The shaka, synonymous with Hawaiʻi and laidback island living, has numerous origin stories, and many believe it came from a man in Kahuku The origin of the shaka, and how it got its unique name, has long been shrouded in mystery. Some say it came from David “Lippy” Espinda, who owned a local gas station and would greet his customers with a shaka. Others believe that the shaka came from Spanish immigrants, who would put their thumbs to their lips
