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

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. 20H AGO

    Is Hawaii Still Worth Visiting in 2026?

    Is Hawaii still worth visiting in 2026, or are you setting yourself up for sticker shock and sold-out reservations? Hawaii hasn't lost its magic, but the way you need to plan for it has completely changed, and understanding that shift is what separates a stressful trip from an unforgettable one. 👉 Hit play now to learn exactly what's different, what it really costs, and how to avoid the planning mistakes catching travelers off guard. If you've ever wondered how to plan a Hawaii trip that matches today's reality instead of outdated advice, this episode is for you. You'll walk away with clear expectations, realistic budget numbers, and a plan that actually works in 2026. In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down what's changed about visiting Hawaii so you can plan with confidence and skip the surprises. 👉 In this episode, you will: Understand why Hawaii now requires advance planning for beaches, state parks, and popular experiencesLearn the real cost breakdown, including new lodging taxes, shipping increases, and state park fees that add up fastDiscover which islands offer more flexibility and how to budget for a trip that feels like a vacation, not a logistics project_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan your 2026 Hawaii trip with clear expectations and zero budget surprises. 🤙Resources mentioned: 2026 Hawaii Trip CalculatorHawaii Travel Planning Consultation🤓Chapters: 0:54 Personal Trip Experience and Initial Thoughts2:18 The New Reality of Planning a Hawaii Trip4:46 Understanding the Rising Costs8:57 Addressing Anti-Tourist Sentiment10:44 Final Thoughts and Planning Tools13:58 Conclusion and Resources_ 👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺Unlock Exclusive Member's-Only Content 📲Connect Facebook Group Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry) _ This Hawaii travel podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission) Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

    15 min
  2. 3D AGO

    How Many Days Do You Need in Hawaii?

    Are you booking enough days in Hawaii, or are you setting yourself up for regret? Most travelers either cut their trip too short or waste half their vacation in airports trying to see too many islands. 👉 Hit play now to discover the exact formula that matches your vacation days to your travel goals so you stop second-guessing your itinerary. If you've ever wondered how to choose the right trip length for Hawaii, this episode is for you. 👉 In this episode, you will: Discover why 7 days minimum accounts for travel time, jet lag, and actual beach days without rushingLearn the one-week-per-island rule that prevents you from spending half your trip in airportsMatch your trip length to each island's unique attractions_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to stop guessing and start planning your Hawaii trip with confidence. 🤙Resources mentioned: First-Day in Hawaii ChecklistROPE Research (snorkeling)Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation_ 🎧Related episodes: Should you drive the Road to Hana?_ 💻Related blog posts: Best Time to Visit HawaiiHow Many Days Should You Spend in Hawaii?Best time to visit: Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Big Island_ 🤓Chapters: 1:16 First Trip to Hawaii: Recommended Duration1:29 Travel Time and Jet Lag Considerations3:37 Maximizing Your Time on One Island4:20 Benefits of a 10-Day Trip5:14 Exploring Multiple Islands on a Two-Week Trip8:21 Island-Specific Recommendations14:57 Budgeting for Your Hawaii Trip17:57 Additional Resources_ 👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺Unlock Exclusive Member's-Only Content 📲Connect Facebook Group Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry) _ This Hawaii travel podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission) Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

    19 min
  3. JAN 6

    The Biggest Mistakes First-Time Oahu Visitors Make (And How to Avoid Them)

    Are you planning your first Oahu trip but worried you'll miss the best spots or waste time on tourist traps? First-time visitors often feel overwhelmed by all the options, but with the right guidance, you can turn that stress into an unforgettable experience. 👉 Hit play now to get essential tips, hidden gems, and practical advice that'll help you avoid the biggest mistakes and experience Oahu like a respectful traveler, not a typical tourist. In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down everything from booking flights and packing smart to exploring Diamond Head, the North Shore, and Pearl Harbor so you can make the most of your first visit. 👉 In this episode, you will: Discover the best times to visit, where to stay, and how to get around without overspendingLearn which beaches, hikes, and cultural sites are worth your time and how to experience them respectfullyGet insider tips on local food spots, farmer's markets, and authentic luaus that go beyond the typical tourist experience_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan a stress-free, culturally respectful Oahu trip. 🤙Resources mentioned: First-Day in Hawaii ChecklistHawaii Beach Safety WebsiteROPE Research_ 💻Related blog posts: Visiting Oahu for the First TimePlanning Your First Trip to Hawaii?23 Critical Things to Know for Planning a Trip to HawaiiAvoid These 10 Common Mistakes When Planning a Trip to Hawaii10 Best Places to Visit on Oahu (Besides Waikiki)_ 🤓Chapters: 1:26 Why Oahu is Perfect for First-Time Visitors2:49 Planning Your Trip: Flights and Packing Tips5:12 Respecting Local Culture and Getting Around7:04 Must-See Spots and Activities9:23 Food and Evening Activities10:42 Budgeting and Weather Tips12:40 Final Tips for an Unforgettable Trip_ 👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺Unlock Exclusive Member's-Only Content 📲Connect Facebook Group Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry) _ This Hawaii travel podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission) Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

    14 min
  4. 12/30/2025

    7 Day Kauai Itinerary for First-Time Hawaii Visitors

    Are you planning a week on Kauai but worried you'll miss the best spots or waste time on tourist traps? Balancing adventure, relaxation, and safety on the Garden Isle takes more than a generic checklist. 👉 Hit play now to get a complete day-by-day itinerary that includes hidden gems, local favorites, and critical safety warnings you won't find in guidebooks. In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down a seven-day Kauai itinerary so you can explore responsibly and make the most of every moment on the island. 👉In this episode, you will: Discover must-visit beaches, waterfalls, and trails across the North Shore, South Shore, and Waimea Canyon with specific recommendations for every skill level.Learn which dangerous spots to avoid completely, including Queen's Bath, Blue Hole, and Kipu Falls, and understand why locals discourage visiting them.Get insider tips on kayaking the Wailua River, exploring the Napali Coast by boat, and experiencing authentic cultural sites like Smith's Family Garden Luau._ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to build your perfect Kauai adventure with confidence and respect for the island. 🎧Related episodes: Koloa Rum10 Kauai Travel Tips in 10 Minutes_ 💻Related blog posts: Best Time to Visit KauaiHow Many Days Should You Spend on Kauai?8 Best Snorkel Spots on Kauai_ 🤓Chapters: 2:07 Day 1: Settling into Kauai4:51 Day 2: Exploring the North Shore7:32 Day 3: Hiking Adventures10:23 Day 4: Water Adventures12:57 Day 5: Relaxing on the South Shore15:35 Day 6: Nepali Coast and Alternatives19:09 Day 7: Cultural and Local Experiences21:34 Safety Tips and Hidden Gems_ 👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺Unlock Exclusive Member's-Only Content 📲Connect Facebook Group Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry) _ This Hawaii travel podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission) Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

    28 min
  5. 12/24/2025

    Hawaii Is Not What You Think: 15 Facts Most Visitors Never Hear

    Did you know Hawaii's tallest mountain beats Everest, or that your shadow can vanish twice a year? Most travelers miss the surprising truths that make Hawaii far more complex and fascinating than the postcard version. 👉 Hit play now to discover 15 facts that'll completely change how you see the islands and help you plan a smarter trip. In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we reveal 15 surprising facts about Hawaii so you can understand the islands on a deeper level and prepare better for your visit. 👉In this episode, you will: Discover why Mauna Kea is actually the world's tallest mountain and how you can experience snow and beach weather in a single dayLearn about Lahaina Noon, the phenomenon where objects cast no shadow, and why Hawaii has no seagulls despite being surrounded by oceanUnderstand Hawaii's microclimates and why packing layers matters, plus uncover the islands' unexpected cowboy heritage_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to uncover the hidden truths that'll transform how you experience Hawaii. 🎧Related episodes: Overthrow of the Hawaiian KingdomThings I Wish I Knew Before My First Hawaii Trip_ 💻Related blog posts: Things to Know for Planning a Trip to HawaiiWhat Is the Best Island to Visit in Hawaii?How Many Islands Are There in Hawaii?What Not to Do in Hawaii: 27 Essential Tips_ 🤓Chapters: 2:11 Fact 1 3:10 Fact 2 4:34 Fact 3 5:58 Fact 4 7:28 Fact 5 8:07 Fact 6 9:01 Fact 7 9:36 Fact 8 10:16 Fact 9 10:48 Fact 10 11:42 Fact 11 12:15 Fact 12 13:57 Fact 13 14:27 Fact 14 15:24 Fact 15 _ 👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺Unlock Exclusive Member's-Only Content 📲Connect Facebook Group Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry) _ This Hawaii travel podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission) Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

    18 min
  6. 12/18/2025

    NEW Hawaii 2026 Travel Changes Every Visitor Needs To Know

    What if the rules changed and nobody told you before you booked your Hawaii trip? Hawaii's still paradise, but how you visit in 2026 looks different, and missing these updates could cost you time, money, and access to the places you came to see. 👉 Hit play now to get the full breakdown of every 2026 change that'll actually affect your trip, so you can avoid surprises and plan smarter. If you've ever wondered how to navigate Hawaii's new visitor rules without the guesswork, this episode is for you. You'll learn what's changed with costs, reservations, vacation rentals, and airlines, plus what to do right now to protect your plans. In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we walk through the 2026 Hawaii travel changes every visitor needs to know so you can plan confidently and enjoy your trip without unexpected roadblocks. 👉 In this episode, you will: Understand the new lodging taxes that'll add hundreds to your hotel bill and how to budget accuratelyDiscover which state parks now require advance reservations or entry fees before you arriveLearn how to spot legal vacation rentals and navigate the Alaska-Hawaiian merger changes_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to get every 2026 Hawaii travel update you need before you book. 🤙Resources mentioned: 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel ConsultationMaui's Housing Bill 9How to Tell If Your Rental in Hawaii is IllegalHow to Save Money in HawaiiFree Things to Do on Oahu for Families🤓Chapters: 1:39 Rising Costs: New Taxes and Fees3:19 Reservation Systems: Plan Ahead4:54 Vacation Rentals: New Regulations6:40 Airline Changes: Mergers and New Policies8:43 Maui Recovery and Volcano Updates10:16 Recap and Final Tips_ 👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺Unlock Exclusive Member's-Only Content 📲Connect Facebook Group Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry) _ This Hawaii travel podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission) Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

    12 min
  7. 12/16/2025

    200 Episodes Later: 7 Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Hawaii Trip

    What if the biggest mistakes I made in Hawaii weren't about what I did, but how I showed up? After 200 episodes and 30 trips, I'm sharing seven hard-won lessons that changed how I experience Hawaii and travel everywhere else. You'll walk away with a clearer sense of what respect really means, why slowing down creates better memories, and how to see Hawaii as more than just a backdrop. 👉In this episode, you will: Understand why Hawaii is a living culture, not just a vacation setting, and how that shifts your entire experienceLearn why planning ahead in 2026 protects your trip instead of limiting itDiscover how slowing down and exploring beyond Waikiki creates the memories that actually stick_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to travel to Hawaii with more awareness, respect, and presence than ever before. 🎧Episodes mentioned : Episode 1 from 3/7/2019 (please be kind 🤙)Kahanuola SolatorioHawaiian Language BanMeaning of AlohaKamaka Pili - Waikiki HistoryJames Kiko - bEASTside KitchenAnela Evans - Life on LanaiKamaka Dias - Keep it AlohaAndrew Fowers (Shaka Guide) - Maui Guide🤓Chapters: 1:40 Understanding Hawaii as a Living Culture4:35 The Importance of Respect in Hawaii7:27 Slowing Down for Better Memories9:38 Exploring Beyond Waikiki12:14 The Importance of Planning13:43 How Hawaii Changed My Travel Perspective15:40 Hawaii as_ 👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺Unlock Exclusive Member's-Only Content 📲Connect Facebook Group Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry) _ This Hawaii travel podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission) Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

    20 min
  8. 12/11/2025

    10 Hawaii Travel Tips to Save Your Family Money in 2026

    Free guide to to Save Your Family Money in 2026 (10 more tips!) Are you making the most common money-draining mistakes families run into when planning a Hawaii trip in 2026? With rising costs and new fees starting January 1st, families are trying to stretch their budgets without watering down the experience. 👉 Hit play now to discover 10 practical tips that'll help you save hundreds of dollars while still having an unforgettable Hawaii vacation. If you've ever wondered how to make your Hawaii trip more affordable without cutting corners on what matters, this episode is for you. You'll learn exactly which expenses to cut and which ones are worth keeping so you can spend your money on experiences that actually create memories. In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down 10 actionable strategies so you can avoid common budget traps and enjoy Hawaii like a local. 👉In this episode, you will: Discover how to save hundreds on flights and baggage by traveling midweek during shoulder season and packing strategicallyLearn which free and low-cost activities deliver the best experiences, from beaches to hiking trails to farmer's marketsMaster the art of eating well in Hawaii without resort markups by cooking simple meals and finding local food trucks_ Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to stretch your budget further and still have an unforgettable 2026 Hawaii vacation. Book your Hawaii Travel Consultation 🎧Related episodes: Why Planning Your 2026 Hawaii Trip Feels Chaotic — And the Simple Fix9 Hawaii Travel Hacks That Actually Work_ 🤓Chapters: 0:44 Planning Your 2026 Hawaii Trip2:02 Tip 1: Choose One Island3:55 Tip 2: Stay in a Condo and Cook Meals5:40 Tip 3: Shop Smart6:52 Tip 4: Eat Like a Local7:59 Tip 5: Pack Light to Save on Baggage Fees8:50 Tip 6: Free and Low-Cost Activities9:48 Tip 7: Utilize Hotel or Condo Perks10:35 Tip 8: Plan a No-Spend Staycation Day11:30 Tip 9 & 10: Travel in Shoulder Season and Fly Midweek13:48 Additional Resources_ 👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation 🌺Unlock Exclusive Member's-Only Content 📲Connect Facebook Group Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry) _ This Hawaii travel podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha. Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission) Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission) Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

    15 min

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4.9
out of 5
266 Ratings

About

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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