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
  • 3.9 (25)
  • 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

    Skip-Gen Hawaii Adventures - When Grandparents & Grandkids Travel Together

    Skip-Gen Travel to Hawaii: Grandparents Taking Grandkids Without Parents Marcie Cheung of Hawaii Travel Made Easy discusses the growing trend of “skip generation” (skip-gen) travel, where grandparents take grandchildren to Hawaii without parents, sharing her son’s trips to Kauai at age 3 with grandma and again at 10 flying solo as an unaccompanied minor. She cites survey data showing skip-gen trips help bonding (82% of grandparents) and notes rising multigenerational travel overall, driven by post-COVID priorities, parental burnout, and more active, financially able grandparents. She explains why Hawaii works well (no passports, strong infrastructure, lifeguards, cultural learning, reliable weather), recommends ages 8–12 and 5–7 day trips, outlines island-by-island fit, warns about stricter vacation rental regulations starting September 2025, and covers planning tips, common mistakes, activity ideas, and the benefits of focused grandparent-grandchild bonding. 00:00 Toddler’s First Kauai Trip 00:56 Skip Gen Travel Explained 02:02 PB&J and Shave Ice Memories 02:50 Flying Solo at Ten 03:43 Why These Trips Work 03:53 Trend Data and Growth 04:55 Why Hawaii Fits Skip Gen 05:47 Best Ages and Teen Tips 07:10 Picking the Right Island 08:31 Where to Stay and Rental Rules 10:05 Activities for Both Generations 11:25 Common Mistakes to Avoid 12:42 Benefits and Lasting Impact 13:29 Planning Checklist and Resources 15:16 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up Buy my Hawaii guides on my blog or Amazon Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation Blog: Hawaii Travel with Kids Instagram @HawaiiTravelWithKids 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/

    16 min

  2. 2D AGO

    They Turned Down $1,000 to Fly Into a Disaster [BONUS]

    Vacation Brain vs. Kona Storm: What to Know Before Flying to Hawaii The speaker records an unplanned bonus episode after witnessing families at San Diego Airport boarding for Maui during spring break as a gate agent sought eight volunteers to deplane due to weight restrictions from a major Hawaii storm, offering a transferable $1,000 voucher, hotel, Lyft, food, and a guaranteed seat the next day. The episode explains the statewide impact of a damaging Kona Low that built for five days: an emergency declaration, school and office closures, major flooding, rescues, road closures, widespread power outages, and blizzard conditions on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, with the state still under flood watch on March 15. The speaker urges families to avoid “vacation brain” and recommends checking local news sources, treating big bump offers as warning signals, remembering high season doesn’t prevent weather disruption, buying travel insurance covering delays/interruptions, and building buffer days. 00:00 Bonus Episode Setup 00:18 Airport Maui Flight Shock 01:46 Kona Storm Explained 02:35 Oahu Flooding Impacts 04:11 Maui Crisis Conditions 04:59 Big Island Snow And Floods 05:39 Kauai Molokai And Ongoing Watch 06:13 Vacation Brain Reality Check 07:07 Five Travel Safety Rules 08:56 Final Takeaways And Resources hawaiinewsnow.commauicounty.govready.hawaii.govhawaiipublicradio.org (great ongoing storm coverage)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/

    10 min

  3. 6D AGO

    Maui vs Oahu 2026: The One Thing Everyone Gets Wrong When Choosing

    Choosing Between Maui and Oahu: A Comprehensive Travel Guide for 2026 In this episode of Hawaii Travel Made Easy, Marcy, a seasoned traveler who has visited Hawaii over 40 times, discusses her recent trip to Oahu and Maui with her 12-year-old son. The episode provides a detailed comparison between the two islands, focusing on the differences in daily experiences, accommodations, activities, costs, and the unique attractions of each island. Marcy highlights the scenic beauty and slower pace of Maui versus the urban convenience and activity-packed experience of Oahu. The episode also covers practical travel advice for 2026, including new costs, changes in vacation rental regulations, and recovery updates following the 2023 Lahaina fires. The goal is to help listeners decide which island best suits their travel style, whether it's the natural beauty and outdoor adventures of Maui or the vibrant energy and variety of activities in Oahu. 00:00 Introduction: Oahu vs. Maui 00:42 Welcome to Hawaii Travel Made Easy 01:20 Comparing the Islands: Scenery and Convenience 02:26 Travel Styles and Common Mistakes 03:38 Cost Breakdown: Hotels, Food, and More 05:25 Accommodation Challenges in 2026 06:17 Unique Experiences on Each Island 07:46 Beach Highlights: Maui and Oahu 08:36 Maui's Recovery Post-2023 Fires 09:30 Final Recommendations: Which Island to Choose? 10:31 Resources and Consultations 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 Planning Your Trip? Find Out the Best Area to Stay in Maui10 Essential Things to Know BEFORE Planning a Trip to MauiFREE 7 Day Email Course: How to Plan a Trip to MauiFREE 7 Day Email Course: How to Plan a Trip to Oahu10 Biggest Oahu Mistakes Tourists Make—Are You Guilty of Any?10 Essential Oahu Travel Tips You Must KnowFollow me on Instagram @hawaiitravelwithkids 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/

    13 min

  4. MAR 9

    Hawaii with Teens: Activities, Tips, and Keeping Everyone Happy

    Planning a Stress-Free Hawaii Vacation with Teenagers In this episode of 'Hawaii Travel Made Easy,' Marcie offers invaluable advice for families planning a trip to Hawaii with teenagers aged 13 to 17. Drawing from her personal experiences and those of her consultation clients, she covers a range of topics including selecting walkable accommodations, managing jet lag, and selecting activities that teenagers will genuinely enjoy. Marcie provides tips on how to balance autonomy and family time, avoid common mistakes, and ensure the trip is memorable for both teens and parents. She focuses on Oahu but also highlights activities on other islands. From surfing lessons and snorkeling tours to movie set visits and food quests, Marcie's insights aim to make the trip enjoyable and stress-free. Personalized consultation services are also available for families needing tailored advice. 00:00 Introduction: Traveling to Hawaii with Teens 00:49 Understanding Teenagers as Travel Companions 01:46 Planning Activities Teens Will Love 03:09 Choosing the Right Accommodation 03:51 Managing Sleep and Jet Lag 04:57 Exciting Activities for Teens in Hawaii 09:42 Exploring the North Shore 11:26 Summer Travel Tips 12:02 Balancing Teen Independence and Family Time 12:40 Personalized Travel Planning 13:28 Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Hawaii Trip Buy my Hawaii guides on my blog or Amazon Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation Blog: Hawaii Travel with Kids Instagram @HawaiiTravelWithKids 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/

    14 min

  5. MAR 4

    Hawaii Food Bucket List: 17 Must-Try Dishes & Drinks

    Hawaii's Ultimate Food Bucket List: Must-Try Dishes and Drinks In this episode of the Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast, Marcie, a Hawaii travel expert, guides listeners through an ultimate Hawaii food bucket list featuring 17 iconic Hawaiian dishes and drinks that are a must-try for any Hawaii vacation visitor. This comprehensive Hawaii food guide covers everything from fresh poke and loco moco to malasadas and shave ice, perfect for first-time Hawaii visitors and Hawaii vacation planning. Marcie offers Hawaii travel tips on where to find the best versions of Hawaiian food and how to enjoy them like a local during your Hawaii vacation. Whether you're exploring Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, this Hawaii food guide is your handy companion to experiencing Hawaii's rich and diverse Hawaiian cuisine to the fullest. Perfect for Hawaii family travel and food enthusiasts, learn about traditional Hawaiian dishes, local Hawaii food favorites, Hawaiian desserts, and refreshing Hawaiian drinks across the Hawaiian Islands. Essential Hawaii travel tips for experiencing authentic Hawaii food scene and Hawaiian cuisine during your Hawaiian vacation. This Hawaii travel guide ensures you don't miss any iconic Hawaii food experiences across all the Hawaiian Islands. 00:00 Welcome to Hawaii Travel Made Easy 00:35 The Ultimate Hawaii Food Bucket List 01:09 Poke: The MVP of Hawaiian Cuisine 02:49 Loco Moco: Hawaiian Comfort Food 04:29 Kalua Pork: A Luau Favorite 06:05 Laulau: Traditional Hawaiian Dish 07:19 Local and Fusion Favorites 10:50 Hawaiian Desserts: Sweet Treats 14:57 Refreshing Hawaiian Drinks 18:25 Conclusion and Insider Tips Buy my Hawaii guides on my blog or Amazon Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation Blog posts related to this podcast Where to Find the Best Shave Ice on Maui: 9 Delicious Spots to Try9 Delicious Places for the Best Shave Ice on Oahu21 Mouth-Watering Places with the Best Poke in OahuWhere to Find the Best Poke on Maui?Follow me on Instagram @hawaiitravelwithkids Join our Patreon Community 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/

    19 min

  6. MAR 2

    Is Hawaii Worth It with a Toddler? What I Wish Someone Had Told Me

    Hawaii with Toddlers: A Different Kind of Magical In this episode of the Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast, Marcie shares her personal experiences and advice on traveling to Hawaii with toddlers. Despite initial challenges, she emphasizes that the trip can still be magical, filled with unforgettable moments for parents. Marcie discusses practical tips on planning, what activities work best, what to avoid, and how to set realistic expectations to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable vacation. From beach and pool preferences to the importance of a good carrier and flexible planning, this episode is a comprehensive guide for parents considering a Hawaiian adventure with their little ones. 00:00 Introduction: The Toddler Beach Meltdown 00:27 Is Hawaii Worth It with a Toddler? 01:10 Favorite Toddler Memories in Hawaii 02:14 Flight and Activity Considerations 04:14 Beach and Pool Realities 05:43 Activities and Logistics 06:38 Daily Rhythm and Gear Tips 08:19 Accommodation and Flexibility 09:32 Conclusion: Embrace the Difference Hawaii Travel Guides Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation Free Email Planning Courses Etsy Shop Blog posts related to this podcast episode: 10 Best Oahu Activities for Toddlers That Won’t Make You Want to Pull Your Hair Out15 Best Kauai Activities for Toddlers: Tested by a Real MomHawaii with Toddlers: Tips from a Mom Who’s Done It 40+ Times15 Things to Do With Toddlers on Maui That Are Actually Fun Follow me on Instagram @hawaiitravelwithkids 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/

    10 min

  7. FEB 25

    Where to Go in Hawaii: Best Beaches for Snorkeling, Sunset & Actually Finding Parking

    Ultimate Guide to Hawaii's Best Beaches: Snorkeling, Sunsets, and Secluded Spots Planning a trip to Hawaii can be overwhelming with its plethora of beaches. This guide breaks down the top beaches across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island based on your interests—whether it's snorkeling, sunset watching, easy parking, or finding secluded spots away from the crowds. Recommendations are tailored to suit different needs, from family-friendly locations to adventurous hikes and mobility-friendly beach options. The video also offers practical tips on parking, timing, and safety, ensuring you pick the perfect beach for your visit. For personalized advice, consultation services are available. 00:00 Introduction: Planning Your Perfect Hawaii Beach Trip 01:25 Oahu: Top Beaches for Snorkeling and Sunsets 06:36 Maui: Best Beaches for Snorkeling and Sunsets 10:35 Kauai: Snorkeling, Sunsets, and Secluded Spots 14:07 Big Island: Snorkeling and Unique Beaches 18:01 Conclusion: Tips for Choosing the Best Beach 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 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/

    20 min

  8. FEB 23

    Beach Parking in Hawaii: Fees, Reservations & Timing Strategy

    Essential Beach Parking Guide for Hawaii Visitors This episode covers the crucial details about beach parking in Hawaii, highlighting the significant changes over recent years. It addresses the various fees, reservation systems, and resident priority rules affecting different islands, including specifics for Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. Practical tips are provided on how to navigate the new parking landscape, such as arriving early, using parking apps, and planning for extra costs. The guide emphasizes the importance of preparation to avoid parking frustrations and ensures a smoother, more enjoyable beach experience. 00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Beach Parking in Hawaii 00:41 Oahu Beach Parking: Fees and Reservations 01:49 Maui Beach Parking: Upcoming Changes 02:33 Kauai and Big Island: Reservation Systems and Fees 03:31 Timing Your Beach Visit: Best Practices 04:46 Practical Tips for Hassle-Free Beach Parking 06:16 The Future of Beach Parking in Hawaii 06:55 Conclusion: Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Beach Day 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 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 min
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3.9
out of 5
25 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!

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