To say thank you in Hawaii, you use Mahalo (pronounced mah-HAH-loh), a versatile word for thanks, gratitude, or admiration, and for "thank you very much," you say Mahalo nui loa (mah-HAH-loh noo-ee LOH-ah). These are common, respectful ways to express gratitude, much like "aloha," and are used in everyday interactions for any kind gesture.
2. Mahalo – Thank you. Show your gratitude with the Hawaiian phrase mahalo. If you're feeling extra grateful, use mahalo nui loa (pronounced mah-hah-loh noo-ee) for 'thank you very much'.
In Hawaii, the 🤙 (shaka) sign means much more than "hang loose"; it's a symbol of the Aloha Spirit, conveying greetings, thanks, friendship, understanding, and solidarity, replacing formal "hello," "goodbye," or "thank you" in many casual situations, like thanking a driver or showing approval. It signifies goodwill, patience, and a relaxed, positive attitude, embodying love and local pride, and was even made Hawaii's official state hand gesture in 2024.
"Mahalo" is a Hawaiian word meaning thanks, gratitude, admiration, praise, esteem, regards, or respects. According to the Pukui and Elbert Hawaiian Dictionary, it is derived from the Proto-Polynesian *masalo.
What is a Good Response to Mahalo? Expressing gratitude is an important value in Polynesian cultures, but so is humility. A common response to mahalo is a'ole pilikia, which means “no problem”.
The main difference is the thumb: 🤘 (Sign of the Horns) has the thumb folded in, representing rock music, warding off evil, or "rock on," popularized by Ronnie James Dio; 🤟 (Love-You Gesture) has the thumb extended, forming the ASL sign for "I Love You" (ILY) and often used to express general affection or support, also seen as the University of Texas "Hook 'Em Horns" symbol.
No, it's fine. However, it should be noted: the way that locals do it is much different than how non-locals do. Non-locals tend to fully flex the shaka and maybe give it a few enthusiastic wiggles. But here, we keep it loose and easy.
Living in Hawaii on $3,000 a month is extremely challenging and generally not feasible for a comfortable life, as basic expenses like rent, groceries, and utilities often exceed this amount, requiring a very strict minimalist lifestyle, roommates, or finding rent-free housing, with many experts suggesting over $4,500 monthly is needed for essentials. Housing costs alone, particularly on islands like Oahu, frequently consume most of that budget, with average one-bedrooms around $2,000-$2,200+, making it very tight for everything else.
Mahalo, being 'thank you' can be used by anyone, anywhere, at anytime.
1. Hello, goodbye—and so much more: Aloha. If you're planning a trip to Hawaii, chances are you're already aware that aloha (pronounced: ah-LOH-ha) means hello in Hawaiian. You may have also heard that it can also be used to say goodbye, but in reality, aloha is so much more than just a simple greeting.
Respecting Hawaiian Culture
Here are some ways to honor Kānaka Maoli during your stay: Learn Some Hawaiian Phrases: Take the time to learn a few basic Hawaiian phrases like “Aloha” (hello/goodbye) and “Mahalo” (thank you). This is a simple gesture that demonstrates respect for the local language and culture.
Over the past few years, you may have heard guests on CBC Radio say "miigwech" at the end of interviews. It means "thank you" in Anishinaabemowin, also known as Ojibwa. And it's not just guests: Duncan McCue, the host of Cross Country Checkup, ends every show with "chi-miigwech," which means "big thank you."
If you need to apologize, you can ask for forgiveness by simply saying E kala mai meaning “excuse me.” As Hawaiian Language Month slowly comes to a close, Hawaiian language itself continues to build momentum.
In Hawaii, the 🤙 (shaka) sign means much more than "hang loose"; it's a symbol of the Aloha Spirit, conveying greetings, thanks, friendship, understanding, and solidarity, replacing formal "hello," "goodbye," or "thank you" in many casual situations, like thanking a driver or showing approval. It signifies goodwill, patience, and a relaxed, positive attitude, embodying love and local pride, and was even made Hawaii's official state hand gesture in 2024.
Touching foreheads, known as Honi in Hawaii (or Hongi among the Māori), is an ancient greeting that honors the heart and soul of another person. It symbolizes the sharing of “ha” (breath of life) and “mana” (spiritual power) between two individuals.
The shaka sign, sometimes known as "hang loose" or "hang ten", is a gesture representing "aloha spirit, love and local pride" that is the official hand gesture of Hawaii and is also associated with global surf culture.
👉👈 — Shy, nervous (usually in the context of flirting) 🧿 — Represents warding off the “evil eye” 🧠 — Oral sex. 💦 — Ejaculation. 👅 — May indicate sexual activity, especially oral sex.
Live long and prosper, friends! If you ever need to spread the love to your geekier friends, then flash a 🖖. The Vulcan salute emoji, 🖖, is perfect for showing your Star Trek cred or sci-fi pride more generally.
The 🙌 (Raising Hands) emoji in chat signifies celebration, excitement, praise, or "yes!", like someone shouting "Woot!" or "Hallelujah!". It means "Give me ten!" (a double high-five) or expresses joy for someone's success, achievements, or positive news, but can also mean "wait for it" or be used for motivation and support.
Hawaii's "best-kept secrets" are subjective but often point to Niʻihau (the privately-owned "Forbidden Isle"), quieter islands like Molokaʻi, secluded spots like Oahu's Mermaid Caves, Maui's Secret Cove (Paʻako Beach), or authentic experiences like Kona's coffee farms, offering escapes from typical tourist traps for more cultural immersion or natural beauty.
One of the Hawaiian words first learned by most non-Hawaiians is wahine for “woman.” Kāne for “man” and wahine for “woman” are often painted on restroom doors. It also means “lady, wife, female, queen in a deck of cards” and even femininity.
To respond to "Kia ora," you can simply say "Kia ora" back, as it's a versatile greeting for hello or thanks; for more specific responses, use "Tēnā koe" (formal, to one person), "Tēnā kōrua" (to two), or "Tēnā koutou" (to many), or add "e hoa" (friend) for informality, or respond to thanks with "Kei te pai" (All good/I'm good).