Rising since 1986, #1,708 for boys today.
Popularity of Kainoa since 1975
Babies named Kainoa per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2016, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Kainoa's real moment was 2023.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 34 |
| 1980s | 118 |
| 1990s | 347 |
| 2000s | 748 |
| 2010s | 877 |
| 2020s | 532 |
Meaning & origin
Kainoa is a Hawaiian name that has seen a notable rise in usage over the past few decades. First recorded in the U.S. in 1975, it reached its peak popularity in 2023. As of 2025, it ranks 1708th nationwide, with a frequency of 1 in 17,980 births. The name is especially prevalent in Hawaii, where it is most common, and also appears in Nevada and Oregon. Its rising trajectory since 1986 reflects a broader interest in Hawaiian names and culture.
Kainoa is a Hawaiian male name whose exact etymology is debated. It may be derived from the Hawaiian words 'kai' meaning 'sea' and 'noa' meaning 'common' or 'free'. Alternatively, it could be a modern adaptation of earlier Hawaiian names. The name has gained popularity in Hawaii and among families with Hawaiian heritage, particularly from the late 20th century onward.
Where Kainoa is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kai, Noa
Sibling names for Kainoa
Names that share Kainoa's style, for a brother or sister.
