Hawaiian Names

One of the Hawaiian names being discovered by stylish parents, especially Californians.

Paulo suffers in comparison to the richer and more authentic-sounding Paolo.

As a Maori name, Kaui is a feminized form of Kauri, a type of native tree.

Edi is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Albanian, it's a short form of names containing the element 'ed' meaning 'wealth' or 'prosperity.' In Hebrew contexts, it may be a diminutive of Edith, meaning 'blessed warfare' or 'rich gift.' As a Finnish name, it can be a variation of Edith or a standalone name. Edi has a modern, minimalist appeal that works well internationally due to its brevity and easy pronunciation across languages. The name carries a bright, friendly character with its short, open-vowel ending. While not widely popular in English-speaking countries, Edi enjoys some usage in Eastern European countries and among families seeking concise, gender-neutral leaning names with cross-cultural accessibility.

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.

This lovely and lilting Hawaiian name is among our favorite girl names beginning with U.

Evocative of hulas, leis, and luaus.

There are so many variations of this name in circulation, it makes it hard for any of them to feel as special as they might.

A possible long form to get to the hip nickname Kai.

Kakalina may have a sound that invites ridicule, but it's the Hawaiian form of Katherine.

Leinani was a popular girl name in Hawaii during the first half of the 20th century. Today it could make a good update to Leilani.

A lovely Hawaiian boy's name with a bold meaning — and a beautiful one to bestow upon a son. While the letters are all there for the trendy nickname Kai, this name is pronounced "ah-lah-kah ee", with a break between the last two syllables.

Ewalina is a feminine name that appears to be a variant of Evelina or Ewelina, which derive from the Germanic name elements 'avi' (desired, wished for) or the French 'aveline' (hazelnut). The name has particular usage in Polish culture, where Ewelina is more common. Ewalina has a gentle, flowing quality with its four syllables and soft consonants. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, it represents a distinctive alternative to more common names like Eva, Eve, or Evelyn. The name carries a delicate, elegant impression that crosses cultural boundaries while maintaining its Eastern European roots. Parents might choose Ewalina for its uniqueness while still having recognizable elements similar to more familiar names.

Once a common girl name in Hawaii, today Leialoha is virtually unheard of.

An intriguing Hawaiian boy's name much more distinct and unique than Kai or Koa.

A lively but melodic name of Hawaiian origin, Liko'ula was recently chosen by former MMA fighter and actress Ronda Rousey and her husband Travis Browne. The name possibly combines liko meaning "bud or newly opened leaf" with 'ula meaning "red".

The Hawaiian version of ultra-classic Adam could make a cool choice for parents seeking something that feels fresh but still has roots in tradition. It also means "to blush" in Japanese.

One of the many Hawaiian versions of biblical names to come out of King Kamehamaha IV's 1860 edict requiring his citizens to adopt Western-style names.

This lovely Hawaiian name may need some additional support for spelling and pronunciation.

Unisex Hawaiian name with great potential on the mainland.