Hawaii is a beautiful place with a deep connection to the ocean. Many Hawaiian names reflect this special relationship, capturing the beauty and power of the sea. These names often have meanings that relate to water, waves, and the spirit of the ocean. Understanding these names can give us a glimpse into Hawaiian culture and the importance of the ocean in daily life.
Today, we will look at some Hawaiian names that mean ocean. Whether you are looking for a name for a baby, a character in a story, or just want to learn more, these names can inspire and bring a bit of the Hawaiian spirit into your life. Let’s explore the meanings and stories behind these beautiful ocean-inspired names!
Hawaiian Names That Mean Ocean
1. Kai
The name Kai means “sea” in Hawaiian. It embodies the essence of water and connects deeply to the ocean’s spirit.
2. Nalu
Nalu translates to “wave” in Hawaiian. This name captures the movement and energy of the ocean.
3. Moana
Moana means “vast ocean.” This name represents the immense beauty and mystery of the sea.
4. Loko
The name Loko signifies “pond” or “lagoon.” It is relevant to coastal areas often shaped by the ocean.
5. Wai
Wai means “water” and connects to the life’s essence, including the sea’s importance in Hawaiian culture.
6. Naia
Naia means “dolphin” in Hawaiian. It reflects the joyful spirit of these marine animals that inhabit the ocean.
7. Ahi
Ahi relates to the ocean in terms of the fishing tradition, representing strength and sustenance from the sea.
8. Kaimana
The name Kaimana means “power of the ocean.” It embodies the strength and majesty of the sea.
9. Pali
Pali means “cliff” in Hawaiian. Cliffs often overlook the ocean, connecting the land with the sea.
10. Ualani
Ualani translates to “heavenly water.” This name evokes an ethereal connection to the ocean’s spirit.
11. Kainalu
Kainalu means “the sea wave.” It represents the rhythmic ebb and flow of the ocean.
12. Keanu
Keanu means “cool breeze over the ocean.” This name symbolizes the gentle comfort the sea brings.
13. Kimo
Kimo is a Hawaiian form of James meaning “the one who supplants.” It’s often associated with ocean-related names in Hawaii.
14. Nohea
Nohea means “handsome” or “beautiful.” It can relate to the stunning beauty found in oceanic places.
15. Lani
The name Lani means “heaven” and signifies the beautiful skies often seen over the ocean.
16. Leilani
Leilani means “heavenly flowers.” It connects to the vibrant life found around the sea.
17. Haukea
Haukea means “white snow,” which can symbolize the foamy waves of the ocean.
18. Kuleana
Kuleana refers to “responsibility,” which can symbolize stewardship of the ocean and its resources.
19. Oliana
Oliana means “to sing,” evoking the soft sounds of waves crashing on shores.
20. Makana
Makana means “gift,” reminding us of the plentiful gifts the ocean provides, like fish and beauty.
21. Aloha
Aloha translates to “love,” representing the deep respect and affection for the ocean.
22. Kapena
Kapena means “captain” and relates to those who navigate the vast waters of the ocean.
23. Nanea
Nanea means “calm” and conveys the peaceful moments found by the sea.
24. Kamalani
Kamalani means “the child of heaven.” It symbolizes the connection between the heavens and the ocean.
25. Ahiu
Ahiu means “to rise like the sun.” This reflects the beauty seen during sunrise over the ocean.
26. Koa
Koa means “warrior.” It symbolizes the strength needed to navigate life, much like the ocean’s unpredictability.
27. Makani
Makani translates to “wind,” which plays a vital role in oceanic currents and weather.
28. Kelea
Kelea means “the sea,” connecting directly to the waves and waters around Hawaii.
29. Kealohi
Kealohi means “brightness” and can symbolize the shimmering sunlight on ocean waters.
30. Noa
Noa translates to “freedom,” which is often felt when one is at sea.
31. Wailani
Wailani means “heavenly waters,” capturing the divine essence of the ocean.
32. Kanani
Kanani means “the beauty,” which relates to the stunning sights the ocean presents.
33. Aulani
Aulani translates to “the place of refuge,” a grounding aspect of the ocean’s shores.
34. Liko
Liko means “bud” and connects to the new life that springs up near ocean ecosystems.
35. Olena
Olena refers to “turmeric.” The vibrant color can symbolize the ocean’s beauty.
36. Uluwehi
Uluwehi means “lushness,” which often surrounds coastal areas and signifies life provided by the ocean.
37. Halia
Halia means “remembrance of a loved one,” often evoking memories of time spent by the ocean.
38. Kaena
Kaena means “the glowing coat,” reflecting the shining waters of the ocean under the sun.
39. Kini
Kini means “many,” representing the countless experiences found in the ocean.
40. Liko Lehua
Liko Lehua means “young blossoms,” representing growth and life along the ocean coast.
41. Ekolu
Ekolu means “three,” which can symbolize balance among ocean, land, and sky.
42. Mikala
Mikala means “who is like God?” and represents divine beauty from the ocean’s bounty.
43. Pili
Pili means “to cling” and can represent the bond people have with the ocean.
44. Kawai
Kawai translates to “water” but is often used to represent the ocean in particular.
45. Ikaika
Ikaika means “strong.” This attribute can reflect power derived from the ocean.
46. Maluhia
Maluhia translates to “peace,” which can be experienced while by the ocean’s shore.
47. Hina
Hina means “moon.” The moon influences the tides and ocean’s rhythm.
48. Kila
Kila means “to be sharp.” This can reflect the keen awareness needed to navigate the sea.
49. Laniakea
Laniakea means “immense heaven,” calling to mind the vastness of the ocean and sky.
50. Lokelani
Lokelani means “heavenly rose.” It often represents beauty found in oceanic landscapes.
51. Halau
Halau means “house,” often used to describe places by the sea.
52. Kaleo
Kaleo means “the voice.” It embodies the call of the ocean and its natural sounds.
53. Puamana
Puamana translates to “the flower of the sea,” connecting land and water through nature.
54. Waimaka
Waimaka means “tears of water,” representing the emotional connection to the ocean.
55. Keola
Keola means “the life,” showcasing the vitality brought by the ocean.
56. Pukalani
Pukalani means “heavenly gateway.” This can reflect the openings to the sea’s beauty.
57. Kekuhi
Kekuhi translates to “the source.” It symbolizes the ocean as the source of life.
58. Analena
Analena means “god of the sea,” directly referencing the spiritual connection to the ocean.
59. Hina Lani
Hina Lani means “moon in the sky,” emphasizing the lunar connection to ocean tides.
60. Nape
Nape means “the back of the ocean,” representing the ocean’s reach.
61. Nalin
Nalin means “the sea breeze,” capturing the essence of ocean air.
62. Moemoeā
Moemoeā means “dreams” and represents the tranquility one finds by the ocean.
63. Kamanu
Kamanu means “the bird on the sea,” symbolizing life that thrives because of the ocean.
64. Kahu
Kahu means “guardian,” representing the responsibility to protect ocean environments.
65. Makalapua
Makalapua translates to “flower of the ocean,” symbolizing beauty from sea life.
66. Hi’iaka
Hi’iaka means “to be born from the water,” reflecting the life-giving spirit of the ocean.
67. Laka
Laka means “the support,” relating to the ocean serving as a foundation for life.
68. Iolana
Iolana means “to soar.” It highlights the freedom one feels when near the ocean.
69. Keipo
Keipo translates to “gift of the sea,” representing nature’s blessings from ocean waters.
70. He manaʻo
He manaʻo means “an idea,” suggesting the inspiration derived from the ocean.
71. Makaukau
Makaukau means “prepared,” signifying readiness to navigate oceanic adventures.
72. Aalona
Aalona translates to “the sheet of water,” directly representing the ocean’s vastness.
73. Kaina
Kaina means “the sea,” emphasizing the direct connection to the ocean.
74. Kelea
Kelea means “the rush of water,” symbolizing the energy of the ocean.
75. Kaimana’œ
Kaimana’œ means “the ocean’s light,” capturing the glow seen over the water.
76. Keone
Keone means “the foundation.” It represents stability provided by the ocean’s shores.
77. Makanaʻo
Makanaʻo means “gift from the sea,” directly related to the abundance of marine life.
78. Ohlani
Ohlani means “the ocean of love,” capturing the affection people often feel for the water.
79. Kamalā
Kamalā means “to shine,” representing the sparkling reflections on ocean waters.
80. Nohea
Nohea means “pleasantness,” often associated with feelings brought by the ocean.
81. Kuahu
Kuahu translates to “the sea cliff,” again connecting landforms to ocean presence.
82. Kaimakea
Kaimakea means “the sea child,” representing the innocence of life at the ocean.
83. Puputauki
Puputauki means “guardian of the ocean,” highlighting the responsibility to protect marine life.
84. Taimi
Taimi means “time,” reflecting how every moment spent ocean-side is precious.
85. Kohola
Kohola means “whale,” a significant creature of the ocean symbolizing intelligence.
86. Paeʻa
Paeʻa means “to float,” capturing gentle drifts on the ocean’s surface.
87. Loa
Loa means “long” and symbolizes the distance one can feel while out at sea.
88. Heʻeia
Heʻeia means “from the ocean,” emphasizing the importance of the sea in life.
89. Kahoali’i
Kahoali’i translates to “the setts of the ocean,” reflecting the static patterns in water.
90. Lanakila
Lanakila means “victory,” which can symbolize triumph over ocean challenges.
91. Oio
Oio refers to the “fish,” which directly connects to ocean habitats.
92. Pia
Pia means “the sea,” representing the very definition of aquatic life.
93. Malie
Malie means “calm.” This name suggests peaceful ocean conditions.
94. Akua
Akua means “god,” associating spiritual elements closely tied to the ocean.
95. Hana
Hana means “work” and relates to traditional fishing culture surrounding the ocean.
96. Pua
Pua means “flower,” representing the vibrant ecosystems found close to the ocean.
97. Ikaika
Ikaika means “strength,” symbolizing the powerful nature of the ocean.
98. Ohiʻa
Ohiʻa means “to rise.” This reflects how waves climb before crashing down.
99. Kula
Kula means “the plains,” directly associating with coastal landscapes.
100. Wailua
Wailua means “two waters,” capturing both river and ocean waters’ significance.
101. Hiʻilani
Hiʻilani means “to rise.” It can symbolize the waves rising from the ocean.
102. Makapuʻu
Makapuʻu translates as “an eye that shines,” metaphorically referencing the ocean.
103. Kainoa
Kainoa means “the name of the sea,” emphasizing the direct relationship to the ocean.
104. Mahiʻai
Mahiʻai means “farmer,” connecting to culture surrounding ocean fish farming.
105. Awa
Awa translates to “to flow,” representing the natural movements of ocean currents.
106. Makanaʻo
Makanaʻo means “a gift of the sea,” directly referencing the ocean’s bounty.
107. ʻŌhiʻa
ʻŌhiʻa means “the tree of life.” Oceans often nurture life on land.
108. Kalani
Kalani means “the heavens,” emphasizing the ocean’s link with the sky.
109. Kaulana
Kaulana means “famous,” often depicting legendary tales tied to the ocean.
110. Kīnau
Kīnau means “to wave.” This directly relates to the ocean’s movement.
111. Piʻikea
Piʻikea means “to be as the flow.” This symbolizes the smooth motion of water.
112. Akamai
Akamai means “wise,” signifying the knowledge of navigating the ocean.
113. Kealohilani
Kealohilani means “heavenly light,” representing reflections off ocean water.
114. Aolani
Aolani means “heavenly cloud,” symbolizing the sky meeting the ocean.
115. Hōkū
Hōkū means “star,” often used to navigate at sea.
116. Kaeo
Kaeo means “the flame.” This can represent a dazzling light over the ocean’s surface.
117. Kupono
Kupono means “righteousness.” This relates to traditions of caring for the ocean.
118. Alaka’i
Alaka’i means “to lead.” It signifies guiding principles derived from ocean experiences.
119. Kaiaulu
Kaiaulu means “ocean community” and represents unity found along the shoreline.
120. Kimo
Kimo means “supplanter,” representing the ability to navigate new waters courageously.
121. Lehua
Lehua means “red flower,” symbolizing beauty often found near the ocean’s edge.
122. Ailana
Ailana means “ocean land,” stressing the relationship between land and ocean.
123. Kanakea
Kanakea means “the sea breeze,” capturing the gentle winds of the coast.
124. Kalei
Kalei means “the beloved,” speaking to the fondness of the ocean.
125. Mākālei
Mākālei means “to see clearly,” signifying clarity brought by the ocean’s influence.
126. Kuʻuipo
Kuʻuipo means “my sweetheart.” This emotional connection can relate to shared moments by the ocean.
127. Hiʻiaka
Hiʻiaka means “the arrival,” often referring to ocean breezes welcoming voyagers.
128. Keoloha
Keoloha means “the love,” representing the ocean’s embrace.
129. Nāʻālehu
Nāʻālehu means “the lava flow,” linking oceanic activity with volcanic formations.
130. Hanalei
Hanalei translates to “the pathway,” highlighting connections made through the ocean.
131. Pōmaikaʻi
Pōmaikaʻi means “blessed,” often associated with the joys of living by the ocean.
132. Puna
Puna means “spring,” signifying a fresh start and life’s renewal near oceanic areas.
133. Kupono
Kupono refers to “ravine” and symbolizes the changes in landscapes near oceans.
134. Welo
Welo means “to shine,” reflecting the aquatic sparkle of the ocean.
135. Kealohi
Kealohi means “bright shore,” emphasizing the sunlit beauty of ocean edges.
136. Pūerto
Pūerto translates to “bay,” representing the calmer areas of ocean water.
137. Kēʻai
Kēʻai means “expanse,” symbolizing the boundless nature of the ocean.
138. Haleiwa
Haleiwa means “place of the house,” symbolizing communities that thrive near the ocean.
139. Lōkahi
Lōkahi translates to “unity,” often found when people come together at the ocean.
140. Mahu
Mahu means “to be concealed,” resembling the hidden treasures of the ocean’s depths.
141. Kea
Kea means “white,” which can symbolize the foam of ocean waves.
142. Aumakua
Aumakua means “spiritual guardian,” which often represents guardianship over oceanic life.
143. Hina
Hina means “moon,” connecting to the tides and oceanic cycles.
144. Kūkahi
Kūkahi refers to “one,” often reflecting the unity of the ocean with life.
145. Kawaika
Kawaika translates to “the brave,” representing courage needed at sea.
146. Kukui
Kukui means “light.” It captures the glow of the sun on ocean waters.
147. Mōhala
Mōhala means “to unfold,” symbolizing the ocean revealing its wonders.
148. Waikiki
Waikiki means “spouting water,” directly connecting to oceanic features.
149. Kipa
Kipa means “to visit,” emphasizing the joy of spending time by the water.
150. Aloha ʻĀina
Aloha ʻĀina means “love of the land,” emphasizing the bond with both land and ocean.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Hawaiian names that mean ocean reveals a rich cultural connection to water and nature. Each name carries a unique significance that encapsulates the beauty and power of the sea.
The names reflect an appreciation for marine life, waves, and the refreshing essence that the ocean provides. These names are not only meaningful but also serve to inspire a deeper connection with the ocean.
Whether you are choosing a name for a child or a character, or simply seeking inspiration, the beauty and depth of these Hawaiian names can help you appreciate the ocean even more. For further exploration of names that celebrate the ocean, you may want to check out some names that mean ocean and also explore Japanese names that mean ocean.