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

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

  1. 1D AGO

    10-Minute Oahu Travel Guide

    Are you already stressed about your Oahu trip and you haven’t even packed yet? Oahu is one of the most visited islands in Hawaii for a reason. But all those options, where to stay, what to skip, how to get around, can quietly turn your dream vacation into a giant to-do list. FREE Oahu Travel Guide 👉 Hit play now and let’s simplify it together! This episode is your no-fluff, practical guide to planning Oahu the right way so your itinerary actually feels like a vacation, not a marathon. If you’ve ever opened a tab to research Oahu and ended up more confused than when you started, this one’s for you. We’re talking about where to stay (and why it matters more than you think), when to go, how to get around without losing half your day to traffic, and most importantly, how to slow the whole thing down so you actually enjoy it. 👉 In this episode, you’ll learn how to: Choose the right home base based on your travel style, not just what everyone else doesLock in the reservations that matterBuild a relaxed five-day itinerary that leaves room to breatheYou don’t need to do everything. You just need the right plan. ⬆️ Scroll up and hit play. Your best Oahu trip starts here. _ 🎧 Related episodes: Complete Oahu Travel Guide7-Day Oahu ItineraryTop 5 Oahu Experiences_ 💻 Related blog posts: How Long Does it Take to Drive Around Oahu?Best Time to Visit Oahu_ 🤓 Chapters: 1:19 Best Time To Visit Oahu 2:37 Where To Stay 4:48 Rental Cars And Planning Days 5:44 Waikiki And Key Reservations 6:57 Windward Side Highlights 7:38 North Shore Essentials 8:18 Five Day Itinerary 9:08 Final Tips _ 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips & guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, & local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island. Edge of the Ocean (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    11 min

  2. 5D AGO

    Lei Day in Hawaii Isn’t Just Flowers. Here’s What It Means

    Did you know Lei Day in Hawaii is about more than wearing a beautiful lei? For Hawaii visitors and people who love Hawaii, Lei Day is a chance to understand the deeper meaning behind one of the islands’ most recognized traditions. 👉 Hit play now to learn what Lei Day celebrates and why lei are connected to aloha, the land, and Hawaiian culture. If you’ve ever wondered how to better understand Lei Day before visiting or celebrating Hawaii, this episode is for you. You’ll learn the meaning behind the day, how it’s celebrated, and what travelers should know with more respect and context. In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we explore Lei Day in Hawaii so you can appreciate the tradition beyond the tourist image. 👉In this episode, you will: Learn why the first Lei Day was held in 1928 and why lei are tied to Hawaiian culture.Understand how schools, music, hula, storytelling, and lei contests are part of the celebration.Clarify the difference between haku lei and lei po'o._ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to understand Lei Day in Hawaii with more meaning and respect. 📱Connect with Kahanui: InstagramWebsite_ 🎧Related episodes: Overthrow of the Hawaiian KingdomHawaiian Words to Know_ 🤓Chapters: 1:52 Lei Day Origins and Meaning 3:09 How Hawaii Celebrates 4:20 Island Events and Lei Contests 4:59 Lei Day Court and Schedule 5:27 Lei Styles Explained 7:03 Wrap Up _ 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips & guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, & local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island. Edge of the Ocean (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    8 min

  3. APR 28

    Maui vs Big Island: Which Hawaii Island Fits You Best?

    You finally booked time off for Hawaii and now you're losing sleep over which island to pick? Maui vs Big Island Decision Guide The right island depends entirely on your travel style, budget, and what kind of experience you want to bring home. 👉 Hit play now and get a direct, experience-backed breakdown that helps you stop guessing and start planning with confidence. If you've ever wondered how to pick the right island for your specific trip, this episode is for you. Bryan cuts through the noise with honest comparisons, 2026 updates, and personal stories from both islands so you can make a clear decision before you book. In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we compare Maui and the Big Island head-to-head so you can choose the Hawaiian island that actually fits your trip. 👉 In this episode, you will: Understand exactly who should choose Maui and who belongs on the Big IslandLearn the real cost difference, crowd levels, and snorkeling conditions on each island in 2026Discover why the Big Island runs about 20% cheaper and what Kilauea's current eruption cycle means for your trip_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to finally decide between Maui and the Big Island with confidence. 🎧 Related episodes: Visiting Maui for the First TimeWhich Island for First-TimersTop Things to do on the Big Island_ 💻 Related blog posts: Best Time to Visit the Big IslandBest Time to Visit Maui_ 🤓 Chapters: 0:43 Maui Overview 1:01 Big Island Overview 2:20 Lahaina Update 3:46 Why Choose Maui 5:01 Why Choose Big Island 6:24 Volcano Update Tips 9:04 Head to Head Breakdown 10:18 Which Island Fits 11:00 Island Hop Option 11:39 Wrap Up _ 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips & guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, & local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island. Edge of the Ocean (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    14 min

  4. APR 21

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

    Are you planning a Big Island trip but not sure what's actually worth your time and what's just hype? Most Hawaii travelers spend hours researching the Big Island only to show up with expectations that don't match reality. 👉 Hit play now and get an honest, firsthand breakdown of five Big Island experiences worth your time and money before you book a single thing. If you've ever wondered how to plan a Big Island trip without the guesswork, this episode is for you. Bryan shares what his family loved, what they wouldn't do again, and exactly what to expect so you can enjoy every experience instead of chasing a highlight reel. In this episode of Hawaii's Best, Bryan breaks down the top five Big Island experiences across every budget so you can show up prepared and make the most of your time on the island. Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to get the honest, firsthand guide to the top five Big Island experiences before your trip. 🎧Related episodes: Top 5 Kauai ExperiencesTop 5 Oahu ExperiencesTop 5 Maui Experiences_ 🤓 Chapters: 0:29 Honest Expectations 1:27 Activity #1 5:00 Activity #2 6:15 Activity #3 7:59 Activity #4 9:17 Activity #5 10:39 Wrap Up And Next Episodes _ 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips & guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, & local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island. Edge of the Ocean (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    13 min

  5. APR 17

    Niʻihau Hawaii: Why You Can’t Visit the Forbidden Island

    Did you know one of Hawaii's islands has been off limits to visitors for over 150 years? For Hawaii travelers, Ni'ihau isn't just a curiosity on the map. It's a living example of what intentional cultural preservation actually looks like, and understanding it changes how you see the rest of Hawaii. 👉 Hit play now to finally get the real story behind the Forbidden Island, including what's actually kept it closed and what very few visitors ever get to experience. If you've ever spotted Ni'ihau from Kauai's west side and wondered what's really going on over there, this episode is for you. You'll come away with a clear picture of why the island stays closed, who can access it, and why that matters for anyone who loves Hawaii. In this episode of Hawaii's Best, I break down the true story of Ni'ihau so you can understand and respect one of the most unique places in the entire Hawaiian island chain. 👉 In this episode, you will: Learn why the Robinson family has kept Ni'ihau closed since 1864 and what promise started it allDiscover the limited ways visitors can experience the island without setting foot in the villageUnderstand how Ni'ihau's isolation has protected both the Hawaiian language and rare native wildlife_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to understand why Ni'ihau stays closed and what that means for traveling responsibly in Hawaii. 🎧Related episodes: Kauai Travel GuidePlanning Your First Trip to Kauai_  💻Related blog posts: Overview of Ni'ihauBest Time to Visit Kauai_ 🤓Chapters: 2:57 How Isolation Began 3:42 Who Can Visit and Why 4:44 Culture and Conservation Today 6:00 Limited Tours and Access Options 7:53 A Fragile Balance for the Future 8:32 Respecting Privacy in Hawaii _ 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips & guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, & local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island. Edge of the Ocean (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    11 min

  6. APR 14

    When Is the Cheapest Time to Visit Hawaii?

    Is Hawaii actually cheaper at certain times of the year, or does it just feel that way until you check the prices? Most travelers assume Hawaii is expensive no matter when you go, and that assumption ends up costing them real money. 👉 Hit play now and find out the two value windows every year where prices drop, crowds thin out, and the weather still delivers. If you've ever wondered how to visit Hawaii without overpaying, this episode is for you. Bryan breaks down exactly when to go, which weeks to avoid, and why the cheapest time is often the best time. 👉 In this episode, you will: Identify the two shoulder season windows where airfare, hotels, and crowds all dropLearn which specific weeks inside those windows to avoidUnderstand how Hawaii's microclimates mean cheaper months don't have to mean worse weather_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to find out exactly when to book your Hawaii trip for lower prices, fewer crowds, and great weather. 🤙Resources mentioned: Go Hawaii - Official Updates_ 🎧Related episodes: Best Time to Visit HawaiiSeptember in HawaiiSummer in Hawaii_ 🤓Chapters: 1:07 Why Prices Fluctuate 2:46 Best Value Months 3:28 Weeks to Avoid 4:30 If You Must Travel Peak 5:23 Trip Planning Consultations 6:15 Airline Merger App Changes 7:31 Reservations and Closures 8:24 Booking Tips and Midweek Flights _ 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips & guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, & local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island. Edge of the Ocean (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    11 min

  7. APR 7

    These 5 Kauai Experiences Are Actually Worth Your Time

    Which 5 experiences on Kauai are actually worth your time, and which ones will you forget by the time you land back home? Choosing what to do on Kauai isn't hard. Choosing what will actually stay with you is. FREE GUIDE: 20 Things to do on Kauai 👉 Hit play now and walk away with a clear, experience-driven Kauai itinerary built around adventure, culture, and something genuinely meaningful. If you've ever wondered how to plan a Kauai trip that feels more intentional than just checking boxes, this episode is for you. Bryan shares his personal top 5, and explains exactly why each one earns its place on the list. In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we dig into what actually makes a Kauai experience worth remembering so you can stop guessing and start planning with confidence. 👉 In this episode, you will: Discover why a Nā Pali Coast helicopter tour can completely change the way you understand the island, and what to expect from mountain tubing through Kauai's old sugar plantation canals.Learn how to approach a traditional luau with the right mindset so it becomes one of the most culturally grounding nights of your trip, not just dinner and a show.Find out how Wailua Falls and a shelter dog field trip through the Kauaʻi Humane Society round out a Kauai trip with beauty, heart, and the spirit of mālama.Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to find out which 5 Kauai experiences Bryan says are worth every minute of your trip. 🎧Related episodes: Malama Map: Storm recovery effortsKauai Travel Guide_ 💻Related blog posts: Best Time to Visit KauaiHow Many Days Should You Spend on Kauai?_ 🤓Chapters: 00:52 Storm Updates2:11 Activity 14:01 Activity 25:06 Free Kauai Guide5:37 Activity 38:33 Activity 49:27 Activity 510:29 Recap And Wrap Up_ 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips & guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, & local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island. Edge of the Ocean (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

    12 min

  8. APR 3

    On-Island Update: How To Actually Help Hawaii Flood Victims Using Verified Local Resources with Star Dohl-Thurston

    Want to help Hawaii after the floods but not sure if what you're doing is actually making a difference? Most people have the heart to help but end up lost in outdated Instagram posts, unverified GoFundMe pages, and scattered information that wastes time and misses the people who need it most. 👉 Hit play now and walk away knowing exactly where to send your money, your time, and your skills so they reach verified families and organizations on the ground. If you've ever wondered how to truly show up for Hawaii in a meaningful way, this episode is for you. You'll discover why good intentions aren't always enough and what to do instead to make your help count. In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we sit down with Malama Map founder Star Dahl-Thurston to break down the most effective ways to support Hawaii flood relief so you can take real, confident action today. 👉 In this episode, you will: Learn how Malama Map connects you directly to verified nonprofits, skilled volunteer opportunities, and families in needUnderstand why showing up without coordinating through the right organizations can actually disrupt relief effortsDiscover how visitors traveling to Hawaii this summer can turn their trip into a meaningful act of service_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to find out exactly how to help Hawaii flood victims using trusted, verified local resources. 🤙Resources mentioned: Malama Map_ 📱Connect with Star Dohl-Thurston: Instagram: @stardahlthurstonWebsite: malamamap.org_ 🎧Related episodes: What to know planning a trip to Hawaii in 2026_  🤓Chapters: 1:51 North Shore Recovery Update3:08 How Off Island Can Help5:20 Visitors Volunteering Pono7:34 Why Malama Map Exists9:34 How to Help13:38 Wrap Up and Next Steps_ 👉 Book a Hawaii Travel Consultation About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & authentic cultural insight. 📲 Connect on Instagram 🌺 Hawaii Planning Facebook Group ✉️ Free Hawaii travel tips & guides at hawaiisbesttravel.com 🤝 To sponsor the show visit hawaiisbesttravel.com/partner Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, & local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island. Edge of the Ocean (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill (w/ permission) Talk Story (w/ permission)

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

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