Too often visitors are lured into Waikiki Beach souvenir shops and walk out with a “Made in China” chunk of wood with a few strings and assume that they have just purchased a ukulele. These untunable instruments are nothing more than wall hangers, if we’re being generous.

If you’re instead looking for an authentic ukulele, even if an entry-level one, then you’re best served by heading over to Lewers Street (toggle Map in the above right corner) and up to the second floor of the Waikiki Beach Walk outdoor shopping complex where you’ll find the bluntly named Ukulele Store. They have the best selection of the smile-inducing instrument in town. The staff if very friendly and helpful, and they also offer free walk-in lessons so be sure to ask about their updated schedules.