Kanile'a 'Ukulele

Kanile'a 'Ukulele Kanile'a and Islander Ukulele great for every player! Established in 1998, Kanile'a 'Ukulele is owned and operated by native islanders Kristen and Joe Souza.
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Their love of Hawaiian music and their passion for the instrument have brought Kanile'a to the cutting edge of ukulele design and manufacture. From the outset, it was the Souzas' dream to create hand-crafted heirloom quality instruments that were equally at home in the most demanding recording studios. Today, Joe and Kristen, together with their talented team of dedicated artisans, continue to build their dreams, one by one...

08/01/2026

What makes Hawaiian koa so special?

Found only in Hawaiʻi, koa is celebrated for its remarkable beauty, balanced voice, and the fact that no two pieces are ever alike. Every instrument tells a unique story, shaped by nature and handcrafted with care.

At Kanileʻa, we believe building with koa comes with a responsibility. Through our support of Saving Hawaiʻi's Forests, we've helped plant more than 65,000 endemic Hawaiian trees into conservation, helping protect Hawaiʻi's native forests for generations to come.

07/31/2026

Cedar or Koa, what are you choosing?
Today we’re comparing two of our favorite tenors: the DK Tenor Pro with Hawaiian koa and the MDC Tenor with a Western Red Cedar top. Play the same song, and you’ll hear how each tonewood brings its own unique character to the music.
Which sound speaks to you more: koa or cedar? Let us know below, then stop by our Windward Mall showroom or explore both online.

07/30/2026

Sometimes, less really is more.
Our TRU-Reduction removes unnecessary weight from key areas of the instrument, allowing the soundboard to move more freely. The result? Greater responsiveness, enhanced resonance, and an ʻukulele that responds effortlessly to every touch.
It’s one of the many innovations designed to let the wood do what it does best, sing.
Experience TRU-Reduction across our Pro Series and custom-built ʻukulele.

07/30/2026

Two incredible tenors, one tough choice.
The Pōhaku and ʻIlikai are both back in stock and ready to find their next home. Each offers its own unique look, feel, and voice while delivering the quality you expect from Kanileʻa.
Available now online and at our Windward Mall showroom. Which one are you choosing?

07/29/2026

What makes spruce so special?

Celebrated for its clarity, headroom, and projection, spruce has been trusted by musicians for generations. Whether you're playing with a light touch or digging into every note, it responds with remarkable expression.

We're highlighting two handcrafted spruce instruments: the KSG-2 Core and the Ala Kaulike MDS Tenor, collaboration with

Each offers its own unique take on this remarkable tonewood, and each includes a sound demo so you can hear the voice of spruce for yourself.
Which spruce instrument would you love to play?

Some instruments just stop you in your tracks. This DK Tenor Pro is now available and ready for its next home. With stri...
07/27/2026

Some instruments just stop you in your tracks.
This DK Tenor Pro is now available and ready for its next home. With striking Hawaiian koa, premium craftsmanship, and a voice to match its looks, this is the kind of ʻukulele that won’t stay around for long.
Available now online and at our Windward Mall showroom.

07/25/2026

Two flagship models. One tough decision.
The DK and KTR represent two of the finest expressions of Kanileʻa craftsmanship, each with its own distinct character, voice, and playing experience.
Available now in Tenor and Super Tenor, you can explore every available instrument and hear its unique sound through our online sound demos.
So... which one are you choosing?

The KPA is one of our most popular models for good reason. This KPA Tenor Pro combines beautiful curl from Premium grade...
07/24/2026

The KPA is one of our most popular models for good reason. This KPA Tenor Pro combines beautiful curl from Premium grade Koa with the shimmering colors of Pāua abalone, making it a stunning instrument that is truly one of a kind. You can check out this exact ʻukulele in our showroom in Windward Mall or on our website where we offer world wide shipping!

Looking for your next Hawaiian-made ʻukulele?We’ve recently added a variety of handcrafted models to our available colle...
07/21/2026

Looking for your next Hawaiian-made ʻukulele?

We’ve recently added a variety of handcrafted models to our available collection, from the timeless K-1 and elegant KPA to the bold DK, educational Ala Kaulike, and modern D-1.
Each instrument has its own story, voice, and personality. Explore the full collection online or visit us at our Windward Mall showroom to experience them in person.
Which model are you reaching for?

07/20/2026

Check out the “flamed” look to this piece of Koa on the Willie K Super Tenor Artist Series!
The Willie K is a phenomenal ʻukulele that combines aesthetics with performance featuring a 19” scale length, a Super Tenor body with premium grade Koa resulting in a powerful instrument. Right now, we have three in stock:
Willie K ST SN. 29980
Willie K ST SN. 30011
Willie K ST SN. 30059

To check the availability of these ʻukulele, head to our website, if it’s out of stock, then it’s gone! So check it out while you still can!



Address

46-216 Kahuhipa Street, Rm 3
Kaneohe, HI
96744

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 6pm
Tuesday 10am - 6pm
Wednesday 10am - 6pm
Thursday 10am - 6pm
Friday 10am - 6pm
Saturday 10am - 6pm
Sunday 10am - 6pm

Telephone

+18082342868

Website

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