Say These 13 Words Correctly and Every Hawaiian Will Know You’re One of Them

In Hawaiʻi, how you pronounce something says everything — especially whether you’re just off the plane or actually belong here. The ʻokina, the vowels, the rhythm — it all matters. If you can say these 13 words without hesitation or accidental offense, congrats: you’re ready to cruise the island with slippered feet and a Spam musubi in hand.

Hawaiʻi (huh-VAI-ee)

Yes, there’s a glottal stop — that little ʻokina — and no, it’s not optional. Say it with respect.

Likelike Highway (LEE-kay LEE-kay)

If you call it “Like-Like,” you just lost your rental car privileges.

Keʻeaumoku (Kay-ow-MOH-koo)

It’s not just a street — it’s a test. Bonus points if you can say it while giving directions.

Kalanianaʻole (Kah-lah-nee-ah-nah-OH-leh)

It takes longer to pronounce than it does to miss your exit. Slow down and ride the wave.

Haleakalā (Hah-leh-ah-kah-LAH)

Yes, it’s a volcano. No, it’s not “Haley Koala.” Try again.

ʻAiea (ah-ee-AY-uh)

Looks like a Wi-Fi password, sounds like a chant. You’ll get it… eventually.

Wahiawā (WAH-hee-ah-vah)

Not “Wah-hee-wah” or “Waffle-what.” Hit the ‘w’ like a soft ‘v’ — local style.

Kailua (Kai-LOO-uh)

One of the most beautiful beach towns — but you’ll lose cool points if you call it “Kay-loo-uh.”

ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (OH-leh-loh hah-VAI-ee)

It means “Hawaiian language.” And yes, learning it is highly encouraged. Aloha is more than a word.

Puʻunēnē (Poo-oo-NEH-neh)

Two glottal stops, zero mercy. Good luck ordering your sugar museum ticket.

Hōkūleʻa (HOH-koo-leh-ah)

It’s a voyaging canoe, not your cousin’s baby name. Say it like you mean it — with reverence.

Kāneʻohe (KAH-neh-oh-heh)

Pronounce each vowel. Every. Single. One. Don’t rush it — there’s no traffic on the windward side anyway.

ʻIolani (EE-oh-lah-nee)

A royal name and a school. Say it wrong and someone’s tutu will appear to correct you.

If you made it through all 13 with confidence and care, you’re more than just a visitor — you’re someone who respects the language, the culture, and the land. Hawaiʻi isn’t just a place, it’s a way of life — and that starts with how you speak it. Now go grab some poke, take your slippers off at the door, and don’t forget to malama the ʻāina.

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