One of my favorite tours in Honolulu is the KoAloha Ukulele Tour. Not just for tourists, this family run shop and showroom gives visitors an inside look at the making of a ukulele and a short history behind the company and Hawaiian music. If you’re looking for family friendly activities near Waikiki, this tour ten minutes from the main hotels offers a unique perspective of this beloved instrument.

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There are a lot of misconceptions that I had about Hawaiian music. Yes, there are still ukulele and hula dancers, but they aren’t just for luaus. The famous ukulele can make many more sounds and be incorporated into different styles of music.

When we arrived at KoAloha I was under the impression that we’d get a short tour, see a few ukuleles and then leave. I imagined a normal tour, where the staff is friendly and helpful but they don’t play an active role. From the second we walked in, the Okami family treated us as long-lost friends and we were greeted with huge smiles from all the boys (I say boys because even though not every employee is related, this shop is run like a family.) They showed us around each room, discussing in great detail how each uke got its shape, how they date and tag them and what types of wood they use.

My favorite part was definitely learning about the shaping of the wood- how each cut, trim and sanding is a delicate and mastered process. My second favorite part would be getting to know the Okami family and feeling like a part of a secret club from the second I walked in. I left not just having a great day but with friends for life.

Here are some of my photos from the tour:

After my week in Honolulu learning about the history and culture around Hawaiian music, I now have much more appreciation for the skill and art behind the music and instrument. Now, I just need to learn how to play!