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

January 31, 2024First Time to Hawaii: An Unforgettable Beginner's Guide to the Islands
Join host, Bryan Murphy, as he takes you on an immersive journey in today's show! Dive deep into crafting your ultimate beginner's guide to Hawaii. Discover the distinct essence of each Hawaiian island, learn the secrets of balancing adventure with relaxation, and find out how to authentically immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture. Get insightful tips on navigating your first Hawaiian adventure, from expert itinerary planning to embracing the local aloha spirit, all while emphasizing the importance of responsible tourism in this island paradise.

What we discuss in this episode:
Unique characteristics of each Hawaiian island
Planning the perfect duration for a first-time trip to Hawaii
Embracing and respecting Hawaiian culture and traditions
Must-visit spots and activities on each island
Navigating common tourist pitfalls in Hawaii
Weather considerations and packing tips for Hawaii
Balancing adventure with relaxation in Hawaii
Experiencing the Hawaiian lifestyle and local cuisine
Responsible tourism and environmental care in Hawaii
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
First trip to Hawaii - article
How to travel with aloha - podcast
Things to know before visiting Hawaii - podcast
What does kapu mean? - article
Reef-safe sunscreens - article
Things to know about planning a trip - article
👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here: https://hawaiisbesttravel.com/episode116
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
January 17, 2024Exploring the Overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom
In this episode, host Bryan Murphy from Hawaii's Best Travel recounts the historical events leading to the 1893 overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in a fascinating narrative encompassing the Kingdom's inception under King Kamehameha I through to its end following a coup by American businessmen and missionaries heavily involved in Hawaii’s sugar industry. The narrative underscores the significant cultural, political, and demographic shifts that Hawaii underwent and discusses the profound, lasting impacts these events had on Hawaii’s social, political, and cultural fabric. Listeners also gain an understanding of the importance of being aware of Hawaii's history and respecting its culture and heritage when traveling to these unique islands.

What we discuss with Ekolu Lindsey:
The Overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom: A Historical Context
The Rise of the Sugar Industry and its Impact
The Reign of King Kalakaua and the Bayonet Constitution
Queen Liliuokalani's Reign and the Overthrow
The Aftermath of the Overthrow and the Push for Annexation
Reflections on the Overthrow and its Legacy
👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here.
_
🌴 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)
20 min
November 22, 2023Volunteer on Maui: Inside the Valley Where Ancient Hawaii Still Thrives with Maui Cultural Lands
Ekolu Lindsey, leader of Maui Cultural Lands, joins the show! We talk story about the origin of this organization founded by his father to protect native Hawaiian cultural resources. The conversation explores the history and significance of Honokowai Valley, Ekolu's unique perspective on concepts like kupono and aloha, the complex dynamics of tourism reopening in Maui, and his recommendations for how visitors can engage respectfully and give back.

What we discuss with Ekolu Lindsey:
Origin story of Maui Cultural Lands and its mission to preserve Hawaiian history
Importance of valleys like Honokowai as agricultural hubs feeding ancient communities
Educating visitors on planes about respecting Hawaii's natural resources
Concepts like kupono, malama, and kokua that shape Hawaiian values
Experience and impact of volunteering at Maui Cultural Lands
Passing on an appreciation of native ecosystems to future generations
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Maui Cultural Lands website
Blog post: Thanksgiving in Hawaii
Blog post: 9 Unique Ways to Volunteer on Kauai
👉 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)
47 min
November 01, 2023Discovering Pizza Madness on Maui: Changing Lives One Slice at a Time
Emma Wheatley, from Pizza Madness Maui, graces our episode! Dive deep as we talk story about this beloved eatery in Kihei. Listen in for mouth-watering pizza tales, the challenges faced, and their inspiring pay-it-forward initiative.

What we discuss with Emma Wheatley:
Unique pizza recipes that set them apart.
Business challenges faced in the Maui market.
Pay-it-forward program for those affected by the Maui fires.
The significance of sourcing local ingredients.
Tips for visitors dining at Pizza Madness Maui.
Emma's favorite pizza recommendations.
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Pizza Madness Website
Pizza Madness Instagram
👉 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)
25 min
October 25, 2023Top 5 Kauai Experiences You Won't Forget!
On this episode, we dive deep into Kauai's hidden treasures, from tubing escapades and lush gardens to local culinary delights. This episode offers insights into the authentic Hawaiian culture, captivating landscapes, and unforgettable experiences awaiting on Kauai. Join us as we uncover the Garden Isle's magic.

What we discuss on this episode:
Unique experiences on Kauai for unforgettable memories.
The one-of-a-kind tubing adventure in Kauai's sugar plantations with Kauai Backcountry Adventures.
Visiting Limahuli Garden and Preserve, showcasing over a thousand plant species and traditional Hawaiian cultural sites.
The program at Kauai Humane Society allowing visitors to take shelter dogs on day trips around the island.
A food tour in Hanalei: meeting chefs, tasting local cuisine, and understanding the island's culinary traditions.
Tasting the flavors of Hawaii at Koloa Rum Company, from traditional to tropical rum varieties.
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Blog Post: 29 Best Things to Do on Kauai
Episode with Koloa Rum's President
👉 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)
12 min
October 18, 20235 Surprising Facts About Oahu That Will Change the Way You See the Island
On this solo episode, we dive deep into the captivating tales and lesser-known stories of Oahu. This episode uncovers the island's hidden gems, from its royal ties to the intriguing legend of the guardian bird. Join us as we explore interesting Oahu facts and discover a side of paradise you've never seen before.

What we discuss on this episode:
The unique indigenous bird of Oahu and its cultural significance.
Controversies surrounding the Kaena Point Space Force Satellite Tracking Station.
Significance of the Nuuanu Pali Lookout and its pivotal role in Hawaiian history.
Ancient Hawaiian heiaus (temples) and their cultural importance.
The transformation of Waikiki from a royal retreat to a world-famous tourist destination.
👉 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)
14 min
October 11, 2023Why Your Hawaiian Trip is Incomplete Without Embracing the Spirit of Aloha! With Guest Elijah Kalā
👉 Elijah Kalā, a voice of the Hawaiian community, joins the show! We talk story about the essence of traveling with aloha in Hawaii. The conversation delves into the heart of authentic Hawaiian experiences, community engagement, and the evolution of Aloha.

What we discuss with Elijah Kalā:
How to be a part of the Hawaiian community while vacationing.
Tangible ways to give back to the Hawaiian community during a trip.
The true spirit of Aloha.
Understanding and respecting Hawaiian cultural values for an authentic experience.
The need for visitors to embody Hawaiian principles for a better experience.
How travelers' mindset impacts the community of Lahaina and all of Hawaii.
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Elijah's Instagram
awakenedaloha.org
evolutionofaloha.com
nakiaiomaui.org
Lahaina Strong Instagram
helpmauirise.org
👉 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)
41 min
October 04, 2023West Maui Reopening...already? What to Know About the Phased Reopening
Today, we dive deep into the West Maui reopening debate! We explore the delicate balance between tourism and the Lahaina community's healing after the tragic fires. This episode uncovers the phased reopening strategy, local grassroots movements, and the importance of traveling with Aloha in Hawaii.

What we discuss in this episode:
West Maui's phased reopening
Local concerns about the reopening timeline
Lahaina Strong's grassroots movement and their demands
The structured three-phase reopening approach
Economic implications of reopening for Maui's tourism industry
Traveling responsibly and with aloha to Maui
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Hawaii's Best Website
Hawaii's Best Instagram
Episode 108: TravelAge West
Episode 106: Tutu's Pantry
Episode 105: Ululani's Shave Ice
Episode 103: Patrick Parker
👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here.
_
🌴 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
September 28, 2023Traveling to Maui Soon? What Every Hawaii Traveler Needs to Know from Travel Expert Mindy Poder!
✈️ Mindy Poder, Executive Editor of TravelAge West, hops onto the podcast! We discuss her insights on traveling to Maui, particularly during these times. Our conversation dives into the heart of local businesses, the changing travel landscape, and the responsibility tourists hold when visiting destinations like Maui.

What we discuss with Mindy Poder:
Impact of disasters on tourism and its revival.
Mindy's personal trip to Maui and her insights from the visit.
The delicate situation in Maui post-disaster and its recovery.
Examples of post-disaster tourism rebounds in global destinations.
The importance of responsible tourism and definitions surrounding it.
The role and advice of travel advisors regarding trips to Maui post-disaster.
The anticipated tourism trends for the fall and festive season.
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
TravelAge West Website
Mindy's Maui Article
👉 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)
34 min
September 20, 2023Should You Drive Maui's Road to Hana?
Weighing the pros and cons of driving independently or booking a certified tour, this episode emphasizes responsible tourism and respecting local communities. From charming towns to breathtaking landscapes, experience the wonders of Hana Highway while promoting sustainability and enhancing your journey.

-> Learn More Here <-

Episode Resources
In-Depth Blog on Driving the Road to Hana
Finding a certified Road to Hana Tour Guide
Hana Highway Regulation Code of Conduct
Full show notes are available here.
(Episode first aired on April 12, 2023)
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)
21 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…