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
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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 Hawaii travel consultant Marcie Cheung, 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 Hawaii travel consultant for families and a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority. She runs the popular Hawaii family travel site Hawaii Travel with Kids, has visited Hawaii more than 40 times, and offers one-on-one Hawaii trip planning consultations and itinerary reviews at hawaiitravelwithkids.com. 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 figuring out what's actually worth your time, we'll help you create the perfect Hawaii experience! New episodes drop every Monday & Wednesday!

  1. 2d ago

    What a Real Hawaii Consultation Sounds Like— Ep 151

    A Real Maui Trip Planning Consultation: Snorkeling, Luaus, Road to Hana, Haleakala, and Family Photo Tips Who this episode is for: Families planning a first Hawaii trip with a full house of tweens and teens, especially anyone who wants a real sense of what a Hawaii Travel with Kids consultation actually sounds like before booking one. What you'll learn: How Marcie walks a family through snorkeling gear decisions, luau options, Haleakala sunrise logistics, and a full Road to Hana game plan, plus what her follow-up consultation email actually includes. Places discussed: MauiKa'anapali / Kaanapali BeachWhalers VillageHaleakala National Park (Haleakala Crater / the volcano)Road to HanaPaiaTwin Falls (mile marker 9)Pipiwai Trail (near Hana)Huelo LookoutHalfway to Hana standHana townBlack sand beach in Hana (reservation required)Kahului, including Target, Walmart, and Safeway for arrival-night suppliesKahului AirportKapalua BayWaileaKiheiSouth Maui Gardens (food truck park in Kihei)Kamaole BeachesWestin Maui or Sheraton Maui (unconfirmed, site of a sunset cliff diving ceremony)Kauai (mentioned briefly in a discussion of 2026 hurricane season impacts)Activities discussed: Snorkeling, including gear rental vs. buying your ownSnorkel boat tour (Molokini Crater and Turtle Town)LuauHaleakala sunrise hike and general volcano visitRoad to Hana scenic driveWaterfall hiking and swimmingSurfing lessonsSunset cliff diving ceremonyFlytographer family photo shootBeach time and picnickingGrocery and food truck stopsRestaurant reservationsHotels discussed: Hyatt Regency Maui (Jill's hotel, two rooms booked on points, concierge floor)Westin Maui or Sheraton Maui (unconfirmed, cliff diving ceremony location)Restaurants discussed: Bruddah Hutts (Hana) – best ribs Marcie's ever hadMonkeypod Kitchen (Ka'anapali) – great variety, famous lilikoi mai taiHonolulu Coffee (Hyatt lobby) – coffee, breakfast sandwiches, mobile order availablePoolside shave ice stand at the Hyatt (name unclear on the recording) – same brand Marcie loves on KauaiHuelo Lookout smoothie stand (Road to Hana) – fresh fruit smoothies, good morning pick-me-upSouth Maui Gardens food trucks (Kihei) – acai bowls lived up to the hypeHalfway to Hana stand – banana bread Marcie calls a mustMarcie's recommendations: Skip buying full snorkel sets unless you'll use them multiple days or on future trips; otherwise rent or buy a cheap setBook the Four Winds Maui II snorkel tour, her favorite, kid-friendly with food and a water slide on boardPick a morning snorkel tour for the calmest water if anyone gets seasickBook your snorkel tour and luau now if you're traveling during a holiday weekFor an easy, no-driving luau, choose the Hyatt's (it doesn't cancel for rain)For a more traditional, authentic feel, choose Old Lahaina Luau, and book immediately since it sells out fastConsider skipping the Haleakala sunrise hike if the family is on the fence, it eats a huge chunk of a dayPack real cold-weather layers for Haleakala (long pants, sweatshirt, beanie, gloves, hand warmers), it can hit the 30s and 40sDownload the Shaka Guide audio app before driving the Road to HanaGet to Twin Falls early, by 7 to 7:30 am, before tour buses arriveAdd Pipiwai Trail near Hana, a bamboo forest hike to a swimmable waterfallPack protein-heavy snacks for the drive, food options are mostly fruit and sorbet until HanaEat at Bruddah Hut's in Hana, Marcie's favorite ribs anywhereShare one coconut water instead of buying one per person, it's a diuretic and bathrooms are scarce on the driveIt's fine to turn around at the Halfway to Hana stand, there's no prize for finishing the full driveGet the banana bread at the Halfway to Hana standBook your Flytographer session soon, popular photographers get booked upBring a shot list to your Flytographer session and tell them if you want posed or candid photosMake reservations at hotel sit-down restaurants to avoid waiting with hungry kids, but keep some dinners flexibleTry Monkeypod Kitchen for menu variety and the lilikoi mai taiStop for snacks and drinks in Kahului on arrival night, hotel restaurants may already be closedDon't overpack the itinerary. When in doubt, cut something rather than run everyone raggedHurricane season runs through late November, but that doesn't stop Marcie from planning or recommending fall Hawaii tripsRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: How Many Days Do You Really Need on Maui?— Ep 130How to Visit Haleakalā Crater on Maui— Ep 10What You Need to Know About the Road to Hana on Maui— Ep 31Related articles: Road to Hana: 16 Things to Know Before You Go (2026 Guide)Old Lahaina Luau Worth $230? Honest 2026 Review I 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/

  2. 4d ago

    You Don't Have to Plan This Alone— Ep 150

    Marcie's Hawaii Trip-Planning Toolbox: Free Email Courses, Instagram Keywords, and Updated Island Guides Who this episode is for: Anyone in the early, overwhelmed stage of planning a Hawaii trip who wants a fast, free way to get oriented before spending money on a guide or a consult. What you'll learn: Where to find Marcie's free email planning courses, how to use Instagram DM keywords to get them sent straight to your inbox, and what her paid, regularly-updated island guides and Hawaii Resources hub cover for day-by-day planning. Places discussed: Hawaii (general/overall trip planning)KauaiMauiOahuBig IslandMarcie's recommendations: Start with the free "How to Travel to Hawaii Like a Pro" email course if you're early in planning and don't know what you don't knowUse "How to Save Money in Hawaii" if budget is the main driver of your planningOnce you know your island, use that island's free course (Maui, Oahu, Kauai, or Big Island) instead of the general oneDM her on Instagram with a keyword (PROEMAIL, BUDGETEMAIL, or an island keyword like MAUIEMAIL) to get the course sent instantly, rather than hunting for the linkConsider her paid island guides only once you want a full day-by-day plan, not as a first stepHer guides are worth trusting because she keeps them updated, unlike a guide that hasn't been touched in yearsBookmark the Hawaii Resources hub as the one link to save if you're only going to save oneRelated articles:  How to Travel to Hawaii Like a Pro (With Kids)How to Save Money in Hawaii (With Kids)How to Plan a Trip to Oahu With KidsHow to Plan a Trip to Maui With KidsHow to Plan a Trip to Kauai With KidsHow to Plan a Trip to the Big Island With KidsAbout 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. Oct 14

    Why Slowing Down Is the Secret to a Great Hawaii Trip (with Retha from Roaming Retha)— Ep 149

    From Travel Blogger to Hawaii Specialist: Retha on Planning Safer, Slower Hawaii Trips Who this episode is for: Anyone planning a Hawaii trip who tends to over-schedule their days or wants guidance on which activities are actually worth booking. What you'll learn: Why slowing down and booking just one activity a day leads to a better trip, and how to tell if an experience (like a manta ray night snorkel or downhill biking) is actually a good fit for your family before you book it. Places discussed: Big IslandKauaiOahuMauiKonaKalalau TrailActivities discussed: Manta ray night snorkel near KonaDownhill biking tour (Maui)SnorkelingSea turtle viewingHiking the Kalalau TrailBeach elopement/wedding ceremonyHotel cabana daysDolphin encountersMarcie's recommendations: Recommends doing a cabana day near the end of a trip so kids can swim while parents relaxAdvises front-loading a trip by spending less on hotel splurges early on, since you'll want a nicer home base once you get tired later in the tripEmphasizes giving people the benefit of the doubt around wildlife rules, since many visitors simply don't know the guidelines yet, while still stressing the importance of keeping a safe distanceReminds listeners that every family's "dream Hawaii vacation" looks different, so don't feel pressured to do something just because it's popularWhere to find Retha Instagram @RoamingRethaFacebookAbout 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. Oct 12

    Hawaii Travel Insurance: Do You Need It?— Ep 148

    Hawaii Hurricanes and Travel Insurance: What's Covered (and What Isn't) for Flights, CFAR, and Vacation Rentals Who this episode is for: Anyone with a Hawaii trip on the books during hurricane season, or a vacation rental already reserved, who wants to know whether their coverage would actually hold up if a storm hit. What you'll learn: What actually triggers hurricane-related travel insurance coverage and why the timing of your purchase matters more than the storm itself, plus how pandemic coverage, Cancel For Any Reason, and Airbnb/Vrbo cancellation policies each work differently than most people assume. Places discussed: Hawaii (statewide)Big IslandLaupahoehoe (Big Island)KauaiPrinceville (Kauai)OahuHonoluluMarcie's recommendations: Buy a comprehensive travel insurance policy as early as possible, ideally the same week you book, especially during hurricane season (June through November)Look for a policy that explicitly names hurricane or named storm coverage, not just generic trip cancellationIf you want the flexibility to cancel for any reason, add CFAR within two to three weeks of your first trip deposit, since it can't be tacked on later once a storm is already formingDon't assume Airbnb or Vrbo's own policies will protect you during a hurricane. Read the platform's actual policy and carry your own insurance on top of itWarns that vacation rental hosts have an incentive to keep a reservation going regardless of conditions on the ground, pointing to accounts out of Princeville after Hurricane Lowell where guests were told it was fine to stay without power for weeks and had trouble getting refundsIf your Hawaii trip touches more than one island, check your policy's language on connecting flights specifically, since interisland disruptions aren't always treated the same as your original mainland flightOnce a storm has a name or an official watch or warning is issued, buying insurance after that point almost certainly won't cover it, so don't wait to see how bad it getsCredit card travel protection is usually too narrow to rely on for something this specificFor a short or cheap trip, decide based on how refundable it already is rather than assuming insurance is always worth itIf you have a trip coming up soon, check your policy's effective date, call your insurer to ask about current advisories for your dates, and get your vacation rental host's cancellation stance in writing ahead of timePersonally buys whatever Allianz plan is offered when booking flights with Alaska Airlines, every time, without comparison shopping tiersRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: How to Find Cheap Flights to Hawaii: Expert Tips That Save Hundreds— Ep 69When to Book Your Hawaii Flight: The Sweet Spot Window— Ep 68Related articles:  Hawaii Travel Insurance: Is It Worth Getting for Your Trip? 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/

  5. Oct 7

    What's Actually Happening in Hawaii: Fall Update— Ep 147

    Hawaii Fall Travel News Roundup: Hurricanes, Kauai Closures, Punalu’u Changes, and New Inter-Island Check-In Rules Who this episode is for: Anyone with a Hawaii trip on the calendar this fall or winter, especially families heading to Kauaʻi or flying between islands. What you'll learn: What's open and closed on Kauaʻi after Hurricane Lowell, what changed at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, and how Hawaiian's new 50-minute interisland check-in rule affects your travel days. Plus fall events, the extended North Shore Huakaʻi shuttle, and how to get ready for Black Friday Hawaii deals. Places discussed: KauaʻiLīhuʻeLydgate BeachKealia BeachKapaʻa BeachCoastal bike path, Lydgate to KealiaWailua River and Wailua River State ParkSecret Falls (hike still closed)Fern GrottoHāʻena State ParkKalalau TrailNa Pali Coast Wilderness ParkWaimea CanyonKōkeʻe State ParkPolihale State ParkHāʻena and Wainiha (residents and recovery traffic only)Poʻipū Beach ParkSalt Pond Beach ParkHanamaʻulu Beach ParkBlack Pot Beach Park, HanaleiHanalei BridgeBig IslandPunaluʻu Black Sand BeachKaʻūHighway 11 near Waiʻōhinu and HonuʻapoHiloKonaQueen Kaʻahumanu HighwayHāwīAliʻi DriveHawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and the Kahuku UnitMauna Loa RoadHilina Pali RoadKīlauea summitMauiHaleakalā National ParkOlowaluKahuluiLahaina and Front StreetʻUlu o Lele Marketplace, Lahaina (targeting November)OʻahuHonolulu airportWaikīkīKalākaua AvenueDuke Kahanamoku BeachKo OlinaNorth ShoreHaleʻiwaWaialua and the Waialua Sugar MillBanzai PipelineWaimānalo Country FarmsAloun Farms country market, WaipahuMolokaʻiActivities discussed: Hurricane-season trip planning and travel insuranceHelicopter tours from LīhuʻeWailua River kayakingSmith's Fern Grotto boat tour and luauBiking the Kauaʻi coastal pathHiking the Kalalau Trail (closed)Na Pali boat toursZiplines and botanical gardens on KauaʻiSea turtle viewing at PunaluʻuInterisland flights on Hawaiian, Alaska, Southwest, and MokuleleNorth Shore Huakaʻi shuttle from Waikīkī and Ko OlinaFall Harvest Festival and pumpkin patch at Waimānalo Country FarmsAloun Farms pumpkin patchHalloween on Kalākaua AvenueIronman World ChampionshipMolokaʻi Hoe outrigger canoe raceHonolulu Pride paradeHawaii International Film FestivalKona Coffee Cultural Festival and coffee farm visitsWatching winter surf and the Pipe MastersWhale seasonHaleakalā sunriseKīlauea lava viewingBlack Friday and Cyber Monday travel dealsMarcie's recommendations: Fall is still a great time to visit, but book refundable when you canTravel insurance can really save you in a storm yearMost people with a Kauaʻi trip should still go, just with a backup planA helicopter tour is the way to see Na Pali and Waimea Canyon right nowDon't drive out to Hāʻena or Wainiha to see the damageRespect closure signs, even if others ignore themGive Kauaʻi workers grace and spend at resident-owned businessesCheck Department of Health water advisories before swimming on Kauaʻi's east sideAt Punaluʻu, plan your bathroom stop ahead and don't count on a lifeguardGive the turtles lots of space and never take black sand homeCheck Highway 11 road conditions in Kaʻū after heavy rainArrive 90 minutes early at the smaller airports and 2 hours early in HonoluluCheck your flight confirmation the night before in case you're on an Alaska 737The Huakaʻi shuttle is an easy North Shore day for families in Waikīkī without a carBook soon if you want the Ko Olina pickup, since it ends in OctoberAt Waimānalo Country Farms, go early on weekends and bring cashTake little kids to Halloween in Waikīkī from about 6 to 8 p.m.On Ironman day, skip long drives up the Kona coast and tight dinner reservationsAdmire North Shore winter waves from the sandIn Lahaina, go as a guest, stay out of fenced areas, and don't photograph damaged homesCheck USGS volcano updates the day you plan to visit KīlaueaStart tracking fares now so you can spot a real Black Friday dealRead the fine print on hotel sales, since some deals are nonrefundableGive yourself more buffer than you think you need on travel daysThe new nonstops list:  Chicago to Maui (American): daily from Dec 17Boise to Honolulu (Alaska): daily from Dec 17Spokane to Honolulu (Alaska): Saturdays from Dec 19Minneapolis to Maui (Delta): starts Dec 19, frequency variesBoston to Honolulu (Delta): returns Dec 19Salt Lake City to Kona (Delta): daily from Nov 9Detroit to Honolulu (Delta): goes daily Nov 9Honolulu to Auckland (Hawaiian): seasonal service not coming back this NovemberRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: What's Actually Happening in Hawaii Right Now— Ep 122Where Do You Need Reservations in Hawaii? (2026)— Ep 144How to Visit the Na Pali Coast on Kauai— Ep 133How Many Days Do You Really Need on the Big Island?— Ep 138Hawaii Rental Cars in 2026: What's Changed (Plus My Turo Experiment)— Ep 142How Many Days Do You Really Need on Oahu?— Ep 126How to Find Cheap Flights to Hawaii: Expert Tips That Save Hundreds— Ep 69Hawaii Travel Insurance: Do You Need It?— Ep 148Related articles:  Halloween in Hawaii 2026: Is It Actually Worth It?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. Oct 5

    Do You Actually Need a Whale Watching Tour in Maui?— Ep 146

    Do You Actually Need a Whale Watching Tour in Maui? Who this episode is for: Anyone planning a Maui trip during whale season who's deciding between paid boat tours and free shore viewing. What you'll learn: When whale season actually peaks, where to see whales for free from shore, whether a boat tour is worth it, and Marcie's top three tour picks depending on what kind of experience you want. Places discussed: MauiMcGregor Point (between Ma'alaea and Lahaina)Wailea Beach WalkKamaole Beach Parks (Kihei)Ka'anapali (north end, near Black Rock)Lāna'i (referenced via the Maui-Lāna'i ferry)Molokini Crater / Turtle Town (snorkeling add-on with Pride of Maui)Activities discussed: Whale watching from shoreBooking a whale watching boat tourSnorkeling combined with whale watching (Pride of Maui)Hotels discussed: Hyatt Regency Maui — mentioned as a spot where Marcie personally saw whales breaching from the poolMarcie's recommendations: Humpback whales are in Hawaiian waters officially November through May, but the season isn't even — late October/November brings early scout whales (mostly males), December picks up, and January through March is true peak seasonFebruary tends to have the most whales, but it's also peak tourist season with higher prices and faster-booking toursRecent Maui volunteer counts: 694 whales spotted in a single January count, 847 in a single February count (both slightly down year-over-year, likely partly due to duplicate counting of the same whales rather than a real decline) — marine biologists still estimate roughly 12,000 humpbacks made the trip to Hawaiian waters last winterYou can see whales from shore all over the islands during peak season — spouts and distant tail slaps/breaches are realistic without a boatFavorite free Maui shore spots: McGregor Point (probably the single best free spot on Maui, bring binoculars), Wailea Beach Walk, Kamaole Beach Parks (especially mornings), and the north end of Ka'anapali near Black RockGo early in the morning before wind picks up for the best shore-viewing windowConsider skipping the boat tour if you're on a tight budget, prone to seasickness, or traveling with toddlers — standard catamaran tours have no age minimum, but a 2-hour open-water scan is a tough ask for toddler attention spans; smaller raft-style tours often do have an age minimum (usually 7-8) due to a faster, bumpier rideA boat tour offers something shore viewing can't: close-up breaches, hearing whales exhale, hydrophone whale songTop tour picks: PacWhale Eco-Adventures (formerly/still tied to Pacific Whale Foundation) — best for families, especially kids under 10; certified marine naturalists on every boat, junior naturalist program, hydrophones, and a no-charge rebooking guarantee if you don't see whales on your tour before you leave the islandTrilogy — splurge pick; real wine glasses, cinnamon rolls, smaller boat capacity, sails under real sail power when conditions allow (note: doesn't mean more whale sightings, just a nicer experience)Pride of Maui — combines whale watching with snorkeling (Molokini or Turtle Town, weather-dependent), ~3.5 hours, includes barbecue lunch, open bar, and a water slide; best for kids 8+ or couples wanting whale watching and snorkeling combined; more time on the water means more motion exposure for anyone prone to seasicknessBook your tour early in your trip (first or second day) rather than saving it for the end, in case weather causes a cancellationMarcie's personal take: every time she's paid for a boat tour, it's been worth it to her, but if ~$400 for a family of four would create real financial stress, shore viewing (like McGregor Point with a cup of coffee) is a completely legitimate, whale-guaranteed alternative — there's no wrong answer hereRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: How to Plan a Trip to Maui— Ep 47When Is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii?— Ep 4Additional resources: Is Whale Watching in Maui Actually Worth the Money? (From Someone Who’s Done It Both Ways)Hawaii Travel Consultation (60 min/$149, 90 min/$199)Hawaii Itinerary Review ($50)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. Sep 30

    Multi-Gen Magic on the Big Island with Leslie Harvey of Trips with Tykes— Ep 145

    Big Island Multi-Gen Trip Recap: Manta Rays, Mauna Kea Renovation, and Planning Tips with Trips with Tykes Host Marcie welcomes travel blogger Leslie Harvey of Trips with Tykes back from a multi-generational Big Island trip with in-laws, including kids ages 3 to 17. Leslie, a frequent Big Island visitor, shares highlights like the Kona manta ray night snorkel (with Kona Style; notes on timing and operator differences), and reviews the renovated Mauna Kea resort, including its historic feel, new adults infinity pool, and a new, expensive but exceptional spa. She recommends a splurge meal at Kona Village, describes the Big Island as chill with both rural and luxury vibes, and notes drawbacks like long driving distances (she still hasn’t visited Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park). Multi-gen tips include renting a house, not overscheduling, and planning a few key family dinners. Challenges included wind, a Portuguese man o’ war sting, and disappointing value at Hau Tree. Costs were high, so groceries via Instacart helped; she sums the trip as expensive, relaxing, and delicious. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 00:42 Trip Group Rundown 01:21 Why Big Island Wins 02:23 Manta Ray Night Snorkel 05:14 Mauna Kea Hotel Refresh 06:45 Spa and Splurge Dining 09:26 Big Island Vibe Compared 10:55 Driving Distances Reality 13:20 Best Island for Who 14:48 Multi Gen Planning Tips 19:27 Weather and Food Hiccups 21:32 Budget and Cost Strategies 23:46 What Changed Over Time 25:00 Grocery Delivery Hack 29:08 Next Time Bucket List 31:00 Three Word Wrap Up Who this episode is for: Families planning a multi-generational Big Island trip, or anyone deciding between a house rental and a resort stay with a mixed-age group. What you'll learn: What a real multi-gen Big Island trip looks like, an updated review of the renovated Mauna Kea resort, and practical tips for traveling with a wide age range (3 to 17) and multiple generations. Places discussed: Big Island (Kona)Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park (mentioned as not yet visited)Activities discussed: Kona manta ray night snorkel (with Kona Style)Spa visit at Mauna KeaGrocery delivery via InstacartHotels discussed: Mauna Kea (renovated) — historic feel, new adults-only infinity pool, new spaRestaurants discussed: Kona Village — recommended splurge dinnerHau Tree — disappointing valueGuest recommendations (Leslie Harvey, Trips with Tykes): Book the Kona manta ray night snorkel with Kona Style; pay attention to timing and operator differencesSplurge on dinner at Kona VillageFor multi-gen trips: rent a house instead of separate hotel rooms, don't overschedule, and plan a few key family dinners togetherUse Instacart for groceries to help manage high food costsBudget for long driving distances between areas of the islandRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: How to Plan a Trip to the Big Island— Ep 51Best Areas to Stay on the Big Island— Ep 74Navigating Multi-Generational Trips to Hawaii with Melissa Conn— Ep 20Related articles: Big Island 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/

  8. Sep 28

    Where Do You Need Reservations in Hawaii? (2026)— Ep 144

    Hawaii Reservations You Need to Know: Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Haena, and More Who this episode is for: Anyone building a Hawaii trip around bucket list stops like Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, or Haena who doesn't want to show up and get turned away over a reservation they didn't know they needed. What you'll learn: Exactly when reservations open, what they cost, and what to watch for at six of Hawaii's most-booked spots, plus which new booking systems are headed to Maui and Oahu and the timing mistakes that trip up most travelers. Places discussed: Ala Moana Center – Honolulu food court, where Marcie waits for reservations to dropUSS Arizona Memorial / Pearl Harbor National Memorial – OahuPearl Harbor Visitor CenterBattleship MissouriPearl Harbor Aviation MuseumWaikikiDiamond Head State Monument – OahuHanauma Bay Nature Preserve – OahuIao Valley State Monument (Iao Needle) – MauiRoad to Hana – MauiWaiʻanapanapa State Park – Maui, black sand beachHaena State Park – KauaiNa Pali Coast – KauaiKalalau Trail – KauaiHanakapiai – KauaiHonolua Bay – MauiOahu's North ShoreHaleiwa – OahuLaniakea – OahuWaimea Bay – OahuLanikai (Mokulua Drive, Aalapapa Drive) – Kailua, OahuHaleakala National Park – MauiActivities discussed: USS Arizona Memorial boat tour and exhibit galleriesDiamond Head crater hikeHanauma Bay snorkelingIao Valley walk to the Needle viewpointsRoad to Hana driving stopsKalalau Trail hiking and camping permitsHaena shuttle (GoHaena) vs. self-parkingSunrise viewing at HaleakalaLuau attendanceBoat tours to Molokini Crater and along the Napali CoastHelicopter toursMarcie's recommendations: Have payment info ready and refresh right at 3pm HST for Arizona Memorial tickets; check the daily next-day standby release if you miss the main windowBook Diamond Head the moment the 30-day window opens and grab the earliest slot availableGo to Diamond Head early, since there's little shade on the trail and the trailhead lot fills fastSet an alarm for Hanauma Bay's 48-hour booking window; bring cash, since parking doesn't take cardsDon't assume a Hanauma Bay reservation guarantees a parking spotVisit Iao Valley earlier in the day, before the afternoon mist rolls inPack bug spray for Iao ValleyStick to marked trails at Waiʻanapanapa out of respect for nearby sacred sitesCheck ocean conditions before letting kids near the water at Waiʻanapanapa; treat the surf with real cautionConfirm Haena/Kauai park status directly through GoHaena.com and the state parks site before building a trip around it, given Hurricane Lowell closuresDon't build a North Shore Oahu trip around the proposed shuttle yet, since it's still early-stageBook the hardest, fastest-selling reservations first (Hanauma Bay, Haena) and let everything else flex around themLeave breathing room between reservations instead of stacking them back to backDon't assume a reservation-only spot will have room if you just show upAvoid stacking Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay back to back in one dayDouble-check park closure days before building an itinerary around a spotBook luaus, Haleakala sunrise, boat tours, and helicopter tours as soon as your dates are set, not lastRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes:  How to Visit Pearl Harbor on Oahu— Ep 22How to Hike Diamond Head Crater on Oahu— Ep 13Hanauma Bay 2026: What Families Actually Need to Know Before You Go— Ep 91North Shore Kauai: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go— Ep 125Related articles:  How to Get from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor in 2026 (What Actually Works After 40+ Hawaii Trips)Pearl Harbor With Kids: Is It Worth It? (2026 Guide)Is It Worth Hiking Diamond Head with Kids?Hanauma Bay 2026: Everything Families Need to Know Before You Go (Reservations, Prices & What Actually Happens) 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/

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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 Hawaii travel consultant Marcie Cheung, 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 Hawaii travel consultant for families and a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority. She runs the popular Hawaii family travel site Hawaii Travel with Kids, has visited Hawaii more than 40 times, and offers one-on-one Hawaii trip planning consultations and itinerary reviews at hawaiitravelwithkids.com. 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 figuring out what's actually worth your time, we'll help you create the perfect Hawaii experience! New episodes drop every Monday & Wednesday!

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