Hawaii Travel Podcast by Hawaii’s Best: Plan a Better Hawaii Vacation

By Bryan Murphy - Certified Hawaii Travel Expert & Creator of Hawaii’s Best TravelSociety & Culture Education Leisure Places & Travel How To

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Hawaii Travel Podcast by Hawaii’s Best: Plan a Better Hawaii Vacation episodes

July 25, 20245 Mistakes When Planning a Trip to Hawaii
Join us as we explore the top five mistakes travelers make when planning their trip to Hawaii. Host Bryan Murphy shares not only the common pitfalls but also offers expert advice and actionable tips to ensure your Hawaiian adventure is as perfect as the postcards. From overpacking your itinerary to underestimating costs, tune in to learn how to navigate your journey thoughtfully and make the most out of your visit to the islands.

What we discuss:
Overpacking the itinerary and its impact on enjoying a Hawaii trip.
Ignoring local advice and warnings, including respecting 'Kapu' signs and safety flags.
Underestimating the costs associated with traveling to Hawaii, including accommodation and dining.
The importance of sun protection due to Hawaii's strong equatorial sun.
The benefits of exploring local Hawaiian cuisine instead of defaulting to familiar chain restaurants.
Engaging with local communities and culture for a more authentic Hawaiian experience.

Resources mentioned in this episode:
Email for feedback and suggestions: aloha [at] hawaiisbesttravel.com
Blog post on the ancient Kapu system
Website for further resources: Hawaii's Best Travel

👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here.

Episode sponsored by Terraformation.
Terraformation is restoring a native Hawaiian forest at ʻIole in North Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island (the Big Island). Your support helps native trees grow from seed to canopy. As the forest takes root, it helps restore habitat and protect Hawaiʻi’s water and reefs.
🌳 Help grow the forest: hawaii.startaforest.com
Use promo code BEST for 15% off your first month or first year.
_
🌴 Plan Your Hawaii Trip With Bryan
About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan respectful Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & cultural insight.
Let's connect on Instagram
Join the Visiting Hawaii Facebook Group
Grab 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)
19 min
July 17, 2024Ultimate Guide to Island Hopping in Hawaii: Best Travel Tips and Must-Visit Spots
Let's explore the essentials of island hopping in Hawaii! In this episode, we discuss the best travel methods between the islands, provide vital tips, and highlight must-visit locations to help you craft your perfect Hawaii vacation. Join us as we explore how to navigate your island adventure smoothly, respect the local culture, and make the most of your trip to Hawaii.

What we discuss in this episode:
Efficient methods for island hopping in Hawaii: flying, cruising, and taking the ferry.
Key tips for planning an island-hopping itinerary, including booking early and respecting local culture.
Highlights of must-visit attractions on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.
Practical advice on transportation options in Oahu without renting a car.
Seasonal travel tips for visiting Hawaii in the winter months.
Cultural respect and engagement with Hawaiian traditions during your visit.
Listener Q&A addressing common concerns and tips for travelers to Hawaii.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Episode with Kamaka Dias
Episode with Son of Oahu, Elijah McShane
Winter in Hawaii
👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here: hawaiisbesttravel.com/125

Episode sponsored by Terraformation.
Terraformation is restoring a native Hawaiian forest at ʻIole in North Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island (the Big Island). Your support helps native trees grow from seed to canopy. As the forest takes root, it helps restore habitat and protect Hawaiʻi’s water and reefs.
🌳 Help grow the forest: hawaii.startaforest.com
Use promo code BEST for 15% off your first month or first year.
_
🌴 Plan Your Hawaii Trip With Bryan
About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan respectful Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & cultural insight.
Let's connect on Instagram
Join the Visiting Hawaii Facebook Group
Grab 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)
15 min
July 10, 2024Keep it Aloha: How to Engage with Hawaiian Culture Responsibly with Kamaka Dias
Kamaka Dias, advocate for Hawaiian culture, joins the show! We talk story about his journey from growing up in Hilo to his transformative experiences with the Peace Corps in Madagascar. The conversation delves into the principles of living and traveling with 'Keep it Aloha,' his efforts in supporting local businesses through HawaiiVerse, and the importance of cultural sensitivity and reciprocity.

What we discuss with Kamaka Dias:
Kamaka Dias' upbringing and education in Hawaii
His experiences abroad and with the Peace Corps
Cultural insights and identity shifts
The Race to 50K to pay off student loans
Development of HawaiiVerse and its impact
Principles of "Keep it Aloha"
Supporting local businesses
Ethical tourism and cultural sensitivity
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Keep it Aloha Website
Apple Podcasts
Instagram
Spotify
YouTube
👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here: https://hawaiisbesttravel.com/keep-it-aloha-kamaka-dias/
Episode sponsored by Terraformation.
Terraformation is restoring a native Hawaiian forest at ʻIole in North Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island (the Big Island). Your support helps native trees grow from seed to canopy. As the forest takes root, it helps restore habitat and protect Hawaiʻi’s water and reefs.
🌳 Help grow the forest: hawaii.startaforest.com
Use promo code BEST for 15% off your first month or first year.
_
🌴 Plan Your Hawaii Trip With Bryan
About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan respectful Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & cultural insight.
Let's connect on Instagram
Join the Visiting Hawaii Facebook Group
Grab 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)
41 min
May 23, 2024Hawaii in the Summertime: Top Activities and Events You Can’t Miss
Hawaii in the summertime! 😎 Explore top activities, vibrant events, and essential travel tips. Discover the best beaches, hikes, and cultural experiences to make your Hawaiian summer vacation unforgettable.

What we discuss on this episode:
Overview of Hawaii's summer weather
Importance of experiencing more than just beaches
Top summer activities
Key summer events and festivals:
Packing essentials for a summer vacation in Hawaii
Tips for enjoying longer daylight hours and trade winds
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Reef-Safe Sunscreen Guide
Previous episode of King Kamehameha Day
Previous episode of Made in Hawaii Festival, Part 1 & Part 2
👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here: https://hawaiisbesttravel.com/hawaii-in-the-summertime-podcast/

Episode sponsored by Terraformation.
Terraformation is restoring a native Hawaiian forest at ʻIole in North Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island (the Big Island). Your support helps native trees grow from seed to canopy. As the forest takes root, it helps restore habitat and protect Hawaiʻi’s water and reefs.
🌳 Help grow the forest: hawaii.startaforest.com
Use promo code BEST for 15% off your first month or first year.
_
🌴 Plan Your Hawaii Trip With Bryan
About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan respectful Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & cultural insight.
Let's connect on Instagram
Join the Visiting Hawaii Facebook Group
Grab 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
May 09, 2024Turo Hawaii Adventures: Family Travel Tips from Jena Carvalho for Mother's Day
Jena Carvalho, a dynamic Turo host on Oahu, joins the show! We talk story about her experience managing a thriving Turo business while balancing her roles as a medical staff director and mother of seven. The conversation illuminates the complexities of peer-to-peer car sharing, the impact on local Hawaiian communities, and how Turo supports responsible tourism and local entrepreneurship.

What we discuss with Jena Carvalho and Leonani Puailihau:

Resources mentioned in this episode:
Turo's Website
Jena's Turo Page
👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here: https://hawaiisbesttravel.com/turo-mothers-day/
Episode sponsored by Terraformation.
Terraformation is restoring a native Hawaiian forest at ʻIole in North Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island (the Big Island). Your support helps native trees grow from seed to canopy. As the forest takes root, it helps restore habitat and protect Hawaiʻi’s water and reefs.
🌳 Help grow the forest: hawaii.startaforest.com
Use promo code BEST for 15% off your first month or first year.
_
🌴 Plan Your Hawaii Trip With Bryan
About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan respectful Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & cultural insight.
Let's connect on Instagram
Join the Visiting Hawaii Facebook Group
Grab 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)
43 min
May 01, 2024Lei Day in Hawaii Explained: History, Traditions, and Significance
Kumu Kahanuola Solatorio, Hawaiian language teacher, joins the show! We delve into the colorful celebration of Lei Day in Hawaii. From its rich history to vibrant traditions, discover the beauty and significance of this cherished Hawaiian tradition.

What we discuss with Kahanuola Solatorio:
History and Significance of Lei Day in Hawaii
Traditions and cultural heritage associated with Lei Day celebrations
Unique elements of Lei Day festivities on different Hawaiian islands
Making and giving of leis as a central aspect of the celebration
May Day celebrations in schools with hula performances and storytelling
👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here: hawaiisbesttravel.com/lei-day-hawaii-celebration-podcast
_
🌴 Plan Your Hawaii Trip With Bryan
About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan respectful Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & cultural insight.
Let's connect on Instagram
Join the Visiting Hawaii Facebook Group
Grab 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
April 11, 2024Top 5 Best Snorkel Spots on Oahu: What to Know Before Snorkeling in Hawaii
🤿 Dive into the top 5 snorkel spots on the island of Oahu. From the vibrant marine life of Queen's Beach in Waikiki to the serene turtle coves of the North Shore, host Bryan Murphy talks about the must-visit underwater destinations on Oahu.

Learn crucial safety and conservation tips to experience Oahu's breathtaking natural wonders responsibly. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Hawaii traveler, this episode will inspire you to embrace the island's aquatic adventures.

What we discuss on this episode:
Top 5 Best Snorkel Spots on Oahu
Safety and Snorkeling Etiquette
Importance of snorkeling with a buddy
Using reef-safe sunscreen
Spotting Hawaiian Sea Turtles
Explore responsibly and with respect
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Reef-Safe Sunscreen Recommendations
Snorkeling at Electric Beach Guide
Where to See Turtles on Oahu
Sharks Cove Guide
Snorkel Tours on Oahu
👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here: https://hawaiisbesttravel.com/best-snorkel-spots-on-oahu-podcast/
Episode sponsored by Terraformation.
Terraformation is restoring a native Hawaiian forest at ʻIole in North Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island (the Big Island). Your support helps native trees grow from seed to canopy. As the forest takes root, it helps restore habitat and protect Hawaiʻi’s water and reefs.
🌳 Help grow the forest: hawaii.startaforest.com
Use promo code BEST for 15% off your first month or first year.
_
🌴 Plan Your Hawaii Trip With Bryan
About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan respectful Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & cultural insight.
Let's connect on Instagram
Join the Visiting Hawaii Facebook Group
Grab 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
March 28, 2024Turo Hawaii: Transforming Hawaii Travel with Local Insights and a Look Back to the 2023 Maui Wildfire Relief Program
🚗 Catherine Mejia, Turo’s Senior Public Affairs Manager, and Leonani Puailihau, Turo’s Senior Community Relations Manager, join the show! We talk story about their pivotal roles in reshaping how travelers explore Hawaii with Turo. The conversation delves into the essence of Turo's peer-to-peer car sharing, its profound impact on local communities, especially following the Maui wildfires, and its deep-rooted commitment to fostering responsible tourism throughout the Hawaiian Islands.

What we discuss with Catherine Mejia and Leonani Puailihau:
Introduction to Turo and its role in Hawaii
The personal and impactful travel experiences Turo offers
Catherine Mejia and Leonani Puailihau's insights on Turo
How Turo supports Hawaiian communities and promotes responsible tourism
Turo's response to the Maui wildfires and community support initiatives
The benefits of choosing Turo for transportation needs in Hawaii
Engaging in responsible tourism through Turo
Turo's safety protocols and comprehensive insurance policies
The importance of the aloha spirit in Hawaiian tourism and Turo's embodiment of it
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Turo's Website
Turo on Facebook
Turo on Instagram
Turo on X
Turo on YouTube

👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here: hawaiisbesttravel.com/turo-hawaii-transforming-travel
Episode sponsored by Terraformation.
Terraformation is restoring a native Hawaiian forest at ʻIole in North Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island (the Big Island). Your support helps native trees grow from seed to canopy. As the forest takes root, it helps restore habitat and protect Hawaiʻi’s water and reefs.
🌳 Help grow the forest: hawaii.startaforest.com
Use promo code BEST for 15% off your first month or first year.
_
🌴 Plan Your Hawaii Trip With Bryan
About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan respectful Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & cultural insight.
Let's connect on Instagram
Join the Visiting Hawaii Facebook Group
Grab 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)
45 min
March 06, 2024Koloa Rum Company: What Makes Hawaiian Rum Unique?
Previously aired in 2019: Bob Gunter, President and CEO of Koloa Rum Company, joins the show! We talk story about his pivotal role in founding and developing Koloa Rum Company on Kauai. The discussion illuminates the rich history of sugar and rum production in Hawaii, the company's dedication to local sourcing, and its commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation.

What we discuss with Bob Gunter:
The historical significance of sugar and rum production in Hawaii
Bob Gunter's background and his role at Koloa Rum Company
The inception and evolution of Koloa Rum Company since 2009
The challenges and achievements in establishing the distillery
The vision and personal connection behind starting Koloa Rum Company
The importance of sourcing locally and supporting Hawaiian agriculture
The impact of local sourcing on sustainability and the economy
The unique challenges of manufacturing and business in Hawaii
Visitor experience and educational aspect at Koloa Rum Company
The future of rum production and sugarcane cultivation in Hawaii
The concept of leading a business with aloha and its importance
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Koloa Rum Website
Koloa Rum Facebook
Koloa Rum Instagram
👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here: https://hawaiisbesttravel.com/koloa-rum-company-podcast
Episode sponsored by Terraformation.
Terraformation is restoring a native Hawaiian forest at ʻIole in North Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island (the Big Island). Your support helps native trees grow from seed to canopy. As the forest takes root, it helps restore habitat and protect Hawaiʻi’s water and reefs.
🌳 Help grow the forest: hawaii.startaforest.com
Use promo code BEST for 15% off your first month or first year.
_
🌴 Plan Your Hawaii Trip With Bryan
About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan respectful Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & cultural insight.
Let's connect on Instagram
Join the Visiting Hawaii Facebook Group
Grab 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)
30 min
February 14, 2024Discovering the Best Hawaiian Plate Lunch in Southern California
Originally aired in May 2023. In a captivating episode of "Hawaii's Best," you're taken to North Shore Plate Lunch in Norco, California, where hosts Damon Leiataua and Duane Anderson share their journey from a catering business to opening a restaurant that brings Hawaiian cuisine to the mainland. Inspired by a meaningful trip to Hawaii, they decided to create a space where the community could experience authentic Hawaiian plate lunches like garlic shrimp and loco moco, all while planning to expand their unique brand of island hospitality further across Southern California.
The story is a blend of culture, cuisine, and ambition, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in their dishes and the dream of spreading Aloha spirit far from the shores of Hawaii. As you listen, you're reminded of the strong ties to heritage and family that drive their venture, illustrating how food can bridge distances and bring people together, encapsulating the essence of Hawaii's warm embrace, even in the heart of "Horsetown USA."

Get the show notes here: https://hawaiisbesttravel.com/hawaiian-plate-lunch-so-cal/
Episode sponsored by Terraformation.
Terraformation is restoring a native Hawaiian forest at ʻIole in North Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island (the Big Island). Your support helps native trees grow from seed to canopy. As the forest takes root, it helps restore habitat and protect Hawaiʻi’s water and reefs.
🌳 Help grow the forest: hawaii.startaforest.com
Use promo code BEST for 15% off your first month or first year.
_
🌴 Plan Your Hawaii Trip With Bryan
About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan respectful Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & cultural insight.
Let's connect on Instagram
Join the Visiting Hawaii Facebook Group
Grab 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)
38 min

About Hawaii Travel Podcast by Hawaii’s Best: Plan a Better Hawaii Vacation

From the publisher's feed

Planning a Hawaii vacation or just love Hawaii? Hawaii’s Best is the top Hawaii travel podcast that helps you decide where to stay, what to do, and how to build a trip that feels like a…