The Hawaiian language is rich in history and melodious. And while it is no longer the primary language spoken in the islands (English is), if you are planning a trip to Hawaii there are some basic Hawaiian words you should learn before you go. I was born and raised in Hawaii and I can tell you that getting acquainted with the following words will aid you in your travels and endear you to the locals.
Aloha (ah-loh-ha)—-A warm expression to greet people with. It means “hello,” “goodbye,” and “love.” You’ll hear it a lot at luaus and when you are boarding and disembarking from various forms of public transportation.
Mahalo (ma-ha-low)–An expression of thanks. It is frequently used by store clerks (especially if you buy a lot of merchandise) or by employees at various local attractions; in which case “Mahalo” will likely be followed by “and come again.” A friend of mine, visiting from Vermont went an entire trip thinking “Mahalo” meant “trash,” after seeing the Hawaiian word printed on dozens of trash cans throughout the state.
Ewa (eh-va)–It is the name of a city on the West side of Oahu. It is also used as a directional term; as in heading westward.
Makai (ma-kigh)–Heading towards the ocean; literary it means “towards the sea.”
Mauka (mau-kah)–Heading towards the mountains or inland.
Wikiwiki (wee-kee-wee-kee)–Speedy, fast, swift. Used often in relation to shuttle/transportation services. In fact, “Wikiwiki” is the name of the Honolulu International Airport’s shuttle service, which provides transportation between the international and inter-island terminals. You will hear your flight crew refer to the “Wikiwiki” shuttle prior to landing on Oahu.
The following words are not part of the Hawaiian language, but are also useful terms to learn prior to departing on your island getaway:
Haole (how-lee)-—Foreigner or someone of Caucasian descent. Don’t be insulted by the term… unless it is preceded or followed by a profanity.
Lanai (la-nigh)–A porch, balcony or veranda. You will likely hear it used when you book your hotel reservation or upon check-in. A hotel clerk may ask if you prefer a room “with or without a lanai.”
Diamond Head–It is the name of the famous island landmark. It is also used as a directional term: heading in the eastern direction of the island.
Windward—A term used frequently by island residents. It refers to the Eastern (or wet) side of a given island.
Leeward— Another term used frequently by island residents. It refers to the Western (or dry) side of a given island.