Hotu Matu'a
Legendary first settler and chief of Easter Island, associated with the founding of Anakena beach.
IPA Pronunciation
ˌɑː.nɑːˈkeɪ.nɑː
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Syllables
Anakena is derived from the Rapa Nui language of Easter Island, where 'ana' means cave or bay and 'kena' relates to sacred or ancestral significance. It refers to a sacred lagoon or bay, a place of cultural and historical importance tied to Polynesian heritage and the origins of the island's inhabitants.
Cultural Significance of Anakena
Anakena holds deep cultural importance on Easter Island (Rapa Nui) as the name of a sacred beach where the Polynesian ancestors first landed. It symbolizes the connection to origin myths and traditions, representing a sacred space of arrival, renewal, and spiritual significance within Rapa Nui culture. The name carries a sense of reverence and ancestral pride.
Anakena Name Popularity in 2025
In modern times, Anakena is a unique and exotic choice for a girl's name, gaining interest among parents looking for meaningful, culturally rich names with Polynesian roots. Its rarity outside Polynesian communities makes it special and distinctive, often favored by those who appreciate names with deep historical and spiritual backgrounds.
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International Variations10
AnakinaAnakenaeAnakeneAnakainaAnakinaeAnakinnaAnakaynaAnakinaahAnakenaaAnakenna
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Name Energy & Essence
The name Anakena carries the essence of “Sacred lagoon or ancestral bay” from Rapa Nui (Polynesian) tradition. Names beginning with "A" often embody qualities of ambition, leadership, and new beginnings.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Anakena holds deep cultural importance on Easter Island (Rapa Nui) as the name of a sacred beach where the Polynesian ancestors first landed. It symbolizes the connection to origin myths and traditions, representing a sacred space of arrival, renewal, and spiritual significance within Rapa Nui culture. The name carries a sense of reverence and ancestral pride.
Nga'ara
A prominent Rapa Nui ariki (king) known for maintaining traditions linked to sacred sites including Anakena.
Tu'u ko Iho
Mythical ancestor figure in Rapa Nui lore, connected to the origins of the Anakena landing site.
Koro Orongo
Cultural leader who helped preserve Anakena traditions during early 20th century.
Tepano Jaussen
19th-century bishop who documented Rapa Nui oral histories including those about Anakena.
Jacques B. T. C. de Brissac
Explorer and ethnologist who studied Easter Island's sacred sites including Anakena.
William Mulloy
Archaeologist notable for research on Anakena beach and Moai statues.
Alfred Metraux
Ethnologist who extensively researched Rapa Nui culture and sacred geography including Anakena.
Anakena Tapia
Visual artist
Anakena Moana
Environmental activist
Anakena Riro
Musician
Anakena Flores
Writer
Anakena Hiva
Dancer
Anakena Kealoha
Poet
Anakena Solis
Anthropologist
Anakena Mata
Educator
Island Spirits ()
Sacred Bay ()
Easter Island Mysteries ()
Ancestral Waves ()
Polynesian Dreams ()
The Last Moai ()
Sacred Shores ()
Rapa Nui Legends ()
Anakena
🌐Spanish
Anakena
🌐French
Anakena
🌐German
Anakena
🌐Italian
アナケナ
🌐Japanese
阿纳克纳
🌐Chinese
أنكانا
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Anakena
Anakena is not just a name but also the name of a famous white coral beach on Easter Island, known for its Moai statues and cultural festivals.
Personality Traits for Anakena
Individuals named Anakena are often perceived as deeply connected to their heritage and values. They are seen as soulful, nurturing, and spiritually aware, with a calm presence that inspires trust. Their personality may reflect a blend of strength and gentleness, with an appreciation for history and nature.
What does the name Anakena mean?
Anakena is a Rapa Nui (Polynesian) name meaning “Sacred lagoon or ancestral bay”. Anakena is derived from the Rapa Nui language of Easter Island, where 'ana' means cave or bay and 'kena' relates to sacred or ancestral significance. It refers to a sacred lagoon or bay, a place of cultural and historical importance tied to Polynesian heritage and the origins of the island's inhabitants.
How do you pronounce Anakena?
Anakena is pronounced (IPA: ˌɑː.nɑːˈkeɪ.nɑː). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Anakena?
Popular nicknames for Anakena include: Ana, Kena, Anka, Nena, Annie, Kiki, Nani, Aki, Ken, Anu.
Who are famous people named Anakena?
Famous people named Anakena include: , , , , .
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Anakena is a beautiful Rapa Nui (Polynesian) name meaning “Sacred lagoon or ancestral bay”. Anakena is derived from the Rapa Nui language of Easter Island, where 'ana' means cave or bay and 'kena' relates to sacred or ancestral significance. It refers to a sacred lagoon or bay, a place of cu...
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