Inside Grimes Guitars Maui: Where Guitars and Ukuleles Are Handcrafted on Haleakalā

Ever wonder where some of the world’s most respected musicians get their instruments?

Not from a factory.
Not from a warehouse.

But from a quiet workshop on the slopes of Haleakalā.

Recently, Kathy had the opportunity to step inside Grimes Guitars Maui, and what she found wasn’t just craftsmanship — it was devotion.

The Legacy of Steve Grimes

Steve Grimes is one of the most respected master luthiers in the world. His custom-made guitars and ukuleles are played by renowned musicians who demand precision, tone, and soul in every note.

Grimes Guitars specializes in high-end, handcrafted instruments — producing only about 16 to 20 guitars and ukuleles each year.

That’s it.
No mass production.
No cutting corners.
Just artistry.

And here’s the part many people don’t realize…

Ukuleles now make up nearly 50% of their work, blending tradition with world-class instrument design.

Each instrument is carefully shaped, tuned, and built entirely by hand — a process that requires patience, skill, and a deep respect for the wood itself.

Meet the Maker: Russell Halverson

Behind every master luthier is a steady hand helping shape the vision.

Kathy had the pleasure of meeting Russell Halverson, Steve Grimes’ shop partner of over 21 years. Russell performs critical steps in the building process — bending the sides, assembling bodies, sanding, and shaping the wood that will eventually sing in someone’s hands.

It’s detailed work.
Technical.
Patient.
Exact.

Watching the process feels almost meditative. Wood slowly transforms into a guitar or ukulele capable of carrying emotion across a stage… or across an ocean.

Russell began his apprenticeship with Steve Grimes in 2000, dedicating decades to mastering the craft of fine instrument building.

What makes his story even more unique is that Russell actually lives in Alaska, traveling to Maui for extended stays to work in the Grimes workshop.

Music is deeply woven into his life beyond the workshop as well. Russell plays in an Alaska-based band called Pushki Pickers — named after a wild plant that grows in Alaska. The group celebrates traditional acoustic music and community gatherings through their performances.

But perhaps the most meaningful part of Russell’s story is the work he supports through the Lisa Halverson Foundation, a nonprofit organization created in honor of his sister. The foundation is committed to improving the education and welfare of children around the world.

👉 Learn more about the foundation here.

✨ Come discover the artistry, dedication, and craftsmanship behind the makers who bring these instruments to life.

The Craft Behind Every Instrument

Building a world-class guitar or ukulele isn’t something you rush.

Each piece of wood is selected for its tone and grain. Every bend, brace, and curve must be exact. The result is an instrument that doesn’t just make sound — it creates voice.

That’s why Grimes Guitars produces so few instruments each year.

Quality like this takes time.

👉 You can meet the makers and order your one of a kind own hand crafted instrument. Learn more about their story here:
Meet the Maker

A Workshop on the Slopes of Haleakalā

The setting alone is inspiring.

Grimes Guitars is located on the slopes of Haleakalā volcano on Maui, where cool Upcountry air, quiet landscapes, and natural beauty surround the creative process.

It’s not flashy. It’s intentional.

And that’s something we deeply respect at Maui Vision Rentals.

Whether it’s a handcrafted instrument or a thoughtfully prepared oceanfront condo… quality takes time. Care matters. Details matter.

Why This Experience Matters

When you visit Maui, yes — you’ll experience beaches, sunsets, and whale season.
But there’s another Maui. A quieter one.

The Maui, where artisans build guitars and ukuleles by hand.
Where music begins long before it reaches a stage.
Where legacy is shaped in small workshops, not factories.
These are the stories that stay with you.

If you’re planning your next visit, we’d love to help you stay somewhere that connects you to the real island — not just the postcard version. Our oceanfront condos are thoughtfully managed, beautifully maintained, and designed so you can explore experiences like this at your own pace.

Explore availability at Maui Vision Rentals.