So you’ve mastered the Hawaiian Shaka and attempted to surf the pipeline, but nothing impresses the locals more than a tourist who can speak their language!
Since most Hawaiian vacations don’t last long enough to become fluent, we thought we’d lend a hand by listing some common words and phrases that will help you out while you’re here.
Greetings
Good morning – Aloha Kakahiaka
Good Afternoon – Aloha ‘auinala
Good evening – Aloha ahiahi
Common Questions
How are you? – Pehea ‘oe?
Howzit? – How are you?(informal)
Where are you from? – No hea mai ‘oe?
How much does this cost? – Ehia?
Where is the bathroom? – Aia i he aka lua?
Manners
Please – E ‘olu’olu
Thank-you – Mahalo
Dining
Cocktail – Lama pa’ipa’i
Appetizer – Pupu
Delicious – Ono
Food – Grinds
Cheers – Huli Pau
Bon appetite – E’ai kauna
Random
Please speak more slowly – E o’elo Malie
Help – Kokua ma Holina
Women / Men – Wahine / Kane (especially important when reading bathroom signs)
These are just some of the more common words and phrases you’ll use while on vacation in Hawaii, and thanks to our Aloha spirit, you’ll have no trouble finding a local who is ready and willing to teach you some more!
