase connects you to Honolulu’s musical ‘ohana. Visit today and strum the soul of the islands!

Why Choose Us

Century-old legacy: Crafting ukuleles in the same Honolulu spot since 1916, family-owned across four generations.
100% Hawaiian-made: Premium koa instruments hand-built onsite, earning 4.9/5 from 63 raving reviews.
Immersive factory tours: M-F 10:30am, see third/fourth-gen artisans at work – no reservations required.
Proven by legends: Played by Israel Kamakawiwo‘ole and top virtuosos worldwide.
Custom craftsmanship: Tailored ukuleles with your choice of woods, inlays, and scales for perfect playability.
Onsite expertise: Repairs, strings, and accessories from the makers themselves.

Menu

Menu items as of last fetch · prices subject to change

A Treasured Legacy

1 item
  • Koa Brim Hat
    $50.00

Koa Brim Hat

1 item
  • Ukulele Cases $250.00Price range: $125.00 through $250.00
    $125.00

Ukulele Cases

1 item
  • KK Shirt
    $30.00

KK Shirt

1 item
  • Kamaka Ukulele Sticker
    $2.50

Featured Products

Koa Brim Hat
Koa Brim Hat $50.00
Ukulele Cases
Ukulele Cases $125.00
KK Shirt
KK Shirt $30.00
Kamaka Ukulele Sticker
Kamaka Ukulele Sticker $2.50

Gallery

Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

What Our Customers Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear from our satisfied customers

⭐ Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3 years ago
"The tour of Kamala’s factory was amazing! Such a great experience to learn about the history of ukuleles, the company’s heritage, and also to see the process of how a Hawaiian uke is made. It’s a great activity for anybody, including those who aren’t ukulele players themselves. Staff are super friendly and they also have some very neat merchandise available."
— Robbie MacMillan
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3 years ago
"This is a must for ukulele players that having or eventually buying a high-end made in Hawaii ukulele. This factory has been at this location for over a hundred years with a proud legacy and continues to be a family operation. The tour included an introduction to the history of the ukulele in Hawaii. This is not a slick tourist tour, but a real working factory of local workers in a specialty trade. Don’t expect to buy an instrument as they have a backlog of orders - but you will have a chance to play with the instrument of your choice- I choose the pineapple and the eight string tenor. Highly recommend if you’re super into ukuleles."
— Wayne O
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2 years ago
"We were advised by multiple people to come to Kamaka’s tour, M-F at 10:30am, no need for reservations. They've been in the same location since the 50s, felt special to get a tour from the 3rd generation Kamaka himself. The high-end ukes are carefully crafted, and you learn a lot about the production and history! If you enjoy music and production, a great option in Honolulu!"
— Julia Gooding Warner
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a year ago
"Took the factory tour with Chris Kamaka, grandson of Sam Sr. who created the entire operation. You really appreciate the sense of tradition and pride when he shows you how Kamaka ukuleles are made. If you don't leave with an uke, definitely grab some of their merch. Their brand hat with the bended wood rim is super dope!"
— Jokie Tolentino
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7 years ago
"What a great tour! First, Uncle Fred (the son of the founder) gave us a history of the ukulele and Kamaka. He is an engaging speaker and passionate about his life's work. After that, his son Fred Jr. walked us through the shop from raw Koa to finished ukuleles. He describe techniques and technology and answered all of our questions. All of the staff was friendly and didn't seem to mind us coming in and taking pictures. It was fun to see where these legendary instruments come to life. Highly recommended."
— Mark Botta

Frequently Asked Questions

When are the factory tours available?

Tours run Monday-Friday at 10:30am. No reservations needed – just show up at 550 South St, Honolulu, and join the magic!

Are all Kamaka ukuleles made in Hawai‘i?

Yes, every single one is 100% handcrafted in our Honolulu factory using native Hawaiian koa and traditional methods.

Can I get a custom ukulele?

Absolutely! We specialize in custom builds with options for woods, scales, inlays, and finishes to match your style.

Do you offer repairs and maintenance?

Yes, our expert luthiers provide professional setups, restringing, and repairs right onsite for peak performance.

What's the best ukulele for beginners?

Our Pineapple or HF-1 models offer rich tone and easy playability – perfect for your first Hawaiian strummer.

Is parking available at the store?

Street parking is nearby in Honolulu's South St area; arrive early for the best spots before your tour.

Do you ship worldwide?

Yes, we ship premium Kamaka ukuleles globally – contact us for secure packaging and fast island-to-you delivery.

Hours of Operation

Closed · Opens Monday at 8:00 AM
Monday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday Today 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Get In Touch

Ready to get started? Contact us today!

Map showing Kamaka Hawai‘i, Inc. Open in Maps
Closed Opens Monday at 8:00 AM
Call Us (808) 531-3165
Visit Website www.kamakahawaii.com
Get Directions 550 South St, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
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