50+ Traditional Hawaiian Tattoo Designs With Their Meanings

Aloha, tattoo lovers! If you want nature-inspired ink designs that go beyond mere aesthetics, we have the perfect idea for you. Yes, we are talking about Hawaiian tattoos. Whether you have Hawaiian roots or just a love for its culture, these tattoos offer a beautiful way to connect with the vibrant legacy of the island state of the United States. They are a symbol of the wearer’s personal and ancestral tale and every pattern and line included in them represents identity, heritage, and rich traditions. Along with intricate patterns, they also come in vibrant designs, such as hibiscus, plumeria, and ocean tattoos. These tattoos go beyond body art and are deeply connected to the culture and history of the islands. In this article, we will explore some of these designs, each with its meaning and cultural importance, and also introduce you to the history and evolution of Hawaiian tattoos. Read on!

Cultural Significance Of Hawaiian Tattoos

When exploring Polynesian tattoo designs, it’s essential to understand their significance. Hawaiian tattoos are part of the Polynesian tattooing tradition which also includes other cultures like Maori and Samoan. Here is what you should know about the historical background of these tattoos:

• Hawaiians referred to traditional Hawaiian tattooing as kakau. This practice dates back centuries and was carried out by both men and women.
• The word kakau combines two words – ka and kau, which mean ‘to strike’ and ‘to place upon,’ respectively. Together, they describe hand-tapping, an ancient technique used to make Hawaiian tattoos using a set of tools called kakau uhi.
• These tools were needle and comb-like instruments made out of bone or tusks attached to a wooden handle. Sometimes, they were also made of beaks and claws of birds or sharp barbs on the tails of fishes like Kala and Palani.
• The permanent ink for the tattoos was made of natural materials, such as kukui nut soot or squid ink. Hawaiians also used plants with highly acidic juices to create temporary tattoos to mark the death of a loved one.
• The tattoos created using kakau uhi were a reflection of the person’s status, identity, and connection to the spiritual world and land of Hawaii.
• If the tattoos covered the right side of the body completely and made it look solid black, Hawaiians called it pahupahu. This was done mainly by men, especially warriors.
• Outcasts and slaves were tattooed on their faces, while tongue tattoos were done to commemorate an important chief’s death.

While traditional Hawaiian tattoos remain popular, people today also prefer their contemporary adaptations. These incorporate ancient Hawaiian tattooing motifs with modern tattoo styles and techniques. Let us find out how this evolution occurred over the centuries.

Evolution Of Hawaiian Tattoo Styles Over Centuries

Before the Western contact, Hawaiian tattoos were deeply steeped in the culture. They were a representation of the wearer’s social status, genealogy, and spiritual beliefs. However, with colonialism and Westernization, traditional tattooing declined. Let us find out more about it:

• Hawaiian tattoo practices faced suppression with the arrival of European explorers and missionaries in the late 18th century, as they associated them with paganism. This refers to spiritual beliefs and practices other than those of Christianity, Judaism, or Islam.
• In the late 20th century, these tattoos saw a resurgence of interest due to the efforts of tattoo artists like Keone Nunes. He is also known as Kahuna Kā Uhi, which translates to a master tattooist.
• Another tattooist Trisha Allen also plays a notable role in reviving Hawaiian Polynesian tattoos. She tattooed nearly 8,000 community members.
• Today, Hawaiian tattoos come in a wide range of designs and styles. While some people still opt for traditional designs, you can also find contemporary adaptations that are creative and vibrant.

Some of the common motifs you can find in traditional Hawaiian include the sun, tikis, shark teeth, and spearheads. Modern adaptations, on the other hand, may also include turtles, sharks, plumerias, and hibiscus. If you are interested in any of these designs, check out the section below.

50+ Traditional Hawaiian Tattoo Designs And Meanings

Here are some of the most stunning Hawaiian tattoo designs that are sure to make heads turn wherever you go:

1. Hawaiian Tribal Tattoo

Tribal Hawaiian tattoos feature geometric shapes and bold lines, representing natural elements like shark teeth, waves, and different aspects of life and heritage. This piece above is a perfect representation of it. The tattoo begins at the shoulder and gracefully cascades down the arm. Plus, the use of black ink adds depth and dimension to it. This design is ideal for both men and women.

2. Family Hawaiian Tattoo

Ohana means family in Hawaiian. This tattoo features the word in a lowercase, cursive script. Below the text is a horizontal band of Polynesian-inspired patterns and a row of stylized flowers. You can get this tattoo to showcase your love for your family and pay tribute to Hawaiian culture.

3. Female Hawaiian Tattoo

If you want a feminine Hawaiian tattoo, your wait ends here. This tattoo combines ancient Hawaiian tattoo art with nature-inspired pieces. It begins at the wrist with intricate and geometric Polynesian motifs and wraps around the forearm. The highlight of the design is the blooming flower that represents the stunning nature of Hawaii.

4. Hawaiian Flower Tattoo

Here is another nature-inspired design to show your love for Hawaii. It features the Hibiscus, a regional flower of Hawaii. The flower is vibrantly shaded and surrounded by lush leaves. It symbolizes beauty, love, happiness, femininity, and peace. While the tattoo looks stunning on the upper arm, you can get it on your calf or upper back.

5. Hawaiian Islands Tattoo

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bad Inkfluence Tattoos (@badinkfluencetattoos)

Here is a tattoo for all the adventurous souls. It features a collection of five stylized, fragmented islands in Hawaii. Along with showcasing the region’s landscape, the tattoo also features the Hawaiian sea turtle which represents spirituality, longevity, and safety. You can get this tattoo either on your upper arm or calf.

6. Strength Hawaiian Tattoo

The intricate geometric patterns in Hawaiian tattoos are not just shapes. They symbolize various virtues like strength. The piece featured above has triangles, lines, and swirling shapes representing traditional Hawaiian motifs like shark teeth and spearheads. Along with strength, they also symbolize protection and guidance.

7. Hawaiian Warrior Tattoo

Maori tattoo designs share a close connection with Hawaiian tattoos in terms of the use of symbols and shared stories. This tattoo features a Maori-style mask representing a warrior followed by intricate Polynesian patterns on the rest of the arm. The mask has fierce facial features that evoke feelings of strength and courage. It also symbolizes ancestral connections with the Hawaiian warriors and is a tribute to their bravery and sacrifice.

8. Plumeria Hawaiian Flower Tattoo

If you are looking for a vibrant Hawaiian tattoo, your search ends here. This piece features three plumeria flowers arranged in a cluster, surrounded by lush green leaves. It symbolizes natural beauty and charm and is linked to the spirit of aloha, which represents love, peace, and compassion.

9. Hawaiian Leg Tattoo

Look how stunning this Hawaiian leg sleeve piece is! It features intricate patterns that cover the entire leg to create a bold and captivating look. These patterns represent various Hawaiian motifs that carry significant meanings. For instance, the triangular patterns in the design correspond to shark teeth that symbolize protection and strength.

10. Hawaiian Face Tattoo

This piece for the bold and daring is not your regular tattoo. It features Hawaiian tribal patterns with clean and bold lines and jet-black ink. The edgy tattoo covers the entire side of the face and symbolizes identity, ancestry, or social status in the island state’s culture.

11. Hawaiian Triangle Tattoo

If you love meaningful small Hawaiian tattoos, here is a tattoo for you. It features a simple triangle on the wrist with tribal geometric patterns inside. The design represents Niho Mano, shark teeth in Hawaiian culture. It symbolizes protection, guidance, and strength. When interconnected, it can also represent spearheads that correspond to courage and warrior spirit.

12. Patterns Hawaiian Tattoo

Check out this piece if you love pattern tattoos that are both meaningful and stunning. It features intricate Polynesian tribal patterns with geometric shapes, lines, and symbols. They represent simple ideas of strength, courage, and status within the tribe. Plus, we love the tattoo’s dark ink that creates a beautiful contrast against the skin.

13. Hawaiian Sleeve Tattoo

This tattoo begins with floral motifs at the shoulder to represent the beauty of the Hawaiian islands. It is followed by small sections of different Polynesian patterns that feature fine lines and triangular shapes that symbolize strength, courage, protection, and guidance. The entire design cascades beautifully down the arm and is perfect for anyone who loves elaborate full-sleeve tattoos.

14. Hawaiian Turtle Tattoo

The Hawaiian turtle tattoo is one of the most iconic designs and is done in many variations, including this one. The turtle is known as Honu and symbolizes faith, good fortune, wisdom, and unity. If you need a tattoo to represent any of these ideas, this piece is for you. The turtle in the design is adorned with intricate Polynesian tribal patterns that make it look bold and stunning. The tattoo is also an ideal choice to showcase your love for marine life.

15. Native Hawaiian Tattoo

The practice of tattooing dates back centuries and is deeply rooted in Hawaiian traditions. The tattoo above is a representation of what these native pieces looked like. It features clean lines and intricate details that reflect your identity and a connection with your ancestors.

16. Male Hawaiian Tattoo

Here is another design that represents Hawaiian heritage and its link to tattoo art. It features a combination of simple lines arranged in various patterns to cover the arm. You can either get this tattoo on your entire arm or customize the design to fit your upper arm or forearm.

17. Hawaiian Wave Tattoo

This tattoo features stylized, curved lines that represent waves. Each of the wave patterns is intricately detailed with ancient Hawaiian motifs. The tattoo gives off a classic look and represents the ocean’s power and tranquility. This piece is ideal for both men and women who feel a connection to the ocean.

18. Ancient Hawaiian Tattoo

In ancient times, Hawaiian men and women had bodies entirely covered in tattoos. This piece is inspired by those tattoos. It covers the entire neck and extends to the upper back and the arm. If you are up for a super-detailed piece to pay tribute to Hawaiian culture, the tattoo is perfect for you.

19. Hawaiian Shoulder Tattoo

There is something about shoulder tattoos that has everyone around them hooked. Don’t believe us? Check out this piece. The eye-catching design spans across the shoulder and upper arm and enhances the natural contours of the body. The use of Polynesian geometric patterns and bold lines make the design even more appealing and meaningful.

20. Hawaiian Bird Tattoo

This minimalist tattoo is subtle yet meaningful. It features the iwa bird who has a connection to the Goddess Kaiona in Hawaiian mythology. The merciful goddess sent the bird to those who were lost in the forests to guide their way. The tattoo may symbolize guidance and a connection to higher powers.

21. Hawaiian Sun Tattoo

The sun in Hawaiian culture is a vital source of life and represents energy, vitality, and growth. If you want a tattoo to represent this, check out the design above. It features a stylized depiction of the sun with bold lines and traditional Polynesian patterns. The tattoo looks stunning on the upper arm but will look equally good on the upper back.

22. Hawaiian Couple Tattoo

If you are a couple looking for Hawaiian tattoos to capture the essence of tropical elegance, we have the perfect design for you. It features two matching palm trees that are finely detailed with a slender trunk and lush fronds. The design symbolizes a shared bond and a special connection to Hawaii.

23. Hawaiian Ankle Tattoo

The tattoo features a series of intricate geometric patterns and motifs that wrap around the ankle to create a band and extend toward the leg. The design is super-clean and gives off a classic and timeless feel. It also pairs perfectly with the tattoo on the foot. You can either get a similar design or customize it to adjust the band’s thickness.

24. Hawaiian Tribal Octopus Tattoo

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Nick Luna | Tattoo Artist (@badbullyink)

This Hawaiian chest tattoo is aesthetic and trendy. It features a stylized octopus with a prominent head and eight flowing tentacles. The animal is adorned with loops, curves, and clean lines and looks stunning against the skin. It symbolizes intelligence, adaptability, and resourcefulness.

25. Hawaiian Back Tattoo

Back tattoos are perfect for making a bold statement with super-intricate designs, as the placement provides ample space for them. This piece features elaborate Polynesian-inspired motifs, ranging from geometric patterns to tribal motifs and traditional symbols. It creates a sense of balance and harmony and also includes traditional motifs like tiki that symbolize power and wisdom.

26. Sailor Jerry Hawaiian Tattoo

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Old Ironside Tattoo (@oldironsidetattoo)

Norman Keith Collins, also known as Sailor Jerry was a renowned tattoo artist who lived and worked in Honolulu, Hawaii. This tattoo features an image from a brand of spiced rum inspired by his artwork. It showcases a female playing the ukulele and wearing a traditional Hawaiian hula grass skirt. There is also a banner with the word “Aloha” inscribed at the bottom that is commonly used to say hello and goodbye in Hawaii.

27. Outline Hawaiian Islands Tattoo

Calling all Hawaii and minimalist tattoo lovers! This design is a toned-down version of the Hawaiian islands map tattoo. It features a simple and clean outline of a part of the scattered Hawaiian archipelago, mainly the islands of Hawaii, Maui, and Honolulu. The tattoo is free of any extra details and is placed on the upper arm. It symbolizes a connection to Hawaii or an appreciation for its natural landscape.

28. Hawaiian Band Tattoo

If you love armband tattoos, Hawaiian body art is for you. The tattoo above encircles the wrist and features intricate geometric patterns inspired by the tribal Polynesian culture. They are perfectly symmetrical and represent unity, harmony, and strength. You can customize this band to fit various placements, such as the forearm, upper arm, ankle, calf, and thigh.

29. Hawaiian Flag Tattoo

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zachariah (@tattoos_by_zachariah)

This grayscale tattoo features a flowing Hawaiian flag. Its top left corner contains the Union Jack which symbolizes Hawaii’s historical connection with the British Empire. The rest of the flag features eight horizontal stripes that represent the eight main islands of Hawaii. The tattoo is perfect for those who have a cultural connection to Hawaii.

30. Hawaiian Love Tattoo

While aloha in Hawaiian is commonly used for greeting and farewell, it also embodies other meanings. One of these is love. If you are looking for a tattoo with a similar meaning, the word aloha is for you. The design above features it in a stylized font surrounded by tropical leaves that add to the tattoo’s Hawaiian theme. Hawaiian love tattoo may also symbolize hospitality and warmth.

31. Hawaiian Kakau Tattoo

While it is not possible to get a tattoo using the kakau hand-tapping method today, you can certainly draw inspiration from the tattoos created in the past using it. The design above is perfect if you wish to do the same. Its delicate patterns and motifs are a treat to the eyes. You can use them to customize a perfect piece for any placement.

32. Hawaiian Shark Tattoo

Sharks are considered sacred and have supernatural powers according to Hawaiian mythology. Legends also say that many families had their family shark god in the past. If sharks are your spirit animal or you are drawn to them, this tattoo is for you. It features a stylized representation of a shark using fine lines and intricate patterns. The tattoo also symbolizes strength, protection, and guidance.

33. Hawaiian Calf Tattoo

Calf tattoos never go out of fashion. If you are considering getting one, this Hawaiian design is perfect. It features symmetrical geometric shapes and intricate designs that add a sense of harmony and balance to it. You can add several Polynesian and Hawaiian motifs, such as shark teeth and turtle shells to symbolize ideas, such as strength and courage.

34. Hawaiian Ring Tattoo

Do you love wearing antique rings and jewelry? If yes, get yourself a permanent ring tattoo like this one. The tattoo is placed on the middle finger and features an intricate band of criss-cross Polynesian patterns. This interconnectedness represents unity and strength. If you are a couple getting this tattoo, you may also get it on your ring finger to celebrate your love.

35. Hawaiian Ocean Tattoo

The ocean is a source of sustenance and a connection to ancestors in Hawaiian culture. If you wish to pay tribute to it, this tattoo is perfect. It features a mesmerizing scene of an ocean with big waves and mountains in the background. The waves symbolize strength, power, and resilience, while the mountains add balance and tranquility to the scene.

36. Hawaiian Fish Tattoo

If you love fish tattoos, the stingray is one of the most popular designs in Hawaiian culture. This tattoo features the aquatic creature with bold shading and intricate details. It symbolizes protection, adaptation, peacefulness, agility, and gracefulness. The tattoo is ideal for both men and women.

37. Hawaiian Butterfly Tattoo

Butterfly or Pulelehua in the Hawaiian language is a symbol of cheerfulness and positive spirits. This tattoo features the winged wonder in bold lines and intricate details. It also extends towards the arm and features traditional Polynesian motifs. This tattoo is a beautiful reminder of cherishing life’s simplest moments. It also symbolizes freedom and transformation.

38. Hawaiian God Tattoo

There are four main Tiki gods in Hawaiian culture, Ku, Lono, Kane, and Kanaloa. They are gods of war, peace, light, and sea respectively. This tattoo is inspired by these deities and is a combination of neo-traditional and Polynesian tattoo styles. It symbolizes protection, guidance, fertility, and power.

39. Hawaiian Hammerhead Shark Leg Tattoo

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 👇👇Tattoo 👇👇 (@slickvision_)

Hammerhead sharks are another popular choice for traditional Hawaiian tattoos. This piece features one on the leg with intricate designs, clean lines, and subtle shading. The tattoo represents sociality, as these fishes move in large groups. It also symbolizes protection, strength, and determination.

40. Hawaiian Flower Leg Tattoo

If you have ever visited, you might know that you can find hibiscus everywhere in the state. They come in numerous colors, from red and pink to yellow and purple. This tattoo features these flowers in a reddish-pink hue with lush green leaves. The tattoo symbolizes beauty and joy.

41. Samoan Hawaiian Tattoo

Samoa and Hawaii are both part of Polynesia. This tattoo is a combination of the traditional body art of these two regions. It features clear lines and geometric shapes of Samoan body art and swirling patterns and traditional motifs of Hawaiian culture. The tattoo is ideal for anyone who wishes to pay tribute to both these cultures or is linked to them.

42. Hawaiian Tribal Tattoo With Leiomano

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 6SEED (@6_seed)

This tattoo features a Leiomano, a traditional Hawaiian weapon adorned with shark teeth. It uses detailed shading and clean lines to mimic the appearance of the weapon’s wooden surface and serrated edges. This tattoo is perfect for anyone who not only admires Hawaiian heritage but also its warrior traditions.

43. Geometric Hawaiian Tattoo Design

This piece is absolutely stunning! It features a bold and intricate geometric pattern on the arm inspired by traditional Hawaiian motifs. The tattoo also extends across the chest and features numerous interlocking shapes and lines that represent unity and strength. It is a perfect choice for men and women who love bold, symmetrical tattoos.

44. Neo-Polynesian Hawaiian Shark Tattoo

If you love tattoos that are modern yet traditional, this neo-Polynesian piece is for you. It extends from the shoulder across the upper chest and down the arm. The shoulder and chest feature intricate floral designs, while the upper arm features a shark with fierce details. The marine mammal symbolizes strength and intensity. Below it, there is a large flower that matches perfectly with the Hawaiian theme.

45. Hawaiian Arm Tattoo

When it comes to Hawaiian tattoos, there is no dearth of arm ink designs. If you are looking for one to adorn your upper arm, this half-sleeve design is for you. It seamlessly blends Hawaiian motifs like Tiki, shark teeth, and spearheads that symbolize knowledge, courage, protection, and the warrior spirit.

46. Hawaiian Animal Tattoo

Seahorses symbolize eternal friendship in Hawaiian culture. So, if you are looking for an ink design to commemorate your friendship with your bestie, this tattoo is for you. It features a seahorse adorned with geometric and tribal patterns that give it a unique and artistic look. The animal also symbolizes good luck, peace, persistence, and magic.

47. Hawaiian Thigh Tattoo

If you need a feminine tattoo for your next ink, this thigh design is a great choice. It features a large flower with intricate petals to represent the natural beauty of Hawaii. Intricate patterns and leaves emerge from it and add to the theme of the state’s culture. While the tattoo looks great in black and gray, you can also add a pop of color to it by getting the flower inked in red.

48. Hawaiian Cross Tattoo

The Hawaiian cross in this tattoo is also known as a Koa cross. It combines the Christian cross with intricate patterns and motifs inspired by Hawaiian traditional art. Overall, this design represents Hawaiian culture and heritage. It also symbolizes faith, peace, hope, and love.

49. Hawaiian Compass Tattoo

Here is a tattoo that combines nautical themes with Hawaiian culture. It features a compass at the center with its points extended into a circular frame. It represents navigation, direction, and guidance. The compass is also surrounded by intricate geometric linework arranged in a circular form and leaves that add to its Hawaiian theme.

50. Mother-Daughter Hawaiian Tattoo

Hibiscus is a quintessential symbol of Hawaii. This makes it perfect for those looking for floral Hawaiian mother-daughter or matching tattoos. The design above features a set of Hibiscus flowers with subtle differences. It symbolizes grace, femininity, and a shared appreciation for Hawaii.

51. Mermaid Tattoo Hawaiian Style

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 🔹 NO HARD FEELINGS TATTOO 🔹 (@nohardfeelingstattoo)

Namaka, the goddess of the sea in Hawaiian mythology, is depicted with a fish-like tail and a human-like torso. If you love the state’s mythology and mermaids, this tattoo is for you. It features a stunning mermaid with intricate patterns all over her body and tail. The water spirit also has a flower on her head that represents the nature and beauty of Hawaii. The tattoo also symbolizes mystery, femininity, and a connection to the sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old do you have to be to get a tattoo in Hawaii?

You have to be at least 18 years old to get a tattoo in Hawaii. If you are a minor between the age of 14-18, the Hawaii State Law requires parental consent for it.

How much are tattoos in Hawaii?

Tattoo prices in Hawaii may vary depending on factors, such as the size of the tattoo, its complexity, the time taken, and the artist’s expertise. Generally, you can expect a minimum charge of $150 for smaller tattoos, while larger pieces may cost you around $250 per hour.

Why do Hawaiians have tattoos?

Hawaiians usually have tattoos to honor their heritage. They also get them to express their identity and carry on their cultural traditions. Some may also get the tattoos to mark important life events or accomplishments.

What do specific Hawaiian tattoo symbols mean?

Hawaiian tattoos may comprise various symbols with different meanings. The hibiscus flower symbolizes beauty, while the green sea turtle represents good luck and long life. Similarly, the dolphin, tiki, spearheads, and sun symbolize wisdom, protection, courage, and eternity, respectively. Hawaiian tattoos may also sometimes contain human figures called Enata that represent family and ancestors.

What should I consider before getting a Hawaiian tattoo?

Before getting a Hawaiian tattoo, it is important to understand the cultural significance of the design so that it aligns with your values. You should also ensure that it respects and honors Hawaiian heritage. You can also consider the placement of the tattoo. Lastly, it is important to look for a skilled tattoo artist for authenticity and quality.

Can anyone get a Hawaiian tattoo, or is it reserved for native Hawaiians?

While Hawaiian tattoos have deep cultural significance, they are not reserved for native Hawaiians. You can get the tattoo if you appreciate and respect Hawaiian traditions. That said, ensure to understand the design well beforehand to ensure it does not disrespect the Hawaiian culture.

How can I find a reputable Hawaiian tattoo artist?

You can check online reviews, social media, and tattoo forums to look for reputable Hawaiian tattoo artists. This will give you an insight into their work and style. It is also a great idea to visit the artist personally to ensure they maintain cleanliness and safety in their studio.

What are the most popular symbols in Hawaiian tattoos and what do they represent?

Common symbols in Hawaiian tattoos include turtles, representing good luck, sharks symbolizing protection, hibiscus flowers signifying beauty, and sun meaning happiness and eternal life.

Was this article helpful?

Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Anqi WuTattoo Artist

 

Anqi is a tattoo artist based in Toronto, Canada, with 4 years of experience. She graduated from Sheridan College, worked full-time as an animator/illustrator, and later branched out into tattooing. After spending two productive years as a resident artist at Chronic Ink Tattoos, Anqi decided to take her craft in a more independent direction.

Read full bio of Anqi Wu

Gracia OdileBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Gracia Odile is a teacher-turned-beauty and lifestyle writer with three years of professional experience. She has a bachelor's degree in English from St. Stephen's College, a master's in Anthropology from the University of Madras, and a degree in education from GGSIPU.

Read full bio of Gracia Odile

Arshiya SyedaCo-Editor-in-Chief

Arshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.

Read full bio of Arshiya Syeda

Pahul NanraBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Pahul Nanra is a content writer with a penchant for all things fashion and beauty. She has two years of experience in writing across beauty and lifestyle genres. She is an English Honors graduate from Delhi University with a diploma in Fashion Designing from YMCA.

Read full bio of Pahul Nanra