Quick Answer
"Kama'aina" (pronounced "kah-mah-EYE-nah") literally means "child of the land" in Hawaiian. It refers to someone who is native-born to Hawaii or a long-time resident who has deep connections to local culture and community. In modern usage, it's also associated with "kamaaina discounts" - special prices for Hawaii residents at businesses across the islands.
How to Pronounce "Kama'aina"
Breakdown:
- "kah" - Like "ka" in "car"
- "mah" - Like "ma" in "mama"
- "EYE" - Like the word "eye" (stressed syllable)
- "nah" - Like "na" in "nah"
Note: The 'okina (') between "kama" and "aina" creates a glottal stop - a brief pause like in "uh-oh."
The Meaning of "Kama'aina"
Literal Translation
Kama'aina breaks down into two Hawaiian words: "kama" (child) and "'aina" (land). Together, they create "child of the land" - someone born from and deeply connected to Hawaiian soil.
Traditional Meaning
Originally, kama'aina referred specifically to native Hawaiians and those born in Hawaii. It described someone who belonged to the land - whose family had been in Hawaii for generations and who understood the culture, traditions, and ways of the islands intimately.
Modern Usage
Today, kama'aina is used more broadly to describe any Hawaii resident - whether born there or transplanted. It often contrasts with "malihini" (newcomer/visitor). Many businesses use "kama'aina" to indicate local resident discounts, requiring only a Hawaii state ID.
Kama'aina Discounts Explained
One of the most common modern uses of "kama'aina" is in kama'aina discounts - special reduced prices offered to Hawaii residents:
- Hotels & Resorts: Often 20-50% off room rates for Hawaii residents
- Restaurants: 10-20% off meals with Hawaii ID
- Attractions: Reduced admission to zoos, museums, tours
- Retail Stores: Special pricing on various goods
- Airlines: Sometimes offer kama'aina fares for inter-island travel
Tip: Always ask "Do you have a kama'aina rate?" when shopping or booking in Hawaii. You'll need a valid Hawaii state ID or driver's license.
How to Use "Kama'aina" - Examples
"My family is kama'aina - we've been here five generations."
Meaning: We're native to Hawaii, deeply rooted here
"Do you have kama'aina rates?"
Meaning: Do you offer discounts for Hawaii residents?
"He's not kama'aina, he just moved here last year."
Meaning: He's not a local, he's new to Hawaii
"Only kama'aina know about this beach."
Meaning: Only locals know this secret spot
Kama'aina vs. Malihini
Kama'aina (Local)
- Born in Hawaii or long-time resident
- Understands local culture and customs
- Speaks some Pidgin
- Knows the unwritten rules
- Has Hawaii state ID
- Part of the community
Malihini (Newcomer)
- Visitor or recent transplant
- Still learning local ways
- May not understand Pidgin
- Tourist or new resident
- Non-Hawaii ID
- Welcomed but still an outsider
Related Hawaiian Terms
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