Sweet Lei Mokihana - by George Huddy

 
Sweet lei mokihana
Auhea `oe
Ku`u lei nani `oe
Poina `ole

Ka ehu o ke kai
A`o Haena
Lauae o Makana
O Namolokama

Ho`ohihi ka mana`o
Ia Hanalei
Hanohano no `oe
He nani maoli no

Ha`ina `ia mai
Ana ka puana
Sweet lei mokihana
Poina `ole

 

Sweet lei mokihana
Pay attention
My beautiful lei
You are unforgettable 
 
The sea spray
Of Haena
The sweet lauae fern of Makana
Of Namolokama 
 
Enraptured with the thoughts
Of Hanalei
You are distinguished
With true beauty 
 
Tell the
Refrain of
Sweet lei mokihana
Unforgettable

 

Source: Baker Collection - Mokihana is the symbol of Kauai. The place names are on the Garden Isle of Kaua`i. Makana was renowned for the fragrant Lauae fern. Translated by Kaiu Kanoa.