Expectant parents have been known to choose a baby name based on their travels, and one destination they'll want to circle on the map is Hawaii. Known for its majestic sunsets and diverse culture, Hawaii — or the "Aloha State," as it is also called — is a source of everlasting wanderlust and unforgettable baby names. These names represent the ocean, sea, and the stars, and we can't get enough of them!
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A baby name from a lovely location can make it extra special. And if that name is in a foreign language? Even better. Hawaiian baby boy names are perfect for a future surfer, swimmer, or person who likes to spend his days in the sun. With the help of our friends from BabyNameWizard, we found the best Hawaiian baby boy names that we can't get enough of. Take a journey with us as we (virtually) whisk away to Hawaii and soak in these enchanting baby names for boys. It just might inspire some parents to take a little trip someday!
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Seriously, these are too beautiful and unique to pass up. Read on to see which great names made our list, and let us know which ones we should add!
HILO
The name Hilo is steeped in Hawaiian history and geography. As well as the term for the first night of the new moon, it’s also the name for the largest town on the island of Hawaii. History buffs will also appreciate that it was one of the first places Polynesians landed when they came to the islands.
KAYL
Though some variation of the name Kayl exists in a number of different languages, in Hawaiian, the name means "free man." It's a simple, direct name, and one that suggests independence, respect, and dignity.
MELE
Mele is another Hawaiian boy’s name with musical and creative overtones. As a girl's name i'’s used as a variant of Mary, but as a boy's name, Mele means song, and is also the word for Hawaiian chants, songs, or poems. Because of this, it's often used in song titles.
MANO
Whichever Hawaiian definition one chooses to emphasize, Mano is definitely a power name. Literally, the word simply means "shark." Figuratively, it also carries connotations of a passionate lover. Either way, a Mano is one to keep an eye on.
LIKO
Some names attract because of their power and some because of their simplicity. Liko falls into the latter category. It's a Hawaiian name given to boys, and one rooted in the world of nature. It's pronounced lee-ko, and it means "bud" or "leaf bud.
KOA
How should an island-born child, inhabiting small pieces of land and surrounded by water, face the sea? The name Koa, pronounced ko-a, gives one answer. It means brave, bold, and fearless, and is the name for a kind of wood used to build canoes and surfboards.
ANO
Ano is another baby boy name appropriate to the setting from which it comes. Pronounced a-no, the name means, variously, immaculate, awe or reverence, and peacefulness. What better gift from the islands?
AKONI
Variously traced as a derived from the Hawaiian version of Anthony or as a name originating from Hawaiian, Akoni (pronounced ah-ko-nee) carries a strong meaning either way: praiseworthy or priceless. A valuable name in any event.
KALEO
Any parents who enjoy singing –or who are hoping for a child who does — would do well to place the name Kaleo on their list. It is pronounced "ka-leo," and it's a boy's name that means, literally, "the voice." A possible future on a singing contest program? Who knows?
NOE
Noe is a baby name that can be given to both boys and girls, though with the male version, the "e" is pronounces (no-ee) and the with the female version it isn't. The name means "mist" or "misty." It's appropriate for lands placed in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
KAI
Everyone knows that it isn't really an island party until someone named Kai shows up. This gender-neutral title is a bit of an international superstar, as Kai has many meanings in many cultures and languages. And for those who are curious, the name Kai means "ocean" in Hawaiian.
KEANU
Let's take a look at another K: Keanu. This baby name could bring to mind a certain celeb who holds the same title (we're talking about Keanu Reeves here), which could make it enticing. But there's another reason to fall in love with it. Pronounced keh-AH-noo, Keanu is Hawaiian for "cool breeze" — and happens to be a fave among moms and dads in the Aloha State.
AHE
Speaking of breezes — and shouldn't we be since we're talking about Hawaii? — Ahe is an excellent baby name to add to any list of faves. Pronounced just how it looks (ah-HEH), Ahe is Hawaiian for "softly blowing breeze."
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HANI
Although this baby name has roots in Arabic, the precious Hani also happens to be a name with Hawaiian sentiments. Pronounced HA-nee, Hani means "to move lightly" or "to touch," which makes us think of our sweet babies touching our face.
AOULI
If only we could retreat to a place with endless sun and beautiful skies. Even though we can't always get rainbows and sunshine, we can enjoy a "blue sky," thanks to the Hawaiian name Aouli (pronounced ah-oh-OO-lee). It's kind of perfect and has an unforgettable sentiment.
KAHIAU
It's pretty safe to say (or assume) that all parents would love for their child to be selfless and caring. And giving a child the name Kahiau (pronounced kah-HAH-yoo), might bring that dream a step closer to becoming a reality. Hawaiian for "selfless generosity," Kahiau is a charming name that's also unique.
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KELANI
In the mood for another name that begins with K? Try Kelani! Pronounced ke-LA-nee, Kelani is a gender-neutral Hawaiian name that's associated with "the heavens" — making the title absolutely divine.
MAUI
By this time, the name Maui should sound familiar. After all, it is the second-largest Hawaiian island that's commonly associated with paradise. The name Maui also has ties to Hawaiian mythology: Maui was a noted trickster and demigod who created the Hawaiian islands.
LONO
Anyone trying to provide their child a bright future in farming — or instill a serious love for horticulture — should keep this name in mind. Lono is a Hawaiian title that means "god of peace and agriculture" — quite fitting for the tiniest of gents who lead with a green thumb. It's a simple name and very sweet.
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KAWAI
There's something about the name Kawai that makes it magical. Hawaiian for "coming from water," Kawai (pronounced kah-WIE) has an endearing vibe that makes this baby name flow to the top of our short list.
HANALE
Parents who decide to name their son Hanale should be warned: However small the child, he just might take over the household — as Hanale means "lord of the manor." This Hawaiian title is pronounced ha-nah-lee and is actually a variant of the English Henry. So the parents of any Hanale should be prepared to refer to him as "Sir," LOL.
IOKUA
Any lovers of baby names inspired by the Bible? If so, check this out. Iokua is the Hawaiian variation of Joshua that means "God delivers." This peaceful title (pronounced yaw-KOO-ah) derives from the Hebrew yehōshū’a that means "God is salvation" and provides a fresh update to the classic Joshua, the successor of Moses and leader of the Israelites.
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MOANI
Not to be confused with the Disney heroine Moana is Moani, an adorable baby boy name with a fragrance beyond these lands. Hawaiian for "breeze of scent," Moani (pronounced moh-AH-nee) is an adorable name that could fill a room with its tropical vibe.
NOELANI
Although Noelani (pronounced noh-eh-LAH-nee) makes for an adorable baby name for girls, it's also one that works for boys. Hawaiian for "dew from heaven," Noelani is a title that sounds divine and super duper dreamy. Plus, it offers handy nicknames such as Noel and Lani.
PIKA
In the mood for another biblical name served with a twist? How about Pika? Pronounced PEE-kah, Pika is the Hawaiian variant of Peter that means "rock" and delivers its own flava. We think Pika is a playful baby name option that's vibrant and full of life.
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