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 (19)
  • 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 Wednesday!

  1. 1D AGO

    Hawaii Whale Watching: Budget vs Splurge Tours (Plus Free Shore Spots

    Ultimate Guide to Whale Watching in Hawaii: Tips, Best Spots, and Tours Join Marcie as she dives into everything you need to know about whale watching in Hawaii, from the best times and islands to visit, to various tour options and budget-friendly alternatives. The script provides comprehensive insights into the peak whale watching season (January to March) and highlights Maui as the top spot for close encounters. It discusses different tour choices from larger, more stable catamarans, to luxury yacht experiences, small raft tours, and even the affordable Maui to Lana'i Ferry. Practical tips on what to bring, how to handle seasickness, and advice for families with young children are also included. Beyond boat tours, the script reveals how to enjoy incredible whale sightings from shore and even from the air during inter-island flights, making it a must-watch for anyone planning a Hawaii trip during whale season. 00:00 Introduction to Whale Watching in Hawaii 00:47 Best Time for Whale Watching 01:35 Top Islands for Whale Watching 02:07 Maui Whale Watching Tours 05:01 Budget-Friendly Whale Watching Options 06:29 Whale Watching from the Air 07:24 Whale Watching with Kids 08:37 Free Shore Whale Watching Spots 10:20 Unique Whale Watching Experiences 11:16 Practical Tips for Whale Watching 12:28 Personalized Hawaii Vacation Planning 13:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Buy my Hawaii guides on my blog or Amazon Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation Discount Hawaii Car Rentals--This is where I book ALL my car rentals Blog posts related to this podcast Maui in December: Your Complete Guide to Weather, Whales & Christmas (2025)The Ultimate Travel Guide to Whale Watching in Maui7 Amazing Kauai Whale Watching Tours to Book NowFollow me on Instagram @hawaiitravelwithkids Join our Patreon Community

    15 min

  2. 3D AGO

    Resort vs Vacation Rental: The 5-Minute Decision Guide That Could Save You Thousands [BONUS EPISODE]

    Hawaii Accommodation Dilemma: Resort vs. Vacation Rental - Make the Right Choice In this episode, Marcie from Hawaii Travel Made Easy breaks down the common dilemma faced by first-time travelers to Hawaii: choosing between a resort or a vacation rental. She introduces a five-minute decision framework to help travelers make an informed choice based on their vacation style, budget, and priorities. Marcie clarifies misconceptions about costs and outlines key decision points, including vacation pace, location flexibility, group dynamics, planning energy, and must-have amenities. She also offers personalized travel consultations and digital guides to further assist in selecting the perfect accommodation for a memorable Hawaii trip. 00:00 Introduction and Common Dilemma 01:13 The Real Cost Breakdown 02:43 Five-Minute Decision Framework 05:20 Making the Final Decision 05:49 Personalized Help and Conclusion Buy my Hawaii guides on my blog or Amazon Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation Discount Hawaii Car Rentals--This is where I book ALL my car rentals Blog posts related to this podcast Beware of Hawaii’s Vacation Rentals: What No One Tells You About Staying with Kids17 Perfect Villa Rentals in Hawaii for Large & Multi-Family VacationsIncredible Oahu Vacation Rentals for Large GroupsFollow me on Instagram @hawaiitravelwithkids Join our Patreon Community

    8 min

  3. DEC 17

    Hawaii Travel Tips: Money-Saving Hacks for Your Vacation

    Affordable Hawaii: Smart Strategies for a Dream Vacation In this episode of the Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast, host Marcie shares her extensive experience from 42 trips to Hawaii to help listeners plan an affordable Hawaiian vacation. She discusses budget-friendly strategies for flights, accommodations, activities, and food. Tips include utilizing the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare, booking vacation rentals with kitchenettes, and shopping at local grocery stores. Marcie also highlights free and low-cost activities, such as hiking and beach hopping, and recommends using city passes for multiple attractions. The episode is packed with actionable advice aimed at helping travelers maximize their Hawaiian experience without breaking the bank. 00:00 Welcome to Hawaii Travel Made Easy 00:33 Marcie's First Trip to Hawaii 01:19 Avoiding Common Travel Mistakes 02:18 Saving on Flights to Hawaii 06:56 Accommodation Tips and Tricks 09:29 Island Strategy and Timing 11:48 Affordable Activities in Hawaii 17:09 Eating Well on a Budget 23:05 Transportation and Souvenirs 28:08 Final Thoughts and Action Plan Buy my Hawaii guides on my blog or Amazon Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation Discount Hawaii Car Rentals--This is where I book ALL my car rentals Blog posts related to this podcast 105 Expert Travel Tips to Enjoy Hawaii on a Budget10 Hawaii Travel Hacks for Families on a BudgetGet Your FREE Hawaii Family Budget Planner!FREE 5 Day Email Course: How to Save Money in HawaiiFollow me on Instagram @hawaiitravelwithkids Join our Patreon Community

    32 min

  4. DEC 15

    Direct Flight vs Stopover: What East Coast Travelers Need to Know Before Booking [BONUS EPISODE]

    Hawaii Flight Strategies: Direct vs. Stopover for East Coast Travelers In this episode of 'Travel Made Easy,' Marcie from Hawaii addresses a common dilemma faced by East Coast travelers heading to Hawaii: whether to choose a direct flight or save money with a stopover. She breaks down the hidden costs and benefits of each option, diving into factors like total travel time, family flight tolerance, and risk management. Marcie also shares a five-point framework to help travelers make an informed decision. Listeners will learn when it makes sense to splurge on a direct flight and when a stopover is a better choice, tailored to their specific needs and vacation plans. For detailed guidance, Marcie offers personalized consultations and digital travel guides at HawaiiTravelWithKids.com. 00:00 Introduction and Common Dilemma 01:18 Hidden Costs of Stopovers 02:13 Hidden Costs of Direct Flights 03:00 Decision Framework for Choosing Flights 05:23 When to Choose Each Option 06:41 Consultation Services and Final Thoughts Hawaii Travel Guides Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation Free Email Planning Courses Etsy Shop Blog posts related to this podcast episode: The Hawaii Planning Guide Every Mom Needs: When to Book Everything from Flights to FunHow to Survive Long Flights to Hawaii with Kids: Secrets from a Parenting ProJust Booked Your Hawaiian Flight? Here’s What Every Mom Needs to Do Next17 Hawaii Beach Essentials for Babies You Won’t Regret Packing Follow me on Instagram @hawaiitravelwithkids Join our Patreon Community

    8 min

  5. DEC 10

    How to Plan a Trip to Kauai

    Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Kauai Vacation In this episode of the Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast, Marcie, a seasoned Hawaii travel expert and mom, provides an in-depth guide to planning a perfect trip to Kauai. She covers essential travel tips including where to stay, top attractions, transportation options, budgeting advice, and must-try dining spots. Marcie emphasizes the importance of careful planning due to the unique geography of Kauai, noting the lack of a road connecting the North Shore to the west side. She also shares personal anecdotes, pro tips on activities like Na Pali Coast tours and Kalalau Trail hiking, and common mistakes to avoid. Tune in for expert advice to make the most of your Kauai vacation. 00:00 Welcome to Hawaii Travel Made Easy 00:20 Planning Your Kauai Trip 01:04 How Long to Stay in Kauai 02:03 Where to Stay in Kauai 05:11 Top Attractions in Kauai 09:28 Transportation Tips for Kauai 10:02 Budgeting for Your Kauai Trip 11:39 Best Day Trips in Kauai 12:37 Where to Eat in Kauai 13:24 Common Mistakes to Avoid 14:21 Final Tips and Recap Buy my Hawaii guides on my blog or Amazon Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation Discount Hawaii Car Rentals--This is where I book ALL my car rentals Blog posts related to this podcast 10 Must-Know Tips BEFORE You Plan a Trip to KauaiFREE 7 Day Email Course: How to Plan a Trip to KauaiAvoid Vacation Fails: Essential Kauai Tips Every Parent Needs to Know!Follow me on Instagram @hawaiitravelwithkids Join our Patreon Community

    15 min

  6. DEC 8

    Free Hawaii Activities: My 3-Step Method for Finding Hidden Gems (Without Being That Tourist) [BONUS EPISODE]

    Discover Authentic and Free Activities in Hawaii: A Three-Step Guide In this episode of Travel Made Easy, Marcie shares effective strategies for finding free and authentic activities in Hawaii. Drawing on over 40 trips to the islands, she emphasizes the importance of using official sources, asking locals the right questions, and conducting thorough research to ensure safety and cultural respect. While true free activities do exist, hidden costs and the need for gear should be considered. Marcie offers a step-by-step method to uncover experiences that are often overlooked by tourists. For those needing personalized help, she provides consultation services to create customized itineraries. Listeners are encouraged to explore Hawaii's natural and cultural beauty in a sustainable and respectful way. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose 01:22 Understanding Free Activities in Hawaii 02:48 Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Free Activities 05:59 When to Seek Professional Help 07:09 Being a Respectful Visitor 07:50 Conclusion and Resources Buy my Hawaii guides on my blog or Amazon Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation Discount Hawaii Car Rentals--This is where I book ALL my car rentals Blog posts related to this podcast 105 Expert Travel Tips to Enjoy Hawaii on a Budget10 Hawaii Travel Hacks for Families on a BudgetGet Your FREE Hawaii Family Budget Planner!Follow me on Instagram @hawaiitravelwithkids Join our Patreon Community

    9 min

  7. DEC 3

    Christmas in Hawaii: Your Complete Holiday Travel Guide

    Holiday Travel to Hawaii 2025: Tips, Insights, and Must-Do Events Join us in this episode as we discuss the ins and outs of spending the holidays in Hawaii in 2025. From cost breakdowns and strategic planning tips to must-see events and memorable traditions, we cover every aspect of making your holiday in paradise magical. Get ready to swap snow for sand, explore unique local cultures, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, our insights and recommendations will help you navigate the complexities of holiday travel to Hawaii. Aloha! 00:00 Introduction: Spending the Holidays in Paradise 01:02 The Realities of Holiday Travel Costs 02:39 Weather and Crowds: What to Expect 03:42 Embracing the Magic of a Hawaiian Christmas 04:20 Must-See Holiday Events in 2025 05:41 Tips for Planning Your Hawaiian Holiday 06:40 Making the Most of New Year's Eve in Hawaii 09:46 Common Mistakes to Avoid 10:48 Creating New Traditions and Supporting Local 11:59 Conclusion: Making Memories in Hawaii Buy my Hawaii guides on my blog or Amazon Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation Blog: Hawaii Travel with Kids Instagram @HawaiiTravelWithKids Blog Posts Related to This Episode 18 Best Places to Stay for a Hawaii Christmas Vacation With Kids17 Wonderful Waikiki Christmas ActivitiesChristmas Movies Set in Hawaii Perfect for a Tropical Holiday31 Hawaiian Christmas Decorations to Brighten Your Holiday30 Hawaiian Christmas Ornaments to Brighten Your Holiday Tree14 Must-Try Hawaiian Christmas Traditions for Families

    13 min

  8. DEC 1

    5 Hawaii Packing Mistakes That Ruin Your First Day [Bonus Episode]

    Avoid These Common Hawaii Packing Mistakes In this episode, Marcie from Hawaii Travel Made Easy helps you avoid the packing mistakes that can ruin your Hawaii vacation. She shares advice on strategic packing, emphasizing the unique climate complexities, high prices of essential items, and the importance of immediate activity preparation. Learn the five common packing mistakes and how to avoid them for a seamless first day in Hawaii. Marcie also provides tips on packing for both the journey and destination, and offers personalized packing consultations for customized travel needs. Aloha! 00:00 Introduction and Common Packing Mistakes 01:27 Understanding Hawaii's Unique Climate and Costs 03:16 Five Packing Mistakes to Avoid 07:13 Strategic Packing Tips for Hawaii 08:27 Personalized Packing Strategies and Conclusion Buy my Hawaii guides on my blog or Amazon Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation Blog posts related to this podcast Ultimate Family Christmas Packing List for Hawaii TravelEssential Kauai Packing List for A Perfect Family VacationYour Go-To Maui Packing List for Stress-Free Family HolidaysThe Ultimate Hawaii Honeymoon Packing ListUltimate Hawaii Packing List to Travel to Hawaii Like a Pro20 Amazing Hawaii Zero Waste Travel Essentials Worth PackingBig Island Packing List for Families: 20 Hawaii Essentials17 Hawaii Beach Essentials for Babies You Won’t Regret Packing10 Best Beach Backpacks for Hawaii17 Things You Will Probably Forget for Your Family Hawaii Packing ListFollow me on Instagram @hawaiitravelwithkids Join our Patreon Community

    10 min
See All (65)

4
out of 5
19 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 Wednesday!

Information

You Might Also Like