Aloha! When it comes to picking a name for your little one, there are few places on earth as rich in culture and tradition as Hawaii.
Hawaiian names are deeply rooted in the history and mythology of the islands, often inspired by nature and the beautiful surroundings.
Whether you’re of Hawaiian descent or simply drawn to the unique beauty of Hawaiian names, there are plenty of options to choose from.
In this blog, we’ll explore the rich history and meanings behind some of the most popular and beautiful Hawaiian baby names, as well as provide some tips for choosing the perfect name for your little aloha.
Traditional vs. Modern Hawaiian Names: Which One to Choose?
When it comes to choosing a Hawaiian name for your baby, one decision you’ll need to make is whether to go with a traditional or modern name.
Traditional Hawaiian names have deep cultural and historical roots, often inspired by nature, mythology, or significant events.
Modern Hawaiian names, on the other hand, have emerged in recent years as a way to honor Hawaiian culture while also reflecting contemporary trends and tastes.
Deciding between the two can be a difficult choice, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference and what feels right for you and your child.
This list of 100 traditional and modern Hawaiian baby names for boys and girls and their meanings offers a diverse and meaningful collection of options for parents looking for a name that reflects their love for the culture and beauty of Hawaii.
- Ahi – fire
- Akela – graceful and noble
- Alika – truthful
- Anela – angel
- Aukai – seafarer
- Ekewaka – protector of wealth
- Halia – remembrance of a loved one
- Hiwa – black or dark
- Ilima – flower used for lei making
- Inoki – devotional gift
- Ka’imi – seeker
- Kai – sea
- Kala – sun
- Kalani – royal one, heavenly one
- Kaleo – voice
- Kalia – beloved
- Kekoa – brave one
- Keola – life
- Koa – warrior
- Koa’e – seabird
- Kolohe – mischievous
- Kona – south side of the island
- Lilo – generous one
- Makani – wind
- Malie – calm, serene
- Makaio – gift of God
- Makena – abundance
- Malakai – my messenger
- Mele – song
- Nalani – serenity of the skies
- Nani – beautiful
- Nui – important
- Ohana – family
- Onipa’a – steadfast
- Palani – chief
- Pua – flower
- Wai – water
- Wailani – heavenly water
- Waiola – water of life
- Wela – hot
- Aheahe – gentle breeze
- Akoni – priceless one
- Ali’i – high-born, noble
- Anuenue – rainbow
- Aolani – heavenly cloud
- Ehu – red, like a sunset
- Ha’aheo – pride, dignity
- Halona – happy fortune
- Hau’oli – happy, joyful
- Hele – traveler
- Hi’ilani – held in high esteem
- Hikaru – shining, radiant
- Ho’omau – to persevere, to continue
- Ho’oponopono – to make things right, forgiveness
- Hoku – star
- Hoku’ula – red star
- Hokulani – heavenly star
- Ikaika – strong
- Ikaika-mo
- Iokua – God is my salvation
- Ipo – sweetheart
- Kahanu – the mist
- Kaila – laurel
- Kaipo – sweetheart
- Kala’i – sharpness, excellence
- Kalia – beloved
- Kalino – the good one
- Kamaile – the wreath of leaves
- Kana – the one
- Kani – sound
- Kapua – flower
- Kaua – peace
- Keahi – the fire
- Kealani – the clear sky
- Keawe – the one who is called
- Keiki – the child
- Kekoa – the brave one
- Keli’i – the chief
- Kiele – the fragrant blossom
- Kimo – the supplanter
- Koamalu – the peaceful one
- Koki – the one who is loved
- Kona – the lady of the lake
- Kukui – the light
- Kuuipo – my sweetheart
- Lanakila – the victory
- Lanikai – the heavenly sea
- Lono – the peace
- Luana – the content
- Mahina – the moon
- Mahinui – the great moon
- Makani – the wind
- Malana – the calm
- Malu – the peace
- Manu – the bird
- Mele – the song
- Moana – the sea
- Noelani – the mist of heaven
- Nohelani – the heavenly mist
- Ululani – the inspiration of heaven
Conclusion
In the Hawaiian culture, a name is not just a label, but a reflection of the family’s values, traditions, and beliefs.
Whether you prefer a traditional Hawaiian name or a modern one, the names on this list showcase the beauty and depth of the Hawaiian language, culture, and history.
We hope this list has inspired you to consider a Hawaiian name for your baby and that it has helped you find the perfect name that will be a source of joy and pride for you and your child throughout their lifetime.
