MallowbyNames

Kaiulani

ky-oo-LAH-nee · The royal child or the bright heavens.

2025 rank (girls)
#8,860
Babies named in 2025
11
Peak popularity
2011
2025 frequency
1 in 146,115 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Declining since 2012

Declining since 2012, #8,860 for girls today.

Popularity of Kaiulani since 1977

Babies named Kaiulani per year in U.S. Social Security records.

71522198020002020Most births 2011Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1970s13
1980s45
1990s90
2000s91
2010s149
2020s66

Meaning & origin

Kaiulani is a Hawaiian name deeply tied to the islands' royal history. First recorded in the U.S. in 1977, it reached its peak rank in 2011, but has been falling in use since 2012. Currently ranked 8,860, its rarity is reflected in a 1-in-146,115 occurrence rate. The name carries the legacy of Princess Kaʻiulani, lending it a poetic and cultural weight. While not among the most common names, its distinctive sound and noble meaning make it a meaningful choice for those with Hawaiian connections or a love for the islands.

Kaiulani is a Hawaiian name derived from kai (sea, ocean) or kāiu (chief, royal) and lani (sky, heaven, or royal). It is famously associated with Princess Kaʻiulani of Hawaii (1875-1899), the heir to the throne of the Kingdom of Hawaii. The name embodies the natural and royal heritage of Hawaii.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Kai, Lani, Ula

Variants: Kaʻiulani

Sibling names for Kaiulani

Names that share Kaiulani's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

K is for Kaiulani, our favorite little girl.

K is for Kaiulani…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Kaiulani's letter becomes Kaiulani's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Kaiulani's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Kaiulani mean?
Kaiulani is a Hawaiian name meaning 'the royal child' or 'the bright heavens.' It can be broken down as kai (sea or royal) and lani (sky or heaven).
How popular is Kaiulani currently?
As of 2025, Kaiulani ranks 8,860 in the U.S., with about 1 in every 146,115 newborn girls given the name. It peaked in popularity in 2011.
Is Kaiulani a boy or girl name?
Kaiulani is predominantly a girl's name, historically borne by a Hawaiian princess.