Hawaii Travel Made Easy Podcast—Hawaii travel tips, Things to do in Hawaii, Hawaii vacation planning

Should You Still Visit Maui? A Local’s Take After the Lahaina Fire and Kona Storm

Host Marcie addresses listener concerns about whether it’s a good time to visit Maui after the August 2023 Lahaina wildfire and March Kona storm flooding and road damage by interviewing longtime Maui resident blogger and Maui Life Podcast co-host Liza Pierce. Pierce shares what locals want visitors to understand: learn basic Hawaiian values such as aloha as a way of life, malama the land (including packing out trash), respecting wildlife like turtles and nēnē, honoring kupuna, and practicing kōkua through helping and giving. She notes common visitor missteps like driving too slowly, forcing pidgin, and seeking “hidden” or kapu spots. She encourages supporting local businesses and explains Lahaina’s Front Street remains closed while surrounding areas, restaurants, and Old Lahaina Luau are open; visitors should not tour the burn zone. Pierce says most areas have recovered from the Kona storm, with detours and reopened roads.

00:00 Maui's Recent Challenges
01:10 Meeting Liza Pierce
02:24 Liza's Maui Journey
04:30 From Mommy Blogs to Hawaii
06:08 Understanding Hawaiian Culture
10:49 Tourist Mistakes to Avoid
16:05 How to Be a Good Visitor
18:20 Supporting Local Businesses
18:58 Lahaina Today
22:03 Skip the Burn Zone
22:37 Kona Storm Damage Update
23:57 Road Closures and Detours
26:08 Should You Cancel Your Trip
26:43 Birthday Trip Storm Gamble
30:53 Resilience and Real Help
34:08 Social Media Info Overload
36:04 Leave Maui With Gratitude
37:48 Where to Find Lisa
41:02 Planning Resources and Wrap

Guest: Liza Pierce, A Maui Blog / Maui Life Podcast

Who this episode is for: Anyone with an upcoming Maui trip who's unsure whether it's the right time to visit, given the 2023 Lahaina fire and the more recent Kona storm.

What you'll learn: What longtime Maui residents want visitors to understand about respectful travel, the current status of Lahaina and Front Street, Kona storm recovery, and how to decide whether to still go.

Places discussed:

• Lahaina (Front Street remains closed; surrounding areas, restaurants, and Old Lahaina Luau are open)
• Maui (general storm/road recovery status)

Activities discussed:

• Practicing malama (caring for the land, including packing out trash)
• Respecting wildlife (turtles, nēnē)
• Supporting local businesses
• Avoiding the Lahaina burn zone
• Navigating current road closures and detours from Kona storm damage

Guest recommendations (Liza Pierce):

• Learn basic Hawaiian values before visiting: aloha as a way of life, malama (caring for the land), respecting kupuna (elders), and kōkua (helping others)
• Pack out your trash and respect wildlife like turtles and nēnē
• Avoid common visitor missteps: driving too slowly, forcing pidgin language, and seeking out "hidden" or kapu (forbidden/sacred) spots
• Support local businesses actively during your visit
• Front Street in Lahaina remains closed, but surrounding areas, restaurants, and Old Lahaina Luau are open and welcoming visitors
• Do not tour or seek out the burn zone — this is disrespectful and not appropriate tourism
• Most areas have recovered from the Kona storm, with detours and reopened roads in place
• Don't rely solely on social media for current conditions — it can create information overload and outdated impressions
• Leave Maui with gratitude, mindful of what the community has been through

Related Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes:

• February Maui Trip Report (Ep 92) 
• How to Plan a Trip to Maui (Ep 47)
• What You Need to Know About the Road to Hana (Ep 31)

Guest links:

• Instagram (@amauiblog)
• A Maui Blog
• Maui Life Podcast

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/

Maui Ocean Center: Honest Review, Best Exhibits, Tickets, and Family Tips (Plus Ululani’s Shave Ice)

Marcie shares an honest, family-focused review of Maui Ocean Center based on three visits over more than a decade, explaining it features only animals from Hawaii’s waters and includes well-integrated, respectful Hawaiian cultural exhibits. She highlights the 54-foot Open Ocean Tunnel with sharks and manta rays, Turtle Lagoon with Hawaiian green sea turtles, baby shark displays, and the Living Reef, plus a 3D sphere theater and optional guided tours (culture/botanical Tuesdays and Thursdays; behind-the-scenes on other days). She notes Ululani’s Shave Ice is now inside and recommends strategies for the line, and says the large gift shop has higher-quality items than typical souvenirs. Practical tips include buying tickets online ($49.95 adults, $39.95 ages 4–12; under 3 free), easy QR-code parking at Ma‘alaea Harbor, planning 2–3 hours or closer to half a day, avoiding crowd pinch points with school groups, splitting groups with nearby boat tours, and pairing the aquarium with an afternoon at Kamaole Beaches.

00:00 Honest Aquarium Overview
00:38 Hawaii Only Exhibits
00:53 Culture Done Right
01:20 Must See Highlights
02:34 Reef Theater And Tours
03:11 Ululanis Shave Ice
04:08 Surprising Gift Shop
04:34 Tickets Parking Timing
05:28 Crowds And Split Day
06:15 Perfect Maui Day Plan
06:57 Is It Worth It
07:29 Resources And Wrap Up

Who this episode is for: Families deciding whether Maui Ocean Center is worth the ticket price and time, based on someone who's visited three times over a decade.

What you'll learn: What makes Maui Ocean Center distinct (Hawaii-only species, well-integrated cultural exhibits), must-see highlights, ticket pricing, parking, timing, and how to pair it with the rest of a Maui day.

Places discussed:

• Maui Ocean Center
• Ma'alaea Harbor
• Kamaole Beaches

Activities discussed:

• Visiting the Open Ocean Tunnel (sharks, manta rays)
• Visiting Turtle Lagoon (Hawaiian green sea turtles)
• Viewing baby shark displays
• Visiting the Living Reef exhibit
• Watching the 3D sphere theater
• Taking a guided culture/botanical tour (Tuesdays and Thursdays)
• Taking a behind-the-scenes tour (other days)
• Eating at Ululani's Shave Ice (now located inside)
• Pairing the visit with an afternoon at Kamaole Beaches

Restaurants discussed:

• Ululani's Shave Ice — now inside the Ocean Center; has strategies worth knowing for managing the line

Marcie's recommendations:

• Maui Ocean Center features only animals native to Hawaii's waters, and its Hawaiian cultural exhibits are well-integrated and respectful, not tacked on
• Must-see highlights: the 54-foot Open Ocean Tunnel, Turtle Lagoon, baby shark displays, and the Living Reef
• Consider a guided culture/botanical tour on Tuesdays or Thursdays, or a behind-the-scenes tour on other days
• The gift shop has genuinely higher-quality items than typical tourist souvenirs, worth a look
• Buy tickets online in advance: $49.95 for adults, $39.95 for ages 4–12, free under age 3
• Parking at Ma'alaea Harbor uses easy QR-code entry
• Plan for 2–3 hours, or closer to half a day if you want to do it thoroughly
• Avoid crowd pinch points by timing around school groups
• Split up your group with nearby boat tours if interests diverge
• Pair the Ocean Center with an afternoon at Kamaole Beaches for a full, well-rounded Maui day

Related Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: 

• The Slow Maui Trip I Needed — 2026 Trip Report— Ep 92

Related articles:

• Maui Ocean Center Review: Is the $50 Ticket Actually Worth It? (A Mom's Take After 3 Visits)

Tours to book:

• Get Tickets

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/

Four Slow Days in Maui (Feb 2026): Hyatt Regency Kaanapali, Flytographer, and One Main Thing a Day

Marcie shares what a real Maui trip looks like for her and her 12-year-old in February 2026 after five workdays on Oahu: a slow four-day itinerary with one main activity per day, good food, and lots of pool time. After a frustrating Thrifty rental car upsell at OGG, she recommends booking through Discount Hawaii Car Rental. They stay at the Hyatt Regency Maui on points, do a Flytographer session in Wailea, eat at Coconuts Fish Cafe, Sweet Hula, and Cafe O’Lei at the Plantation, and visit Maui Ocean Center and Iao Valley State Park (timed entry required). Highlights include a cabana day and Drums of the Pacific luau in the rain, whale watching from the hotel, and handling a late-night red-eye departure.

00:00 Safety Pins at Dawn
00:18 Slow Maui Trip Plan
00:47 Rental Car Reality Check
02:08 Hyatt Check In Day
03:22 Flytographer Morning
04:31 Aquarium and Pool Time
05:38 Cabana Day and Luau
07:29 Red Eye Day Four
08:29 Upcountry and Iao Valley
09:38 Airport Run and Wrap Up
10:02 Expert Takeaways
10:33 Resources and Farewell

Who this episode is for: Anyone curious what a genuinely slow-paced, "one main thing a day" Maui trip looks like in practice, especially after a busier stretch elsewhere.

What you'll learn: A real four-day slow Maui itinerary, a rental car upsell cautionary tale, specific restaurant and activity reviews, and how the trip handled a late-night red-eye departure.

Places discussed:

• Kaanapali
• Wailea
• Upcountry
• Iao Valley State Park
• OGG (Kahului Airport)

Activities discussed:

• Flytographer photo session
• Visiting Maui Ocean Center
• Pool time / cabana day
• Attending Drums of the Pacific luau
• Whale watching from the hotel
• Visiting Iao Valley State Park (timed entry required)
• Handling a red-eye departure

Hotels discussed:

• Hyatt Regency Maui (Kaanapali) — booked using points

Restaurants discussed:

• Coconuts Fish Cafe
• Sweet Hula
• Cafe O'Lei at the Plantation

Marcie's recommendations:

• Watch for rental car upsell pressure at pickup (specifically flagged at OGG/Kahului with Thrifty) — book through Discount Hawaii Car Rental instead
• A slow, "one main thing per day" itinerary works well for genuine rest, especially after a busier prior leg of a trip
• Coconuts Fish Cafe, Sweet Hula, and Cafe O'Lei at the Plantation are all worth eating at
• Maui Ocean Center is worth the visit — see linked review for a detailed cost-benefit take
• Iao Valley State Park requires timed entry — book ahead
• A cabana day is a good way to build in genuine downtime
• Drums of the Pacific luau is worth attending even if it rains
• Whale watching from the hotel is a real possibility during the right season, no boat required
• Plan ahead for a red-eye departure day so it doesn't undercut the rest of the trip

Related Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: 

• My Honest Oahu Trip Report: What's Worth It in 2026— Ep 90
• Best Areas to Stay on Maui— Ep 71
• Maui Resort Showdown: Wailea vs Kaanapali in Under 10 Minutes— Ep 56
• What First-Time Hawaii Travelers Always Overestimate— Ep 121
• The Comparison Trap: When Other Families Look Like They're Having More Fun— Ep 111

Related articles:

• Maui Ocean Center Review: Is the $50 Ticket Actually Worth It? (A Mom's Take After 3 Visits)
• How to Plan a Trip to Maui With Kids

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/

Hanauma Bay in 2026: Reservations, Parking, Costs, and What to Expect

Marcie explains what visiting Hanauma Bay in 2026 is really like, emphasizing that logistics are “half the battle” and why families prioritize it as the most beginner-friendly snorkeling spot on Oahu with calm, protected water and fish visible in the shallows. She details the 48-hour reservation system opening exactly at 7:00 AM Hawaii time (closed Mondays and Tuesdays), entry pricing ($25 ages 13+, kids 12 and under free, residents and active military free), and an alternative Roberts Hawaii shuttle package that allows booking up to a month ahead. She warns that reservations don’t guarantee parking (300 first-come spaces) and parking is $3 cash only, while the snack bar is card-only with high prices; small coolers and outside food are allowed. She outlines the mandatory orientation video, tram vs. steep walking path, rental gear costs, reef-safe sunscreen enforcement, seasonal considerations, and when to skip Hanauma Bay in favor of other snorkeling options.

00:00 Reservation Scramble
01:04 Why Hanauma Bay
02:11 Booking Rules Explained
03:09 Shuttle Booking Option
03:46 Arrival and Parking
05:00 Orientation and Tram
05:57 Walk Down Views
06:34 Beach Setup and Gear
07:32 Crowds Sun and Wildlife
08:04 Snack Bar Sticker Shock
09:00 Is It Worth It
10:14 Alternatives and Wrap Up
10:44 Final Tips Summary
11:37 Consultations and Goodbye

Who this episode is for: Families planning to visit Hanauma Bay in 2026 who need current, specific logistics — reservations, parking, costs — not general advice.

What you'll learn: How the 48-hour reservation system works, entry pricing, an alternative shuttle booking option, parking realities, orientation requirements, gear costs, and when to consider skipping Hanauma Bay for another snorkeling spot.

Places discussed:

• Hanauma Bay

Activities discussed:

• Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay
• Booking Hanauma Bay reservations
• Booking the Roberts Hawaii shuttle package
• Watching the mandatory orientation video
• Taking the tram vs. walking the steep path down

Restaurants discussed: Snack bar mentioned (card-only, high prices) — no specific vendor name given

Marcie's recommendations:

• Reservations open exactly 48 hours ahead at 7:00 AM Hawaii time; closed Mondays and Tuesdays
• Entry costs $25 for ages 13+; kids 12 and under, residents, and active military are free
• Consider the Roberts Hawaii shuttle package as an alternative — it allows booking up to a month ahead, unlike the standard 48-hour window
• A reservation does not guarantee parking — only 300 first-come parking spots are available
• Parking is $3, cash only — bring cash
• The snack bar is card-only and expensive; small coolers and outside food are allowed, so consider bringing your own
• Watch the mandatory orientation video before entering the water
• Choose between the tram and the steep walking path down to the bay based on mobility and preference
• Budget for rental gear costs if you don't bring your own snorkel equipment
• Reef-safe sunscreen is enforced — make sure yours qualifies
• Consider seasonal timing when planning your visit
• Know when to skip Hanauma Bay in favor of other Oahu snorkeling spots, depending on crowds or conditions

Related Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes:

• How to Plan a Trip to Oahu (Ep 41)

Related articles:

• How to Visit Hanauma Bay

Official reservations:

• Hanauma Bay Reservations

Additional resources:

• Roberts Hawaii Transportation

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/

Oahu Trip Report (Feb): What Was Worth It, What I'd Skip, and a Rental Car Mistake

Marcie, a Hawaii destination expert, shares a February Oahu trip report with her 12-year-old, noting some experiences were hosted for honest coverage. They stayed five nights at Hyatt Regency Waikiki (great oceanfront room and smooth check-in; annoying tight, offsite parking and $65/night fee). She covers tips and takeaways from Hanauma Bay reservations and logistics, Kahuku Farms’ full tour and cafe, Cirque du Soleil Auana’s Hawaiian cultural integration, Wai Kai’s mixed results depending on what’s operating, and Kualoa Ranch ziplining’s scenic tandem format. She reviews Mauka Warriors Luau (strong show, okay food, far drive), Pearl Harbor highlights including the Aviation Museum and Missouri, and an intimate Na Lei Aloha dinner/show at the Hyatt. She also recounts unknowingly driving a Thrifty rental with expired tabs and lists planning lessons like booking USS Arizona tickets early and confirming reservations.

00:00 Big Oahu Trip Report
01:52 Hyatt Regency Waikiki
03:24 Hanauma Bay Tips
04:58 Kahuku Farms Tour
06:04 Cirque du Soleil Auana
07:07 Wai Kai Water Park
08:04 Kualoa Ranch Zipline
09:31 Mauka Warriors Luau
10:31 Pearl Harbor Updates
12:08 Na Lei Aloha Dinner
12:59 Thrifty Rental Car Fail
14:46 What I’d Do Differently
15:43 Planning Resources Wrap Up

Who this episode is for: Anyone planning an Oahu trip who wants an honest, recent (February) trip report covering specific hotels, activities, and a real rental car mistake to avoid.

What you'll learn: What was genuinely worth it and what Marcie would skip from a real February Oahu trip, including hotel review, Hanauma Bay logistics, several activity reviews, and a rental car cautionary tale.

Places discussed:

• Waikiki
• Hanauma Bay
• Kahuku
• Kualoa Ranch
• Pearl Harbor

Activities discussed:

• Hanauma Bay snorkeling (reservations and logistics)
• Kahuku Farms full tour and cafe
• Cirque du Soleil Auana
• Wai Kai water park
• Kualoa Ranch zipline (tandem format)
• Mauka Warriors Luau
• Pearl Harbor (Aviation Museum, USS Missouri)
• Na Lei Aloha dinner/show

Hotels discussed:

• Hyatt Regency Waikiki — 5-night stay; great oceanfront room and smooth check-in; downside: tight, offsite parking and a $65/night parking fee

Restaurants discussed:

• Kahuku Farms cafe (part of the farm tour)
• Mauka Warriors Luau — okay food, strong show
• Na Lei Aloha — intimate dinner/show at the Hyatt

Marcie's recommendations:

• Hyatt Regency Waikiki: great room and check-in, but budget for the $65/night parking fee and expect tight offsite parking
• Book Hanauma Bay reservations early and confirm logistics before your visit
• Kahuku Farms' full tour and cafe are worth the visit
• Cirque du Soleil Auana stands out for its Hawaiian cultural integration
• Wai Kai's experience varies depending on what's operating that day — check before committing
• Kualoa Ranch's tandem zipline format offers a scenic, worthwhile experience
• Mauka Warriors Luau has a strong show but okay food and a far drive — weigh that trade-off
• Pearl Harbor: prioritize the Aviation Museum and USS Missouri, and book USS Arizona Memorial tickets early
• Na Lei Aloha is a good intimate option if staying at the Hyatt
• Double-check rental car details (tabs/registration) at pickup — don't assume the company handled it, based on an unknowingly expired-tabs Thrifty rental
• Confirm all reservations ahead of time rather than assuming they're set

Related Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: 

• How to Plan a Trip to Oahu— Ep 41
• How to Hike Diamond Head Crater on Oahu— Ep 13
• How to Visit Pearl Harbor on Oahu— Ep 22
• Everything You Need to Know About Kualoa Ranch on Oahu— Ep 12
• Is the Polynesian Cultural Center Worth It? My Honest Take— Ep 76

Tours/activities to book:

• Hanauma Bay Reservations
• Kahuku Farms Tour
• Cirque du Soleil Auana
• Wai Kai
• Kualoa Ranch Zipline
• Mauka Warriors
• Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
• Pearl Harbor Complete Experience Passport
• Na Lei Aloha

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/

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

Who this episode is for: Grandparents planning to take grandchildren to Hawaii without the parents along, and families considering skip-generation travel as an option.

What you'll learn: Why skip-gen travel is growing, why Hawaii works especially well for it, best ages and trip lengths, island-by-island fit, new vacation rental regulations starting September 2025, and common mistakes to avoid.

Places discussed:

• Kauai
• General island-by-island fit discussed for all four main islands (specifics not fully itemized in narrative summary — check transcript for the 07:10 segment)

Activities discussed:

• Flying as an unaccompanied minor
• Choosing activities that work for both generations
• Planning a skip-gen trip using a structured checklist

Marcie's recommendations:

• Skip-gen trips are a growing trend, driven by post-COVID priorities, parental burnout, and more active, financially able grandparents
• 82% of grandparents report skip-gen trips help strengthen bonding with grandchildren
• Hawaii works especially well for skip-gen travel: no passport required, strong tourism infrastructure, lifeguarded beaches, cultural learning opportunities, and reliable weather
• Best age range: 8–12 years old
• Best trip length: 5–7 days
• New, stricter vacation rental regulations take effect starting September 2025 — factor this into accommodation planning
• Choose activities that genuinely work for both generations, not just kid-focused or grandparent-focused
• Avoid common mistakes specific to skip-gen trips
• Use a planning checklist to stay organized given the added complexity of a two-generation-only trip

Related Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: 

• Is Hawaii Worth It with a Toddler? What I Wish Someone Had Told Me— Ep 84
• Hawaii with Teens: Activities, Tips, and Keeping Everyone Happy— Ep 86
• My 12-Year-Old Has Been to Hawaii 14 Times. He Has Opinions.— Ep 107
• Navigating Multi-Generational Trips to Hawaii with Melissa Conn— Ep 20

Related articles: 

• How Gen Alpha is Changing Hawaii Family Travel (And What Parents Need to Know)
• Skip-Generation Hawaii Travel: The Ultimate Guide to Grandparent-Grandchild Adventures

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/

Vacation Brain vs. Kona Storm: What to Know Before Flying to Hawaii

⚠️ TIME-SENSITIVE / SAFETY CONTENT: This episode covers a specific March 2026 storm event. By the time these show notes are read, the storm itself will very likely be over. Frame accordingly — see notes below.

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

Who this episode is for: Anyone with an imminent Hawaii trip during active severe weather, and more broadly, anyone who wants to understand how to handle a major weather disruption to Hawaii travel plans.

What you'll learn: What happened during a major Kona Low storm system in March 2026, its statewide impacts, and five travel safety rules for handling weather disruptions to a Hawaii trip.

Places discussed:

• Oahu (flooding)
• Maui (crisis conditions)
• Big Island (Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa snow, flooding)
• Kauai
• Molokai

Marcie's recommendations:

• Watch out for "vacation brain" — the tendency to ignore or downplay warning signs because you're excited about a trip
• Check local Hawaii news sources directly, not just mainland weather apps, for accurate real-time conditions
• Treat unusually generous airline bump/voucher offers as a signal something serious is happening, not just a lucky opportunity
• Remember that high season doesn't protect against weather disruption — storms can hit anytime
• Buy travel insurance that specifically covers delays and interruptions
• Build buffer days into your itinerary so a delay doesn't blow up the whole trip

Related Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: 

• What's Actually Happening in Hawaii Right Now— Ep 122

Live conditions resources (check current status, not this episode, for up-to-date info):

• Hawaii News Now
• Maui County
• Hawaii Emergency Management (ready.hawaii.gov)
• Hawaii Public Radio — 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/

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

Who this episode is for: Anyone deciding between Maui and Oahu who wants a current (2026), cost-aware comparison rather than dated general advice.

What you'll learn: How Maui and Oahu differ in daily experience, cost, accommodations, and activities, plus 2026-specific updates on vacation rental regulations and Maui's ongoing recovery post-2023 fires.

Places discussed:

• Maui
• Oahu

Activities discussed:

• Comparing scenery and pace (Maui) vs. urban convenience and activity variety (Oahu)
• Comparing beach highlights on each island
• Navigating 2026 accommodation regulation changes

Marcie's recommendations:

• Maui: better fit for scenic beauty, a slower pace, and outdoor adventure
• Oahu: better fit for urban convenience, energy, and a wider variety of activities
• Compare real 2026 costs across hotels, food, and activities before deciding — costs have shifted
• Understand new 2026 vacation rental regulation changes before booking either island
• Factor in Maui's ongoing recovery from the 2023 Lahaina fires when planning
• Choose based on your travel style rather than which island is more popular
• The "one thing everyone gets wrong" is treating this as a popularity contest rather than a fit question specific to your travel style (exact point not detailed in narrative summary — check transcript)

Related Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: 

• Maui vs. Big Island: The Decision Most People Get Wrong— Ep 117
• Big Island vs Kauai: What You Actually Need to Know to Choose— Ep 101
• How to Plan a Trip to Maui— Ep 47
• How to Plan a Trip to Oahu— Ep 41

Related articles:

• Planning Your Trip? Find Out the Best Area to Stay in Maui
• 10 Essential Things to Know BEFORE Planning a Trip to Maui
• FREE 7 Day Email Course: How to Plan a Trip to Maui
• FREE 7 Day Email Course: How to Plan a Trip to Oahu
• 10 Biggest Oahu Mistakes Tourists Make—Are You Guilty of Any?
• 10 Essential Oahu Travel Tips You Must Know

Additional resources:

• Discount Hawaii Car Rental (Marcie's affiliate link)

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/

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

Who this episode is for: Families planning a Hawaii trip with teenagers (ages 13-17) who want activities and logistics that actually work for that age group.

What you'll learn: How to choose walkable accommodations, manage jet lag with teens, pick activities teens will genuinely enjoy, and balance teen independence with family time.

Places discussed:

• Oahu (primary focus)
• North Shore
• Other islands mentioned more generally

Activities discussed:

• Choosing walkable accommodations
• Managing sleep and jet lag with teens
• Surfing lessons
• Snorkeling tours
• Movie set visits
• Food quests/exploration
• Exploring the North Shore

Marcie's recommendations:

• Choose walkable accommodations so teens have some independence without needing constant driving
• Manage jet lag proactively with teens, since their sleep schedules can be harder to reset than younger kids'
• Pick activities teens will genuinely enjoy rather than defaulting to family-standard activities that may not land with this age group
• Surfing lessons, snorkeling tours, movie set visits, and food-focused exploration tend to work well for teens
• The North Shore offers good teen-friendly exploration options
• Balance teen autonomy with planned family time rather than choosing one extreme
• Avoid common mistakes families make when traveling with teens specifically
• Get a consultation for tailored advice if planning a teen-specific itinerary

Related Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: 

• Is Hawaii Worth It with a Toddler? What I Wish Someone Had Told Me— Ep 84
• My 12-Year-Old Has Been to Hawaii 14 Times. He Has Opinions.— Ep 107
• Hawaii Travel Tips from Maui: Visitor Insights with Jessica Averett— Ep 24

Related articles: 

• Which Hawaiian Island is Best for Teens? (The Answer Might Surprise You)
• 12 Epic Things to Do in Oahu with Teens (That They’ll Actually Love)

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/

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

Who this episode is for: Food enthusiasts and first-time Hawaii visitors who want a definitive list of iconic Hawaiian dishes and drinks to try.

What you'll learn: 17 must-try Hawaiian dishes and drinks, from savory staples to desserts and refreshing drinks, plus tips on where to find good versions and how to eat like a local.

Places discussed:

• Oahu
• Maui
• Kauai
• Big Island

Restaurants discussed:

Savory dishes:

• Poke — described as the MVP of Hawaiian cuisine
• Loco Moco — Hawaiian comfort food
• Kalua Pork — a luau favorite
• Laulau — traditional Hawaiian dish
• Local and fusion favorites (additional dishes covered 07:19–10:50 — specifics not in narrative summary, check transcript)

Desserts:

• Hawaiian desserts (specific items covered 10:50–14:57 — likely includes malasadas, shave ice, per the episode description; specifics not fully itemized in narrative summary, check transcript)

Drinks:

• Refreshing Hawaiian drinks (specific drinks covered 14:57–18:25 — specifics not in narrative summary, check transcript)

Marcie's recommendations:

• Poke is the essential, must-try Hawaiian dish
• Loco Moco is comfort food worth seeking out
• Kalua Pork is a luau staple worth trying even outside a luau setting
• Laulau represents traditional Hawaiian cooking and is worth the search for an authentic version
• Look for local, less touristy spots to get the most authentic versions of these dishes
• Try to eat like a local rather than only visiting tourist-oriented restaurants

Related Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: 

• Foodies’ Guide to Hawaii: Where and What to Eat in the Islands— Ep 18
• Where I Actually Eat on Maui— Ep 132
• Where I eat on Oahu— Ep 112
• Where I Eat on Kauai— Ep 102

Related articles:

• Where to Find the Best Shave Ice on Maui: 9 Delicious Spots to Try
• 9 Delicious Places for the Best Shave Ice on Oahu
• 21 Mouth-Watering Places with the Best Poke in Oahu
• Where to Find the Best Poke on Maui?

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/