General
makai
What does makai mean?
A Hawaiian directional word meaning toward the sea, the opposite of mauka (toward the mountains). Used to give directions along the coast.
"The break is just makai of the harbor wall."
Origin
Native Hawaiian directional term used by island surfers.
Frequently asked questions
What does makai mean?
It's a Hawaiian directional word meaning toward the ocean, used to give directions along the coast.
What's the opposite of makai?
Mauka, which means toward the mountains or inland.
Who uses makai?
It's a native Hawaiian term used in the islands, including by surfers, to describe direction relative to the sea.
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