Hawaiian tattoos traditionally represented one’s heritage and culture and demonstrated bravery and strength. These designs often incorporate elements from nature, such as flowers, trees, and animals; some feature waves or simple forms symbolizing longevity and the unity of spirit.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus, the Hawaiian flower that more resembles tentacled sea creatures than actual flowers, is an exotic plant with tart, cranberry-hued calyces and high levels of vitamin C content that has long been popularly used as an ingredient in drinks, teas, sauces, and jams. Hibiscus has become more prevalent in desserts, non-alcoholic libations, and pink-hued tonic water. Its tart tang pairs well with other flavors in tacos, while increasing popularity has led to its inclusion as an ingredient for holiday desserts. The Hibiscus plant is an excellent source of calcium, iron, and vitamin A-C source. Its strong bast fibers can be processed into natural burlap material for textile production as well as being an attractive attraction to butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
Kakau Lizard
Kakau Lizard tattoos are popularly used in traditional Hawaiian tattoo designs due to the animal’s importance in Polynesian mythology. A lizard can bring good fortune and bad luck, symbolizing longevity and adaptability in its wearer. A Kakau lizard tattoo can also represent courage and strength in daily life, making it the perfect symbol for people looking for a statement about strength and confidence in their bodies. Kakau tattoos can range from subtle designs behind the ear to full sleeve designs – each offering something stunning and distinctive on your body. Kakau tattoos provide a lovely way to bring art directly onto your skin!
Sea Turtle
The sea turtle is an iconic symbol in Polynesian tattoos, representing health, fertility, longevity, foundation, and peace. This animal is a powerful symbol of patience and perseverance in Hawaiian culture while providing spiritual protection. Longevity is one of the primary factors associated with their association with good health. Some species of sea turtles migrate long distances yearly,, while others remain close to their nesting areas. Leatherbacks and loggerheads may travel thousands of miles, while green and olive ridleys typically have shorter migration patterns.
Shark
Sharks are potent symbols representing various aspects of life: courage, guidance, power, ferocity, and flexibility are just some examples of what the shark means for you. Spiritual symbols also help us connect to our ancestors and navigate life’s challenges more easily. Polynesian culture features shark teeth (known as niho mano in the Hawaiian language) prominently as tattoo symbols of courage, guidance, power, ferocity, adaptability, and spirituality. They represent courage, guidance, power, and spirituality. Shark teeth also protect from man-eating sharks, making them an excellent option for parents, military members, and others who frequent the oceans.
Makau
The Makau Lizard is a powerful Hawaiian symbol of protection and was often featured in hula, dance, and chanting ceremonies. It also represented a deep respect for the ocean and its creatures while serving as a symbol of strength and prosperity. Hawaiian jewelry and artwork often feature circles as an iconic motif. According to Hawaiian belief, an open circle symbolizes life without beginning or ending. This design honors this belief by including the Koru, a symbol of purity and new life, into its design. Additionally, circles have long been considered sacred spaces containing knowledge connected to stars and planets in life’s cycle.
