08/08/2026
Going to Hawaii's - Visual Planning Guide:
29 Hawaiian Phrases Every Visitor Should Know!
Planning a trip to Hawaii?
Learning a few Hawaiian words and phrases can help you better appreciate the islands, connect with local culture, and show respect for the people who call Hawaii home.
Here are 29 Hawaiian phrases every visitor should know:
Aloha – Hello, goodbye, love, and affection.
Mahalo – Thank you.
Mahalo Nui Loa – Thank you very much.
E Komo Mai – Welcome.
A Hui Hou – Until we meet again.
Aloha Kakahiaka – Good morning.
Aloha ʻAuinalā – Good afternoon.
Aloha Ahiahi – Good evening.
Aloha Pō – Good night.
Pehea ʻOe? – How are you?
Maikaʻi – Good, fine.
ʻAe – Yes.
ʻAʻole – No.
ʻOhana – Family.
Keiki – Child.
Kane – Man.
Wahine – Woman.
Kōkua – Help, assistance.
Kamaʻāina – Local resident.
Malihini – Visitor or newcomer.
Ono – Delicious.
Pau Hana – Finished work; time to relax.
Pupu – Appetizer or snack.
Lanai – Covered outdoor patio or porch.
Makai – Toward the ocean.
Mauka – Toward the mountains.
Honu – Hawaiian green sea turtle.
Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa – Hawaii's state fish.
Hana Hou! – One more time! Encore!
A few of these phrases can go a long way. Visitors are never expected to speak Hawaiian fluently, but making an effort to learn and use a few words is often appreciated.
One of the most important words to remember is Aloha. While commonly used as a greeting, it also represents kindness, compassion, respect, and the spirit of Hawaii itself.
Save this guide for your next trip and see how many of these Hawaiian phrases you can use during your visit.
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