“What’s in a name?” That famous question from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet may imply that calling a rose by any other name doesn’t make it smell less sweet. And while that may be true, here in Hawaii, our names are an important part of how we keep our language and culture alive from generation to generation.
This month, we’re building on our topic of Hawaiian language by answering all your questions about Hawaiian names and their meanings. If you’ve ever wondered “Is Keanu a Hawaiian name?” or “What does it mean if someone calls you a “Kalena?”, read on as we cover it all. Who knows? You may even find some naming inspiration along the way!
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Popular Hawaiian Names and Their Meaning
From famous actors to beloved Disney characters, Hawaiian names have made an impact on pop culture for decades. And it’s not just proper names, either. Whether you’re singing “Mele Kalikimaka” (Merry Christmas) from “Christmas Vacation” or just saying aloha, Hawaii’s influence is all around if you pay attention.
Particularly popular on baby name lists, here are some of the most searched Hawaiian names and meanings.
Keanu (keh-AH-noo)
While the most famous "Keanu" may have been born in Lebanon, Keanu Reeves proudly carries a traditional Hawaiian name meaning “cool breeze over the mountains.” Named after his uncle, Henry Keanu Reeves, the family’s practice of passing the name from one generation to the next displays the cultural respect they have for their native ancestry. Today, in terms of popularity, the name is ranked #536 in the United States, seeing a 56-place bump as of 2023.
Lilo (LEE-loh)
Lilo has been a popular name among Hawaiians and Polynesians for centuries, symbolizing benevolent acts of generosity or kindness toward others – two tenets of the Hawaiian culture we hold very dear.
While it gained popularity outside the islands after the success of Disney’s hit “Lilo and Stitch,” this name, meaning “generous one,” has yet to break into the top 1000 list for girl’s names in the United States.
Other meanings for Lilo include “lost” or “separated from.” Which, when we think about the movie plot, becomes even more appropriate as Lilo teaches the lost Stitch how to love through her generosity and welcoming spirit.
Leilani (lay-LAH-nee)
Meaning “heavenly garland of flowers,” Leilani, to no surprise, comes from the Hawaiian word “Lei,” which means flowers, and “Lani,” which means “sky” or “heavens.” Paying tribute to all the beautiful tropical flowers you’ll see while on your Kauai vacation, this name is often associated with royalty.
In the 1930s, Leilani saw a surge in popularity in United States baby name lists thanks to the Bing Crosby song Sweet Leilani from the film Waikiki Wedding.
Kalani (kah-LAH-nee)
Similarly to Leilani, Kalani means “Heavens” or “Sky.” This gender-neutral name is often chosen because it carries the connotation that the sky is the limit for the bearer. A perfect sentiment for a brand new life.
Halia (hah-LEE-ah)
Have you ever experienced the sudden remembrance of a lost loved one? You could be walking down the street when a stranger wearing a particular perfume passes, and instantly, you see your friend or relative in your mind as clearly as if they were right next to you. That “sudden remembrance” is exactly what this beautiful Hawaiian name means.
Halia is the “fond recollection” we hold for those dearest to us. And having this name honors both the bearer and the remembered. In a way, keeping them alive even after they’ve left us.
English Names with Hawaiian Meanings
Names hold significance, often representing family heritage, aspirations, or connections to things we cherish. When it comes to finding the right name, many parents spend time considering these deeper meanings before making a decision.
Finding translations of names into other languages is also popular, especially if there are personal ties to people or places. Below are three English names with Hawaiian equivalents, each with its own beautiful interpretation.
David: Kawika (kah-VEE-kah)
While mostly associated with King David from the Bible, the name David, or Kawika, means “beloved” and can be found in both forms throughout Hawaii. Perhaps one of the most notable on the islands was King David Kalakua, the last reigning King of Hawaii.
Karen: Kalena (kah-LEH-nah)
In recent years, this name isn’t one you’d likely want to be called, but it’s important to remember before it went viral for its “can I speak to the manager” vibes, Karen was simply a quaint name that meant (and still means), “pure.” The Hawaiian equivalent is Kalena. And, to your relief, being called Kalena in Hawaii doesn’t carry the same negative connotation the English name has garnered.
Dylan: Kai (rhymes with sky)
Dylan and Kai both mean “ocean.” And with such strong cultural ties to the Pacific, it’s no wonder that Kai is a popular name in Hawaii. On the English side, Dylan comes from Welsh, another sea-faring nation with ties to the maritime culture of the vast Atlantic.
With two distinct connections to the two largest oceans on the planet, it’s no wonder both cultures created a name to celebrate the sacred power of nature’s mightiest force.
The Meaning of Poipu and its Cultural Significance
As you learn more about Hawaii, and more specifically Kauai, finding the Hawaiian meaning behind names can be very helpful. For example, what does the word Poipu mean? Sure, it’s a popular beach town with incredible vacation rentals and things to do. But on a deeper level, the name can tell you a lot about a place.
Poipu means “Crashing waves” and is pronounced “poh-EE-poo.” Home to immaculate beaches with lava rock and coral coastlines where the waves offer consistent conditions, this area is known for everything from easy, swimmable beaches to incredible surfing opportunities. Plus, with most of the area’s restaurants, bars, and nightlife all centrally located near Poipu Beach, it’s a popular destination for myriad vacation activities beyond those crashing waves.
Culturally, Poipu has roots in Hawaii's sugarcane trade and is the location of ancient temples, sacred hula training grounds, and protected archaeological parks. When you visit, be sure to add places like Kaneiolouma Heiau, Pa'u a Laka, and the Old Koloa Sugar Mill to your itinerary.
Visit Poipu and Learn More About Hawaiian Language and Culture
Featured Property: Poipu Kolepa Hale
Immersing yourself in a new culture is the best way to fully experience everything it has to offer. If you’re considering a visit to Hawaii, look no further than the stunning vacation rentals offered by Suite Paradise. With Poipu Beach vacation homes perfect for every family and budget, you’ll feel perfectly at ease during your stay.
Plus, with the best rates on these properties, you’ll keep money in your pocket for cultural experiences, visits to museums, and all the other fun things waiting for you. Browse our full list of Poipu vacation rentals and book your stay directly with Suite Paradise today!
If you enjoyed this article, check out these 12 Must-Know Hawaiian Words and Phrases