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

Is spring break in Hawaii actually worth it, or are you setting your family up for a trip that costs way more than you planned?

👉 Hit play now and walk away with a money-saving strategy that could put $500 back in your pocket before your trip is even halfway over.

If you've ever wondered how to pull off a spring break Hawaii trip without blowing your budget, this episode is for you. Bryan breaks down exactly what to expect so you can plan with confidence and avoid the surprises that catch most families off guard.

In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we unpack the real cost of a spring break Hawaii vacation in 2026 so you can plan smarter, spend less, and actually enjoy the trip.

👉 In this episode, you will:

• Learn what a spring break trip to Hawaii actually costs for a family of four in 2026, including lodging, taxes, rental cars, and resort fees
• Discover the critical 2026 vacation rental crackdowns, new parking laws, and booking timelines you need to know before you go
• Find out which island fits your family best and how to structure your days to avoid overspending on overcrowded attractions

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to find out exactly how to plan a spring break Hawaii trip your family will remember for all the right reasons.

🎧Related episodes:

• Maui vs. Kauai
• Oahu vs. Maui

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💻Related blog posts:

• Spring Break in Hawaii Guide
• Hawaii in March
• Hawaii in April

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🤓Chapters:

• 1:18 What Hawaii Spring Break Looks Like
• 2:34 Peak Week and Arrival Tips
• 3:44 True Trip Costs Breakdown
• 5:18 Save Money on Food
• 6:24 2026 Travel Rule Changes
• 8:17 Choose the Right Island
• 10:02 Avoid Over Scheduling
• 10:45 Booking Timelines and Final Verdict
• 11:56 Wrap Up and Resources

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)

Are you planning a Hawaii trip but stuck choosing between Maui and Kauai?

👉 Maui vs. Kauai Decision Guide

These two islands couldn't be more different, and picking the wrong one for your travel style can cost you the trip you actually wanted.

If you've ever wondered how to choose the right Hawaiian island for your travel style, this episode is for you. Bryan breaks down both islands honestly so you can stop guessing and start planning.

In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we compare Maui and Kauai side by side so you can book the island that actually fits the vacation you're after.

👉 In this episode, you will:

• Learn why Maui suits first-timers, families, and couples
• Discover what makes Kauai genuinely different
• Get a straight side-by-side comparison covering accessibility, weather, crowds, and cost so you can decide with confidence.

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to finally know whether Maui or Kauai is the right island for your trip.

🎧Related episodes:

• Kauai Travel Guide
• Maui Travel Guide
• Island Hopping Guide

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💻Related blog posts:

• Best Time to Visit Kauai
• How Many Days Should You Spend on Kauai?
• Best Time to Visit Maui
• 5 Day Maui Itinerary

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🤓Chapters:

• 1:43 Key island differences
• 3:34 Maui highlights
• 6:04 Maui best for
• 7:15 Kauai vibe shift
• 7:58 Kauai must sees
• 10:54 Kauai best for
• 11:24 Side by side breakdown
• 12:59 Final pick and next steps
• 15:18 Wrap up

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)

Are you about to overspend on Maui activities that aren’t worth it while missing the island’s most incredible free experiences?

👉 20+ Maui Free + Paid Experiences

Smart travelers know that Maui’s best memories don’t always come with a hefty price tag, but knowing where to invest and where to save can make or break your vacation budget.

👉 Hit play now to discover which paid Maui experiences are worth every penny and which unforgettable activities cost absolutely nothing.

If you’ve ever wondered how to experience the best of Maui without draining your vacation fund, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we break down Maui’s top paid and free experiences so you can plan a memorable vacation without overspending.

👉 In this episode, you will:

• Discover which paid experiences are worth your money and which to skip.
• Learn our best free activities.
• Get the reservation requirements for sold-out experiences.

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan a budget-smart Maui vacation that balances unforgettable paid adventures with incredible free experiences.

🎧Related episodes:

• Maui Cultural Lands
• Top 5 Oahu Experiences

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🤓Chapters:

• 2:39 Paid Experience #1
• 6:13 Paid Experience #2
• 7:25 Paid Experience #3
• 8:12 Haleakalā Sunrise Reservations
• 10:03 Free Experience #1
• 12:48 Free Experience #2
• 15:09 Reservation Mistakes to Avoid + Final Planning Tips

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)

You spent thousands on a Hawaii vacation and still feel like something's missing.

It's not the beaches or the food. It's the language, the culture, the deeper connection that turns a vacation into something more meaningful.

👉 Hit play now to learn 26 essential Hawaiian words and phrases from a local language teacher so you can travel with respect and confidence.

If you've been looking for ways to connect more authentically with Hawaii beyond the tourist experience, this episode is for you. You'll learn the words locals use every day, what they really mean, and why they matter for responsible travel.

In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down essential Hawaiian language with cultural practitioner Kahanuola Solatorio so you can travel with deeper understanding and respect.

👉 In this episode, you will:

• Learn pronunciation and meaning of 26 core Hawaiian words from aloha to pau hana
• Understand cultural context behind terms like kapu, malama, and kamaaina that shape how you experience the islands
• Learn practical phrases for directions, dining, and daily interactions that show respect for Hawaiian culture

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to speak Hawaii's language and travel with authentic aloha.

🎧Related episodes:

• The Ban of the Hawaiian Language

💻Related blog posts:

• The History of Hawaii
• Ways to Travel Responsibly to Hawaii

🤓Chapters:

• 1:55 Common Hawaiian Words and Phrases
• 4:40 Understanding Hawaiian Terms for People
• 9:09 Significance of Land and Water in Hawaiian Culture
• 14:38 Practical Hawaiian Words for Visitors
• 16:53 Understanding Hawaiian Directions
• 19:04 Pronouncing Hawaiian Islands
• 24:16 Respecting Hawaiian Wildlife
• 26:50 Resources for Learning Hawaiian
• 28:15 Pau

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)

Think you can just wing it in Hawaii and figure things out as you go?

👉Free PDF: 20 Hawaii Travel Mistakes

This episode is for Hawaii travelers and people who love Hawaii who want to avoid the small planning mistakes that turn into wasted days, missed experiences, or real safety issues.

👉 Hit play now to learn the seven Hawaii travel mistakes most visitors don’t see coming, so you can protect your trip before those mistakes ever happen.

If you’ve ever wondered how to plan a Hawaii vacation that feels relaxed, prepared, and actually enjoyable, this episode is for you.

You’ll learn what catches people off guard and how to avoid the situations that leave visitors frustrated or overwhelmed.

In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we walk through seven Hawaii travel mistakes that consistently blindside visitors so you can make smarter decisions from day one.

👉In this episode, you will

• Learn why the ocean, especially right after flying, is more dangerous than it looks
• Understand how island hopping, overpacked days, and walk-up assumptions cost you time
• Avoid common reservation, weather, and cultural missteps that derail plans

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan ahead, avoid costly mistakes, and enjoy Hawaii with confidence.

🤙Resources mentioned:

• First-Day in Hawaii Checklist
• Hawaii Beach Safety Website
• ROPE Research

🎧Related episodes:

• Kamaka Dias from Keep it Aloha

💻Related blog posts:

• Island Hopping in Hawaii
• Kapu Article

🤓Chapters:

• 4:29 Mistake #1
• 6:47 Mistake #2
• 8:20 Mistake #3
• 9:54 Mistake #4
• 11:31 Mistake #5
• 13:00 Mistake #6
• 15:06 Mistake #7
• 16:35 Recap and Final Thoughts

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)

Are these common Hawaii travel tips actually costing you time and money in 2026?

🌺 20 Hawaii Travel Myths FREE PDF Guide

If you’re planning a Hawaii trip and relying on advice from blogs, social media, or old memories, some of what you’ve heard may quietly work against you.

👉 Hit play now to learn what’s changed, what still works, and how to avoid planning mistakes that can derail your Hawaii vacation.

If you’ve ever wondered how to plan Hawaii the right way without wasting days, money, or energy, this episode is for you.

You’ll learn which long-standing assumptions no longer apply and what to do instead so your trip feels smooth, realistic, and worth the effort.

In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we break down seven Hawaii travel myths that no longer hold up and explain how to plan smarter in 2026.

👉In this episode, you will:

• Learn when a rental car actually helps and when it becomes an expensive burden
• Understand why island hopping eats more time and money than most travelers expect
• Discover which rules, reservations, and seasons now shape what you can realistically do

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to avoid outdated advice and plan a Hawaii trip that actually works in 2026.

💻Related blog posts:

• Common Mistakes When Planning a Trip to Hawaii
• What Not to Do in Hawaii

🎧Related episodes:

• Ep. 209: Whale Watching
• Ep. 125: Island Hopping
• Ep. 206: Hawaii in 2026

🤓Chapters:

• 2:31 Myth 1
• 5:06 Myth 2
• 6:29 Myth 3
• 7:54 Myth 4
• 9:52 Myth 5
• 11:46 Myth 6
• 13:11 Myth 7
• 14:48 Wrap-Up

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)

Is whale watching in Hawaii just luck, or are most visitors doing it at the wrong time or in the wrong place?

If you’re traveling to Hawaii and hoping to see humpback whales, timing, location, and expectations make all the difference between frustration and an unforgettable experience.

👉 Hit play now to learn when whale season really peaks, which islands give you the best odds, and how to spot whales without booking the wrong tour.

If you’ve ever wondered how to plan whale watching so it actually fits your trip, this episode is for you. You’ll walk away knowing where to go by island, when to watch from shore versus a boat, and how to avoid common mistakes that leave people disappointed.

In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we break down whale watching in Hawaii so you can plan with confidence and enjoy the experience without stress.

👉In this episode, you will:

• Learn the best months and shoulder-season windows for seeing humpback whales in Hawaii
• Compare whale watching on Maui, the Big Island, Oʻahu, and Kauaʻi, including top shore viewing spots
• Understand boat tours versus shore watching, plus the rules that protect whales and calves

Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan a whale watching experience that actually lives up to the moment.

🤓Chapters:

• 1:09 Whale Watching Season: Best Times to Visit
• 2:42 Top Whale Watching Spots on Different Islands
• 5:17 Shore Watching vs. Boat Tours
• 7:34 Whale Behavior and Cultural Significance
• 8:54 Final Tips and Conservation Success

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)

Are you trying to plan a 7 day Oahu itinerary and worried you’ll miss key spots or book things in the wrong order?

🌺 FREE 7-Day Oahu Itinerary PDF Guide

Oahu looks simple on a map, but planning a smooth week in 2026 takes more thought thanks to reservations, timing, and how the island actually flows.

👉 Hit play now to get a day by day plan that helps you see more, stress less, and avoid common planning mistakes.

If you’ve ever wondered how to build a realistic Oahu itinerary that balances must do sights with meaningful experiences, this episode is for you.

You’ll learn how to structure your days so the trip feels full, not rushed, and actually works on the ground.

In this episode of Hawaii’s Best Travel, we map out a complete 7 day Oahu itinerary so you can travel smarter and enjoy each part of the island.

👉In this episode, you will:

• Learn how to plan each day from Waikiki to the North Shore and West Side without backtracking
• Understand which activities now require reservations and how to plan around managed tourism
• Get practical guidance on beaches, hikes, food stops, and cultural sites that fit together naturally

Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to build a 7 day Oahu itinerary that feels intentional, doable, and worth the trip.

🎧Related episodes:

• Ep. 132: Oahu for the first time
• Ep. 115: Overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom
• Ep. 130: Oahu windward itinerary
• Ep. 181: Local Oahu restaurants

🤓Chapters:

• 1:38 Navigating the 2026 Reservation System
• 3:14 Day 1: Arrival and Settling In
• 4:42 Day 2: Cultural Grounding in Oahu
• 7:04 Day 3: Exploring East Oahu
• 10:35 Day 4: Adventures at Kualoa Ranch
• 13:50 Day 5: North Shore Exploration
• 18:47 Day 6: Relaxing on the West Side
• 20:31 Day 7: Buffer Day and Final Thoughts
• 21:31 Wrap-Up

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)

Is your Oahu itinerary full, but you’re not sure which experiences are really worth your time?

For Hawaii travelers and people who love Hawaii, the hardest part of planning Oahu isn’t finding options. It’s narrowing them down without overscheduling or overspending.

👉 Hit play now to learn which Oahu experiences actually deliver the biggest return on your time, energy, and budget.

If you’ve ever wondered how to plan Oahu without turning your trip into a checklist, this episode is for you. You’ll hear how to choose a mix of free and paid experiences that feel meaningful, balanced, and doable for your group.

In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we break down 5 Oahu experiences that prioritize pacing, intention, and lasting memories.

👉In this episode, you will:

• Learn why slowing down on Oahu leads to a better overall trip
• Discover free experiences that feel just as rewarding as paid activities
• Understand how to build your days around culture, scenery, and energy levels.

Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan an Oahu trip that feels intentional instead of overwhelming.

🤙Resources mentioned:

• Now and Then Tours (Waikiki walking tour w/ Kamaka Pili)

🎧Related episodes:

• Waimea Valley
• Sunrise Shack
• Kamaka Pili
  • Part 1
  • Part 2

💻Related blog posts:

• Friendly Hikes on Oahu
• Best Luaus on Oahu

🤓Chapters:

• 2:03 Activity #1
• 4:12 Activity #2
• 6:28 Activity #3
• 8:11 Activity #4
• 9:52 Activity #5
• 11:08 BONUS
• 13:01 Wrap-up and Travel Tips

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)

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 experiences
• Learn the real cost breakdown, including new lodging taxes, shipping increases, and state park fees that add up fast
• Discover 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 Calculator
• Hawaii Travel Planning Consultation

🤓Chapters:

• 0:54 Personal Trip Experience and Initial Thoughts
• 2:18 The New Reality of Planning a Hawaii Trip
• 4:46 Understanding the Rising Costs
• 8:57 Addressing Anti-Tourist Sentiment
• 10:44 Final Thoughts and Planning Tools
• 13:58 Conclusion and Resources

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)