KoAloha Ukulele Factory Tour — Honolulu, Hawaii

Discover the KoAloha Ukulele Factory Tour in Hawaii

Located in Honolulu, Hawaii, the KoAloha ʻUkulele Factory Tour offers a guided behind-the-scenes experience inside one of Hawaii’s most respected ʻukulele manufacturers. Visitors step into a working workshop where skilled luthiers craft instruments from Hawaiian koa wood, shaping, sanding, assembling, and finishing each ʻukulele by hand.

This intimate factory setting provides a rare opportunity to see traditional instrument-making techniques in action in the heart of Honolulu.

Why it’s special: KoAloha is a family-founded Hawaiian company known for handcrafted koa ʻukuleles, blending modern precision with island craftsmanship and musical heritage.

History & Story of KoAloha ʻUkulele

KoAloha ʻUkulele was founded in 1995 by Alvin “Pops” Okami with a mission to create high-quality Hawaiian-made ʻukuleles. The company quickly gained recognition for its innovative bracing system and commitment to local production.

Still family-operated, KoAloha remains dedicated to crafting instruments in Hawaii using responsibly sourced koa wood, honoring the cultural importance of the ʻukulele in island music traditions.

What You’ll See & Do on the KoAloha ʻUkulele Factory Tour

• Learn about Hawaiian koa wood and instrument selection
• Observe luthiers shaping, bracing, and assembling ʻukuleles
• Discover finishing and quality-control techniques
• Gain insight into tuning, setup, and sound testing
• Hear demonstrations of completed instruments
• Browse available models in the showroom

Hands-On Elements: Opportunities to hold and examine finished ʻukuleles; sound demonstrations by staff when available.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography permitted in designated areas; restrictions may apply during active production steps.

Souvenirs & Extras: Handcrafted ʻukuleles, accessories, branded merchandise, and cases available for purchase.

Pricing of the KoAloha ʻUkulele Factory Tour

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)

Reservations are recommended due to limited group sizes.

Visiting information for KoAloha ʻUkulele Factory Tour

Duration: Approximately 45–60 minutes

Age limits: All ages welcome

Accessibility: Workshop areas are generally accessible; some standing required during tour

Working Hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Advance reservations are recommended to confirm tour availability.

Nearby attractions to KoAloha ʻUkulele Factory Tour

• Ala Moana Center
• Waikīkī Beach
• Honolulu Museum of Art

FAQs About Visiting the KoAloha ʻUkulele Factory Tour

Is the tour really free?
Yes. The KoAloha ʻUkulele Factory Tour is offered at no charge.

Will I see instruments being made?
Yes. Visitors observe skilled luthiers working on various stages of ʻukulele construction.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Reservations are recommended, as tour sizes are limited.

Can I purchase an ʻukulele directly from the factory?
Yes. Finished instruments and accessories are available for purchase in the showroom.

How far is the factory from Waikīkī?
The factory is approximately a 10–15 minute drive from Waikīkī, depending on traffic.