It is always easier to travel when you can communicate with the locals. Though the predominant language in Hawaii is English, there are a number of languages spoken throughout the islands, including Hawaiian, Tagalog, Japanese, Pidgin, and Ilocano. The most commonly used words come from Hawaiian and English, and locals fluently transpose the two languages together, working in slang terms in with Pidgin and English to create a language that is truly unique to Hawaii. Learning the Hawaiian language is no easy task, and if you are able to take in a conversation or story using the native tongue, you will understand how incredibly beautiful the language is.
Knowing just a handful of key terms and phrases will help you out during your trip, and might score you some inside knowledge from a local. The most common words and phrases are used by all and if you master how to use them, you will have a much easier time conversing with others.
Common Hawaiian words and phrases that you can use during your trip:
Aloha – Aloha is the most important word to know. It means hello, but is used interchangeably with many other words like love, caring, kindness, and the Aloha Spirit.
Mahalo – Do not be shy with your mahalos, Meaning “thank you”, throwing this around will get you a lot of respect.
Da Kine – Hawaiians love Da Kine because it can mean anything. Mostly, it is used when a word is forgotten or you can't think of it. In English, you might use “thingamajig” or “what's it called”, but in Hawaii, it’s Da Kine all the way.
Imu – The underground oven where the pig is cooked at a luau.
Ohana – Ohana is everything, and it means family. Hawaiian families are close knit and often big groups, so if you see a large gathering at a beach park, it is likely a family get together. And many extended families include friends, because friends are Ohana.
Lanai – on the Mainland, this is called a balcony or porch. Your hotel will have a great view from the lanai.
Keiki – child.
Pau – done or finished. Be on the lookout for Pau Hana (“Happy Hour”; done with work) deals.
Honu – When you are snorkeling, keep a lookout for the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle, or Honu. These are sacred creatures in Hawaii and should be treated with reverence and never touched. Just watch them and enjoy their presence.
Kokua – help, or provide assistance. It is always appropriate to kokua when someone is in need.
Lei – necklace of flowers. Pick up a lei upon your arrival to the islands.
Ono – good, delicious, or tasty. If you are enjoying your meal, be sure to tell your server or the chef that the food was so ono.
Start practicing your Hawaiian words now, and by the time your trip rolls around, you’ll be semi-fluent in key terms and will have no trouble communicating with the locals.
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Hawaii tours and activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.
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