The beautiful last names of Hawaii reflect the spiritual beliefs and close connection with nature that are fundamental to Hawaiian culture. Names such as Kai, meaning ocean, and Lani, a word encompassing sky and heaven, embody the essence of Hawaii.
Other less common names like Healani, composed of the words “hea” and “lani,” express a more intimate relationship with nature.
Kawai
When Western colonization brought the need to have surnames, Hawaiian names were often anglicized and changed. However, some families and individuals chose to keep their traditional naming practices.
Kawai is a great unisex name that signifies coolness and rain. It is also a Hawaiian word for flowers and buds.
Healani is an extra-rare Hawaiian last name that resembles the Hebrew name Hezekiah. People with this unique name are incredibly devoted and loyal to their friends and family. They’re a joy to be around, and they are also known for their positive attitudes.
Keaka
Keaka is a unique Hawaiian name that means “person of shadows.” People with this surname are mediators and peacemakers. They also have a strong desire to help others. This baby name is unisex and has the numerology of 2.
Other cool Hawaiian last names with beautiful meanings include Mililani, which means heaven’s love, and Lulani, a variation of the French last name Louis. You can also opt for the feminine name Elikapeka, a Hawaiian form of Elizabeth. It’s a lovely name for any girl. The sole urge of people with this name is to explore spiritual truths.
Kapena
Kapena is an exciting Hawaiian group that continues to electrify crowds with a fresh and unique blend of hapa haole music. Their latest album, “Wild Heart,” is their most diverse, with songs featuring Hawaiian, Country, Jawaiian, and Contemporary Island music.
Like its counterpart in the Hawaiian language, Kapono means “the good one.” It’s also the name of a famous Hawaiian duo: Cecilio & Kapono.
Mililani
Before Western influence, Hawaiian names often had hidden spiritual meanings meant to protect the bearer. Words that resembled snakes, spiders, or the sea were believed to repel evil spirits.
Today, Hawaiian last names can still profoundly connect to nature and the sea. Consider terms like Mililani, a beautiful flower with multiple meanings, or Moana, the title character of a 2016 Disney movie about a young Polynesian girl. Other words with deep meanings include Kai, the sea; Manuwai, a surname that means ‘one who feeds others’; and Kalama, a torch.
Moana
Throughout the movie, Moana meets many characters with Hawaiian last names. They repair a leaking roof, help a man get a tattoo, and teach children hula dancing.
Moana is a Hawaiian girl’s name that means “heavenly caresses” or “exaltation.” It’s also the title of a 2016 Disney animated film about a Polynesian princess. This name is relatively common in Hawaii, ranking 170th in 2014. However, it’s rare worldwide. It was ranked 546th in American Samoa in 2014. It’s also the name of a neighborhood in Oahu, Hawaii.
Palakiko
Palakiko is a practical person with a good sense of organization and management systems. They strongly desire success and will go to great lengths to achieve their goals.
Palakiko sees the promise on the horizon and knows how to get there, but they may need help with the details. They can benefit from a support network to help them succeed.
Palapala
Like other Hawaiian names, it represents a natural element. It could also reference the goddess Pele, who rules over volcanoes, lightning, fire, and dance. It could also be a way of paying tribute to the beauty and power of Hawaii itself.
Popularity: Keaka is very rare worldwide and was ranked 101st in 2014. It’s a variation on Jack and can be used for both boys and girls. Namesakes include Japanese actress Ami Kawai from the TV series Kyoryu Sentai Zyuranger. It’s also the surname of a famous Hawaiian musician.
Pakelo
Pakelo is an artistic individual who prioritizes harmony and beauty. They also have a strong sense of responsibility and trustworthiness. Although duty may sometimes feel burdensome, they will always put others before themselves.
Hokulani comprises the Hawaiian words “hoku,” meaning star, and “Lani,” meaning heavens. This name inspired Liliuokalani, the famous Hawaiian queen who ruled from 1891 to 1893.
Ionakana
Ionakana is a beautiful Hawaiian name with powerful meanings. It means you’re a person who is full of life, optimistic, and inspiring. You are also charming and can be the life of the party. You can persuade people effortlessly and have a gift for writing.
Kekepania is the surprising Hawaiian version of Stephanie from Greek Stephanos. This unique name has no available popularity statistics as a surname. However, it does have a high ranking as a first name.
Iosua
Like many Hawaiian last names, this one is unisex. Its popularity varies by region, but it was most popular in Hawaii in 2014.
This name ties to the sea and represents a person looking for natural guidance. It also symbolizes a strong and brave warrior. A popular koa tree grows to represent this strength. Famous namesakes include a mixed martial artist and a footballer for Union Douala. Its meaning is similar to Jonathan’s, derived from the Hebrew Yehonathan. This is not a common name, but it’s unique.
