Polynesian Boy and Girl Names for Babies and Children

Choosing a name for your child is a significant and heartfelt endeavor. A name embodies identity, cultural connections, and the hopes you hold for your little one. Polynesian names are particularly enchanting, offering a rich tapestry of meanings and histories drawn from the diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands. These names often reflect the natural beauty of the islands, deep familial ties, and spiritual beliefs, making them a meaningful choice for parents seeking something unique and significant. 

The Polynesian culture, with its vibrant traditions and languages, has shaped a variety of names that resonate with the essence of family, nature, and the ocean. Names like Moana, meaning "ocean," symbolize the deep connection to the sea that is integral to Polynesian life, while names like Leilani, meaning "heavenly flower," evoke the lush landscapes of the islands. Many Polynesian names are derived from the indigenous languages of the region, such as Hawaiian, Māori, and Samoan, each bringing its own unique sound and significance. 

Opting for a Polynesian name can be a beautiful way to honor the cultures and histories of the Pacific Islands, providing your child with a name that reflects their individuality while connecting them to a rich heritage. Whether you have Polynesian roots or are simply drawn to the beauty of these names, this guide will introduce you to a variety of options, including girl names, boy names, and gender-neutral names, each accompanied by their meanings. Let’s dive into the captivating world of Polynesian names and discover the perfect name for your little one. 

Polynesian girl names

Polynesian girl names are often infused with natural imagery and spiritual significance. They celebrate beauty, strength, and connection to the earth and sea. Here are some lovely Polynesian girl names, along with their meanings: 

1. Ailani – Meaning "high chief," representing leadership and honor.
2. Aloha – Meaning "love" or "affection," symbolizing warmth and kindness.
3. Amara – Meaning "grace" or "immortal," symbolizing elegance and enduring beauty.
4. Anuhea – Meaning "fragrant," representing sweetness and beauty.
5. Arihi – Meaning "noble," symbolizing dignity and grace.
6. Ayla – Meaning "moonlight," symbolizing beauty and serenity.
7. Halia – Meaning "remembrance of a loved one," symbolizing cherished memories.
8. Hina – Meaning "goddess of the moon," embodying beauty and serenity.
9. Hokulani – Meaning "star of heaven," representing aspiration and hope.
10. Iolana – Meaning "to soar," representing freedom and ambition.
11. Kahiau – Meaning "generous," symbolizing kindness and warmth.
12. Kaia – Meaning "the sea," embodying freedom and vastness.
13. Kailani – Meaning "sea and sky," symbolizing harmony and balance.
14. Kalani – Meaning "the heavens," symbolizing spiritual elevation.
15. Kale – Meaning "the bright one," symbolizing brilliance and positivity.
16. Kalei – Meaning "the flower crown," symbolizing beauty and tradition.
17. Kealohi – Meaning "the brightness," representing positivity and light.
18. Keanu – Meaning "cool breeze," embodying tranquility and peace.
19. Kia – Meaning "to be strong," symbolizing resilience and fortitude.
20. Lani – Meaning "heaven," embodying a connection to the divine.
21. Lehua – Meaning "a type of flower," representing beauty and uniqueness.
22. Leilani – Meaning "heavenly flower," representing beauty and grace.
23. Lihau – Meaning "misty," representing tranquility and peace.
24. Liko – Meaning "bud," symbolizing new beginnings and growth.
25. Malia – Meaning "calm" or "peaceful," embodying tranquility.
26. Mele – Meaning "song," embodying joy and expression.
27. Moana – Meaning "ocean," embodying the vastness and depth of the sea.
28. Moani – Meaning "sweet breeze," representing calmness and serenity.
29. Moemoe – Meaning "dreamer," symbolizing imagination and creativity.
30. Mokihana – Meaning "a fragrant flower," symbolizing beauty and grace.
31. Mokulele – Meaning "little bird," symbolizing freedom and grace.
32. Nalani – Meaning "serenity of the heavens," representing calmness and peace.
33. Nanea – Meaning "peaceful," symbolizing calmness and serenity.
34. Nani – Meaning "beautiful," embodying grace and charm.
35. Noelani – Meaning "heavenly mist," representing ethereal beauty.
36. Nohea – Meaning "handsome" or "beautiful," symbolizing attractiveness.
37. Oli – Meaning "to chant," embodying the importance of storytelling.
38. Pani – Meaning "to close," representing completion and wholeness.
39. Pele – Meaning "goddess of fire," representing strength and passion.
40. Pua – Meaning "flower," representing beauty and blossoming.
41. Puanani – Meaning "beautiful flower," embodying grace and elegance.
42. Raina – Meaning "queen," symbolizing royalty and elegance.
43. Rohini – Meaning "star," embodying hope and guidance.
44. Tala – Meaning "story" or "to tell," symbolizing the importance of narratives.
45. Tia – Meaning "aunt," symbolizing family ties and love.
46. Tiare – Meaning "flower," embodying beauty and natural grace.
47. Uilani – Meaning "heavenly brightness," representing light and positivity.
48. Vaea – Meaning "from the valley," symbolizing peace and tranquility.
49. Vania – Meaning "bringer of peace," symbolizing harmony and tranquility.
50. Waiola – Meaning "water of life," representing vitality and renewal.

Polynesian boy names

Polynesian boy names are often powerful and imbued with significance, celebrating the traits of bravery, wisdom, and strength. 

1. Aka – Meaning "shadow," representing protection and guidance.
2. Alika – Meaning "defender," symbolizing protection and bravery.
3. Alohi – Meaning "brilliant," symbolizing intelligence and radiance.
4. Amosa – Meaning "gift of God," symbolizing blessings and grace.
5. Eli – Meaning "ascended" or "my God," symbolizing elevation and connection.
6. Fetu – Meaning "star," representing guidance and light.
7. Haku – Meaning "to create," symbolizing creativity and innovation.
8. Hawani – Meaning "calm sea," embodying tranquility and peace.
9. Hokulani – Meaning "heavenly star," symbolizing guidance and aspiration.
10. Ikaika – Meaning "strong," representing resilience and fortitude.
11. Kaimana – Meaning "ocean power," representing strength and majesty.
12. Kainoa – Meaning "the sea of freedom," embodying openness and adventure.
13. Kalani – Meaning "the heavens," symbolizing spiritual connection and aspiration.
14. Kale – Meaning "the bright one," representing positivity and light.
15. Kanu – Meaning "to plant," representing growth and renewal.
16. Keanu – Meaning "cool breeze," representing tranquility and peace.
17. Koa – Meaning "warrior," embodying bravery and resilience.
18. Laki – Meaning "luck," symbolizing good fortune and prosperity.
19. Liko – Meaning "bud," representing growth and potential.
20. Lono – Meaning "god of peace and agriculture," embodying abundance and harmony.
21. Maka – Meaning "the eye," embodying insight and clarity.
22. Makoa – Meaning "brave," representing courage and valor.
23. Malama – Meaning "to take care," symbolizing nurturing and responsibility.
24. Maleko – Meaning "gift of God," symbolizing blessings and gratitude.
25. Malo – Meaning "to be safe," symbolizing protection and security.
26. Mana – Meaning "spiritual power," symbolizing strength and energy.
27. Manaia – Meaning "good spirit," representing positivity and hope.
28. Nakoa – Meaning "warrior," embodying strength and determination.
29. Niko – Meaning "victory of the people," symbolizing leadership and honor.
30. Nui – Meaning "great," symbolizing strength and significance.
31. Olakino – Meaning "healthy," symbolizing vitality and well-being.
32. Paki – Meaning "wise," embodying intelligence and discernment.
33. Pele – Meaning "goddess of fire," representing passion and intensity.
34. Raimana – Meaning "peaceful," embodying calmness and serenity.
35. Rangi – Meaning "sky," representing openness and freedom.
36. Riki – Meaning "king," symbolizing authority and leadership.
37. Rongo – Meaning "god of peace," representing harmony and tranquility.
38. Sione – Meaning "God is gracious," symbolizing faith and blessings.
39. Tahi – Meaning "first," representing new beginnings and leadership.
40. Talo – Meaning "moon," embodying serenity and quiet strength.
41. Tama – Meaning "son," symbolizing family and legacy.
42. Tane – Meaning "man," symbolizing strength and masculinity.
43. Teuila – Meaning "red ginger flower," representing beauty and uniqueness.
44. Tua – Meaning "back," symbolizing support and strength.
45. Tui – Meaning "king," representing leadership and nobility.
46. Ulu – Meaning "to grow," representing development and progress.
47. Ulukai – Meaning "to rise," embodying aspiration and success.
48. Vaine – Meaning "male," embodying strength and dignity.
49. Wai – Meaning "water," embodying fluidity and adaptability.
50. Waka – Meaning "canoe," representing journey and exploration.

Gender-neutral names

Polynesian culture embraces names that can be used for any gender, reflecting values and connections to nature.

1. Aroha – Meaning "love," symbolizing affection and warmth.
2. Kai – Meaning "sea," representing the vastness and beauty of nature.
3. Kaimana – Meaning "power of the sea," symbolizing strength and majesty.
4. Mana – Meaning "spiritual power," embodying strength and energy.
5. Nohea – Meaning "handsome" or "beautiful," symbolizing attractiveness.
6. Pua – Meaning "flower," representing beauty and blossoming.
7. Rangi – Meaning "sky," symbolizing openness and freedom.
8. Tahi – Meaning "first," representing new beginnings and leadership.
9. Tui – Meaning "king," embodying strength and leadership.
10. Wai – Meaning "water," representing fluidity and adaptability.

Selecting a name for your child is a profound journey that reflects your family's values, dreams, and aspirations. Polynesian names, with their deep meanings and connections to nature and culture, provide a beautiful way to honor the spirit of the Pacific Islands. Each name tells a story, whether it's rooted in the ocean, the sky, or the enduring strength of family ties. 

By choosing a Polynesian name, you not only give your child a unique identity but also a sense of belonging to a rich cultural heritage. These names encapsulate the essence of love, resilience, and connection to the world around us. As you explore the vibrant and diverse options presented here, may you find a name that resonates with your hopes for your child, fostering a sense of pride and belonging throughout their life. Embrace the beauty of these names and the stories they carry, knowing that each choice reflects the love and hope you have for your little one. 

If you're interested in broader naming choices, be sure to check out our article on gender-neutral names, highlighting options that embrace individuality while crossing cultural boundaries.