The name Malikai has its roots in the Hawaiian language and culture, originating from the Polynesian islands of the Pacific Ocean. It is a combination of two Hawaiian words: "mali" meaning "calm" or "peaceful," and "kai" meaning "ocean" or "sea." Thus, Malikai can be interpreted as "calm sea" or "peaceful ocean."

In ancient Hawaiian mythology, the name was often associated with the god Kanaloa, one of the major deities in the Hawaiian pantheon. Kanaloa was revered as the god of the ocean, and his name means "the free one" or "the unrestricted." The connection between Malikai and Kanaloa suggests that the name may have been given to individuals with a strong spiritual connection to the sea or those born near the ocean.

The earliest recorded use of the name Malikai can be traced back to the 18th century, when Hawaiian culture and language were first documented by European explorers and missionaries. One of the earliest known individuals with this name was Malikai Kekuanaoa, a high chief and advisor to King Kamehameha III, who lived from 1790 to 1868.

Another notable figure with the name Malikai was Malikai Wilcox, a Hawaiian scholar and historian born in 1838. He played a significant role in preserving and documenting Hawaiian culture, language, and traditions during the tumultuous period of Western colonization in the 19th century.

In the 20th century, Malikai Morse, a Hawaiian artist and sculptor, gained recognition for his intricate wood carvings and traditional Hawaiian artwork. He was born in 1919 and passed away in 1992.

Malikai Dudoit, a professional surfer from Hawaii, made a name for himself in the world of competitive surfing in the 1980s and 1990s. He was known for his graceful and powerful surfing style, which embodied the essence of the name Malikai – a calm and peaceful mastery of the ocean.

Another prominent figure with the name Malikai was Malikai Moore, a Hawaiian musician and composer who helped popularize traditional Hawaiian music in the mid-20th century. He was born in 1920 and his compositions showcased the beauty and rhythms of the Hawaiian islands.

While the name Malikai has its roots in Hawaiian culture, it has gained popularity worldwide, particularly among those drawn to its peaceful and oceanic connotations. However, its historical significance remains deeply rooted in the islands of Hawaii and the rich cultural heritage of the Polynesian people.