Hawaiian Words to Know

English is the language spoken in Hawaii, with Pidgin English and Hawaiian trailing behind it. While you don’t have to learn the Hawaiian language to be able to communicate on the islands, it is helpful to know a few of the most common Hawaiian words. Here are the most commonly used Hawaiian words that you should know before you go. 

Aloha 

Hello, I love you, Goodbye. This is the most common greeting in Hawaii. When greeting others, a kiss on the cheek is a common cultural exchange. 

E Komo Mai 

Welcome, come on in. You might see these especially at entry ways, or when people are greeting you. 

Mahalo

Thank you. 

A Hui Hou

Goodbye, until we meet again. 

Kane 

Man, male. 

Wahine

Woman, female. 

‘Ono

Delicious. 

Wikiwiki 

Quick, hurry, fast. 

Kama’aina 

Local, resident. 

Honu

Turtle. 

Honi 

Kiss. 

Ohana 

Family. 

Keiki 

Child. 

Hale 

Home, house. 

Pau 

Finish, done. 

Mauka 

To the mountains. Used when giving directions. 

Makai 

To the sea. Used when giving directions. 

Aina 

Land. 

Lanai 

Patio, porch, veranda. 

A’ole Pilikia 

No problem, no worries. 

With these common Hawaiian words under your belt, you’ll be sure to know what’s going on. And, in case you want to print these words for on-the-go, I made an infographic below! Now you can carry these common Hawaiian words with you and learn them too! 😀 

Have fun on your trip! 

Sincerely, 

Lei 

Common Hawaiian Words

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Most Common Hawaiian Words

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