Discover the Hawaiian sarong, from the traditional Pāʻū worn in hula to modern fashion. Our guide explores its cultural significance and elegant ways to tie it.

The sarong, widely known in Hawaii as a pareo (for women) or lava-lava (for men), is more than just a colorful piece of cloth. It is a garment woven with tradition, versatility, and cultural meaning. Whether tied at the beach, worn at home, or incorporated into traditional ceremonies, the sarong continues to play an important role in Hawaiian lifestyle and identity.

What is a Sarong in Hawaii?

Origins of the Sarong and its Polynesian Roots

The word sarong comes from the Malay/Indonesian language, meaning “to sheath” or “to cover.” It is a rectangular fabric worn across Southeast Asia, Polynesia, and the Pacific Islands. Each region has its own variation:

- Hawaii: Pareo (women), Lava-lava (men)

- Tahiti: Pareu

- Samoa: ’Iei lava-lava

- Tonga: Tupenu

The Hawaiian adoption of the sarong reflects centuries of cultural exchange across Polynesia, where wrap garments were practical in warm climates and deeply symbolic in ceremonies.

Difference Between Sarong, Pareo, and Lava-lava

- Sarong (global term): A general wrap skirt of various lengths.

- Pareo (Hawaiian & Tahitian): Often longer, brightly printed, and styled by women.

- Lava-lava (Hawaiian & Samoan): Worn by men, often plain or subtly patterned.

While tourists often call every wrap a "sarong," locals distinguish pareo and lava-lava as part of Hawaiian identity.

Hawaiian Adaptation into Island Life

In Hawaii, sarongs became popular not only as casual clothing but also as part of hula costumes, resort fashion, and everyday island wear. Today, they are as likely to be seen on the beach as they are in traditional dance performances.

Styles & Ways to Wear a Hawaiian Sarong

Women’s Wraps – Skirts, Dresses, and Cover-ups

For women, pareos are incredibly versatile:

- As a skirt: tied at the hip or waist, either short or long.

- As a dress: knotted at the chest or neck.

- As a beach cover-up: worn loosely over swimsuits.

Men’s Lava-lava Style Sarongs

For men, the lava-lava is typically tied around the waist like a wrap skirt. It is both comfortable and functional, often worn at home, on the beach, or during cultural events.

Sarongs in Hula and Traditional Dances

In Hawaiian hula, dancers sometimes use pareos with bold prints representing flora and fauna. The flowing fabric complements the dance movements, emphasizing grace and connection to nature.

Everyday Uses of Sarongs in Hawaii

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Sarong in Hawaii: Tradition, Fashion & Culture