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Hawaiian Words to Learn Before Your Visit

Posted on: November 14, 2018

While visiting Maui is enjoyable no matter what language you speak, knowing some of the basic words and popular phrases can make your trip even better. Besides, it also helps you to learn the local culture – which is one thing traveling is all about!

Though the words look and sound intimidating, the Hawaiian Alphabet is not too difficult. Think of this: There are only 13 letters. 5 vowels (a, e, i, o, u) and 7 consonants (h, k, l, m, n, p, w), and a “symbol” the ‘okina (this symbol informs the speaker to make a glottal stop, similar to the brief pause you hear when saying the English word: ‘uh-oh.’

Study our list below to connect with the locals and just feel the love of the Hawaiian culture.

Aloha (Hello and goodbye)
Mahalo (Thank you)
‘ohana (Family)
Kanaka (Native Hawaiian)
Kama’aina (Child of the land, but means, “local”)
Mele Kalikimaka (Merry Christmas)
A hui hou (Until we meet again)
Wahine (Women)
Kane (Men)
Ka moana (The ocean)
Mauna (Mountain)
Ka wa’a (canoe)
Hui! (Hey you – politely)
A ‘o ia! (There you have it)
Hale (House)
Honu (Green sea turtle)
Kohola (Humpback whale)
Maui No Ka Oi (Maui is the best!!)

Start practicing now and never forget, Maui No Ka Oi!

A Hui Hou!