300+ Hawaiian Boy Names & Their Cool Meanings

Overview

Hawaii is a US state, but you’ll notice that many Hawaiian boy names look and sound exotic. That’s because this island state retained most of its traditions, culture, and even folklore before US colonization.

As a place of several islands and many volcanoes, it isn’t surprising that most Hawaiian names have links to nature, particularly the ocean, mountains, heavens, and flowers.

Surprisingly, many of the boy names also work as girl names, and vice versa.

For example, the Disney princess name “Moana” is actually a gender-neutral name in Polynesian and Hawaiian cultures.

And while “Keanu” might be considered a boy name primarily by most people outside the tropical state, it’s actually a unisex Hawaiian name.

Names from this Polynesian region are also pronounced differently from English names. This is especially true with names that have an apostrophe (called “okina” in the Hawaiian language).

So, names like “Kaui,” which might appear to be pronounced as “cow-wee” (similar to “Maui”) in English, are actually pronounced “ka-OO-ey.”

It’s interesting to note that Hawaiian versions of English names can differ greatly from how other languages create the variations.

For example, “Jacob” simply turns to “Jakobe” as a Polish name, but it’s spelled “Iakopa” as a Hawaiian boy name.

“Kawika” is the Hawaiian variant of the biblical name “David,” and “Kimo” means “James.”

Find other interesting Hawaiian boy names with their meanings and pronunciations below.

The Best Hawaiian Boy Names By Category

What Are Popular Hawaiian Boy Names?

Alohi

This Hawaiian unisex name means “shining and brilliant.”
It’s pronounced as “aa-LOW-hee.”
It originated from the Hawaiian word “Aloha,” which translates to the common Hawaiian greeting “Hello.”

Anakoni

This Hawaiian boy name means “valuable.”
It’s a variant of the Latin name “Anthony” or the Roman name “Antonius.”
It is pronounced as “a-na-KO-nee.”

Kalino

This Hawaiian boy name means “the brilliant one.”
It is pronounced as “kah-lee-noh.”
It can also be a middle name for boys.

Kamaha’o

This Hawaiian unisex name means “amazing and wonderful.”
You pronounce it as “kah-MAH-how” or “kah-MAH-ha-yo.”
It’s a popular name in Hawaiian culture.

Kanoa

This Hawaiian and Polynesian gender-neutral name means “the free one.”
It’s pronounced as “kuh-NOH-ah.”
A common last name in Hawaii, you can also consider this as a middle name.

Kaui

This Hawaiian boy’s name means “the youthful one.”
It’s pronounced as “ ka-OO-ey” when spelled as “Kauʻi,” but it’s also acceptable to pronounce it as “cow-wee” if spelled without the apostrophe.
It’s the name of one of the islands in Hawaii, and is also known as the “Garden Island.”

Kaulana

This Hawaiian boy name means “famous.”
The name is pronounced as “kow-LA-na.”

Keahi

This Hawaiian unisex name means “fire” (the fire).
It comes from the combination of “ke” (definite article “the”) and “ahi” (fire).
It is pronounced as “keh-A-hee.”

Keanu

This Hawaiian unisex name means “the cool breeze.”
The name is pronounced as “keh-A-nu.”
It comes from the combination of “ke” (the) and “anu” (“coolness” or “cool breeze”).
Famous namesakes include Hollywood star Keanu Reeves (his father has Hawaiian ancestry).

Keola

This Hawaiian unisex name means “the life” or “alive.”
It can also mean “well-being.”
The name is pronounced as “keh-oh-lah.”

Mauna

This Hawaiian boy name means “mountain.” So, don’t be surprised to find this attached to the names of Hawaiian mountains such as “Mauna Kea” and “Mauna Loa.”
The name is pronounced as “mah-ooh-nah” or “mow-nah.”

Noa

As a Hawaiian boy name, it primarily means “heavenly land.” However, it can also mean “rest” or “repose” as a variant of the Hebrew name “Noah” (a biblical boy name).
The name is pronounced as “noh-wah.”

What Are Strong & Powerful Boy Hawaiian Names?

Ailani

Pronounced as “ah-ee-LAH-nee,” this Hawaiian boy name means “high chief.”

Alaka’i

Pronounced as “ah-lah-kah-ee,” this Hawaiian boy name means “guide” or “leader.”

Alani

This Hawaiian boy name means “chief” and is pronounced as “ah-lan-nee.”
Also a variant of the Celtic name “Alan,” which means “fair and handsome” or “noble.”

Ali’i

This is another Hawaiian boy name for “chief” or “leader.”
It is pronounced as “aa-lee-ee.”
Several Hawaiian names mean “chief” because ancient communities used to have different chiefs for distinct responsibilities and roles.

Analu

This is the Hawaiian version of the Greek boy name “Andrew,” which means “manly” and “strong.”
It’s pronounced as “ah-nah-loo.”

Haulani

Pronounced as “how-lah-nee,” this Hawaiian boy name means “royal ruler” or “heavenly ice.”

Ikaika

This Hawaiian unisex name is pronounced as “ee-KAI-ka” and means “strong and powerful.”

Kaeo

Pronounced “ka-eh-yow,” this Hawaiian boy name means “strong,” “zealous,” or “full of knowledge.”

Kapena

This traditional Hawaiian name for boys means “captain.”
It also has English origins and is pronounced as “ka-PEE-na.”

Kawikani

This Hawaiian boy name means “the strong one” or “strong mind.”
It’s pronounced as “kah-wee-KAH-nee.”

Koa Ikaika

This Hawaiian boy name means “strong warrior.”
You pronounce this as “KO-a-ee-KAI-ka.”
This warrior name is a combination of “Koa” (fighter) and “Ikaika” (brave and strong).

Konala

This Hawaiian boy name means “world ruler.”
It’s pronounced as “koh-nah-lah.”

Kualii

This Hawaiian boy name means “an ancient chief” and is pronounced as “koo-wah-lee-ee.”

Likeke

This is a Hawaiian boy name that means “courageous chief.”
It’s pronounced as “lee-keh-keh.”

Lokela

A variant of the French and German boy name “Louis,” this Hawaiian name means “famous warrior” or “legendary warrior.”
This is pronounced as “loh-keh-lah.”

Makaha

Pronounced “mah-kah-ha,” this Hawaiian boy name means “ferocious.”

Good Hawaiian Names For Boys

Apekalmoa (Hawaiian boy name) – “My father is peace”; pronounced as “ah-peh-kal-mo-wah”

Kahalo (Hawaiian boy name) – “Light-footed one”; pronounced as “kah-ha-loh”

Kakahiaka (Hawaiian boy name) – Hawaiian word for “morning”; pronounced as “kah-kah-HEE-ah-kah,” it combines with “Aloha” to form the Hawaiian greeting “Aloha Kakahiaka” which means “Good morning”

Kale (Hawaiian boy name) – “Man,” “free man,” “army,” or “warrior”; Hawaiian version of the German names “Charles” and “Karl,” but is pronounced as “KAH-leh”

Kaleo (Hawaiian boy name) – “Pure,” “saying,” “expression,” “voice or sound,” or “one who shouts”; pronounced as “KA-lee-o”

Kapono (Hawaiian boy name) – “Righteous” or “the good one”; pronounced as “ka-PO-no,” it combines “ka” (the) with “pono” (good or moral)

Kona (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Leeward (on the side sheltered from the wind)” or “dry side of the island”; pronounced as “KOH-nuh,” it’s also a place name after one of the main districts in Hawaii’s Big Island

Makana (Hawaiian boy name) – “Gift”; pronounced as “ma-KA-na”

Mana’o (Hawaiian boy name) – “Wishes” or “opinions”; rainbow name for a wished-for child, pronounced as “ma-nah-uh”

Adorable Hawaiian Boy Names

Anankoni

Hawaiian boy name that means “highly praiseworthy”
Variant of the Roman name “Anthony”
Pronounced as “ah-nan-koh-nee”

Hani

Hawaiian boy name that means “happy one” or “joyful”
Pronounced as “han-nee”

Kaholo

Hawaiian boy name meaning “swift” or “adept”
Pronounced as “kah-ho-loh”

Kahoni

Unique Hawaiian boy name meaning “the kiss”
Also considered a pet name for a lover
Pronounced as “kah-ho-nee”

Kaipo

Hawaiian boy name that means “sweetheart”
Also a pet name
Pronounced as “KIE-po”

Kalei

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “the flowers”
Pronounced as “ka-LAY”

Kamalei

Hawaiian gender-neutral name meaning “adored child” or “beloved child”
Also means “lei child,” with “lei” referring to the wreath of flowers presented as a sign of affection or a welcome gift in Hawaiian culture
Pronounced as “ka-mah-lay”

Kapua

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “the flowers” or “the child”
Pronounced as “ka-POO-a”

Kekipi

Hawaiian word name that means “rebel”
Adorable but badass name for your “little rebel”
Pronounced as “keh-KIY-piy”

Keone

Hawaiian unisex name that means “the homeland”
Patriotic name
Pronounced as “keh-OH-neh”

Onaona

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “softly fragrant” or “sweet fragrance”
Pronounced as “oh-nah-wah-na”

Musical Hawaiian Boy Names

Himeni

Hawaiian boy name meaning “hymn”
Pronounced as “hee-MEN-ee”

Mele

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “song”
Pronounced as “meh-leh”

Special Hawaiian Boy Names With Beautiful Meanings

Anuenue Akua

Hawaiian boy name meaning “God’s rainbow” or “rainbow’s spirit”
Pronounced as “AA-nuw-eh-nuw-eh-aa-KUW-aa”
Rainbows symbolize “the veil between the heavenly realms of the gods and the human realms” in Hawaiian culture
The name also holds significance because Hawaii is dubbed as “the rainbow capital of the world” or the “Rainbow State”

Kahuna

Hawaiian boy name meaning “a respected person” or “expert”
Source of the Hawaiian saying “the big Kahuna” (a respected person in society)
Pronounced as “kah-hoo-nah”

Mana

Hawaiian boy name that means “divine power” or “supernatural or spiritual energy”
Pronounced as “mah-nah”

Ori

Hawaiian boy name that means light (my light)
Pronounced as “uh-ree”

Pukalani

Hawaiian boy name that means “heavenly gate”
Pronounced as “poo-kah-lah-nee”

Hawaiian Boy Names That Mean Brave

Kekoa (Hawaiian boy name) – “Courageous,” “the warrior,” or a nature name meaning “coral”; pronounced as “keh-KO-a”

Koa (Hawaiian boy name) – “Brave or fearless,” “fighter,” or “warrior”; pronounced as “KO-a” and can also mean “koa tree” (a tree endemic to the Hawaiian Islands; also the largest native plant species in the archipelago)

Makoa (Hawaiian boy name) – “Brave man,” “aggressive,” or “fearless and courageous”; pronounced as “ma-KO-a”

Hawaiian Boy Names That Mean Beautiful

Nani

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “beautiful”
Pronounced as “nah-nee”

*Kanani is a variant of “Nani” considered more as a Hawaiian girl name than a boy’s name; it means “beautiful”

Hawaiian Boy Names That Mean Gift From God

Ionakana (Hawaiian boy name) – “A gift from God”; variant of “Jonathan” and is pronounced as “ah-yo-nah-kah-nah”

Keona (Hawaiian boy name) – “God’s gracious gift”; pronounced as “keh-oh-nah”

Makaio (Hawaiian boy name) – “Gift of God” or “gift of Yahweh”; Hawaiian version of the Hebrew name “Matthew,” and is pronounced as “MA-kai-o”

Mythical Hawaiian Boy Names From Myths & Legends

Haikili

Hawaiian god of thunder
Pronounced as “hey-eh-kee-lee”
According to Hawaiian mythology, Haikili is known for his wisdom, which triggered jealousy among the other gods. He created the clouds, weather, trees, and wildlife to celebrate after his rivals tried to trick him into thinking that his son (Kali) was dead, but he managed to rescue the boy.

Kāne

The highest of the four major Hawaiian gods and the creator of all living things.
This Hawaiian boy name means “man.”
It can also mean “man of the Eastern sky,” “golden,” or “beautiful” as a Welsh and Japanese boy name.
Pronounced as “KA-neh”

Kaulu

Trickster god in Hawaiian mythology with enormous strength and power (he has both physical and magical strength)
He’s a Hawaiian god known for his numerous adventures
The Hawaiian boy name means “ledge” and is pronounced as “KAH-oo-loo.”

Lono

Hawaiian god of the harvest, agriculture, nature, and fertility
Also the god of rain
Pronounced as “loh-noh”

Māui

Polynesian trickster demigod
Pronounced as “mah-wee”
Also a Disney name after the demigod with a magical fish hook in “Moana”

Olopana

Hawaiian boy name meaning “high chief of Oahu,” after a chief in Hawaiian mythology
Pronounced as “oh-LOH-pah-nah”

Tāne

Polynesian god of forests and light, believed to be the creator of man in Hawaiian mythology
Pronounced as “TA-neh”

Tangaroa

Polynesia god of the sea
Pronounced as “tan-ga-RO-a”

Unique & Rare Hawaiian Boy Names

‘Akau (Hawaiian unisex name) – “North,” “right,” or “god”; pronounced as “ah-ka-woo”

Ahuahu (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Healthy”; pronounced as “ah-hoo-wah-hoo”

Hanini (Hawaiian boy name) – “To pour down like rain”; pronounced as “hah-nee-nee”

Kahiau (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Generosity” or “extremely generous”; pronounced as “ka-hee-OW”

Kahiko (Hawaiian boy name) – “Ancient”; old man name for your little gentleman, pronounced as “kah-hee-koh”

Kahula (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Dancing”; pronounced as “kah-hoo-lah”

Kellii (Hawaiian boy name) – “The chief”; pronounced as “keh-lee-ee”

Kipaoa (Hawaiian boy name) – Hawaiian word for “Basil,” an English boy name meaning “king” or “royalty”; pronounced as “kiy-PAO-aa”

Moanauil (Hawaiian boy name) – Witchy name that means “sorcerer”; pronounced as “MOH-ah-NAH-ow-lee”

Hawaiian Versions Of English & Other Names Around The Globe

Akamu

“Made by god” or “the Earth”
Hawaiian version of the Hebrew name “Adam” (also a biblical name)
Pronounced as “Ah-ka-moo”

Akoni

“Princeless” or “deserving of praise and admiration”
Hawaiian variant of the Latin name “Anthony”
Pronounced as “Ah-koh-nee”

Alekanekeio

“Defender of humankind”
Hawaiian version of “Alexander”
Pronounced as “Ah-leh-kah-neh-ke-yoh”

Alika

“Guardian”; can also be a variant of “Alex” or “Alec”
Pronounced as “Ah-lee-kah”

Amosa

“Borne by God” or “to carry”
Hawaiian version of the biblical boy name “Amos”
Pronounced as “Ah-moh-sah”

Ekewaka

“Protector of riches and wealth,” “rich guard,” or “wealthy protector”
Hawaiian variant of Old English boy name “Edward” or “Eddie”
Pronounced as “ee-ke-WAH-ka” or “ee-KWAH-ka”

Iakopa

“May God protect”
Hawaiian equivalent of the Hebrew name “Jacob”
Pronounced as “ee-a-KO-pa” or “ai-KO-pa”

Ikaia

“God delivers” or “Yahweh is salvation” (refers to Yahweh, the Hebrew God)
Hawaiian version of the Hebrew name “Isaiah”
Pronounced as “eh-KAI-a”

Ioane

“Favored by God”
Hawaiian version of the Hebrew name “John”
Pronounced as “eh-yoh-wan-nee”

Iokepa

“God will increase”
Hawaiian version of the Hebrew name “Joseph”
Pronounced as “eh-yoh-keh-pah”

Iokua

“God is my salvation”
Hawaiian equivalent of the Hebrew name “Joshua”
Pronounced as “ai-o-KOO-a” or “yo-KOO-a”

Kawika

“Beloved”
Hawaiian variation of the Hebrew name “David”
Pronounced as “kah-wee-kah”

Kayl

“Free man” or “the man who is free”
Hawaiian version of the German boy name “Karl”
Pronounced as “K-eye-l”
Can also be a variant of the English name “‘Kyle,” meaning “narrow or strait”

Keoni

“Yahweh is gracious”
Another Hawaiian version of the English name “John”
Pronounced as “Keh-oh-nee”

Kimo

“May God protect” or “supplanter”
Hawaiian variant of the Hebrew names “James” and “Jacob”
Pronounced as “KEE-mo”

Label

“Lion
Hawaiian version of Latin name “Leo”
Pronounced as “lah-bel”

Lewai

“Joined”
Hawaiian version of the Hebrew name “Levi” (biblical name after one of Joseph’s 12 sons)
Pronounced as “leh-why”

Lopaka

“Bright fame”
Hawaiian variant of the German name “Robert”
Pronounced as “loh-pa-ka”

Mikala

“Who is like God?”
Popular Hawaiian boy name and variant of the English and Hebrew name “Michael”
Pronounced as “MEE-ka-la”

Nikolao

“People of victory”
Hawaiian version of the Greek boy name “Nicholas”
Pronounced as “nee-koh-lahw”

Pakelika

“One who is noble”
Hawaiian variant of Celtic and Latin name “Patrick”
Pronounced as “pah-keh-lee-kah”

Palani

“Free man”
Hawaiian version of the German boy name “Frank”
Pronounced as “pah-lah-nee”

Favorite Island Boy Names

Hale

Hawaiian boy name pronounced as “ha-lay”
Means “home” or “hospitable person” as a Hawaiian name
Means “nook or retreat” or “from the hall” as a Germanic or Old English boy name

Kalai

Hawaiian boy name pronounced as “kuh-lai”
Means “clay” as a Hawaiian name
Means “fortress” as a Turkish name

Kalei’opu’u

Hawaiian boy name that means “lei on the hillside”
Pronounced as “KAA -Leh-iy-oh-poo-oo”
Historical prince name after the son of Peleioholani (the King of Oʻahu and Kauaʻi during the 1700s) who loved to wear a lei (flower garland or wreath) around his neck

Kauai

Hawaiian boy name that means “the garden isle,” after one of Hawaii’s oldest main islands
Pronounced as “KOW-eye-ee”

Lilo

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “the generous one”
Pronounced as “lee-low”

Lui

Hawaiian boy name meaning “famous warrior”
Pronounced as “loo-wee”

Moe’uhane

Hawaiian boy name that means “dream”
Pronounced as “moh-eh-oo-hah-ney”
Special name in Hawaiian culture because dreams are believed to be signs or important messages that guide people through their lives

Pika

Hawaiian boy name meaning “rock” or “stone”
Variant of “Peter”
Pronounced as “PEE-ka”

Occupation-Based Hawaiian Boy Names

Aukai (Hawaiian boy name) – “Seafarer” or “sailor”; pronounced as “aw-kie”

Holokai (Hawaiian boy name) – “Seafaring person”; pronounced as “ho-loh-kie”

Kilo (Hawaiian boy name) – “Stargazer” or “astrologer”; pronounced as “kee-loh”

Mahi’ai (Hawaiian boy name) – “Farmer”; pronounced as “mah-hi-ah-ee”

Hawaiian Boy Names Inspired By Nature

Celestial & Space-Inspired Hawaiian Boy Names

Hoku

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “star”
Pronounced as “hh-OH-ku”
Stars are significant in Hawaiian culture as ancient guides for navigating the oceans (just like how they’re depicted in “Moana”)

Hokulani

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “star in heaven,” referring to the northern star
Pronounced as “hh-OH-ku-lah-nee”

Kahikū

Hawaiian unisex name that also means “star”
Pronounced as “kah-hee-ku”

Kalani

Hawaiian gender-neutral name that means “of the heavens,” “sky,” “majesty,” or “royal”
Pronounced as “kah-lah-nee”

Ke’alohilani

Hawaiian boy name meaning “heavenly brightness” or “the bright sky”
Pronounced as “kay-law-hee-LAH-nee”

Keahilani

Hawaiian boy name meaning “heaven’s fire”
Pronounced as “kay-yah-hee-LAH-nee”

Keawe

Hawaiian boy name meaning “southern star”
Pronounced as “keh-yah-weh”

Kelani

Hawaiian gender-neutral name that means “heaven”
Pronounced as “keh-lah-nee”

Makali’i

Hawaiian boy name that means “little eyes” or “little stars”
Pronounced as “MAH-kah-lee-iy”
Name of a constellation with five little stars known as “Ke Ka o Makali’i” (The Canoe-Bailer of Makali’i”)

What Hawaiian Boy Names Means Sky?

Aouli (Hawaiian boy name) – “Blue sky”; pronounced as “ah-woo-lee”

Kalon (Hawaiian boy name) – “Sky”; pronounced as “kah-lon”

Lani (Hawaiian boy name) – “Sky or heaven,” “majesty,” “royal,” or “exalted”; pronounced as “lah-nee,” this Hawaiian word is commonly matched with other words to form heaven-themed names (e.g., “Kalani,” “Kelani,” “Neolani,” etc.)

Rangi (Hawaiian boy name) – “Sky”; pronounced as “RAHN-gee,” this name also means the god of the sky who’s married to Papa (the goddess of the earth) in Hawaiian mythology

Hawaiian Boy Names That Mean Moon

A’ia’i (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Bright like the moon”; pronounced as “ah-ee-yah-ee”

Konane (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Bright moonlight” or “shining moonlight”; pronounced as “koh-NA-ney”

Hawaiian Boy Names That Mean Water

Kahawai

Hawaiian boy name meaning “river or “stream”
Pronounced as “Kaa-HH-aa-Waa-iy”
Bodies of water, particularly rivers, are important in Hawaiian culture as symbols of life flow

Kai

Popular Hawaiian baby boy name meaning “sea”
One-syllable boy name pronounced “kie”
Also a Hawaiian version of the Swedish name “Kaj,” meaning “pure”

Kaiholo

Hawaiian baby boy name that means “the moving sea”
Pronounced as “Kay-ho-loh”

Kaikane

Hawaiian baby boy name meaning “strong sea”
Pronounced as “Kay-kah-neh”

Kailua

Hawaiian boy name meaning “two seas”
Pronounced as “kahy-loo-uh”
Also a place name after Kailua Bay, one of Hawaii’s favorite tourist destinations

Kainalu

Hawaiian boy name that means “sea wave” or “sea surf”
Pronounced as “kie-NA-loo”
Combines the Hawaiian names “Kai” (sea) and “Nalu” (wave or surf)

Kawai

Hawaiian boy name meaning “coming from water”
Pronounced as “kah-why”

Koukakala

Hawaiian boy name meaning “dark river” or “mysterious river”
Pronounced as “koo-woh-kah-kah-lah”

Moanalua

Hawaiian boy name that means “stream,” “valley,” or “water”
Pronounced as “MOW-nah-loo-uh”

Nawai

Hawaiian boy name meaning “the waters”
Pronounced as “nah-why”

Pahokee

Hawaiian boy name meaning “grassy waters”
Pronounced as “PAH-oh-kee”

Puna

Hawaiian boy name that means “a water spring”
Pronounced as “poo-nah”

What Hawaiian Boy Names Mean Ocean?

KyeKye (Hawaiian boy name) – “Ocean”; pronounced as “kie-kie”

Moana (Hawaiian, Maori, and Polynesian unisex name) – “Deep ocean” or “sea”; pronounced as “moh-wah-nah”

Earthy Hawaiian Boy Names

‘Ailana (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Island”; pronounced as “ay-lah-nah”

Aheahe (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Softly blowing breeze”; pronounced as “ah-hee-yah-hee”

Ainakea (Hawaiian unisex name) – “White land”; pronounced as “ay-nah-keh-yah”

Alapai (Hawaiian boy name) – “Coastal area”; pronounced as “ah-lah-pie”

He Pohaku (Hawaiian boy name) – “Stone”; pronounced as “heh-poh-hah-koo”

Kaiaulu (Hawaiian boy name) – “Pleasant or gentle breeze”; pronounced as “kh-eye-aH-Luu”

Kanoe (Hawaiian and Japanese name) – “Morning mountain mist” or “powerful man”; pronounced as “kah-now”

Makani (Hawaiian unisex name) – “The wind”; pronounced as “mah-kah-nee”

Mauka (Hawaiian boy name) – “Toward the mountain”; pronounced as “mao-cah”

Maunakea (Hawaiian boy name) – “White mountain” after a dormant volcano in Hawaii; pronounced as “mah-NUH-kuh”

Maunawili (Hawaiian boy name) – “Twisted mountain”; pronounced as “MOW-nah-wee-lee”

Moani (Hawaiian boy name) – “A fragrant breeze”; pronounced as “moh-wah-nee”

Na’alehu (Hawaiian boy name) – “The volcanic ashes”; pronounced as “NAH-ah-eh-loo”

Pi’iholo (Hawaiian boy name) – “Mountain summit” after another mountain in Hawaii; pronounced as “PEE-ho-low”

Pupuhi (Hawaiian boy name) – “Blow” or “as a strong wind”; pronounced “PUH-PUH-ee”

Animal-Inspired Hawaiian Boy Names

Io lani (Hawaiian boy name) – “Royal hawk”; pronounced as “ah-yo-lah-nee”

Mamo (Hawaiian boy name) – “Yellow bird”; pronounced as “mah-moo”

Mano (Hawaiian boy name) – “Shark” or “a passionate lover”; pronounced as “mah-noh”

Manu (Hawaiian boy name) – “Bird”; pronounced as “mah-noo”

Plant-Themed Hawaiian Boy Names

Aalona (Hawaiian boy name) – “Oak tree”; pronounced as “aah-loh-nah”

Lehua (Hawaiian unisex name) – Flower name after the Lehua flower (the state flower); pronounced as “leh-HOO-a”

Lei (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Flowers,” “garland or wreath of flowers” or “child”; pronounced as “LAY”

Nahele (Hawaiian boy name) – “Forest” or “wilderness”; pronounced as “NAH-heh-leh”

Oliwa (Hawaiian boy name) – “Olive tree”; pronounced as “oh-lee-wah”

Long Hawaiian Boy Names

Haleakala

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “house of the rising sun” or “house of the sun”
After the only active volcano on Maui Island
According to Hawaiian myth, the demigod Maui lassoed the sun from the sky while he was standing on the volcano’s summit to make its descent slower and make days last longer
Pronounced as “ha-leh-yah-kah-lah”

Hikialani

Hawaiian boy name meaning “look to heaven”
Pronounced as “hee-kee-yah-lah-nee”

Kahikilani

Hawaiian boy name meaning “the arrival of the chief”
Pronounced as “kah-hee-kee-lah-nee”

Kahikina

Hawaiian boy name meaning “the arrival”
Pronounced as “kah-hee-kee-nah”

Kamalani

Hawaiian boy name meaning “heavenly or royal child”
Pronounced as “ka-ma-LA-nee”
Combines “kama” (child) with “lani” (heavens or royal)

Kawehi

Hawaiian boy name that means “the adornment” or “adorned”
Combines “ka” (the) with “wehi” (adornment)
Pronounced as “ka-WHEY-ee”

Kealakekua

Hawaiian boy name meaning “pathway of the gods”
Pronounced as “keh-yah-lah-keh-koo-wah”

Kealamauloa

Hawaiian boy name meaning “the path of eternity”
Pronounced as “keh-yah-lah-mahw-loh-wah”

Keimoni

Hawaiian boy name meaning “the ocean of uniqueness or knowledge”
Pronounced as “kay-moh-nee”

Keonaona

Hawaiian boy name meaning “sweet fragrance”
Pronounced as “keh-yoh-now-nah”

Kimokea

Hawaiian boy name that means “honoring God”
Pronounced as “kim-moh-keh-yah”
Also a Hawaiian version of the Greek name “Timothy”

Ku’u Hoaloha ‘Oi

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “best friend”
Pronounced as “koo-oo-ho-wah-low-hah-oo-wee”

Ku’u Maka

Hawaiian unisex name that means “apple of my eye”
Pronounced as “koo-oo-mah-kah”

Lahahana

Hawaiian boy name meaning “warmth of the sun”
Pronounced as “lah-hah-hah-nah”

Malulani

Hawaiian boy name that means “protected by heaven”
Pronounced as “mah-loo-lah-nee”

Short Hawaiian Boy Names

Ahe

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “soft,” “gentle breeze,” or “softly blowing breeze”
Pronounced as “AH-eh”

Hilo

Hawaiian boy name meaning “the first night after a new moon”
Pronounced as “hee-loh”

Kana

Hawaiian boy name meaning “rope”
After the heroic demigod who journeyed to the underworld to get the sun back and restore it for his people
Pronounced as “kah-nah”
Also a Japanese boy name meaning “powerful”

Kika

Hawaiian boy name meaning “strong,” “energetic,” or “battle place”
Pronounced as “kee-kah”

Koho

Hawaiian boy name meaning “choice”
Pronounced as “KOH-ho”

Koi

Hawaiian boy name meaning “urge” or “implore”
Pronounced as “KOH-wee” or “koy”

Ku

Hawaiian boy name meaning “the earth” or “stand”
Pronounced as “kh-OO”

Liko

Hawaiian boy name meaning “bud”
Pronounced as “lee-koh”

Maka

Hawaiian boy name meaning “favorite one”
Pronounced as “mah-kah”

Malo

Hawaiian boy name meaning “winner”
Pronounced as “mah-loh”

Malu

Hawaiian boy name meaning “umbrella”
Umbrellas are believed to be a symbol of wealth and status, particularly in Asia
Pronounced as “MAH-loo”

Mao

Hawaiian boy name meaning “over there”
Also a flower name after several species of Hibiscus (a tropical flower)
Pronounced as “MAH-oh”

Unisex & Nonbinary Hawaiian Baby Names

Traditional Hawaiian Baby Names For All Genders

Akamai (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Smart” or “clever”; pronounced as “ah-kah-mie”

Eleu (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Alert” or “lively”; pronounced as “eh-leh-yoo”

Kaulanne (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Famous”; pronounced as “KAA-uw-laen”

Kealoha (Hawaiian unisex name) – “The loved one”; pronounced as “KEL-oh-aa”

Gender-Neutral Hawaiian Baby Names With Beautiful Meanings

Akela (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Happy,” “contented,” or “noble”; pronounced as “ah-keh-lah”

Ali’ikai (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Queen or king of the sea”; pronounced as “ah-lee-ee-kie”

Hau’oli (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Happiness”; pronounced as “HH-uw-OW-lee”

Ka Hiwa (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Sacred vine”; pronounced as “kah-hee-wah”

Kaimana (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Powerful sea” or “power of the ocean”; pronounced as “kie-MA-na,” and combines “Kai” (sea) with “Mana” (power)

Keilani (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Glorious chief”; pronounced as “kay-lah-nee”

Pono (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Harmony” or “balance”; pronounced as “POH-no”

Gender-Neutral Hawaiian Middle Names

Healani (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Haze from the heavens” or “heavenly mist”; pronounced as “heh-yah-lah-nee”

Hiapo (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Firstborn”; pronounced as “hee-yah-poh”

Kamea (Hawaiian unisex name) – “The one and only”; pronounced as “kah-meh-yah”

Kanoa (Polynesian and Hawaiian unisex name) – “The free one”; pronounced as “kuh-NOH-ah”

Lulua ‘ina (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Freckles”; pronounced as “lool-wah-eeh-nah”

Polunu (Hawaiian unisex name) – “Chubby”; pronounced as “poh-loo-noo”

Hawaiian Boy Names From A To Z

Hawaiian Boy Names Starting With A

A’ala

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “fragrant”
Pronounced as “ah-ah-lah”

Akahi

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “for the first time”
Pronounced as “ah-kah-hee”

Alelo

Hawaiian boy name that means “language or tongue”
Pronounced as “ah-LEH-low”
Also means the tip of a canoe paddle (it cuts through the water, propelling the boat forward)

Alo

Hawaiian boy name meaning “the face”
Pronounced as “ah-loh”

Aloiki

Hawaiian boy name meaning “renowned war”
Pronounced as “ah-loy-kee”

Ano

Hawaiian boy name meaning “awe and reverence”
Pronounced as “ah-noh”

Aolani

Hawaiian boy name meaning “heavenly cloud”
Pronounced as “aw-lah-nee”

Apela

Hawaiian boy name that means “old”
Pronounced as “ah-peh-lah”

Hawaiian Boy Names Starting With B

Bane

Hawaiian boy name that means “long-awaited child”
Pronounced as “bah-neh”
Also a Slavic and English name meaning “glorious defender”

Barabas

Hawaiian and Hebrew boy name meaning “son of the teacher”
Pronounced as “bah-rah-bas”

Hawaiian Boy Names Starting With E

Elta

Hawaiian boy name that means “the Lord is my God”
Pronounced as “eh-t-UH”

Etana

Hawaiian boy name meaning “dedication,” strength,” or “long-lived”
Variant of the biblical name “Ethan”
Pronounced as “ih-t-aa-NAH”

Eusebio

Hawaiian boy name meaning “devout” or “worships well”
Pronounced as “ew-say-be-oh”

Hawaiian Boy Names Starting With H

Hae

Hawaiian boy name meaning “wild”
Pronounced as “HEY”

Hailama

Polynesian and Hawaiian boy name meaning “exalted brother” or “high-born (noble)”
Variant of the Hebrew name “Hiram”
Pronounced as “hi-lah-mah”

Haleigha

Hawaiian boy name meaning “house of the rising sun” or “born in the house of the rising Sun”
Pronounced as “Hae-lee-uh”

Hali’a

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “remembrance of a loved one”
Pronounced as “hah-lee-ah”

Hānai

Hawaiian boy name meaning “adoption,” referring to the old tradition of the paternal grandparents have an “indisputable claim” on the first-born baby boy, while the maternal grandparents claim the first-born girl
Pronounced as “HA-nah-ee”

Hanale

Polynesian and Hawaiian boy name meaning “lord of the manor”
Variant of the German name “Henry”
Pronounced as “HA-nah-leh”

Haoa

Hawaiian boy name meaning “hot as the sun” or “heavenly water”
Pronounced as “HH-oh-wah”
Hawaiian version of the English name “Howard,” which means “bodyguard” or “the chief”

Hauoli

Hawaiian boy name meaning “happiness”
Pronounced as “ha-woo-oh-lee”

Havika

Hawaiian boy name that means “beloved”
Pronounced as “hah-vee-kah”

Hawani

Hawaiian boy name meaning “the Hawaiian people”
Pronounced as “ha-WAH-nee”

Hema

Hawaiian boy name that means “south”
Pronounced as “heh-mah”

Ho’ola’

Hawaiian boy name that means “to be still or quiet”
Pronounced as “HO-oh-LA-ee”

Huaka’i

Hawaiian boy name meaning “journey or path taken”
Pronounced as “HH-uw-AH-Kaa-ee”

Hawaiian Boy Names Starting With I

Iki

Hawaiian boy name that means “small”
Pronounced as “ee-kee”

Ino

Hawaiian boy name that means “storm”
Pronounced as “ee-NOH”

Inoa

Hawaiian unisex name that means “namesake”
Pronounced as “ee-noh-wa”

Hawaiian Boy Names Starting With K

Ka’eo

Hawaiian boy name that means “strong and zealous”
Pronounced as “kah-eh-yoh”

Kahale

Hawaiian boy name meaning “home” or “house”
Pronounced as “kah-hah-leh”

Kahinu

Hawaiian boy name meaning “to anoint”
Pronounced as “KA-hee-noo”

Kaila

Hawaiian boy name meaning “the laurel crown”
Pronounced as “kie-lah”

Kainoa

Hawaiian boy name meaning “place” or “a father’s namesake”
Pronounced as “kie-noh-wah”

Kalākaua

Hawaiian boy name that means “the day of battle”
Pronounced as “kah-lah-kow-wah”

Kamaile

Hawaiian boy name meaning “vein of a lei” (refers to the string holding the wreath of flowers together)
Pronounced as “KAH-MAH-lay”

Kanakamana

Hawaiian boy name that means “powerful man”
Pronounced as “kah-nah-kah-mah-nah”

Kanuha

Hawaiian boy name meaning “the sulky one”
Pronounced as “kah-noo-haa”

Kanye

Hawaiian boy name meaning “freedom”
Pronounced as “KAHN-yay”

Kapano

Hawaiian unisex name meaning righteous
Pronounced as “kah-pah-noh”

Kaua

Hawaiian boy name meaning “you and me”
Pronounced as “cow-wa”
Also a Portuguese name meaning “sensitive”

Keala

Hawaiian boy name that means “the path” as a combination of “ke” (the) and “ala” (path)
Also means “the esteemed one” (because “ala” can mean “esteemed person,” too)
Pronounced as “KEE-ah-lah”

Kekapa

Hawaiian boy name that means “the cloth”
Pronounced as “keh-kah-pah”

Kukane

Hawaiian boy name meaning “like a man”
Pronounced as “koo-kah-neh”
Also a unique name for your little one

Hawaiian Boy Names Starting With L

Lanakila

Hawaiian boy name meaning “victory”
Pronounced as “lah-nah-kee-lah”

Leialoha

Hawaiian boy name meaning “beloved child”
Pronounced as “leh-yah-loh-hah”

Leilani

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “royal child,” “heavenly child,” or “heavenly flowers”
Pronounced as “lay-lah-nee”

Lolana

Hawaiian boy name meaning “to soar”
Pronounced as “low-lah-nah”

Luano

Hawaiian boy name that means “enjoyment”
Pronounced as “loo-wah-noh”

Hawaiian Boy Names Starting With M

Mahana

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “be warm”
Pronounced as “MAH-ha-NAH”
Also Japanese boy name that means “companion” or “ friend” and an Assyrian name that means sun (sunlight)

Māhoe

Hawaiian boy name that means “twin”
Pronounced as “ma-ho-wee”

Maika’i

Hawaiian boy name meaning “good health”
Pronounced as “my-KAH-ee”

Maka’ala

Hawaiian boy name that means “watchful,” “vigilant,” or “alert”
Pronounced as “MAH-kah-aa-la”

Makai

Hawaiian boy name that means “toward the sea”
Pronounced as “muh-kahy”

Makanui

Hawaiian boy name meaning “the eye of greatness”
Pronounced as “mah-kah-noo-wee”

Mālama

Hawaiian boy name that means “take care”
After the Hawaiian word popularly used in chants asking blessings and protection from the gods
Pronounced as “MAH-la-MAH”

Malana

Hawaiian boy name that means “to float”
Pronounced as “MAH-la-NAH”

Maleko

Also a version of the Latin and Roman name “Mark,” which also has links to Mars, the Roman god of war
Pronounced as “MAL-ko”

Mamalu

Hawaiian boy name that means “honor”
Pronounced as “mah-mah-loo”

Manuahi

Hawaiian boy name that means “free of charge”
Pronounced as “MAH-nu-aa-hee”

Mau Loa

Hawaiian boy name meaning “forever” or “eternal”
Pronounced as “MOW-low-uh”

Meka

Hawaiian boy name meaning “beloved one” or “eyes”
Pronounced as “meh-kah”

Mililani

Hawaiian boy name that means “heavenly caress” or “to praise”
Pronounced as “mee-lee-lah-nee”

Hawaiian Boy Names Starting with N

Na Ao Lani

Hawaiian boy name meaning “floating clouds”
Pronounced as “NAH-OW-LAH-nee”

Nahoa

Hawaiian boy name meaning “defiant”
Pronounced as “nah-ho-wah”

Nainoa

Hawaiian boy name meaning “the one who guards small children” or “protector of children”
Commonly chosen for the family’s first baby
Pronounced as “NEY-AH-Now-AH”

Nākoa

Hawaiian boy name meaning “warriors” or “fighters”
Pronounced as “nah-kow-wah”

Nālani

Hawaiian boy name that means “the chiefs” or “the heavens”
Pronounced as “nah-LAH-nee”

Nalu

Hawaiian boy name that means “wave” or “surf”
Pronounced as “nah-loo”

Noelani

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “mist of heaven” or “blessed and beautiful flower”
Pronounced as “NOH-lah-nee”

Nohea

Hawaiian unisex name that means “lovely,” “beautiful,” or “handsome”
Pronounced as “now-HEH-aa”

Hawaiian Boy Names Starting With O

‘Olina

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “joyful”
Pronounced as “oh-lee-nah”

Ohana

Hawaiian boy name meaning “family”
Pronounced as “oh-hah-nah”

Oke

Polynesian and Hawaiian boy name meaning “deer lover”
Also a variant of the Gaelic boy name “Oscar”
Pronounced as “oh-keh”

Olakino

Hawaiian boy name that means “well-being” or “life and health”
Pronounced as “oh-LAH-kee-noh”

Olaola

Hawaiian boy name meaning “life”
Pronounced as “OH-lah-Oh-lah”
Also an African boy name meaning “exalted”

Oli’ Oli’

Hawaiian boy name that means “to chant”
Pronounced as “oh-LEE oh-LEE”

Hawaiian Boy Names Starting With P

Palakiko

Polynesian and Hawaiian boy name that means “free man”
Variant of the Latin boy name “Francis”
Pronounced as “pah-lah-kee-koh”

Paulo

Hawaiian boy name that means “little”
Pronounced as “pow-loh”

Pekelo

Hawaiian boy name meaning “stone”
Pronounced as “peh-kel-loh”

Peneki

Polynesian and Hawaiian boy name that means “blessed”
Variant of the Latin boy name “Bennett”
Pronounced as “peh-neh-kee”

Peni

Hawaiian baby boy name meaning “son”
A variant of the Hebrew name “Ben”
Pronounced as “PEN-ee”

Peniamina

Polynesian and Hawaiian boy name
A variant of the Hebrew boy name “Benjamin”
Pronounced as “pen-yah-mee-nah”

Pilialoha

Hawaiian unisex name that means “beloved,” “a bond of love,” or “close friend”
Pronounced as “Pih-LEE-aa-low-ha”

Pomoaika’i

Hawaiian boy name meaning “good fortune”
Pronounced as “poh-MOH-my-KAH-ee”

Punahele

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “favorite”
Pronounced as “poo-nah-heh-leh”

Hawaiian Boy Names Starting With U

Ualoheke Akua

Hawaiian unisex name that means “God has listened”
Pronounced as “oo-wah-loh-heh-keh-ah-koo-wah”

Uhane

Hawaiian boy name that means “soul”
Pronounced as “OO-ha-NAY”
Also a soul ghost or spirit in Hawaiian mythology

Uʻilani

Hawaiian unisex name meaning “heavenly beauty” or “royal beauty”
Pronounced as “oo-ee-LA-nee”

Uli

Hawaiian boy name that means “blue or dark color”
Pronounced as “oo-lee”

Ululani

Hawaiian boy name meaning heavenly inspiration
Pronounced as “oo-loo-lah-nee”

Ulupalakua

Hawaiian boy name that means “ripened fruit”
Pronounced as “oo-loo-PAH-lah-KOO-ah”

Uluwehi

Hawaiian boy name meaning “lush plants”
Pronounced as “oo-loo-weh-hee”

Hawaiian Boy Names Starting With W

Waiho’olu’u

Hawaiian boy name that means “colorful”
Pronounced as “why-uu-OH-uu-loo-uh”

Wakea

Hawaiian boy name that means “heavens” or “expansive space”
Pronounced as “wah-keh-yah”
After the Sky Father in Hawaiian mythology who created the Hawaiian islands together with Papahānaumoku (the earth mother)

Wehilani

Hawaiian boy name that means “adornment from heaven” or “gift from God”
Pronounced as “WEH-hee-LA-nee”

Wilama

Polynesian and Hawaiian boy name that means “resolute protector”
Variant of the German boy name “William”
Pronounced as “wee-lah-mah”

Wilepeki

Hawaiian boy name meaning “bright will”
Variant of the German boy name “Wilbert”
Pronounced as “wee-leh-peh-kee”

Bonus: Popular Hawaiian Baby Girl Names

Aloha (Hawaiian girl name) – “Love” or “compassion; pronounced as “ah-low-hah”
Kalena (Hawaiian girl name) – “Radiate”; pronounced as “kah-leh-nah”
Leimomi (Hawaiian girl name) – “Pearl flowers”; pronounced as “lay-moh-mee”
Lokelani (Hawaiian girl name) – “Small red rose”; pronounced as “loh-kay-lah-nee”
Mahina (Hawaiian girl name) – Name that means “moon”; pronounced as “mah-hee-nah”
Roselani (Hawaiian girl name) – “Red rose”; pronounced as “roh-seh-lah-nee”

Some Things To Consider When Choosing Hawaiian Boy Names

Traditions: How Babies Are Named In Hawaii

Many Hawaiian names have links with nature, especially the seas and oceans.

High value is also placed on the baby’s ancestry so that many names are repeated from one generation to another. Some names are also chosen based on the dream of a parent or family member. (1)

Other names are chosen based on personality traits the family hopes the baby will have when they grow up. Sometimes, baby names are picked to commemorate an important event. (1)

Spelling Considerations

Many Hawaiian names are traditionally spelled with an apostrophe, but they actually have the same meanings as names that don’t have any.

The apostrophe is simply a signal that the next letter is spoken as its phonetic sound.

For example, “Alaka’i” can be spelled as “Alakai.” The apostrophe before “i” signifies that the name is pronounced as “ah-lah-kah-ee” instead of “ah-lah-kie.” However, both spellings and pronunciations are widely accepted.