Lei have been synonymous with the Hawaiian Islands for hundreds of years. They’re colorful necklaces made of flowers, leaves, and other materials used to welcome visitors, congratulate friends, and show love for one another—among other things. But surprisingly, lei aren’t originally from Hawaii! Learn the history of Hawaiian lei and get the low-down on the famous island greeting.
The Beginning of Aloha
Lei-making began with the Polynesians long before they traveled to the Hawaiian Islands. They would make lei out of greens and flowers to adorn their bodies and honor the gods. When the Polynesians traveled to Hawaii around 750 AD, they brought their tradition of lei-making along with them.
The Hawaiians completely adopted the Polynesian tradition. They made lei for just about any reason they could think of—from simple decoration and beautification to show off social status and even create official peace agreements between rival chiefs.
When tourism came to Hawaii in the early 1900s, the native Hawaiians would welcome guests with lei. This created the worldwide idea that lei were synonymous with the Hawaiian Islands. Even today, it’s not uncommon for someone to hand you a lei in the Kona airport the minute you arrive.
What Do Lei Signify?
Although they’re usually given to visitors upon arrival, lei don’t just mean “welcome.” They signify love, peace, honor, friendship, and celebration. Basically, they’re the embodiment of Aloha.
In Hawaii, lei are given for everything from birthdays and graduations to visits and weddings. It’s not uncommon for lei to be given out at funerals to show love and support for the family. Any time you want to spread love to someone, give them a lei. There’s never a bad time!
Lei Etiquette
There aren’t too many “rules” for wearing a lei, but since they represent something so important, there are a few etiquette tips to follow.
First off, anyone can wear a lei at any time for any reason. You can even buy a lei for yourself and wear it around. It’s not uncommon for locals to have a few reusable lei made of nuts or shells they wear for special occasions. If you’re feeling the love, put on a lei.
If you’re heading to the Islands for the first time, there are a couple of things to know when receiving a lei. The most important is that you should never refuse a lei. If someone wants to give you a lei, they’re basically giving you a sign of peace, love, and friendship. Refusing something with such importance is disrespectful. It’s almost like being given a bouquet of flowers on Valentine’s Day and throwing them on the ground in front of whoever gave them to you. Not good… Plus, who wouldn’t want a little extra love in their day!?
It’s also considered rude to take off a lei in front of the person who gave it to you. If you have to do it, be discreet. Otherwise, it’s best to wait until you go your separate ways before taking it off.
Ready to Get Your Own Lei?
The loving, accepting culture is one of the best perks of living in Hawaii. Everyone just wants to love one another. Whether they’ve known you for years or you’re a first-time visitor, Hawaiians are eager to hand out a colorful lei and welcome you to the Islands.
If you’re ready to get “lei-d” (a joke everyone has to make at some point…), we’re always happy to see visitors in Hawaii. If you want to make your stay in paradise a bit more permanent, there are plenty of properties available on the Big Island. I’d love to help you turn your tropical dreams into reality, just send me a message. I’ll have a lei waiting for you!
Aloha, and welcome to Hawaii.