These 17 Slang Terms Only Make Sense If You Live in Hawaii

Hawaii isn’t just a paradise full of stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and killer surf—it’s a state with a unique slang that combines its local Hawaiian roots with influences from the mainland, Asia, and beyond. Whether you’re strolling through Honolulu or hanging out on the Big Island, knowing these 17 terms will have you talking like a true kamaʻāina (local). So, grab your sunscreen and get ready to learn the slang that makes Hawaii feel even more like home!

Aloha

It’s not just a greeting, it’s a way of life. “Aloha” means hello, goodbye, and love all rolled into one. “Aloha, how’s it going?”

Mahalo

This word means “thank you” and you’ll hear it often. “Mahalo for helping me out today!”

Pau

When something is finished or done, it’s “pau.” “Is the meeting pau? Can I go now?”

Howzit

A laid-back way of asking, “How’s it going?” Perfect for casual encounters. “Howzit, bro? Everything good?”

Honu

The Hawaiian word for turtle, often used to refer to the endangered sea turtles that are commonly seen in Hawaii. “Look, a honu swimming right next to us!”

Shaka

The famous hand gesture where you extend your pinky and thumb, often used to say “hang loose” or “cool.” “Shaka, bro!”

Grinds

A local way of saying food or a meal. If someone says “I’m going to get some grinds,” they mean they’re going to eat. “Let’s grab some grinds at that food truck!”

Da Kine

A versatile term used to refer to something when you can’t quite think of the word. It’s also used to describe a cool, chill person. “Pass me the da kine, please.”

Opala

This Hawaiian word means trash or garbage. “Don’t forget to take out the opala before we go to the beach.”

Talk Story

It means to chat or tell stories, usually in a casual, friendly manner. “Let’s talk story at the park later.”

Mana

This word means spiritual energy or power, often used to describe a person’s vibe or influence. “She’s got a lot of mana in the way she talks.”

Noho

To sit or stay in a place. “We’re gonna noho at the beach for a while.”

Canoe Club

A local term for a group of friends who love hanging out together. “Let’s get the canoe club together and head to the North Shore.”

Hale

A Hawaiian word for house, but it’s often used in reference to a family home or a place where you hang out. “Come over to my hale later, we’re having a BBQ.”

Wiki Wiki

This term means quick or fast. “Can you do it wiki wiki? We’re running late!”

Pupu

Refers to appetizers or small plates, often served at a gathering. “Let’s get some pupu and drinks before the main course.”

Keiki

The Hawaiian word for children. “The keiki are having a blast at the beach today!”

Now you’re ready to talk like a local in the Aloha State! Whether you’re chatting with friends, grabbing some grinds, or catching some waves, these Hawaiian slang terms will have you feeling like you’ve lived on the islands your whole life. Just remember to live the Aloha spirit—show kindness, share smiles, and never forget to shaka!

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