73 Hawaiian Baby Boy Names From Sunny Islands

Ride the tropical waves of inspiration with these unique and vibrant monikers.

Written by Kavita Kankani, MBA, BEd Specialty: Child education & activitiesExperience: 7 years

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Last Updated on Nov 13, 2024

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Hawaiian baby boy names reflect the island's scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. These names are deeply rooted in Hawaiian traditions, elegantly reflecting the cross-generational bonds they hold. North American and East Asian cultures strongly influence Hawaiian culture. Indigenous Hawaiian tribes also played a prominent role in shaping the Hawaiian naming system. Generally, Hawaiian baby names draw inspiration from Hawaiian landscapes. Hence, they are often connected to the island's beaches, white sand, flora, and fauna. However, Hawaiian names can also be given to remember ancestors, historical events, and stories (moʻolelo) (1). The naming ritual is one of the most important ceremonies in Hawaiian culture. Ancestral Hawaiians believed overtly meaningful names attracted negative forces. Also, they believed that names could shape one's destiny. Hence, careful selection of names is given utmost importance in the culture. Genuine Hawaiian names defy gender norms, often carrying explicit connotations and occasionally exclusive emblems tied to a lineage. These names encapsulate individual life narratives, bearing profound importance. When articulated in Hawaiian, the significance resonates with speakers, the language itself conveying the weight to listeners. In Hawaiian tradition, three name types show the link between people and the spirit world: night-dream names (inoa pō), sign names (inoa hō‘ailona), and voice names (inoa 'ūlāleo). Night-dream names come from a relative's dream, whereas Sign names arise when a family member sees special signs like cloud shapes or bird flights, revealing a name. Voice names come from mystical voices heard in the wind. Bestowing these names to a child is believed to be the way to connect to the higher cosmic order (2). If Hawaiian naming practices allure you, we have compiled a list of Hawaiian baby boy names that are stylish and one-of-a-kind. Scroll down and explore to find charming monikers as vibrant as Hawaiian culture.

Name	Gender	Meaning
Luke	Boy	Bringer of light; From Lucania; Light
Makai	Boy	Who is like God; Ocean
Koa	Boy	Warrior; Koa tree
Keoni	Boy	God is gracious
Keyon	Boy	Homeland; To construct; Respect; Strong; God is gracious
Makoa	Boy	Fearless; Courageous; Aggressive
Alakai	Unisex	The leader
Armoni	Unisex	Of the palace; Palatial
Kekoa	Boy	The warrior; Koa tree
Keion	Boy	Lion; Of Zeus; The homeland; To construct; Strong; Respect

Bane	Boy	Ban; Bear; Cause of distress; Long-awaited child
Kyon	Boy	Dog; The homeland
Nakoa	Unisex	Warrior; Brave
Kanai	Boy	Warrior; Gold; Metal; Money; Fanatic
Maui	Boy	Name of a demigod; Trickster god
Lui	Boy	Light; From Lucania; Famous warrior; Thunder
Alekai	Unisex	Leader
Kaikoa	Unisex	Sea warrior or fighter
Aiken	Boy	Oaken; Keeper of horses; Earth; Sturdy; Hardy; Little Adam; Little fire
Keimoni	Boy	The ocean of uniqueness or knowledge

Kalino	Boy	The brilliant one
Kawika	Boy	Beloved
Nainoa	Boy	The namesakes
Palani	Boy	Free man
Kimo	Boy	Holder of the heel; A supplanter
Akoni	Boy	Valuable; Inestimable
Kaikane	Boy	Strong Sea
Aukai	Unisex	Seafarer
Keola	Boy	The life
Kekai	Unisex	The sea

Analu	Boy	Man; Manly; Masculine
Caleo	Unisex	The sound; The voice
Hilo	Boy	Spin; Twist; Braid
Kianu	Unisex	Cool breeze over the mountains
Keaka	Boy	Yahweh is gracious; Holder of the heel; Man
Keano	Unisex	The cool breeze
Liko	Boy	Bud
Kaua	Boy	Sensitive; One who is sensitive by nature
Nalu	Unisex	Wave; Surf
Ake	Boy	Helper; Defender; Bright; Pure; Holy; Genuine

Kalia	Boy	Flower wreath; Waited for; Beloved; One who is blackish; Beautiful
Kaliya	Boy	Joy; Happiness; People's victory; Pure; Rejoice; A huge black serpent
Mele	Boy	Song; Wished for child; Sea of bitterness; Rebelliousness
Akamai	Girl	Clever; Intelligent
Akamu	Boy	Man; To be red; To make
Elta	Boy	The lord is my God
Haleigha	Boy	House of the Rising Sun
Haulani	Boy	Royal ruler; Heavenly ice
Hikialani	Boy	Looking up at heaven
Kahawai	Boy	River

Kahikilani	Boy	Arrival of the chief
Kahikina	Boy	East; Arrival
Kaimee	Boy	Seeker
Kaleo	Unisex	Sound; Voice
Kanuha	Boy	The sulky one
Kapono	Unisex	The good one
Kawikani	Boy	The one who is strong
Kealamauloa	Boy	The eternal path or the path of eternity
Kellii	Boy	Chief
Kepakiano	Boy	God's gift

Konala	Boy	World ruler
Konane	Boy	Konane means Light
Kualii	Boy	Kualii means A Famous Chief
Kukane	Boy	Means Like a Man
Lahahana	Boy	Warmth of the sun
Makaio	Unisex	Gift of God
Moke	Boy	Son; Deliver; Drew out; Born of
Onaona	Boy	The one with a pleasing fragrance
Pekelo	Boy	Name for a stone or a rock
Tehan	Boy	Darling

Kaelo	Boy	The sound; The voice
Dalinar	Boy	Strength; Warrior; Noble
Boiken	Boy	Strong; Brave; Resolute

Hawaiian baby boy names blend tradition and meaning for parents seeking unique names. These names embody the islands' vibrant spirit and deep meanings. Whether rooted in nature, history, or familial heritage, these names reflect the beauty and depth of Hawaiian history and culture. The compilation of names presented above provides a glimpse into this captivating world, guiding parents in selecting a meaningful name that resonates with Hawaiian traditions. So pick a name that fits your child's identity as a gem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Hawaiian boy name means gift from God?

Among the unique names for boys in Hawaii, Makana is a unisex name that means ‘gift’ or ‘gift from God,’ Keona means ‘God’s gracious gift,’ and Ionakana implies ‘a gift from God.’ These are beautiful choices for boys.

2. Which Hawaiian boy names mean sky?

Kalon is a popular Hawaiian name for boys that means ‘the sky’ and has drawn inspiration from the God of the Sky and his characteristics. Additionally, Aouli is another traditional name that has Hawaiian roots and means ‘the limitless blue sky.’

3. Which Hawaiian boy name means love?

In the Hawaiian language, Aloha means ‘love.’ Therefore, any name that contains the word aloha symbolizes love. For example, Kealoha is a unisex name that means ‘the loved one,’ where ke denotes a definite article. Pilialoha is another traditional Hawaiian name that means ‘beloved’ or ‘a bond of love.’

4. What is the meaning of the name "Kai" in Hawaiian?

Kai in Hawaiian is a unisex name that means ‘sea.’ Some other Hawaiian names that mean sea are Kaiholo (running current), Kaiko (sea with strong current), and Kaikane (strong sea).

5. What are some Hawaiian baby boy names that are easy to pronounce?

Names like Kai meaning ‘sea’ (k-eye), Koa means ‘warrior’ (koh-ah), Nalu means ‘wave’ (nah-loo), Liko means ‘bud’ (lee-koh), Makaio means ‘gift of Yahweh’ (mah-kah-ee-oh), and Nainoa means ‘the namesakes’ (nah-ee-noh-ah) are easy to pronounce. However, keep in mind that pronunciation can vary, and it's always a good idea to consult with a native Hawaiian speaker to ensure accurate pronunciation.

6. What are some Hawaiian baby boy names with historical significance?

Hawaii has a rich history and culture, among which Kamehameha is a name that symbolizes ‘the quiet one.’ It was the name of the legendary founder and first King of Hawaii and was referred to as Kamehameha the Great by the local people (3). Kaheliki is another name for boys in Hawaiian culture that implies ‘the thunder’ and was the name of the 13th and 25th Chiefs or Mōʻī of the Māui people of Hawaii.

7. What are some Hawaiian baby boy names that are suitable for twins?

Some Hawaiian names that could be suitable for twins are Alo means ‘the face’ and Aloiki means ‘renowned war’, Mamo means ‘yellow bird’ and Manu means ‘bird’, Kai means ‘sea’ and Kainalu means ‘surf’, and Oliwa means ‘olive tree’ and Onaona means ‘sweet fragrance.’ It's always a good idea to research the meanings and cultural significance of the names you are considering to ensure they align with your intentions.

Infographic: Joyful Hawaiian Baby Boy Names

The islands of Hawaii are known for their verdant beauty and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The region is a picture-perfect confluence of flora and fauna, with natural beauty at its finest. If this sublime charm of Hawaii is what you are fond of, you may consider a Hawaiian name for your son. The following infographic presents some of the best Hawaiian baby boy names for you to explore.

hearty and joyous hawaiian baby boy names (infographic)

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.

Native Hawaiian Cultural Heritage.
https://www.papahanaumokuakea.gov/heritage/kapainoa.html
Hawaiian Naming Traditions: A Cultural Legacy
http://www.bigislandtalkstory.org/talk-stories/hawaiian-naming-traditions-a-cultural-legacy-ke-ola-magazine-sept-oct-20209945271
Kamehameha the Great.
https://www.nps.gov/puhe/learn/historyculture/kamehameha.ht

Look Up For Many More Names

Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.