Hawaii Travel Podcast: Hawaii Travel Tips & Things to Do in Hawaii for Your Hawaii Vacation Planning | Hawaii’s Best Travel

Bryan Murphy — Certified Hawaii Travel Expert & Owner of Hawaii’s Best Travel | Hawaii Travel Podcast

Dreaming of a Hawaii vacation that’s unforgettable, authentic, and stress-free Hawaii’s Best Travel is the top Hawaii travel podcast helping for your Hawaii vacation planning from start to finish with the best Hawaii travel tips, things to do in Hawaii, and insider advice from local voices. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveler, this Hawaii travel and vacation guide helps you uncover the most memorable experiences across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, Lanai, and Molokai. Each episode features practical Hawaii travel planning advice, cultural insights, and expert recommendations so you can explore the islands responsibly and with confidence. Hosted by Bryan Murphy — Certified Hawaii Travel Expert and founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel — the show combines real-world experience with official training through the Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau. Bryan has visited the islands more than 30 times and remains active in Hawaii’s visitor industry. His guidance follows the principles of Ma‘ema‘e Hawai‘i, emphasizing authenticity, respect for natural resources, and regenerative tourism practices that care for (mālama) the islands. As one of the leading voices in Hawaii travel, Bryan provides practical Hawaii vacation planning strategies, Hawaii travel hacks, and budget-friendly recommendations that make exploring Hawaii simple and meaningful. You’ll also hear interviews with local residents, business owners, and cultural practitioners who share personal stories and Hawaii travel insights you won’t find in typical guidebooks. What you’ll discover on Hawaii’s Best Travel: • Top things to do in Hawaii and can’t-miss activities on every island • Up-to-date Hawaii travel news and visitor tips • Authentic food, culture, and traditions that define the Hawaiian Islands • Responsible and respectful Hawaii travel guidance aligned with local values Each week, tune in for concise, value-packed episodes and inspiring guest interviews that help you plan your Hawaii vacation with clarity and aloha. From learning how to visit sacred sites respectfully to finding the best Hawaii travel itineraries, you’ll gain insider knowledge that transforms your trip from ordinary to unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii or dreaming of your next island getaway, this is your trusted Hawaii travel guide to experience the islands authentically and responsibly. Subscribe to Hawaii’s Best Travel today and start planning your perfect Hawaii vacation. Tune in each week for concise, value-packed solo episodes and inspiring guest interviews to help your Hawaii travel planning!

  1. 11H AGO

    Top 5 Maui Experiences You Won't Forget! (Free and Paid Options)

    Are you about to overspend on Maui activities that aren’t worth it while missing the island’s most incredible free experiences? 👉 20+ Maui Free + Paid Experiences Smart travelers know that Maui’s best memories don’t always come with a hefty price tag, but knowing where to invest and where to save can make or break your vacation budget. 👉 Hit play now to discover which paid Maui experiences are worth every penny and which unforgettable activities cost absolutely nothing. If you’ve ever wondered how to experience the best of Maui without draining your vacation fund, this episode is for you. In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we break down Maui’s top paid and free experiences so you can plan a memorable vacation without overspending. 👉 In this episode, you will: Discover which paid experiences are worth your money and which to skip.Learn our best free activities.Get the reservation requirements for sold-out experiences._ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan a budget-smart Maui vacation that balances unforgettable paid adventures with incredible free experiences. 🎧Related episodes: Maui Cultural LandsTop 5 Oahu Experiences_ 🤓Chapters: 2:39 Paid Experience #16:13 Paid Experience #27:25 Paid Experience #38:12 Haleakalā Sunrise Reservations10:03 Free Experience #112:48 Free Experience #215:09 Reservation Mistakes to Avoid + Final Planning Tips- About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert and the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel. He helps first-time and repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations with clear, practical advice and authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram: @hawaiis.best 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips and guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner This Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity and confidence. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, and local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, and beyond. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    18 min
  2. 4D AGO

    Why ‘Aloha’ Doesn’t Mean What You Think It Means

    You spent thousands on a Hawaii vacation and still feel like something's missing. It's not the beaches or the food. It's the language, the culture, the deeper connection that turns a vacation into something more meaningful. 👉 Hit play now to learn 26 essential Hawaiian words and phrases from a local language teacher so you can travel with respect and confidence. If you've been looking for ways to connect more authentically with Hawaii beyond the tourist experience, this episode is for you. You'll learn the words locals use every day, what they really mean, and why they matter for responsible travel. In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down essential Hawaiian language with cultural practitioner Kahanuola Solatorio so you can travel with deeper understanding and respect. 👉 In this episode, you will: Learn pronunciation and meaning of 26 core Hawaiian words from aloha to pau hanaUnderstand cultural context behind terms like kapu, malama, and kamaaina that shape how you experience the islandsLearn practical phrases for directions, dining, and daily interactions that show respect for Hawaiian culture_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to speak Hawaii's language and travel with authentic aloha. 🎧Related episodes: The Ban of the Hawaiian Language💻Related blog posts: The History of HawaiiWays to Travel Responsibly to Hawaii🤓Chapters: 1:55 Common Hawaiian Words and Phrases4:40 Understanding Hawaiian Terms for People9:09 Significance of Land and Water in Hawaiian Culture14:38 Practical Hawaiian Words for Visitors16:53 Understanding Hawaiian Directions19:04 Pronouncing Hawaiian Islands24:16 Respecting Hawaiian Wildlife26:50 Resources for Learning Hawaiian28:15 Pau- About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert and the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel. He helps first-time and repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations with clear, practical advice and authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram: @hawaiis.best 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips and guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner This Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity and confidence. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, and local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, and beyond. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    30 min
  3. FEB 10

    7 Hawaii Travel Mistakes Most Visitors Don’t See Coming

    Think you can just wing it in Hawaii and figure things out as you go? 👉Free PDF: 20 Hawaii Travel Mistakes This episode is for Hawaii travelers and people who love Hawaii who want to avoid the small planning mistakes that turn into wasted days, missed experiences, or real safety issues. 👉 Hit play now to learn the seven Hawaii travel mistakes most visitors don’t see coming, so you can protect your trip before those mistakes ever happen. If you’ve ever wondered how to plan a Hawaii vacation that feels relaxed, prepared, and actually enjoyable, this episode is for you. You’ll learn what catches people off guard and how to avoid the situations that leave visitors frustrated or overwhelmed. In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we walk through seven Hawaii travel mistakes that consistently blindside visitors so you can make smarter decisions from day one. 👉In this episode, you will Learn why the ocean, especially right after flying, is more dangerous than it looksUnderstand how island hopping, overpacked days, and walk-up assumptions cost you timeAvoid common reservation, weather, and cultural missteps that derail plans_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan ahead, avoid costly mistakes, and enjoy Hawaii with confidence. 🤙Resources mentioned: First-Day in Hawaii ChecklistHawaii Beach Safety WebsiteROPE Research🎧Related episodes: Kamaka Dias from Keep it Aloha💻Related blog posts: Island Hopping in HawaiiKapu Article🤓Chapters: 4:29 Mistake #16:47 Mistake #28:20 Mistake #39:54 Mistake #411:31 Mistake #513:00 Mistake #615:06 Mistake #716:35 Recap and Final Thoughts- About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert and the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel. He helps first-time and repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations with clear, practical advice and authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram: @hawaiis.best 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips and guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner This Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity and confidence. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, and local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, and beyond. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    19 min
  4. FEB 3

    7 Hawaii Travel Myths That Waste Your Time and Money

    Are these common Hawaii travel tips actually costing you time and money in 2026? 🌺 20 Hawaii Travel Myths FREE PDF Guide If you’re planning a Hawaii trip and relying on advice from blogs, social media, or old memories, some of what you’ve heard may quietly work against you. 👉 Hit play now to learn what’s changed, what still works, and how to avoid planning mistakes that can derail your Hawaii vacation. If you’ve ever wondered how to plan Hawaii the right way without wasting days, money, or energy, this episode is for you. You’ll learn which long-standing assumptions no longer apply and what to do instead so your trip feels smooth, realistic, and worth the effort. In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we break down seven Hawaii travel myths that no longer hold up and explain how to plan smarter in 2026. 👉In this episode, you will: Learn when a rental car actually helps and when it becomes an expensive burdenUnderstand why island hopping eats more time and money than most travelers expectDiscover which rules, reservations, and seasons now shape what you can realistically do_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to avoid outdated advice and plan a Hawaii trip that actually works in 2026. 💻Related blog posts: Common Mistakes When Planning a Trip to HawaiiWhat Not to Do in Hawaii🎧Related episodes: Ep. 209: Whale WatchingEp. 125: Island HoppingEp. 206: Hawaii in 2026🤓Chapters: 2:31 Myth 15:06 Myth 26:29 Myth 37:54 Myth 49:52 Myth 511:46 Myth 613:11 Myth 714:48 Wrap-Up- About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert and the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel. He helps first-time and repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations with clear, practical advice and authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram: @hawaiis.best 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips and guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner This Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity and confidence. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, and local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, and beyond. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    17 min
  5. JAN 30

    Best Whale Watching in Hawaii: When & Where (By Island)

    Is whale watching in Hawaii just luck, or are most visitors doing it at the wrong time or in the wrong place? If you’re traveling to Hawaii and hoping to see humpback whales, timing, location, and expectations make all the difference between frustration and an unforgettable experience. 👉 Hit play now to learn when whale season really peaks, which islands give you the best odds, and how to spot whales without booking the wrong tour. If you’ve ever wondered how to plan whale watching so it actually fits your trip, this episode is for you. You’ll walk away knowing where to go by island, when to watch from shore versus a boat, and how to avoid common mistakes that leave people disappointed. In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we break down whale watching in Hawaii so you can plan with confidence and enjoy the experience without stress. 👉In this episode, you will: Learn the best months and shoulder-season windows for seeing humpback whales in HawaiiCompare whale watching on Maui, the Big Island, Oʻahu, and Kauaʻi, including top shore viewing spotsUnderstand boat tours versus shore watching, plus the rules that protect whales and calvesScroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan a whale watching experience that actually lives up to the moment. 🤓Chapters: 1:09 Whale Watching Season: Best Times to Visit2:42 Top Whale Watching Spots on Different Islands5:17 Shore Watching vs. Boat Tours7:34 Whale Behavior and Cultural Significance8:54 Final Tips and Conservation Success- About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert and the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel. He helps first-time and repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations with clear, practical advice and authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram: @hawaiis.best 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips and guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner This Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity and confidence. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, and local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, and beyond. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    11 min
  6. JAN 27

    7-Day Oahu Itinerary With Hidden Gems and Must-Do Stops

    Are you trying to plan a 7 day Oahu itinerary and worried you’ll miss key spots or book things in the wrong order? 🌺 FREE 7-Day Oahu Itinerary PDF Guide Oahu looks simple on a map, but planning a smooth week in 2026 takes more thought thanks to reservations, timing, and how the island actually flows. 👉 Hit play now to get a day by day plan that helps you see more, stress less, and avoid common planning mistakes. If you’ve ever wondered how to build a realistic Oahu itinerary that balances must do sights with meaningful experiences, this episode is for you. You’ll learn how to structure your days so the trip feels full, not rushed, and actually works on the ground. In this episode of Hawaii’s Best Travel, we map out a complete 7 day Oahu itinerary so you can travel smarter and enjoy each part of the island. 👉In this episode, you will: Learn how to plan each day from Waikiki to the North Shore and West Side without backtrackingUnderstand which activities now require reservations and how to plan around managed tourismGet practical guidance on beaches, hikes, food stops, and cultural sites that fit together naturallyScroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to build a 7 day Oahu itinerary that feels intentional, doable, and worth the trip. 🎧Related episodes: Ep. 132: Oahu for the first timeEp. 115: Overthrow of the Hawaiian KingdomEp. 130: Oahu windward itineraryEp. 181: Local Oahu restaurants🤓Chapters: 1:38 Navigating the 2026 Reservation System3:14 Day 1: Arrival and Settling In4:42 Day 2: Cultural Grounding in Oahu7:04 Day 3: Exploring East Oahu10:35 Day 4: Adventures at Kualoa Ranch13:50 Day 5: North Shore Exploration18:47 Day 6: Relaxing on the West Side- About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert and the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel. He helps first-time and repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations with clear, practical advice and authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram: @hawaiis.best 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips and guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner This Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity and confidence. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, and local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, and beyond. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    24 min
  7. JAN 20

    Top 5 Oahu Experiences You Won't Forget! (Free and Paid Options)

    Is your Oahu itinerary full, but you’re not sure which experiences are really worth your time? For Hawaii travelers and people who love Hawaii, the hardest part of planning Oahu isn’t finding options. It’s narrowing them down without overscheduling or overspending. 👉 Hit play now to learn which Oahu experiences actually deliver the biggest return on your time, energy, and budget. If you’ve ever wondered how to plan Oahu without turning your trip into a checklist, this episode is for you. You’ll hear how to choose a mix of free and paid experiences that feel meaningful, balanced, and doable for your group. In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we break down 5 Oahu experiences that prioritize pacing, intention, and lasting memories. 👉In this episode, you will: Learn why slowing down on Oahu leads to a better overall tripDiscover free experiences that feel just as rewarding as paid activitiesUnderstand how to build your days around culture, scenery, and energy levels.Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan an Oahu trip that feels intentional instead of overwhelming. 🤙Resources mentioned: Now and Then Tours (Waikiki walking tour w/ Kamaka Pili)🎧Related episodes: Waimea ValleySunrise ShackKamaka PiliPart 1Part 2💻Related blog posts: Friendly Hikes on OahuBest Luaus on Oahu🤓Chapters: 2:03 Activity #14:12 Activity #26:28 Activity #38:11 Activity #49:52 Activity #511:08 BONUS13:01 Wrap-up and Travel Tips- About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert and the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel. He helps first-time and repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations with clear, practical advice and authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram: @hawaiis.best 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips and guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner This Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity and confidence. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, and local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, and beyond. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    15 min
  8. JAN 16

    Is Hawaii Still Worth Visiting in 2026?

    Is Hawaii still worth visiting in 2026, or are you setting yourself up for sticker shock and sold-out reservations? Hawaii hasn't lost its magic, but the way you need to plan for it has completely changed, and understanding that shift is what separates a stressful trip from an unforgettable one. 👉 Hit play now to learn exactly what's different, what it really costs, and how to avoid the planning mistakes catching travelers off guard. If you've ever wondered how to plan a Hawaii trip that matches today's reality instead of outdated advice, this episode is for you. You'll walk away with clear expectations, realistic budget numbers, and a plan that actually works in 2026. In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down what's changed about visiting Hawaii so you can plan with confidence and skip the surprises. 👉 In this episode, you will: Understand why Hawaii now requires advance planning for beaches, state parks, and popular experiencesLearn the real cost breakdown, including new lodging taxes, shipping increases, and state park fees that add up fastDiscover which islands offer more flexibility and how to budget for a trip that feels like a vacation, not a logistics project_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan your 2026 Hawaii trip with clear expectations and zero budget surprises. 🤙Resources mentioned: 2026 Hawaii Trip CalculatorHawaii Travel Planning Consultation🤓Chapters: 0:54 Personal Trip Experience and Initial Thoughts2:18 The New Reality of Planning a Hawaii Trip4:46 Understanding the Rising Costs8:57 Addressing Anti-Tourist Sentiment10:44 Final Thoughts and Planning Tools13:58 Conclusion and Resources- About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert and the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel. He helps first-time and repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations with clear, practical advice and authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram: @hawaiis.best 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips and guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner This Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity and confidence. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, and local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, and beyond. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    16 min

Hosts & Guests

4.9
out of 5
269 Ratings

About

Dreaming of a Hawaii vacation that’s unforgettable, authentic, and stress-free Hawaii’s Best Travel is the top Hawaii travel podcast helping for your Hawaii vacation planning from start to finish with the best Hawaii travel tips, things to do in Hawaii, and insider advice from local voices. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveler, this Hawaii travel and vacation guide helps you uncover the most memorable experiences across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, Lanai, and Molokai. Each episode features practical Hawaii travel planning advice, cultural insights, and expert recommendations so you can explore the islands responsibly and with confidence. Hosted by Bryan Murphy — Certified Hawaii Travel Expert and founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel — the show combines real-world experience with official training through the Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau. Bryan has visited the islands more than 30 times and remains active in Hawaii’s visitor industry. His guidance follows the principles of Ma‘ema‘e Hawai‘i, emphasizing authenticity, respect for natural resources, and regenerative tourism practices that care for (mālama) the islands. As one of the leading voices in Hawaii travel, Bryan provides practical Hawaii vacation planning strategies, Hawaii travel hacks, and budget-friendly recommendations that make exploring Hawaii simple and meaningful. You’ll also hear interviews with local residents, business owners, and cultural practitioners who share personal stories and Hawaii travel insights you won’t find in typical guidebooks. What you’ll discover on Hawaii’s Best Travel: • Top things to do in Hawaii and can’t-miss activities on every island • Up-to-date Hawaii travel news and visitor tips • Authentic food, culture, and traditions that define the Hawaiian Islands • Responsible and respectful Hawaii travel guidance aligned with local values Each week, tune in for concise, value-packed episodes and inspiring guest interviews that help you plan your Hawaii vacation with clarity and aloha. From learning how to visit sacred sites respectfully to finding the best Hawaii travel itineraries, you’ll gain insider knowledge that transforms your trip from ordinary to unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii or dreaming of your next island getaway, this is your trusted Hawaii travel guide to experience the islands authentically and responsibly. Subscribe to Hawaii’s Best Travel today and start planning your perfect Hawaii vacation. Tune in each week for concise, value-packed solo episodes and inspiring guest interviews to help your Hawaii travel planning!

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