As a traveler to Hawai’i one of the things you’ll notice right away is the profusion of Hawaiian words around you, from street and place names to daily speech by locals. Sometimes, the words you overhear in conversation aren’t in fact Hawaiian, but ‘Pidgin’, a mixture of Hawaiian and English that’s evolved over time in the local culture. While most locals don’t expect visitors to know or use Hawaiian words, knowing some common Hawaiian words can enrich your experience as a traveler and even help you navigate better! Here’s a few helpful Hawaiian words for travelers.
Makai - (Ocean, or toward the ocean)
Pronounced “muh kahy”.
Often used in local-style directions, “makai” indicates a direction that is toward or near the ocean. One might refer to a home as being “on the makai side” of the street.
Mauka - (Toward the mountains, inland, upland)
Pronounced “mao kah”
Also used in local-style directions, “mauka” indicates a direction that is inland, upland, or away from the ocean. In Kona, for instance, the little village of Holualoa set high on the slopes of Hualālai volcano is considered “mauka” from the town of Kailua-Kona.
Ono - (Delicious)
Pronounced “oh no”.
With all the good eats in Hawai’i, it’s common to hear locals refer to delicious food as “ono grindz” or “so ono”.
Pau - (Done)
Pronounced “pow”.
You’ll hear the word “pau” used often in Hawai’i to indicate being done or finished with something. For example: “Pau work?” or “Are you pau?” In addition, you’ll often see restaurants advertising ‘pau hana’ specials or people having a ‘pau hana’ which is an after work drink.
Shoots - (Sounds good, OK!)
Pronounced “shoots”
A common expression in the islands of affirmation or agreement. For instance, “Let’s go to the beach!” “Shoots!”
‘Ohana - (Family)
Pronounced “oh hana”
Family is big in Hawai’i. You’ll often hear the word “‘ohana” used to describe blood relatives, chosen or adopted family, and everything in between.
Keiki - (Child, children)
Pronounced “kay key”
Considering the next generation and passing down knowledge and tradtitions is an important part of Hawaiian culture. For example, “Keep the ocean clean for our keiki.” In restaurants, you might see a “keiki menu”.
Mahalo - (Thank You)
Pronounced “ma ha lo”
You might say “mahalo” instead of thank you after checking out at a store or restaurant, or if someone has helped you in some way.
Aloha - (Greeting, hello, goodbye, welcome, love, affection)
Pronounced “ah lo ha”
The one Hawaiian word that everyone knows. “Aloha” has many meanings that extend beyond a simple welcome or goodbye.
Mālama - (To Take Care of, protect)
Pronounced “ma la ma”
Mālama is about caring for and protecting with a spirit of compassion and respect. You’ll see and hear the word mālama used often in Hawai’i. For example: “mālama ‘aīna” (take care of the land).
‘Aīna - (Land or earth, especially ancestral Hawaiian land)
Land is sacred in Hawaiian culture. It is believed that there is a spiritual tie between the land and its people. Hawai’i’s official state motto is: "Ua Mau ke Ea o ka 'Āina i ka Pono;" meaning "The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness".
Akua - (God or Gods)
There are many different Akua in Hawaiian culture. Akua were traditionally represented by carved wooden figures. Pop into a local book shop and check out the Hawaiian mythology section - there’s many fascinating stories.
Ali’i - (Chief, chieF-Fess, royal)
Pronounced “ah lee e”
Historically, Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawai’i was an important center for Ali’i. King Kamehameha the Great resided here. Later, Hulihe’e Palace, a summer palace for members of the Hawaiian royal family was built here. Kona’s main street along the ocean is named for this history as “Ali’i Drive”.
Hale - (House)
Pronounced “ha lay”
You’ll see the word “hale” frequently in Hawai’i. It’s popular in business names as well as being used to refer to someone’s home.
Heiau - (Temple)
Pronounced “hey ow”
The Big Island of Hawai’i is home to some of the best preserved heiau in the islands. These ancient Hawaiian temples were built using impressive dry rock masonry. What you see today are the foundations of the temples, which, in pre-christian times, would have held thatched roof structures and wooden images of Akua. Heiau are sacred and should never be walked on, entered, or tampered with. Ku’emanu Heiau, dedicated to surfing, is located nearby My Hawai’i Hostel.
Wana - (Sea Urchin)
Pronounced “Vauhna”; note: in Hawaiian language, “w” is pronounced as a “v” sound.
Watch out for this long-spined black sea urchin on the reef. It’s very painful if you step on one. If you do step on wana, soak your foot in hot water and vinegar, or deal with it the old fashioned way - pee on it! If there are spines stuck under your skin, they will eventually dissolve.
OK! Do you have all these words memorized? Good, because there is going to be a test on arrival. JUST KIDDING! But seriously, if you’re looking for an affordable and fun place to stay on the Big Island of Hawai’i, come stay with us. Check out our rooms!