About Us
Since its founding, the Kamaka name is synonymous with unsurpassed excellence, beauty and the relentless pursuit of sound perfection.
The Beginning
In 1916, Samuel (Sam) Kaialiilii Kamaka Sr. opened “Kamaka Ukulele and Guitar Works” and began selling his beautifully handcrafted ukulele in what was then, the Territory of Hawaii. What began as one man’s dream, became a multi-generational family labor of love as Sam’s children, grandchildren and great grandchildren continue Kamaka Hawaii’s legacy and tradition of handcrafted elegance today.
A Family Affair
The Kamaka Hawaii factory and retail store is located at 550 South Street in Honolulu where 22 dedicated employees work together to craft, perfect and share their love for ukulele with Hawaii and the world. President of Kamaka Hawaii Chris Kamaka, son of Sam Kamaka Jr. and grandson of founder Sam Kamaka Sr., leads the company together with brother and Vice President Casey Kamaka, with the support of sisters Katy, Jenny and Malia, as well as apprentice craftsman, Christopher Kamaka, Jr., who represents the fourth generation of Kamaka family members to pursue the art of ukulele making.
The company continues to use the body patterns perfected by founder Sam Kamaka Sr. to create today’s ukulele, still made and meticulously handcrafted in Hawaii since 1916. President Chris Kamaka personally inspects and plays every instrument before it is shipped to ensure the pure sound and artistic elegance of every Kamaka ukulele. This tradition of excellence, passed down and perfected through generations, is why Kamaka Hawaii makes the finest ukulele in the world, with more than 100 retailers in the United States and internationally offering Kamaka ukulele to musicians and music lovers worldwide.
