04-11-2025
Hawaii Shaka Sign
Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
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Hawaii Shaka Gesture
The Skaka
We want to tell you about a very popular hand gesture in Hawaii, and no it's not the one you're probably used to back home.
In Hawai'i when someone gives you the shaka sign (done by extending the pinkie and thumb while curling the middle fingers as seen here to the right) it's a sign of greeting, thanks, or just to say "Hey."
Its origins are said to date to the 1930's. In 2024, the shaka was officially recognized as the state gesture of Hawaii, further cementing its cultural significance.
Today, the shaka serves multiple purposes in Hawaiian culture:
• Greeting and Farewell: A casual, friendly way to say “hello” or “goodbye.”
• Expressing Gratitude: Used to convey thanks or appreciation.
• Signifying Solidarity: Demonstrates unity and mutual respect among individuals.
The gesture has also been embraced by surfing communities worldwide, symbolizing a relaxed, laid-back lifestyle.
Hawaii 'Hang Loose' Shaka
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Published by: John C. Derrick
Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
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