Hawaiian culture is rich with beautiful names that carry deep meanings. Water is essential in Hawaiian life, symbolizing life, purity, and strength. Choosing a name that means water can give your child a connection to nature and heritage. If you’re looking for a unique name that reflects this important element, Hawaiian boy names can offer some great options.
Today, we’ll highlight some Hawaiian boy names that mean water. Each name holds a special meaning and can help your child embrace their identity. Whether you want a name with a strong sound or a gentle flow, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into these wonderful options!
Hawaiian Boy Names That Mean Water
1. Kai
The name Kai means ‘sea’. This strong, simple name beautifully symbolizes the ocean’s vastness and power in Hawaiian culture.
2. Nalu
Nalu translates to ‘surf’ or ‘wave’. This name brings to mind the energy and movement of water, making it a playful choice.
3. Kainalu
Kainalu also means ‘surf’. It combines the idea of the sea with an energetic vibe, making it perfect for an adventurous spirit.
4. Keanu
Meaning ‘cool breeze over the ocean’, Keanu evokes the refreshing feeling of the ocean air, connecting to the soothing aspect of water.
5. Koa
Koa traditionally means ‘warrior’, but it can also refer to water’s strong and resilient nature, reflecting someone who overcomes challenges.
6. Hilo
Hilo represents a flowing water stream, connecting to the gentle side of water as it nurtures life along its path.
7. Lani
Though often associated with ‘heaven’, Lani can also imply ‘heavenly water’, making this name a beautiful tribute to the skies and rain.
8. Moana
Moana translates to ‘ocean’ or ‘wide expanse of water’, representing the mystery and beauty of the ocean, a vital aspect of Hawaiian life.
9. Nakoa
Nakoa means a ‘warrior’ and represents strength in the face of challenges, much like the sea has powerful currents.
10. Waialua
Meaning ‘two waters’, Waialua is a name that signifies abundance and the dual nature of water in Hawaiian culture.
11. Olu
Olu means ‘happiness’ or ‘comfort’, often associated with the calming effect of water on the soul.
12. Kaimana
Kaimana translates to ‘diamond in the sea’, signifying preciousness and beauty found in water.
13. Nohea
Nohea means ‘handsome’, often evoking imagery of the pure waters that reflect beauty in nature.
14. Ikaika
Ikaika means ‘strong’ and symbolizes the strength of waves that can reshape coastlines.
15. Kano
Kano translates to ‘the water’, a straightforward and meaningful choice for those who cherish the essence of water.
16. Hanu
Hanu means ‘to breathe’ and reflects the life-giving aspect of water as essential to living beings.
17. Makai
Makai means ‘toward the sea’, representing a connection to the ocean and its endless horizon.
18. Palena
Palena translates to ‘the boundary’, relating to the shores where land and water meet, a significant site in Hawaiian culture.
19. Rivo
Rivo means ‘river’ in Hawaiian. This name beautifully carries the imagery of flowing water, celebrating life and movement.
20. Maluhia
Meaning ‘peace’, Maluhia aligns with the tranquil qualities water can offer, making it an ideal name for calm spirits.
21. Kanaloa
Kanaloa represents the god of the ocean, making this name a profound choice for those who honor the sea in their life.
22. Aukai
Aukai translates to ‘ocean swimmer’. This name signifies a love for the ocean and all the activities it brings.
23. Kaimana
Kaimana means ‘power of the sea’. It’s a strong name that references the energy and strength found in ocean waters.
24. Analu
Analu means ‘ocean wave’. This rhythmic name captures the essence of the ocean’s continuous motion.
25. Kamohoali’i
Kamohoali’i refers to a shark god in mythology, a powerful symbol of the ocean in Hawaiian culture.
26. Waimano
Waimano means ‘water of the male goose’, bringing in imagery of nature’s harmony and stability through water.
27. Kahana
Kahana translates to ‘the managing of the waters’, relating to the important roles water plays in agriculture and life.
28. Moananu
Moananu means ‘ocean dreams’, representing the inspiration and aspirations water can bring to life.
29. Kea
Kea means ‘white’, often describing the frothy waves crashing on the shore, adding beauty to water’s active nature.
30. Poi
Poi refers to the paste made from taro, but aligns closely with Hawaiian customs involving water and food, symbolizing sustenance.
31. Kapa
Kapa translates to ‘strip of cloth’ deriving from the traditional Hawaiian practice of using water to create their materials.
32. Liko
Liko means ‘bud’ or ‘young shoot’, symbolizing new life that water nurtures in nature.
33. Hea
Hea represents the action to ‘observe the waters’, connecting closely to nature and the importance of water in Hawaiian surroundings.
34. Loko
Loko translates to ‘pond’, a calm body of water that supports life and natural ecosystems in Hawaii.
35. Waiohuli
Waiohuli means ‘water of the valley’, referencing a specific geographic feature and the life-giving essence of water in valleys.
36. Lau
Lau means ‘leaf’ and can symbolize the connection between water and growth of greenery in Hawaiian culture.
37. Malu
Malu means ‘shade’, often related to the shelter provided by trees near water bodies, highlighting nature’s balance.
38. Anu
Anu translates to ‘cold or chill’, reminiscent of cool waters that offer refreshment and comfort.
39. Kaina
Kaina means ‘living water’. This name signifies the vivacity and sustenance that water provides to all living things.
40. Piha
Piha means ‘full’ or ‘filled’. This can represent lakes or ponds, indicating abundance in water bodies.
41. Pono
Pono translates to ‘righteous’ or ‘good’, attributes that can be associated with the purifying characteristics of water.
42. Awa
Awa means ‘river’ in Hawaiian. It’s another water-centric name that embodies smooth, flowing qualities associated with rivers.
43. Kena
Kena means ‘the one who is wise’, representing the ancient traditions and wisdom found around water sources.
44. Ipo
Ipo means ‘sweet heart’ and brings warm feelings of love that water inspires through nurturing its environment.
45. Hilo
The name Hilo also means ‘to twirl or swirl’, much like how water swirls and dances around rocks in a stream.
46. Pali
Pali means ‘cliff’, often found in coastal areas where water meets land, illustrating the beauty of that landscape.
47. Makani
Makani translates to ‘wind’, which carries scents of the ocean and connects air with water, forming a strong bond in nature.
48. Wairehu
Wairehu means ‘misty waters’, portraying the enchanting side of water’s presence in Hawaiian landscapes.
49. Keoki
Keoki means ‘the earth’, closely tied to how water nourishes and sustains all living things on land.
50. Makoa
Makoa translates to ‘strong water’, representing a powerful force in nature while being gentle in its delivery.
51. Hano
Hano means ‘to flow’, symbolizing how vital water is in its continuous role in life.
52. Waika
Waika means ‘of water’, a direct connection to the topic, emphasizing the name’s root meaning.
53. Lawehu
Lawehu means ‘wet’. It portrays the essential existence of water in a strong yet straightforward manner.
54. Kupono
Kupono means ‘to hold fast’, symbolizing how water can be a stabilizing force in tumultuous environments.
55. Mona
Mona translates to ‘solitary’, reminiscent of the stillness found in deep bodies of water.
56. Kalani
Kalani means ‘heavenly’, often referring to the skies that bring rain and water to nourish the earth.
57. Hika
Hika translates to ‘sparkling water’, capturing the beauty and allure of sunlight on water’s surface.
58. Pumehana
Pumehana means ‘warmth’, often associated with the warm oceans that surround Hawaii nourishing all forms of life.
59. Rihau
Rihau refers to ‘ever-changing waters’, depicting the dynamic essence of ocean tides and its powerful influence.
60. Ohia
The name Ohia represents a tree but can also symbolize the nurturing waters that help it thrive in nature.
61. Punua
Punua means ‘to apply’, embodying the way water is essential for growth and support of life.
62. Alaka’i
Alaka’i translates to ‘leader’ and can relate to how water leads life on earth.
63. Malie
Malie means ‘calm’ or ‘peaceful’, perfectly illustrating the serene side of water.
64. Huikau
Huikau translates to ‘truthful water’, alluding to purity and honesty associated with water in life.
65. Kaina
Kaina means ‘the gift’, relating to the life-giving waters that sustain growth and survival.
66. Noho
Noho means ‘to dwell’, connecting to water’s important role in human life and settlement.
67. Nene
Nene translates to ‘water goose’, symbolizing the bond between water and wildlife in Hawaiian culture.
68. Liko
Liko means ‘bud’ or ‘young shoot’, signifying how water nurtures new growth and life.
69. Mak’u
Mak’u means ‘to cling’, portraying how vital water is in holding ecosystems together.
70. Kawai
Kawai translates to ‘water’, a straightforward name that embodies the essence of your topic beautifully.
71. Nui
Nui means ‘large’, linking to the expanse of the ocean, representing vastness in life.
72. Opua
Opua means ‘cloud’, which brings rain – the life-giving water for all living beings.
73. Laulea
Laulea refers to ‘breezy waters’, embodying the peaceful and refreshing element of water in Hawaiian culture.
74. Wailua
Wailua translates to ‘river of water’, a direct reference to flowing water in Hawaiian landscapes.
75. Kaiou
Kaiou means ‘ocean wave’, signifying dynamic motion found in the waters surrounding Hawaii.
76. Haku
Haku translates to ‘to weave’, representing how water weaves its way through landscapes, creating beauty.
77. Pua
Pua means ‘flower’, symbolizing how water aids in the blooming and beauty of flora in its habitat.
78. Kiliohoku
Kiliohoku means ‘heavenly water’ or ‘raining stars’, illustrating the divine aspect of water in mythologies.
79. Alahau
Alahau means ‘water’ and ‘race’ showing how it navigates and crosses boundaries in nature.
80. Ahulau
Ahulau means ‘flow of water’, epitomizing the natural movement and progression in an environment.
81. La’akea
La’akea means ‘the holiest water’, emphasizing the sacred relationship between Hawaiians and their sources of water.
82. Manoa
Manoa means ‘thick’, often describing heavy rainfall that nourishes the land dramatically.
83. Keana
Keana translates to ‘the place where water gathers’, hinting toward significance in water sources.
84. Kamalani
Kamalani means ‘child of the water’, a name that celebrates one’s connection and lineage with water.
85. Noe
Noe means ‘misty fog’, signifying the soft presence of water vapor in the atmosphere.
86. Puaineohoku
Puaineohoku means ‘flower of the heavens’, embodying beauty that water brings in nurturing life.
87. Kalena
Kalena means ‘one who will carry water’, linking responsibility and importance to the essence of water.
88. Kanuha
Kanuha means ‘the one who takes care’, symbolizing the care and protection of Hawaiian waters.
89. Malu’aka
Malu’aka means ‘shadow of water’, creating imagery of calmness and shade associated with water bodies.
90. Waiki
Waiki means ‘the little water’, a charming name capturing the essence of tiny brooks or streams.
91. Ohi’a
Ohi’a symbolizes traditional trees that thrive in Hawaiian landscapes, nourished by water.
92. Mahina
Mahina translates to ‘moon’, which influences tides and water bodies, representing cycles in nature.
93. Malakai
Malakai symbolizes the ‘messenger of water’, relating to traditional roles and significance of water bearers.
94. Pua’a
Pua’a means ‘to bloom’, often tied with the life-giving properties of fresh water in nature.
95. Niu
Niu means ‘coconut palm’, which grows near water, representing life and sustainability found in wet environments.
96. Pele
Pele represents the goddess of fire but also relates to volcanic waters that form new land.
97. Kilauea
Kilauea directly translates to a volcanic site, showcasing how water plays a role in shaping geology.
98. Kalana
Kalana means ‘the dry’, highlighting the importance of water even when it isn’t immediately visible.
99. Waika
Waika translates to ‘the water of the sea’, focusing on the deep connection with ocean waters.
100. Keanu
Keanu means ‘cool breeze over the sea’, capturing the refreshing feeling of being near water.
101. Ho’ola
Ho’ola means ‘to heal’, often connecting the healing qualities of water throughout history in cultures.
102. Kaimani
Kaimani refers to ‘ocean light’, capturing the essence of sunlight reflecting off water’s surface.
103. Keawe
Keawe translates to ‘fiery’, yet ‘fiery waters’ can indicate the ebbs and flows of ocean temperatures.
104. Luana
Luana means ‘enjoyment’ or ‘to relax’, often associated with calming waters and soothing ocean vibes.
105. Ikaika
Ikaika means ‘strong’, emphasizing the power water can possess when channeled correctly.
106. Kuahiwi
Kuahiwi means ‘mountain’, symbolizing the vital role that mountains play in the water cycle.
107. Makani
Makani means ‘wind’, showcasing its role in shaping waters through currents and weather systems.
108. Luhi
Luhi means ‘to grow’, reflecting the significance of water in growth and development.
109. Kulia
Kulia translates to ‘to strive’, resembling the struggles water goes through, finding its path in nature.
110. Ailani
Ailani means ‘high chief’, often connected to the nobility of nature’s resources like water.
111. Kamalama
Kamalama refers to ‘flowing waters’ and signifies the essential nature of water in life.
112. Laniakea
Laniakea means ‘immeasurable heaven’, implying the vastness that water can possess.
113. O’ahu
O’ahu translates directly to ‘the gathering place’, referencing how different waters converge in this Hawaiian island.
114. Uli
Uli means ‘dark or deep’, often describing the depths of the ocean and its mysteries.
115. Hanalau
Hanalau means ‘the place of the water’, reflecting significance to local water bodies.
116. Kainalu
Kainalu means ‘wave’, capturing both the beauty and power associated with ocean waves.
117. Nohea
Nohea means ‘handsome’, relating to the beautiful reflections often seen in still waters.
118. Makau
Makau translates to ‘hook’, often associated with fishing which links back to the ocean and sustenance.
119. Waimaka
Waimaka means ‘tear water’, representing the deep emotional connection humans have with water.
120. Fua’a
Fua’a represents the ‘rain’, capturing the vital role rain plays in recharging water supplies.
121. Makalani
Makalani means ‘heavenly sky’, emphasizing the connection between skies and rain that nourishes life.
122. Kaiolohia
Kaiolohia means ‘calm sea’, conveying a sense of tranquility associated with peaceful waters.
123. Kaua’i
Kaua’i means ‘the place of the water’, celebrating the significance of water sources on this island.
124. Ula
Ula means ‘red’ often associated with sunsets reflecting off ocean waters creating beautiful hues.
125. Pi’ikea
Pi’ikea means ‘bright water’, evoking clarity and beauty usually linked with freshwater.
126. Kalokahi
Kalokahi means ‘one water’, linking cultures through the shared necessity of water.
127. Ko’i
Ko’i means ‘to carve’, often symbolizes how water sculpts landscapes over time.
128. Kolohe
Kolohe means ‘mischievous’, reflecting the playful qualities of water in nature.
129. Kimo
Kimo translates to ‘supplanter’, connecting with transitions of water in different forms.
130. Aoi
Aoi means ‘blue’, often associated with the endless blues of the ocean.
131. Kainui
Kainui translates to ‘the vast ocean’, signifying depth and explorative aspects of water.
132. Laupahoehoe
Laupahoehoe means ‘leafy lands’, illustrating how water nourishes plant life around coastal regions.
133. Kamakau
Kamakau means ‘the strong water’, emphasizing power and resilience found in natural water bodies.
134. Hoʻolani
Hoʻolani means ‘to be lighted’, often connecting to how waters sparkle in the sunlight.
135. Hiu
Hiu means ‘to flow’, enriching the understanding of water’s movement and impact on life.
136. Kēhau
Kēhau means ‘dew’, symbolizing moisture which is essential to life.
137. Nahea
Nahea means ‘a beautiful waterway’, reflecting the aesthetic joy brought by clear flowing waters.
138. Aloha’aina
Aloha’aina refers to ‘love for one’s land’, depicting the unity between land and vital water sources.
139. Kālī
Kālī means ‘king’, often connected to dominance water can have over landscapes.
140. Nāʻālehu
Nāʻālehu translates to ‘the place of the watercurrent’, showcasing how currents drive water cycles.
141. Kahili
Kahili means ‘symbol of royalty’, hinting toward the reverence of water in Hawaiian tradition.
142. Kelea
Kelea means ‘wise’, linking knowledge gained through experiences with water in nature.
143. Lūkia
Lūkia signifies ‘water flow’, capturing the essence of movement and change found in water.
144. Pāhoehoe
Pāhoehoe describes smooth lava formations, often influenced by the interaction of land and flowing water.
145. Wailoa
Wailoa means ‘water that flows’, connecting life and movement in a literal sense.
146. Mauna
Mauna translates to ‘mountain’, highlighting the topography that contributes to water flow.
147. Naʻole
Naʻole means ‘not easily forgotten’, relating to the lasting memories of moments spent by water.
148. Kōloa
Kōloa translates to ‘water bird’, signifying the relationship between wildlife and aquatic environments.
149. Hoʻokipa
Hoʻokipa means ‘to welcome’, symbolizing the hospitality often seen near communal water sites.
150. Malama
Malama means ‘to care for’, emphasizing the importance of caring for water sources for future generations.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a name for your child that means water connects them to the beauty and power of nature. The Hawaiian boy names we’ve explored emphasize the essential role water plays in life, culture, and the environment. From simple names like Kai meaning ‘sea’ to more complex names like Kaimana meaning ‘power of the sea’, each name holds a unique significance in Hawaiian heritage.
These names resonate well with qualities like calmness, vitality, and connection to the earth and its resources. With such a diverse selection, parents can find names that not only sound beautiful but also hold meaningful ties to heritage.
Consider exploring other names, like boy names that mean water or names that mean ocean, if you’re seeking more inspiration related to this captivating element.