Pronunciation: oh-hah-nah

In Hawaiian culture, ‘ohana means family — but not just family by blood. ‘Ohana includes close friends, extended relatives, and anyone you share a deep bond with. It’s a word that holds the idea that family is chosen, nurtured, and forever.

‘Ohana isn’t just a word — it’s a way of life in Hawaii. It’s about loyalty, support, and showing up for each other, no matter what. In daily life, you might hear someone say, “She’s my ‘ohana,” even if there’s no blood relation — because it’s the connection that matters most.

If the word sounds familiar, you may have heard it in Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, where the famous line goes”
“Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind — or forgotten.”

Local Tip:
In Hawaii, ‘ohana extends beyond your immediate circle. When you visit, you’ll often find that people treat you like part of their ‘ohana — with kindness, care, and aloha.

Cultural Note: 
‘Ohana reflects the deep-rooted Hawaiian value of community. It’s about lifting each other up, sharing what you have, and standing together — the heart of local life.

Want to learn more about ‘ohana in action? Check out our blog, Chasing ‘Ohana, where we dive into how this idea shaped one of Hawaii’s most beloved stories. 

When you’re ready to plan your next adventure, we’d love to treat you like ‘ohana. Contact us today to get started!