58 Hawaii Trivia Questions and Answers to Test Your Knowledge
Looking for an engaging way to learn more about Hawaiian culture? Whether you’re hosting a luau, planning an educational activity, or simply having fun with friends, these 58 Hawaii trivia questions and answers will bring the Aloha spirit to your gathering.
From easy Hawaiian trivia for kids to printable trivia sheets, we’ve got something for everyone. Get ready to test your knowledge and celebrate the beauty and traditions of Hawaii with this exciting trivia game!
Test Your Guests’ Knowledge of Hawaiian Culture with a Fun Trivia Game
Hosting a party or gathering soon? Take your celebration to the next level by incorporating a Hawaiian culture trivia game! Whether it’s a luau-themed party, a tropical getaway kick-off, or just a casual gathering, this trivia game is the perfect way to entertain and educate your guests.
Hawaiian culture is rich with fascinating history, cherished traditions, and a language full of beautiful expressions. Let’s dive into some trivia questions you can use to challenge your guests and share the aloha spirit.
See Also: 37 Luau Party Ideas: Create the Perfect Hawaii-Themed Celebration
Hawaiian History Trivia Questions
- Who was the first ruler to unite the Hawaiian Islands?
- Answer: King Kamehameha the Great
- In what year did Hawaii become the 50th state of the United States?
- Answer: 1959
- What was the ancient Hawaiian system of laws and regulations called?
- Answer: Kapu system
- What is the name of the sacred heiau (temple) built by King Kamehameha on the Big Island?
- Answer: Puʻukoholā Heiau
Hawaiian Traditions Trivia Questions
- What is the traditional Hawaiian feast called?
- Answer: Lūʻau
- What are the floral necklaces often given as a sign of welcome or celebration called?
- Answer: Lei
- What is the name of the hula dance that tells stories through movement and chanting?
- Answer: Hula kahiko
- What does the term ‘ohana’ mean in Hawaiian culture?
- Answer: Family (including extended family and close friends)
Hawaiian Language and Popular Phrases Trivia Questions
- What does ‘aloha’ mean?
- Answer: Hello, goodbye, and love
- What is the Hawaiian word for ‘thank you’?
- Answer: Mahalo
- What does ‘pau’ mean?
- Answer: Finished or done
- What is the meaning of ‘hui hou’?
- Answer: Until we meet again
Trivia Questions to Challenge Your Guests
- What is the tallest mountain in Hawaii (measured from base to summit)?
- Answer: Mauna Kea
- What is the Hawaiian word for ‘island’?
- Answer: Mokupuni
- Which goddess is known as the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes?
- Answer: Pele
- What does the term ‘pono’ mean?
- Answer: Righteousness or balance
- What is the traditional Hawaiian sport similar to sledding, done on lava rock slopes?
- Answer: He’e holua
- What type of tree produces macadamia nuts, a Hawaiian specialty?
- Answer: Macadamia tree
- What is the Hawaiian name for the humpback whale?
- Answer: Koholā
- What is the Hawaiian state bird?
- Answer: Nēnē (Hawaiian goose)
- What is the term for a Hawaiian canoe used for voyaging?
- Answer: Wa‘a
- What is the name of the Hawaiian practice of forgiveness and reconciliation?
- Answer: Ho‘oponopono
- What is the largest island in Hawaii called?
- Answer: Hawai‘i (The Big Island)
- What does the term ‘kokua’ mean?
- Answer: Help or support
- Which flower is often associated with Hawaiian leis?
- Answer: Plumeria
- What is the Hawaiian word for ‘rain’?
- Answer: Ua
- What is the name of the Hawaiian fish often nicknamed “Humuhumu”?
- Answer: Humuhumunukunukuāpua‘a (reef triggerfish)
- What is the Hawaiian word for ‘sea’?
- Answer: Kai
- What does ‘Haleakalā’ mean in Hawaiian?
- Answer: House of the sun
- What is the Hawaiian name for the taro plant, a staple food?
- Answer: Kalo
- What is the Hawaiian word for ‘chief’ or ‘leader’?
- Answer: Ali‘i
- What does the term ‘kuleana’ mean?
- Answer: Responsibility or privilege
- What is the Hawaiian name for the flower garlands often worn around the neck?
- Answer: Lei
- What does ‘Lānai’ refer to?
- Answer: Both an island and a porch or balcony
- Which Hawaiian king composed “Hawai‘i Pono‘ī,” the state song?
- Answer: King Kalākaua
- What is the Hawaiian word for ‘fire’?
- Answer: Ahi
- What is the name of the sacred Hawaiian cliff diving location?
- Answer: Ka Lae (South Point)
- What does ‘malama’ mean?
- Answer: To care for or protect
- What is the Hawaiian name for the constellation known as the Southern Cross?
- Answer: Hānaiakamalama
- What is the name of the traditional Hawaiian underground oven?
- Answer: Imu
- What does ‘kōkua’ mean?
- Answer: Cooperation or assistance
- What is the Hawaiian word for ‘star’?
- Answer: Hoku
- What is the term for the Hawaiian feast celebrating a child’s first birthday?
- Answer: Lūuʻau
- What is the Hawaiian term for “north wind”?
- Answer: Kēhau
- What does ‘kai’ mean?
- Answer: Sea or ocean
- What is the Hawaiian name for the traditional chant?
- Answer: Oli
- What does the term ‘laulima’ mean?
- Answer: Many hands working together
- What is the name of the flower associated with the island of Maui?
- Answer: Lokelani (Damask rose)
- What is the Hawaiian word for “moon”?
- Answer: Mahina
- What is the Hawaiian name for the ancient practice of fishing with nets?
- Answer: Lawai‘a
- What is the Hawaiian term for “earth” or “land”?
- Answer: ʻĀina
- What is the Hawaiian name for the double-hulled canoe used in long-distance voyaging?
- Answer: Hokule‘a
- What does ‘ha’ mean in Hawaiian culture?
- Answer: Breath or life force
- What is the Hawaiian term for “teacher”?
- Answer: Kumu
- What is the Hawaiian word for “peace”?
- Answer: Maluhia
- What does ‘wai’ mean in Hawaiian?
- Answer: Water
- What is the term for a Hawaiian guardian spirit or family protector?
- Answer: ‘Aumakua
- What is the Hawaiian name for the practice of surfing?
- Answer: He‘e nalu
How to Play the Trivia Game
- Set the Scene: Decorate your space with Hawaiian-inspired decorations like tropical flowers, tiki torches, and island-themed tableware.
- Divide into Teams: Split your guests into teams for a lively competition.
- Offer Prizes: Keep things exciting by offering Hawaiian-themed prizes such as leis, small ukuleles, or pineapple-shaped goodies for the winning team.
- Interactive Bonus Rounds: Add bonus rounds where guests can demonstrate hula moves or guess the name of Hawaiian songs for extra points.
- Encourage Learning: Share brief explanations or stories behind the answers to deepen everyone’s appreciation of Hawaiian culture.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you have a complete list of 58 Hawaii trivia questions and answers, your next Hawaiian-themed event is sure to be unforgettable! From fun multiple-choice questions to easy trivia for kids, these questions are perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for printable trivia sheets or a quick way to engage your guests, this collection celebrates the beauty, history, and traditions of Hawaii. So gather your friends, share the aloha spirit, and enjoy the ultimate Hawaiian trivia experience. Mahalo and see you next time—a hui hou!
