How to Speak Hawaiian Pidgin (Without Sounding Totally Haole)
Aloha, Brah!
So you just landed in Oahu, maybe you’re heading to Waikiki or cruising up to the North Shore. But then you hear someone say, “Eh, you like grind?” and you freeze. Huh? Is that a threat or an invitation to eat? Welcome to Hawaiian Pidgin, the real local language that tells you you’re not in Kansas anymore.
Don’t worry—we got you. This guide will teach you how to speak (or at least understand) Hawaiian Pidgin without sounding like you’re trying too hard. Because nothing says “tourist” faster than misusing local lingo. Let’s go!
What is Hawaiian Pidgin?
Also known as Hawaii Creole English, Pidgin is a mash-up of English, Hawaiian, Japanese, Portuguese, Filipino, and other influences from Hawaii's plantation past. It’s the language of everyday life for many locals—laid-back, colorful, and full of flavor.
Rule #1: Listen First, Speak Later
Locals can spot a forced "Pidgin accent" from a mile away. Respect the culture. Listen to how it’s said before you try to say it. If you’re not sure—don’t fake it. Smile, nod, and ask, “What dat mean?” instead.
Top Pidgin Phrases Every Visitor Should Know
Grindz = Food. As in, “I’m hungry, let’s go get some grindz.”
Pau = Finished. “We pau already” = We’re done.
Da Kine = The thing / the stuff / that one. It means anything and everything.
Shoots = OK / Yes / Sounds good. “Shoots, we go beach.”
Brah / Sistah = Bro / Sis. “Eh brah, howzit?”
Howzit? = How’s it going?
Auntie / Uncle = Any older adult, not necessarily your blood relative. A term of respect.
Eh, no make! = Don’t do that / Knock it off.
Small kine = A little bit. “I like small kine rice.”
Bumbai = Later. “We go store bumbai.”
Cultural Tips to Not Sound Haole (Clueless Tourist)
Don’t mock the accent. It’s not a joke. It’s real culture.
Be humble. Don’t try to “out-local” the locals.
Don’t overuse it. Dropping one or two phrases is fine. Trying to talk full-on Pidgin? Might backfire.
Show respect. Language is part of the identity here. Locals appreciate effort, not exaggeration.
Final Thoughts: Blend, Don’t Pretend
Hawaiian Pidgin is a beautiful, living part of island life. Use it to connect, not to perform. Locals will respect you more if you’re just being yourself—with a little aloha spirit sprinkled in.
So next time you hear, “You like go beach, bumbai we grab some grindz?” just smile and say: “Shoots!”
Book Your Next Adventure Like a Local
Want more than just words? Experience Hawaii like a local with our authentic tours. From hidden gems to real island flavors, we’ll show you the true aloha spirit.