How to Say “Have a Great Weekend” in Hawaiian

By Leah Freya • Updated October 4, 2026

e loaʻa i kahi hopena pule maikaʻi

The Hawaiian phrase for "have a great weekend" is e loaʻa i kahi hopena pule maikaʻi.

This phrase is a friendly wish used to tell someone to enjoy their time off at the end of the week.

Did you know?

In traditional Hawaiian culture, the concept of a 'weekend' as a set block of leisure time is a modern Western import.
The word pule in this phrase is a homonym that can mean either 'prayer' or 'cowrie shell'.

Example conversation

Kai and Noelani are leaving work on Friday.

Kai

Hiki nō, Noelani. E loaʻa i kahi hopena pule maikaʻi!
Alright, Noelani. Have a great weekend!
Noelani

Mahalo, Kai! ʻOe nō hoʻi.
Thanks, Kai! You too.
Kai

A hui hou i Keapila.
See you again on Monday.
Noelani

A hui hou!
See you!

Sources

Word origins: Wiktionary entries hopena, kahi, loaʻa, maikaʻi, pule, CC BY-SA 4.0.

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About The Author

Leah Freya

Aloha! I'm Leah. My heart sings with the language of the islands every time I surf on a warm Hawaiian wave, with my pencil in one hand and my notepad in the other. I've made exploring the unique and vibrant language of Hawaii my lifelong passion. I believe, when you know the local lingo, you not only engage with the locals at a deeper level, but you also embrace the spirit of the island. Immerse yourself in my posts, and let's say "Aloha" to learning Hawaiian together!

Leah FreyaHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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