Learn Hawaiian Place Names in 5 Minutes: Big Island

Key Takeaways

• The Big Island has more attractions than Kauai, requiring 5 minutes instead of 3 to cover the major place names
• Hawaiian has only 13 letters with consistent pronunciation rules, making it learnable
• An authentic local person demonstrates correct pronunciation of major Big Island attractions
• Once you learn the vowel sounds, you can derive the pronunciation of almost any Hawaiian word
• This is the companion video to the Kauai version

Big Island Place Names

The Big Island of Hawaii has the most diverse landscape of any Hawaiian island, ranging from snow-capped mountains to tropical rainforests to active volcanic craters. This diversity means visitors encounter a wide range of place names, many of which can seem intimidating to pronounce.

This video features an authentic local person teaching the correct pronunciation of the Big Island’s major attractions and locations. Because the Big Island is larger and has more attractions than Kauai, this video runs slightly longer at five minutes.

Pronunciation Refresher

Hawaiian uses only 13 letters. The five vowels are consistently pronounced: A as “ah,” E as “eh,” I as “ee,” O as “oh,” and U as “oo.” Eight consonants (h, k, l, m, n, p, w, and the okina) round out the alphabet. Every syllable ends in a vowel. This consistency means that even long, seemingly complex words can be broken into simple syllable chunks.

Key Big Island Names Covered

The video covers essential place names including Kilauea, Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Akaka, Puuhonua o Honaunau, Pololu, Waipio, Hamakua, and many more. After watching, you should be able to confidently pronounce most Hawaiian names you encounter during your Big Island visit.

The Value of Trying

Even imperfect attempts at Hawaiian pronunciation are appreciated by local residents. It shows respect for the culture and language. Do not be afraid to try, and do not be embarrassed if you stumble. Most locals will gently correct you and appreciate the effort.

Planning Your Big Island or Kauai Trip

When planning a visit to Hawaii, consider that each island has its own distinct character and attractions. The Big Island offers volcanic landscapes, coffee plantations, and diverse climate zones ranging from tropical rainforest to snow-capped peaks. Kauai, the oldest of the major islands, features dramatic cliff formations, lush valleys, and a more relaxed pace than the busier islands of Oahu and Maui.

Rental cars are essential on both islands since public transportation is limited. Book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons (December through March and June through August). The best weather for outdoor activities is generally in the morning, as afternoon clouds and rain are common, particularly on the windward (eastern) sides of both islands.

Respect the land and culture during your visit. Stay on marked trails, do not disturb wildlife, and learn basic Hawaiian words and customs. The aloha spirit is real, and visitors who show respect for the islands receive warm hospitality in return.

Planning Your Big Island or Kauai Trip

When planning a visit to Hawaii, consider that each island has its own distinct character and attractions. The Big Island offers volcanic landscapes, coffee plantations, and diverse climate zones ranging from tropical rainforest to snow-capped peaks. Kauai, the oldest of the major islands, features dramatic cliff formations, lush valleys, and a more relaxed pace than the busier islands of Oahu and Maui.

Rental cars are essential on both islands since public transportation is limited. Book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons (December through March and June through August). The best weather for outdoor activities is generally in the morning, as afternoon clouds and rain are common, particularly on the windward (eastern) sides of both islands.

Respect the land and culture during your visit. Stay on marked trails, do not disturb wildlife, and learn basic Hawaiian words and customs. The aloha spirit is real, and visitors who show respect for the islands receive warm hospitality in return. For more travel content, check out our guide to Dubrovnik, Croatia or explore the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.