Hawaii Travel Made Easy Podcast—Hawaii travel tips, Things to do in Hawaii, Hawaii vacation planning

Marcie Cheung—Hawaii Travel Expert, Blogger & Guide Book Author
  • 4.0 (29)
  • Places & Travel

Hawaii Travel Made Easy is the ultimate Hawaii travel podcast for families and first-time Hawaii visitors looking to plan a stress-free and unforgettable Hawaii vacation. Hosted by a seasoned Hawaii travel expert, this show delivers essential Hawaii travel tips, Hawaii vacation planning advice, and insider insights to help you navigate the Hawaiian Islands with confidence.Marcie Cheung is a certified Hawaii destination expert by the Hawaii Tourism Authority, runs the popular Hawaii family travel site Hawaii Travel with Kids, and has visited Hawaii more than 40 times. Whether you're dreaming of your first trip to paradise or planning your return visit, each episode provides budget-friendly recommendations, cultural insights, and must-know Hawaii travel guide information to make your Hawaii vacation planning simple and stress-free. From choosing the right island to finding hidden gems, we'll help you create the perfect Hawaii experience! New episodes drop every Monday & Wednesday!

  1. 1d ago

    How to Visit the Na Pali Coast on Kauai— Ep 133

    Na Pali Coast on Kauai: Best Ways to See It, Go Haena Permits, and What to Pack Marcie breaks down how to experience Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, emphasizing there’s no road access and you must hike, take a boat, fly by helicopter, or drive to the Kalalau Lookout in Koke‘e State Park. She explains hiking options on the Hanakapiai Trail (and the extension to Hanakapiai Falls), stresses that Hanakapiai Beach is dangerous for swimming, and recommends Ke‘e Beach instead. She compares boat tours (catamarans vs rafts; morning vs sunset), notes typical prices, and strongly advises motion-sickness prevention (scopolamine patch the night before). She covers helicopter considerations and safety, including Island Helicopters’ permitted landing at Manawaiopuna Falls. The episode details Go Haena reservations for Haena State Park (parking vs shuttle, costs, 30-day release, no cell service), best seasons for boat tours (summer), packing essentials, common mistakes, and backup plans for weather cancellations. 00:00 Na Pali Hook Story 00:40 Welcome and Big Picture 01:03 No Road to Na Pali 01:28 Hiking the Trail 02:13 Beach Safety Warning 02:31 Boat Tour Breakdown 04:09 Motion Sickness Tips 04:36 Helicopter Views 05:23 Kalalau Lookout Drive 06:31 Choosing Your Experience 07:11 Best Time to Go 07:50 Go Haena Permits 10:12 What to Bring 11:16 Common Mistakes 12:25 Backup Plans and Wrap Up Who this episode is for: Anyone planning to see Na Pali Coast and trying to decide between hiking, boat, helicopter, or the lookout drive. What you'll learn: Every way to access Na Pali Coast, how to navigate Go Haena permits for Haena State Park, boat tour options and motion sickness prevention, and what to pack. Places discussed: Na Pali CoastHanakapiai Trail and Hanakapiai FallsHanakapiai BeachKe'e BeachHaena State ParkManawaiopuna FallsKalalau Lookout, Koke'e State ParkActivities discussed: Hiking the Hanakapiai Trail (and the Hanakapiai Falls extension)Boat tours (catamarans vs. rafts; morning vs. sunset)Helicopter tours, including Island Helicopters' permitted landing at Manawaiopuna FallsDriving to Kalalau LookoutGo Haena reservations for Haena State Park (parking vs. shuttle, cost, 30-day release window)Marcie's recommendations: Skip swimming at Hanakapiai Beach — go to Ke'e Beach insteadUse a scopolamine patch the night before a boat tour to prevent motion sicknessBook boat tours in summer for best conditionsBook Go Haena reservations early (30-day release) and don't count on cell service once you're thereHave a backup plan ready in case of weather cancellationsRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: How to Plan a Trip to Kauai— Ep 61Waimea Canyon & the Kauai West Side: How to Do This Day Right— Ep 98Related articles: Your North Shore Kauai Guide: Beaches, Hikes & Hidden Gems (2026)Kauai North Shore Shuttle: The Only Guide You Need (I’ve Done It Twice!)About Your Host: Marcie Cheung is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert who has visited Hawaii 40+ times and spent 20+ years as a professional hula dancer. Through Hawaii Travel with Kids, she helps families plan authentic, affordable Hawaii vacations that respect local culture while creating unforgettable memories. Learn more at hawaiitravelwithkids.com Connect: @hawaiitravelwithkids on Instagram | Book a Consultation 🌺 Join 11,000+ families receiving free Hawaii travel tips, island guides, and insider advice - subscribe now! https://hawaiitravelwithkids.com/free-5-day-email-course-how-to-travel-to-hawaii-like-a-pro/

  2. 3d ago

    Where I Actually Eat on Maui— Ep 132

    Where I Actually Eat on Maui: Favorite Spots, Road to Hana Stops, and Honest Takes Marcie of Hawaii Travel Made Easy shares the Maui restaurants she personally returns to each trip, starting with fish tacos at Coconuts Fish Cafe in Kihei (best at lunch) and dessert at Ululani’s Shave Ice, including a Maui Ocean Center location. She highlights Sweet Hula’s acai bowls in the South Maui Gardens, explains how Paia Fish Market differs in Paia versus Kihei (especially for takeout), and recommends Cafe Olei at the Maui Tropical Plantation for an upscale sit-down meal with reservations. For families, she suggests Monkeypod Kitchen for its crowd-pleasing menu and standout mai tai. She praises Da Kitchen for huge portions and Road to Hana stops like Huealo Lookout smoothies and Bruddah Hutts BBQ ribs, and offers a candid, less-enthusiastic take on Hali‘imaile General Store. She notes most stops require a car and promotes planning resources, consultations, and itinerary audits on her website. 00:00 Oahu Food Hangover 00:24 Maui Eats Mission 00:52 Coconuts Fish Tacos 01:38 Ululani Shave Ice 02:09 Sweet Hula Acai 02:55 Paia Fish Market Picks 03:44 Cafe Olei Plantation 04:16 Monkeypod Favorites 04:56 Da Kitchen Classics 05:28 Road to Hana Bites 06:10 Upcountry Reality Check 06:40 Car Rental Note 06:57 Wrap Up And Help Who this episode is for: Anyone planning a Maui trip who wants real restaurant picks from someone who's eaten there dozens of times, not a generic "best of" list. What you'll learn: Where to eat in Kihei, Paia, and Upcountry, which Road to Hana stops are worth the detour, and which hyped spot Marcie skips. Restaurants discussed: Coconuts Fish Cafe (Kihei) — fish tacos, best at lunchUlulani's Shave Ice (multiple locations incl. Maui Ocean Center)Sweet Hula (South Maui Gardens) — acai bowlsPaia Fish Market (Paia vs. Kihei locations, takeout notes)Cafe Olei (Maui Tropical Plantation) — upscale, reservations recommendedMonkeypod Kitchen — family-friendly, mai taiDa Kitchen — huge portionsHali'imaile General Store — Marcie's honest, less-enthusiastic takePlaces discussed: Kihei, Paia, South Maui, Maui Tropical Plantation, Upcountry, Road to Hana Activities discussed: Driving the Road to Hana Marcie's recommendations: Coconuts Fish Cafe for lunch specificallyCafe Olei for a nicer sit-down night outHuealo Lookout smoothies and Bruddah Hutts BBQ ribs on the Road to HanaSkip the hype on Hali'imaile General StoreRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes:  What You Need to Know About the Road to Hana on Maui— Ep 31How to Plan a Trip to Maui— Ep 47Related articles: Best Maui Restaurants for Kids: Where a Mom of 2 Actually EatsRoad to Hana: 16 Things to Know Before You Go (2026 Guide) About Your Host: Marcie Cheung is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert who has visited Hawaii 40+ times and spent 20+ years as a professional hula dancer. Through Hawaii Travel with Kids, she helps families plan authentic, affordable Hawaii vacations that respect local culture while creating unforgettable memories. Learn more at hawaiitravelwithkids.com Connect: @hawaiitravelwithkids on Instagram | Book a Consultation 🌺 Join 11,000+ families receiving free Hawaii travel tips, island guides, and insider advice - subscribe now! https://hawaiitravelwithkids.com/free-5-day-email-course-how-to-travel-to-hawaii-like-a-pro/

  3. Aug 12

    Every Kauai Luau I've Been To, Ranked Honestly — Ep 131

    Ranking Kauai Luaus: Marcie’s Honest Top Picks, Best for Families, and What to Expect Marcie from “Hawaii Travel Made Easy” shares her personal history with luaus and ranks six Kauai experiences she’s attended, noting that her nostalgic favorite, Smith’s Family Luau, isn’t #1. Her top pick is the oceanfront Auli’i Luau at the Sheraton Kauai Resort for its full package of activities, standout costumes, and multi-Polynesian performances; #2 is Luau Kalamaku at Kilohana Plantation for its continuous theatrical story, strong food, optional railway ride, shuttle service, and early end time. #3 is the Ahi Lele Fire Show at Anaina Hou for demonstrations and intense fire performances; #4 is Smith’s for its botanical garden setting, Asian cultural showcases, affordability, and “1990s” show that hasn’t evolved much. #5 is Luau Kahikina at Sheraton Coconut Beach for thoughtful direction and early finish, and #6 is Tahiti Nui Luau in Hanalei for an indoor, low-key North Shore option. She also mentions Grand Hyatt’s Hawaiki Nui and Hilton Garden Inn’s Wailua Nui as unreviewed and promotes itinerary reviews and consultations. 00:00 VHS Luau Origin Story 01:22 Welcome and Quick Links 01:56 Top Pick Aulii Luau 03:53 Theatrical Luau Kalamaku 05:37 Ahi Lele Fire Show 06:52 Smiths Nostalgia Check 08:22 Sheraton Kahikina Return 09:55 Tahiti Nui North Shore 11:45 Two More Luaus Mentioned 12:29 Final Rankings and Wrap Who this episode is for: Anyone booking a luau on Kauai who wants a real ranking instead of resort marketing. What you'll learn: Marcie's ranking of six Kauai luaus she's personally attended, what makes each one different, and two additional luaus she hasn't reviewed yet. Places discussed: Hanalei (North Shore)Lihue/Kapaa (East Shore)Poipu (South Shore)Activities discussed: Attending a luau (Polynesian performances, fire shows, theatrical storytelling, optional railway ride)Hotels discussed: Sheraton Kauai Resort — home of Auli'i Luau, Marcie's top pickKilohana Plantation — home of Luau Kalamaku, #2 pickAnaina Hou — home of Ahi Lele Fire Show, #3 pickSmith's (botanical garden setting) — #4 pickSheraton Coconut Beach — home of Luau Kahikina, #5 pickTahiti Nui (Hanalei) — #6 pickGrand Hyatt — home of Hawaiki Nui, mentioned but not yet reviewedHilton Garden Inn — home of Wailua Nui, mentioned but not yet reviewedMarcie's recommendations: #1: Auli'i Luau at Sheraton Kauai Resort — oceanfront, full activity package, standout costumes, multi-Polynesian performances#2: Luau Kalamaku at Kilohana Plantation — continuous theatrical story, strong food, optional railway ride, shuttle service, ends early#3: Ahi Lele Fire Show at Anaina Hou — demonstrations and intense fire performances#4: Smith's Family Luau — nostalgic favorite but not #1; botanical garden setting, Asian cultural showcases, affordable, show hasn't evolved much since the 90s#5: Luau Kahikina at Sheraton Coconut Beach — thoughtful direction, early finish#6: Tahiti Nui Luau in Hanalei — indoor, low-key North Shore optionHawaiki Nui (Grand Hyatt) and Wailua Nui (Hilton Garden Inn) not yet reviewedRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: Hawaii Travel Guide: Are Luaus Worth It? Everything You Need to Know— Ep 6Luau vs Cultural Experience: Which Hawaii Cultural Activity Is Worth It?— Ep 42Every Oahu Luau I've Been To (Ranked Honestly)— Ep 95Every Maui Luau I've Been To (And Everything Else Worth Knowing), Ranked Honestly— Ep 129Every Big Island Luau I've Been To (And Everything Else Worth Knowing), Ranked Honestly— Ep 135Related articles:  Best Kauai Luaus: Where to Actually Book Your Island Experience (2026)Kauai Travel GuideAbout Your Host: Marcie Cheung is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert who has visited Hawaii 40+ times and spent 20+ years as a professional hula dancer. Through Hawaii Travel with Kids, she helps families plan authentic, affordable Hawaii vacations that respect local culture while creating unforgettable memories. Learn more at hawaiitravelwithkids.com Connect: @hawaiitravelwithkids on Instagram | Book a Consultation 🌺 Join 11,000+ families receiving free Hawaii travel tips, island guides, and insider advice - subscribe now! https://hawaiitravelwithkids.com/free-5-day-email-course-how-to-travel-to-hawaii-like-a-pro/

  4. Aug 10

    How Many Days Do You Really Need on Maui?— Ep 130

    How Many Days Do You Need on Maui? Realistic Itineraries, Costs, and Planning Tips Marcie from Hawaii Travel Made Easy discusses how many days to spend on Maui, noting recent state data showing visitor spending up over 26% and arrivals up more than 18% while average Hawaii stays fell from about 8.5 days to under 7.5, likely due to high Maui costs (average hotel rooms near $500/night plus car, parking, and meals). She recommends 7–10 days if Maui is your only island, 5–7 days if island hopping, and says 4–5 days can still work with intentional planning. She explains major activities each require significant time (Road to Hana, Haleakala sunrise, Iao Valley, Upcountry, west-side beaches, Molokini) and shares personal memories from Iao Valley and Road to Hana. She advises mapping food stops to avoid backtracking, limiting Hana stops to 5–6, booking required reservations early, and offers consultations and itinerary audits. 00:00 Maui Surprise Factor 00:43 Trip Length Question 00:53 Why Stays Are Shorter 01:55 Ideal Days On Maui 02:16 Time Sinks And Must Dos 02:51 Favorite Maui Memories 03:43 Itinerary Mistakes To Avoid 04:28 Reservations And Hana Reality 05:25 Sample Day Breakdowns 06:04 Consultations And Wrap Up 06:48 Final Thoughts Who this episode is for: Anyone trying to figure out how many days to budget for Maui, especially with rising costs and shorter average Hawaii stays. What you'll learn: How current tourism data affects Maui trip planning, Marcie's day-count guidance depending on whether Maui is your only stop, and how to plan around Maui's biggest time-sink activities. Places discussed: Road to HanaHaleakalaIao ValleyUpcountryWest-side beachesMolokiniActivities discussed: Driving the Road to HanaWatching sunrise at HaleakalaVisiting Iao ValleyExploring UpcountryBeach time on the west sideMolokini snorkel/boat tripMarcie's recommendations: Maui as your only island: plan for 7–10 daysIsland hopping: plan for 5–7 days on MauiTight schedule: 4–5 days can still work with intentional planningMap food stops in advance to avoid backtracking, especially on the Road to HanaLimit Road to Hana stops to 5–6 to keep the day manageableBook required reservations (e.g. Haleakala sunrise) earlyRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: How Many Days Do You Really Need on Kauai?— Ep 134What You Need to Know About the Road to Hana on Maui— Ep 31Where I Actually Eat on Maui— Ep 132Related articles:  How Many Days Should You Spend on Maui? A Hawaii Travel Expert’s GuideRoad to Hana: 16 Things to Know Before You Go (2026 Guide)Maui Travel GuideAbout Your Host: Marcie Cheung is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert who has visited Hawaii 40+ times and spent 20+ years as a professional hula dancer. Through Hawaii Travel with Kids, she helps families plan authentic, affordable Hawaii vacations that respect local culture while creating unforgettable memories. Learn more at hawaiitravelwithkids.com Connect: @hawaiitravelwithkids on Instagram | Book a Consultation 🌺 Join 11,000+ families receiving free Hawaii travel tips, island guides, and insider advice - subscribe now! https://hawaiitravelwithkids.com/free-5-day-email-course-how-to-travel-to-hawaii-like-a-pro/

  5. Aug 5

    Every Maui Luau I've Been To (And Everything Else Worth Knowing), Ranked Honestly— Ep 129

    Ranking the Best Maui Luaus (Plus Updates, Closures, and Alternatives) The host ranks Maui luaus based on four firsthand visits: Feast at Mokapu at the Andaz Maui in Wailea as the top luxury splurge with oceanfront setting and family-style service; Old Lahaina Luau second for a culturally focused Hawaiian/Tahitian show and updated post-2023 wildfire format (now four-course family-style with open bar); Drums of the Pacific at the Hyatt Regency Maui third for a large, multi-Polynesian spectacle with fire knife dancing and resort convenience in Ka’anapali; and Myths of Maui at Royal Lahaina fourth as a more budget-friendly buffet with fire knife dancing. They also describe other options they haven’t attended (Grand Wailea, Te Au Moana, Maui Nui at Black Rock, Ritz-Carlton Kapalua, Gilligan’s Island) and Maui Ocean Center’s Friday-only “Migrations” dinner show. Updates include Feast at Lele permanently closed and South Maui Gardens’ Polynesian show paused/closed, with backups like Gilligan’s Island and the Napili Kai Foundation keiki hula show. 00:00 Maui Luau Ranking Setup 01:11 Feast at Mokapu Top Pick 02:14 Old Lahaina Luau Updates 03:37 Drums of the Pacific Spectacle 04:59 Myths of Maui Budget Choice 05:45 Other Maui Luaus Rundown 07:14 Avoiding Luau Mismatches 08:02 Migrations Dinner Show Option 08:35 Closures and Key Updates 09:58 Final Recommendations and Resources Who this episode is for: Anyone booking a luau on Maui who wants an honest ranking plus the latest closures and format changes. What you'll learn: Marcie's ranking of four Maui luaus she's personally attended, other options she hasn't reviewed, and current closures/updates including post-wildfire changes at Old Lahaina Luau. Places discussed: WaileaLahainaKa'anapaliBlack RockActivities discussed: Attending a luau (family-style dining, open bar, fire knife dancing, multi-Polynesian performances)Migrations dinner show at Maui Ocean Center (Fridays only)Napili Kai Foundation keiki hula showHotels discussed: Andaz Maui (Wailea) — home of Feast at Mokapu, top pickHyatt Regency Maui (Ka'anapali) — home of Drums of the Pacific, third pickRoyal Lahaina — home of Myths of Maui, fourth pick, budget-friendlyGrand Wailea — home of Te Au Moana, not yet reviewedRitz-Carlton Kapalua — home of Maui Nui at Black Rock, not yet reviewedMarcie's recommendations: #1: Feast at Mokapu at Andaz Maui — top luxury splurge, oceanfront setting, family-style service#2: Old Lahaina Luau — culturally focused Hawaiian/Tahitian show, updated post-2023 wildfire to a four-course family-style format with open bar#3: Drums of the Pacific at Hyatt Regency Maui — large multi-Polynesian spectacle with fire knife dancing, convenient if staying in Ka'anapali#4: Myths of Maui at Royal Lahaina — more budget-friendly buffet option with fire knife dancingFeast at Lele has permanently closedSouth Maui Gardens' Polynesian show is paused/closed; consider Gilligan's Island or the Napili Kai Foundation keiki hula show as alternativesRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes:  Hawaii Travel Guide: Are Luaus Worth It? Everything You Need to Know— Ep 6Luau vs Cultural Experience: Which Hawaii Cultural Activity Is Worth It?— Ep 42Every Oahu Luau I've Been To (Ranked Honestly)— Ep 95Every Big Island Luau I've Been To (And Everything Else Worth Knowing), Ranked Honestly— Ep 135Every Kauai Luau I've Been To, Ranked Honestly — Ep 131Related articles: Myths of Maui Luau Review: Is the Royal Lahaina Luau Worth It? (2026)Is The Feast at Mokapu Worth It? Honest Andaz Maui Luau ReviewBest Maui Luaus for Families: 13 Top Picks for 2026Honest Review of the Grand Wailea Luau for Families Visiting MauiI Sat Through a Luau in a Rainstorm So You Don’t Have To (Drums of the Pacific Luau Review)About Your Host: Marcie Cheung is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert who has visited Hawaii 40+ times and spent 20+ years as a professional hula dancer. Through Hawaii Travel with Kids, she helps families plan authentic, affordable Hawaii vacations that respect local culture while creating unforgettable memories. Learn more at hawaiitravelwithkids.com Connect: @hawaiitravelwithkids on Instagram | Book a Consultation 🌺 Join 11,000+ families receiving free Hawaii travel tips, island guides, and insider advice - subscribe now! https://hawaiitravelwithkids.com/free-5-day-email-course-how-to-travel-to-hawaii-like-a-pro/

  6. Aug 3

    Moloka'i: The Island Most People Skip (And Why You Shouldn't)— Ep 128

    Molokai Travel Guide: Flights, Where to Stay, and Must-Do Experiences Marcie shares a Molokai trip she took with her mom, describing the island as the least visited and “most Hawaiian,” with no traffic lights, minimal development, and uncrowded beaches. She explains logistics: Molokai is reachable only by Mokulele Airlines from Maui (about 30 minutes) with occasional maintenance groundings, and visitors need a rental car due to no Uber or public transit. In Kaunakakai, she recommends Hulu Bean Cafe, A Taste of Molokai food truck, and Kanemitsu’s Bakery “hot bread” (Thu–Sun nights), noting many businesses close Sundays. Highlights include Molokai Plumeria Farm lei-making, the scenic drive to Halawa Valley and guided Mo’oula Falls hike, and the Molokai Museum’s Kalaupapa history plus the Kalaupapa Lookout; limited Kalaupapa tours require permits and are air-access only. Lodging includes Hotel Molokai and rentals, and she advises staying 2–3 nights over a rushed day trip. 00:00 Why Molokai Now 00:45 Getting There by Air 01:51 Rental Car Essentials 02:25 Molokai Vibe and Etiquette 03:26 Kaunakakai Eats and Hot Bread 04:50 Plumeria Farm Lei Making 06:00 Halawa Valley Scenic Drive 06:47 Museum and Kalaupapa History 07:58 Where to Stay 08:42 Day Trip or Overnight 09:45 Final Tips and Wrap Up Who this episode is for: Anyone considering a trip to Molokai, Hawaii's least-visited island, and wanting practical logistics plus cultural context before going. What you'll learn: How to get to and around Molokai, where to eat and stay, top experiences, and why an overnight stay beats a rushed day trip. Places discussed: KaunakakaiMolokai Plumeria FarmHalawa ValleyMo'oula FallsMolokai MuseumKalaupapa LookoutKalaupapa SettlementActivities discussed: Flying Mokulele Airlines from Maui to MolokaiRenting a car (no Uber or public transit on the island)Lei-making at Molokai Plumeria FarmScenic drive to Halawa Valley and guided Mo'oula Falls hikeVisiting Molokai Museum for Kalaupapa historyKalaupapa tours (permit-required, air-access only)Hotels discussed: Hotel MolokaiVacation rentals (general mention)Restaurants discussed: Hulu Bean Cafe (Kaunakakai)A Taste of Molokai food truckKanemitsu's Bakery — known for "hot bread," available Thursday–Sunday nightsMarcie's recommendations: Stay 2–3 nights rather than doing a rushed day tripRent a car in advance since there's no Uber or public transitPlan around Sunday closures for many Kaunakakai businessesBook Kalaupapa tours ahead given permit requirements and limited air accessApproach the island with respect for its "most Hawaiian" character and slower paceRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: Island-Hopping in Hawaii: Is It Right for Your Trip?— Ep 9You Don’t Need to Island Hop on Your First Hawaii Trip— Ep 105Related articles:  Is a Maui to Molokai Day Trip Worth It? Here’s What You Need to KnowWhere to Stay on Molokai: 6 Budget-Friendly Options That Don’t Suck (2026)Kalaupapa Settlement (NPS)About Your Host: Marcie Cheung is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert who has visited Hawaii 40+ times and spent 20+ years as a professional hula dancer. Through Hawaii Travel with Kids, she helps families plan authentic, affordable Hawaii vacations that respect local culture while creating unforgettable memories. Learn more at hawaiitravelwithkids.com Connect: @hawaiitravelwithkids on Instagram | Book a Consultation 🌺 Join 11,000+ families receiving free Hawaii travel tips, island guides, and insider advice - subscribe now! https://hawaiitravelwithkids.com/free-5-day-email-course-how-to-travel-to-hawaii-like-a-pro/

  7. Jul 29

    My Most Controversial Hawaii Travel Opinions— Ep 127

    Hawaii Travel Hot Takes: Skip the Checklist, Plan What Fits The host shares Hawaii travel opinions that often surprise clients, arguing that packing too much into a trip backfires. She explains why squeezing multiple islands into a short stay wastes half-days on checkout, airports, rental cars, and waiting for rooms, and suggests itinerary audits and a framework for island hopping. She notes you don’t always need a rental car—especially on Oahu—where transit and tours can work, while acknowledging the freedom a car provides. She says the Polynesian Cultural Center can feel sanitized and inauthentic, advises skipping Pearl Harbor if your group isn’t genuinely interested, and says the Road to Hana isn’t mandatory or has to be an all-day commitment. She contrasts tourist-trap luaus with smaller, higher-intention ones, recommends the Pride of America cruise as a smart first-timer sampler, and explains why she avoids publicly naming “hidden gems” due to safety, private property, and overexposure. 00:00 Truth Over Checklists 00:57 Stop Island Hopping 02:24 Skipping The Rental Car 04:01 PCC Reality Check 05:22 Pearl Harbor Permission 06:40 Road To Hana Optional 07:35 Choosing A Good Luau 08:56 Cruising The Islands 10:04 Hidden Gems Dilemma 11:27 Wrap Up And Invite Who this episode is for: Anyone building a Hawaii itinerary around a "must-see" checklist instead of what actually fits their trip. What you'll learn: Why overpacking your itinerary backfires, when you don't need a rental car, and Marcie's honest takes on Hawaii's most-hyped attractions. Places discussed: OahuPolynesian Cultural CenterPearl HarborRoad to Hana (Maui)Activities discussed: Island hoppingRenting a car vs. using transit/toursVisiting the Polynesian Cultural CenterVisiting Pearl HarborDriving the Road to HanaAttending a luauCruising the islands (Pride of America)Marcie's recommendations: Don't overpack your itinerary — cramming in multiple islands wastes half-days on checkout, airports, and rental carsGet an itinerary audit if you're unsure how to structure an island-hopping tripYou don't always need a rental car, especially on Oahu, where transit and tours can cover a lotPolynesian Cultural Center can feel sanitized and inauthentic — go in with the right expectationsSkip Pearl Harbor if your group isn't genuinely interested; it's okay to opt outRoad to Hana isn't mandatory, and it doesn't have to be an all-day commitmentChoose smaller, higher-intention luaus over tourist-trap onesPride of America cruise is a smart sampler option for first-timersShe avoids publicly naming "hidden gems" due to safety, private property, and overexposure concernsRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: What You Need to Know About the Road to Hana on Maui— Ep 31Hawaii Travel Guide: Are Luaus Worth It? Everything You Need to Know— Ep 6Island-Hopping in Hawaii: Is It Right for Your Trip?— Ep 9Related articles:  How to Explore Oahu Without a Car on Your Family VacationThe Secret to a Perfect Hawaiian Itinerary: Tips for Every Type of Family About Your Host: Marcie Cheung is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert who has visited Hawaii 40+ times and spent 20+ years as a professional hula dancer. Through Hawaii Travel with Kids, she helps families plan authentic, affordable Hawaii vacations that respect local culture while creating unforgettable memories. Learn more at hawaiitravelwithkids.com Connect: @hawaiitravelwithkids on Instagram | Book a Consultation 🌺 Join 11,000+ families receiving free Hawaii travel tips, island guides, and insider advice - subscribe now! https://hawaiitravelwithkids.com/free-5-day-email-course-how-to-travel-to-hawaii-like-a-pro/

  8. Jul 27

    How Many Days Do You Really Need on Oahu?— Ep 126

    How Many Days Do You Need on Oahu? (3, 5, 7–10 Day Breakdown) Marcie shares guidance on how long to spend on Oahu based on 40+ trips, recommending 7–10 days if it’s your only island, 5–7 days if island hopping, and noting that five full days can still work on a tight budget. She explains that Oahu is often underestimated beyond Waikiki and Pearl Harbor, with major time commitments like a half-day at Pearl Harbor, a reserved Diamond Head hike, Kualoa Ranch, and a full North Shore road-trip day (Dole Plantation, Haleiwa, Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach/Pipeline). Using her own recent six-day visit, she highlights the trade-off of limited beach time and recommends a 7–10 day split stay—Waikiki for sightseeing, then Ko Olina (or Turtle Bay) to relax. She also shares a client regret story after booking only one night on Oahu and offers consultations and a $50 itinerary audit. 00:00 How Many Days Oahu 01:01 Quick Day Recommendations 01:23 Why Oahu Takes Time 02:38 Six Day Reality Check 03:17 Split Stay Waikiki Ko Olina 03:50 Shorter Trips Trend 04:32 One Night Mistake Story 05:42 Trip Length Itinerary Shapes 06:35 Consultations And Wrap Up Who this episode is for: Anyone trying to figure out how many days to budget for Oahu, especially if they're tempted to underestimate it as "just Waikiki." What you'll learn: Marcie's day-count guidance depending on whether Oahu is your only island, how a split-stay itinerary can balance sightseeing and relaxation, and a real client story about booking too little time. Places discussed: WaikikiPearl HarborDiamond HeadKualoa RanchNorth ShoreDole PlantationHaleiwaWaimea BaySunset Beach / PipelineKo OlinaTurtle BayActivities discussed: Visiting Pearl Harbor (half-day commitment)Hiking Diamond Head (reservation required)Visiting Kualoa RanchNorth Shore road trip daySplit-stay itinerary planningMarcie's recommendations: Oahu as your only island: plan for 7–10 daysIsland hopping: plan for 5–7 days on OahuTight budget: five full days can still workFor 7–10 day trips, consider a split stay — Waikiki first for sightseeing, then Ko Olina or Turtle Bay to relaxDon't underestimate Oahu beyond Waikiki and Pearl Harbor — major sights each eat significant chunks of a dayBook Diamond Head reservations ahead of timeAvoid booking too little time on Oahu, based on a client who regretted booking only one nightRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: How Many Days Do You Really Need on Kauai?— Ep 134How Many Days Do You Really Need on Maui?— Ep 130Related articles: Oahu Travel GuideNorth Shore Oahu: 17 Best Things to Do (+ What’s Actually Skippable in 2026)About Your Host: Marcie Cheung is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert who has visited Hawaii 40+ times and spent 20+ years as a professional hula dancer. Through Hawaii Travel with Kids, she helps families plan authentic, affordable Hawaii vacations that respect local culture while creating unforgettable memories. Learn more at hawaiitravelwithkids.com Connect: @hawaiitravelwithkids on Instagram | Book a Consultation 🌺 Join 11,000+ families receiving free Hawaii travel tips, island guides, and insider advice - subscribe now! https://hawaiitravelwithkids.com/free-5-day-email-course-how-to-travel-to-hawaii-like-a-pro/

See All (133)

4
out of 5
29 Ratings

About

Hawaii Travel Made Easy is the ultimate Hawaii travel podcast for families and first-time Hawaii visitors looking to plan a stress-free and unforgettable Hawaii vacation. Hosted by a seasoned Hawaii travel expert, this show delivers essential Hawaii travel tips, Hawaii vacation planning advice, and insider insights to help you navigate the Hawaiian Islands with confidence.Marcie Cheung is a certified Hawaii destination expert by the Hawaii Tourism Authority, runs the popular Hawaii family travel site Hawaii Travel with Kids, and has visited Hawaii more than 40 times. Whether you're dreaming of your first trip to paradise or planning your return visit, each episode provides budget-friendly recommendations, cultural insights, and must-know Hawaii travel guide information to make your Hawaii vacation planning simple and stress-free. From choosing the right island to finding hidden gems, we'll help you create the perfect Hawaii experience! New episodes drop every Monday & Wednesday!

Information

You Might Also Like