Hawaiian tattoos are distinctive pieces that can express different emotions and represent someone’s culture, while at the same time can be combined into larger designs.
Lizard Tattoo Symbol
A lizard, or gecko, represents communication with gods, longevity, and endurance during challenging times.
Honu Tattoo Symbol
Honu, or green sea turtle, is an auspicious symbol in Hawaiian culture, representing wisdom, faith, good luck, and ancestral spirits of the dead. Men were traditionally only allowed to wear Honu tattoos as it was considered protective body armor and looked intimidating if worn without proper coverings.
Hibiscus Flower Symbol
Tattoo symbols associated with Hawaii often include the hibiscus flower, which symbolizes femininity and beauty. Hibiscus flowers come in multiple colors; each hue carries its special significance; women who get inked with this symbol often combine it with other tattooed elements like orchids or ferns for additional impactful imagery.
Ku or Kukailimoku Symbol
Ku or Kukailimoku is an ancient god who represents war, politics, farming, and fishing and is known as the protector of both ocean and rain. He may make an excellent choice for those looking for a tattoo that symbolizes their connection with nature and spirituality.
Makau Tattoo Symbol
Hawaiian tattoos are stunning tribal designs with individual meanings. Some examples include the Kakau fish hook design that symbolizes good fortune and prosperity; orchids or hibiscus flowers may symbolize beauty or strength, respectively, and gecko designs are great choices to represent bravery or resilience.
Shells Symbol
Shells were once used as currency and now symbolize ancient prosperity; these shells often appear in Hawaiian tattoos today as they represent ancient prosperity and eternity as oneness with nature. Circles and simple shapes such as waves are also popular symbols in Hawaiian tattoos depicting eternity or oneness with the heart. In contrast, the phoenix represents fierceness and rebirth – an alluring choice for male tattoo designs.
Tiki Symbol
The Tiki is an iconic symbol that stands for good luck and strength, often used as standalone tattoo designs or included as part of larger tattoo designs. Additionally, this piece can communicate power and courage as an ideal backpiece.
Crab Symbol
The crab is another beloved Hawaiian tattoo symbol that stands for sea adventures and can be worn anywhere on the body – it can either be a simple black outline or intricately detailed designs.
Polynesian Culture and Symbols
Polynesian culture embraces many traditional symbols. A lizard is believed to have the power to observe gods and communicate their messages back to humans, which it often does by pairing up with circle or shark shapes as protection symbols or for good luck. A scorpion also makes an excellent choice, representing power, fear, and danger – which makes an eye-catching tattoo design or accent within larger structures.
Gecko Symbol
Hawaiian tattoos containing shells have various meanings. For instance, they could symbolize immortality – that part of us that continues even after death – or protection against evil – they’re also often considered symbols of strength and determination. Another famous Hawaiian tattoo symbol is the gecko. This lizard stands for flexibility, mobility, and a fantastic future – making it especially appealing to women. Additionally, anthurium flowers symbolize beauty and love as popular choices.
Hawaiian Tattoo Styles
Hawaiian tattoos combine traditional tribal designs and contemporary styles. Their intricate details or minimal types are up to each wearer and their personal preferences, making these tattoos a great way to express oneself and show their cultural heritage while adding seduction and kindness to one’s overall image. Furthermore, Hawaiian designs look incredibly stunning on wrists for added visual intrigue.
Wave Symbol
The ocean is one of the primary symbols in Hawaiian culture, representing its power as a source of renewal and life while also serving as a reminder of mortality and afterlife. Many choose to get a wave tattoo on their bodies to commemorate the significance of the ocean in their lives.
Hammerhead Shark Symbol
Another famous Hawaiian symbol is the hammerhead shark. This iconic beast can often be seen swimming around Hawaiian waters and is widely believed to bring protection. Men looking for Hawaiian tattoos should consider featuring this symbol on their body.
Hibiscus Flower Tattoo
Women often opt for the hibiscus flower tattoo to represent femininity. Representing Hawaii, this iconic design also symbolizes its heritage and can serve as an excellent way of commemorating it with its artwork.
