Pronunciation: poh-noh

In Hawaiian, pono means righteousness — but not in a preachy way. Pono is about balance, integrity, and doing what’s right, not just for yourself but for others and the ‘āina (land).

Living pono means living in a way that is morally upright, fair, and respectful — in your relationships, in your work, and your connection to nature. It’s one of the most important values in Hawaiian culture, woven into everything from how people treat one another to how they care for the land and sea.

You’ll sometimes hear locals say, “Do it pono,” meaning do it the right way — with good intentions and care.

Local Tip:
Pono isn’t just a word — it’s a way of being. Whether you’re hiking a trail, working with others, or making decisions, striving for pono keeps you in balance with the world around you.

Cultural Note:
Pono reflects the deep Hawaiian belief in living in harmony — with others, with the environment, and with yourself. It’s about striving for what’s good and true, even when no one is watching.

When you’re ready to explore Hawaii, we’re here to help you travel with the spirit of pono. Contact us to get started.