Built With Aloha: The Story and Soul of KoAloha Ukuleles

KoAloha Ukulele - Built with Aloha

At UKE Republic, we’re proud to offer instruments with more than just good looks and great tone  -  we seek out ukes that tell a story. And KoAloha Ukuleles? Oh, they sing one. From humble beginnings in Honolulu to global recognition, this family-owned company has carved a name into ukulele history - one lovingly crafted koa uke at a time.

Curating Koa Ukuleles with KoAloha Ukuleles

Born From Reinvention (and a Whole Lotta Heart)

In the mid-1990s, Alvin “Pops” Okami, a creative soul with roots in invention and music, shifted gears after his plastics business folded. Armed with ingenuity and aloha, he built a tiny ukulele that actually played. That spark led to the founding of KoAloha  - a name blending “koa,” the prized Hawaiian tonewood, and “aloha,” the spirit behind everything they do.

Soon, the whole Okami family joined in. Pops is now senior VP, Pat “Moms” Okami keeps the books, while sons Alan and Paul handle the helm - one as president, the other as KoAloha’s master luthier. From day one, their family-first philosophy has been at the heart of every instrument they create. In fact, they still gather daily for lunch and welcome visitors with open arms - because being part of the KoAloha ‘ohana isn’t just a slogan, it’s a lifestyle.

Signature Sounds and Standout Details

KoAloha ukuleles are handcrafted in Hawai’i using solid Hawaiian koa, celebrated for its tonal warmth and visual beauty. Whether you’re playing a soprano, concert, or tenor model, you'll experience the lively voice and remarkable projection that KoAloha is known for. This isn’t by accident - KoAloha understands that a small instrument doesn’t need to be overbuilt. Instead of heavy bracing or thick tops, their luthiers allow the soundboard to vibrate freely, bringing out every ounce of tone and resonance the koa has to offer.

Their instruments also feature signature details that make them instantly recognizable. The musubi-shaped soundhole - inspired by the beloved local snack - gives each KoAloha uke a touch of playful personality. Their iconic five-point crown headstock, often echoed in the upper fretboard design, adds a regal flair that sets them apart visually. KoAloha isn't afraid to get bold either: the angular Sceptre model breaks from tradition with its dramatic silhouette, while the Naupaka line showcases a stunning blend of koa and mango woods, turning heads and tuning ears.

Beautiful Hawaiian Koa KoAloha Ukuleles

Hawaiian Koa Sap Wood KoAloha Ukuleles

KoAloha Ukuleles Signature 5 Point Crown Headstock

KoAloha Ukuleles Signature Musubi Sound Hole

A Uke for Every Player

KoAloha offers a thoughtfully tiered lineup to match every player's level and budget. The Opio series, built in Thailand under close supervision, delivers that signature KoAloha sound with exceptional value. Their Hawaiian-made standard line, constructed from all-solid koa, is handcrafted with care in Honolulu. For players seeking something truly special, KoAloha’s custom shop produces Red Label and Black Label instruments - each a masterpiece in its own right. The waitlists for these models are real (sometimes years long), but fans will tell you they’re worth every second.

KoAloha Opio Ukulele

Why We Love KoAloha at UKE Republic

We’ve proudly partnered with KoAloha since our early days - and for good reason. They’re not just builders; they’re believers. Believers in music, in people, in joy. And each KoAloha uke reflects that: a handcrafted invitation to play, to connect, and to celebrate.

When you shop KoAloha at UKE Republic, we include our famous Pro Setup to make sure your uke sounds and plays its absolute best from the start.

Ready to meet your next favorite ukulele?
👉 Shop KoAloha Ukuleles at UKE Republic

Let the legacy of aloha live in your hands.

Location: 5000 Austell Powder Springs Rd SW STE 250, Austell, GA 30106, USA

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