Hawaiian baby names are becoming more widely used in the US in recent years, especially for girls. Names ending in -lani are particularly popular, thanks to the resurgence of the name Leilani. It's even inspired parents to create pseudo-Hawaiian names for their daughters, such as Jenni "JWOWW" Farley did for her daughter Meilani.
 
As the world gets smaller, parents in the mainland US and beyond become more familiar with Hawaiian names. Two important influences: the presidency of Barack Obama, who was born and raised in Hawaii and whose oldest daughter Malia bore a Hawaiian name, and the Disney animated film Moana.
 
Along with Leilani and Malia, other Hawaiian names in the US Top 1000 include Kehlani, Alani, Kailani, Kaia, Nalani, Koa, Kai, and Keanu. Hawaiian names that are uniquely popular in Hawaii itself include Kalea, Makena, and Mahina for girls, and Kaimana and Nakoa for boys.
 
Hawaiian names are known for their rhythmicity, significant meanings, and evocative beauty. If you're looking for a Hawaiian name for your baby, consider these choices for both girls and boys.
 
<h2>Hawaiian Names for Babies</h2>

Hawaiian Names

A Hawaiian option for a winter-born daughter. Derived from the elements hau, meaning "snow," and kea, "white."

Haukea

Iakopa

Iekika is a feminine name with Hawaiian origins, where names often carry deep cultural meanings related to nature, qualities, or family history. In Hawaiian naming traditions, each syllable typically has significance, and the melodic quality of names reflects the flowing nature of the Hawaiian language. Though relatively uncommon even in Hawaii, Iekika represents the beautiful tradition of Hawaiian names that has gained appreciation beyond the islands. The name's exotic quality and vowel-rich composition give it a distinctive sound that stands out in multicultural environments. Hawaiian names like Iekika have seen increased interest as parents seek names with cultural depth and unique sounds. For those with Hawaiian heritage or connections to Polynesian culture, Iekika offers an authentic name choice that honors indigenous naming traditions while being melodically appealing.

Iekika

Ikaia is a masculine name with Polynesian origins, particularly connected to Hawaiian naming traditions. In Hawaiian contexts, it may relate to 'kai' meaning 'sea' or 'ocean,' suggesting connections to water, vastness, and the natural world. The name carries the rhythmic, open-vowel quality characteristic of Polynesian names. Ikaia remains relatively uncommon globally but has seen some increased usage as interest in Hawaiian and Pacific Islander names has grown in recent decades. Parents might choose this name seeking a connection to Polynesian culture or to express appreciation for its natural associations and melodic sound. The name projects a sense of strength and natural harmony while offering distinctiveness in most naming environments outside the Pacific Islands.

Ikaia

The strong sounds in this energetic Hawaiian name mirror its meaning.

Ikaika

Inoa is an evocative choice from the South Seas. 

Inoa

Ioane is a masculine name that represents the Samoan, Māori, and broader Polynesian form of John. Derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning 'God is gracious,' Ioane carries the same spiritual significance while reflecting Pacific linguistic patterns. The name is relatively common in Samoa, New Zealand among Māori communities, and other Pacific Island nations. Pronounced ee-oh-AH-neh, the name has a flowing, melodic quality characteristic of Polynesian languages. Ioane represents cultural heritage and connection to both Christian tradition and Pacific identity. Outside Polynesian communities, the name is uncommon, offering a distinctive choice that honors Pacific cultural traditions while connecting to the universally recognized John. Its vowel-rich sound pattern gives it a gentle yet masculine quality.

Ioane

Iokepa is a masculine Hawaiian name that is the Hawaiian form of Joseph, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'God will increase.' The name reflects Hawaii's unique linguistic traditions and cultural heritage, demonstrating how Biblical names were adapted into the Hawaiian language following European contact. Pronounced 'yo-KEH-pa,' it features the melodic vowel patterns characteristic of Hawaiian names. Iokepa remains primarily used within Hawaiian families and communities, representing cultural pride and connection to heritage. For Hawaiian families, choosing this name often reflects a desire to honor both ancestral traditions and family connections while celebrating the distinct cultural identity of Hawaii.

Iokepa

Iolana is a hip-swaying, melodic, and unusual choice. Similar Hawaiian bird-themed choice: Iolani.

Iolana

A feminissima version of a super-serious name. 

Hariata

Hawaiian Baby Names, girl wearing flower lei and hula skirt

Hawaiian Baby Names

Hawaiian girl names and Hawaiian boy names with meanings and popularity, including Kailani, Mahina, Keanu, and Nakoa, with meanings, origins, and popularity (Page 6)