Rising since 2013, #6,143 for boys today.
Popularity of Kanaloa since 2008
Babies named Kanaloa per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 8 |
| 2010s | 52 |
| 2020s | 61 |
Meaning & origin
Kanaloa is a distinctive Hawaiian name that draws directly from native mythology, referring to the god of the ocean and underworld. While the name first appeared in U.S. birth records in 2008, it saw a notable peak in 2024 and has been rising in use since 2013. Its rarity is underscored by a 2025 rank of 6,143, with only 1 in every 122,005 babies receiving the name. The name's strongest association is with Hawaii, where it sees its highest usage, reflecting a cultural revival and interest in indigenous heritage. Despite its mythological weight, Kanaloa remains a unique choice that honors Hawaiian tradition and language.
Kanaloa is a Hawaiian name derived from the native god of the same name, who is one of the four major akua (deities) in traditional Hawaiian religion. He is often associated with the ocean, long voyages, and the underworld, and is considered a counterpart to the god Kāne. The name has been adopted as a given name in modern times, reflecting Hawaiian cultural heritage.
Where Kanaloa is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kana, Loa
Sibling names for Kanaloa
Names that share Kanaloa's style, for a brother or sister.
