The Hawaiian Island Nicknames

Have you ever wondered about the Hawaiian Island nicknames, and how they got them? We have the answers!

• O’ahu– “The Gathering Place” – Over 70% of the state’s residents live here. And it is a popular tourist destination.
• Kaui’i – ” The Garden Isle”- Home to 3 Botanical Gardens and lush jungles, the island is always in bloom.
• Maui– “The Valley Isle”- If you look at the Island of Maui from up above you can tell why it goes by the name as Maui has 2 mountain ranges on each side of the island. Thus giving you the feeling of driving through a valley when going through the center part of the Island.
• Moloka’i – “The Friendly Isla” – Small communities full of happy people.
• Hawai’i– “The Big Island” – The name speaks for itself.
• Lana’i – “The Pineapple Island”- This was the original home to the Dole Pineapple Company. Also known as “The Private Isle” because it is 98% owned and developed by billionaire Oracle owner Larry Ellison
• Kaho’olawe – “The Target Island” – Once used by the U.S. Navy as a bombing and testing range, a lawsuit filed in 1976 put a halt to that practice in 1985. Now the locals are looking to bring the island back to its former glory after the devastation to the environment there.
• Ni’ihau – “The Forbidden Isle” – The Forbidden Isle is truly forbidden unless you’re a part of the Robinson Family—who owns the island- or Navy personnel. There are a few locals who still live on the island.