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

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 & CultureEducationLeisurePlaces & TravelHow To
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Hawaii Travel Podcast by Hawaii’s Best: Plan a Better Hawaii Vacation episodes

  • How Many Days Do You Need in Hawaii?

    Are you booking enough days in Hawaii, or are you setting yourself up for regret?

    Most travelers either cut their trip too short or waste half their vacation in airports trying to see too many islands.

    👉 Hit play now to discover the exact formula that matches your vacation days to your travel goals so you stop second-guessing your itinerary.

    If you've ever wondered how to choose the right trip length for Hawaii, this episode is for you.

    👉 In this episode, you will:

    • Discover why 7 days minimum accounts for travel time, jet lag, and actual beach days without rushing
    • Learn the one-week-per-island rule that prevents you from spending half your trip in airports
    • Match your trip length to each island's unique attractions

    _
    Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to stop guessing and start planning your Hawaii trip with confidence.

    🤙Resources mentioned:

    • First-Day in Hawaii Checklist
    • ROPE Research (snorkeling)
    • Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation

    _
    🎧Related episodes:

    • Should you drive the Road to Hana?

    _
    💻Related blog posts:

    • Best Time to Visit Hawaii
    • How Many Days Should You Spend in Hawaii?
    • Best time to visit: Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Big Island

    _
    🤓Chapters:

    • 1:16 First Trip to Hawaii: Recommended Duration
    • 1:29 Travel Time and Jet Lag Considerations
    • 3:37 Maximizing Your Time on One Island
    • 4:20 Benefits of a 10-Day Trip
    • 5:14 Exploring Multiple Islands on a Two-Week Trip
    • 8:21 Island-Specific Recommendations
    • 14:57 Budgeting for Your Hawaii Trip
    • 17:57 Additional 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)

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

    Are you planning your first Oahu trip but worried you'll miss the best spots or waste time on tourist traps?

    First-time visitors often feel overwhelmed by all the options, but with the right guidance, you can turn that stress into an unforgettable experience.

    👉 Hit play now to get essential tips, hidden gems, and practical advice that'll help you avoid the biggest mistakes and experience Oahu like a respectful traveler, not a typical tourist.

    In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down everything from booking flights and packing smart to exploring Diamond Head, the North Shore, and Pearl Harbor so you can make the most of your first visit.

    👉 In this episode, you will:

    • Discover the best times to visit, where to stay, and how to get around without overspending
    • Learn which beaches, hikes, and cultural sites are worth your time and how to experience them respectfully
    • Get insider tips on local food spots, farmer's markets, and authentic luaus that go beyond the typical tourist experience

    _
    Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan a stress-free, culturally respectful Oahu trip.

    🤙Resources mentioned:

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

    _
    💻Related blog posts:

    • Visiting Oahu for the First Time
    • Planning Your First Trip to Hawaii?
    • 23 Critical Things to Know for Planning a Trip to Hawaii
    • Avoid These 10 Common Mistakes When Planning a Trip to Hawaii
    • 10 Best Places to Visit on Oahu (Besides Waikiki)

    _
    🤓Chapters:

    • 1:26 Why Oahu is Perfect for First-Time Visitors
    • 2:49 Planning Your Trip: Flights and Packing Tips
    • 5:12 Respecting Local Culture and Getting Around
    • 7:04 Must-See Spots and Activities
    • 9:23 Food and Evening Activities
    • 10:42 Budgeting and Weather Tips
    • 12:40 Final Tips for an Unforgettable Trip

    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
  • 7 Day Kauai Itinerary for First-Time Hawaii Visitors

    Are you planning a week on Kauai but worried you'll miss the best spots or waste time on tourist traps?

    Balancing adventure, relaxation, and safety on the Garden Isle takes more than a generic checklist.

    👉 Hit play now to get a complete day-by-day itinerary that includes hidden gems, local favorites, and critical safety warnings you won't find in guidebooks.

    In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down a seven-day Kauai itinerary so you can explore responsibly and make the most of every moment on the island.

    👉In this episode, you will:

    • Discover must-visit beaches, waterfalls, and trails across the North Shore, South Shore, and Waimea Canyon with specific recommendations for every skill level.
    • Learn which dangerous spots to avoid completely, including Queen's Bath, Blue Hole, and Kipu Falls, and understand why locals discourage visiting them.
    • Get insider tips on kayaking the Wailua River, exploring the Napali Coast by boat, and experiencing authentic cultural sites like Smith's Family Garden Luau.

    _
    Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to build your perfect Kauai adventure with confidence and respect for the island.

    🎧Related episodes:

    • Koloa Rum
    • 10 Kauai Travel Tips in 10 Minutes

    _
    💻Related blog posts:

    • Best Time to Visit Kauai
    • How Many Days Should You Spend on Kauai?
    • 8 Best Snorkel Spots on Kauai

    _
    🤓Chapters:

    • 2:07 Day 1: Settling into Kauai
    • 4:51 Day 2: Exploring the North Shore
    • 7:32 Day 3: Hiking Adventures
    • 10:23 Day 4: Water Adventures
    • 12:57 Day 5: Relaxing on the South Shore
    • 15:35 Day 6: Nepali Coast and Alternatives
    • 19:09 Day 7: Cultural and Local Experiences
    • 21:34 Safety Tips and Hidden Gems

    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)

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

    Did you know Hawaii's tallest mountain beats Everest, or that your shadow can vanish twice a year?

    Most travelers miss the surprising truths that make Hawaii far more complex and fascinating than the postcard version.

    👉 Hit play now to discover 15 facts that'll completely change how you see the islands and help you plan a smarter trip.

    In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we reveal 15 surprising facts about Hawaii so you can understand the islands on a deeper level and prepare better for your visit.

    👉In this episode, you will:

    • Discover why Mauna Kea is actually the world's tallest mountain and how you can experience snow and beach weather in a single day
    • Learn about Lahaina Noon, the phenomenon where objects cast no shadow, and why Hawaii has no seagulls despite being surrounded by ocean
    • Understand Hawaii's microclimates and why packing layers matters, plus uncover the islands' unexpected cowboy heritage

    _
    Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to uncover the hidden truths that'll transform how you experience Hawaii.

    🎧Related episodes:

    • Overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom
    • Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Hawaii Trip

    _
    💻Related blog posts:

    • Things to Know for Planning a Trip to Hawaii
    • What Is the Best Island to Visit in Hawaii?
    • How Many Islands Are There in Hawaii?
    • What Not to Do in Hawaii: 27 Essential Tips

    _
    🤓Chapters:

    2:11 Fact 1
    3:10 Fact 2
    4:34 Fact 3
    5:58 Fact 4
    7:28 Fact 5
    8:07 Fact 6
    9:01 Fact 7
    9:36 Fact 8
    10:16 Fact 9
    10:48 Fact 10
    11:42 Fact 11
    12:15 Fact 12
    13:57 Fact 13
    14:27 Fact 14
    15:24 Fact 15

    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)

    20 min
  • NEW Hawaii 2026 Travel Changes Every Visitor Needs To Know

    What if the rules changed and nobody told you before you booked your Hawaii trip?

    Hawaii's still paradise, but how you visit in 2026 looks different, and missing these updates could cost you time, money, and access to the places you came to see.

    👉 Hit play now to get the full breakdown of every 2026 change that'll actually affect your trip, so you can avoid surprises and plan smarter.

    If you've ever wondered how to navigate Hawaii's new visitor rules without the guesswork, this episode is for you.

    You'll learn what's changed with costs, reservations, vacation rentals, and airlines, plus what to do right now to protect your plans.

    In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we walk through the 2026 Hawaii travel changes every visitor needs to know so you can plan confidently and enjoy your trip without unexpected roadblocks.

    👉 In this episode, you will:

    • Understand the new lodging taxes that'll add hundreds to your hotel bill and how to budget accurately
    • Discover which state parks now require advance reservations or entry fees before you arrive
    • Learn how to spot legal vacation rentals and navigate the Alaska-Hawaiian merger changes

    _
    Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to get every 2026 Hawaii travel update you need before you book.

    🤙Resources mentioned:

    • 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation
    • Maui's Housing Bill 9
    • How to Tell If Your Rental in Hawaii is Illegal
    • How to Save Money in Hawaii
    • Free Things to Do on Oahu for Families

    🤓Chapters:

    • 1:39 Rising Costs: New Taxes and Fees
    • 3:19 Reservation Systems: Plan Ahead
    • 4:54 Vacation Rentals: New Regulations
    • 6:40 Airline Changes: Mergers and New Policies
    • 8:43 Maui Recovery and Volcano Updates
    • 10:16 Recap and Final 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)

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

    What if the biggest mistakes I made in Hawaii weren't about what I did, but how I showed up?

    After 200 episodes and 30 trips, I'm sharing seven hard-won lessons that changed how I experience Hawaii and travel everywhere else.

    You'll walk away with a clearer sense of what respect really means, why slowing down creates better memories, and how to see Hawaii as more than just a backdrop.

    👉In this episode, you will:

    • Understand why Hawaii is a living culture, not just a vacation setting, and how that shifts your entire experience
    • Learn why planning ahead in 2026 protects your trip instead of limiting it
    • Discover how slowing down and exploring beyond Waikiki creates the memories that actually stick

    _
    Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to travel to Hawaii with more awareness, respect, and presence than ever before.

    🎧Episodes mentioned :

    • Episode 1 from 3/7/2019 (please be kind 🤙)
    • Kahanuola Solatorio
      • Hawaiian Language Ban
      • Meaning of Aloha
    • Kamaka Pili - Waikiki History
    • James Kiko - bEASTside Kitchen
    • Anela Evans - Life on Lanai
    • Kamaka Dias - Keep it Aloha
    • Andrew Fowers (Shaka Guide) - Maui Guide

    🤓Chapters:

    • 1:40 Understanding Hawaii as a Living Culture
    • 4:35 The Importance of Respect in Hawaii
    • 7:27 Slowing Down for Better Memories
    • 9:38 Exploring Beyond Waikiki
    • 12:14 The Importance of Planning
    • 13:43 How Hawaii Changed My Travel Perspective
    • 15:40 Hawaii as More Than Just a Trip
    • 17:58 Wrap Up and What's Next

    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)

    22 min
  • 10 Hawaii Travel Tips to Save Your Family Money in 2026

    Free guide to to Save Your Family Money in 2026 (10 more tips!)

    Are you making the most common money-draining mistakes families run into when planning a Hawaii trip in 2026?

    With rising costs and new fees starting January 1st, families are trying to stretch their budgets without watering down the experience.

    👉 Hit play now to discover 10 practical tips that'll help you save hundreds of dollars while still having an unforgettable Hawaii vacation.

    If you've ever wondered how to make your Hawaii trip more affordable without cutting corners on what matters, this episode is for you. You'll learn exactly which expenses to cut and which ones are worth keeping so you can spend your money on experiences that actually create memories.

    In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down 10 actionable strategies so you can avoid common budget traps and enjoy Hawaii like a local.

    👉In this episode, you will:

    • Discover how to save hundreds on flights and baggage by traveling midweek during shoulder season and packing strategically
    • Learn which free and low-cost activities deliver the best experiences, from beaches to hiking trails to farmer's markets
    • Master the art of eating well in Hawaii without resort markups by cooking simple meals and finding local food trucks

    _
    Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to stretch your budget further and still have an unforgettable 2026 Hawaii vacation.

    Book your Hawaii Travel Consultation

    🎧Related episodes:

    • Why Planning Your 2026 Hawaii Trip Feels Chaotic — And the Simple Fix
    • 9 Hawaii Travel Hacks That Actually Work

    _
    🤓Chapters:

    • 0:44 Planning Your 2026 Hawaii Trip
    • 2:02 Tip 1: Choose One Island
    • 3:55 Tip 2: Stay in a Condo and Cook Meals
    • 5:40 Tip 3: Shop Smart
    • 6:52 Tip 4: Eat Like a Local
    • 7:59 Tip 5: Pack Light to Save on Baggage Fees
    • 8:50 Tip 6: Free and Low-Cost Activities
    • 9:48 Tip 7: Utilize Hotel or Condo Perks
    • 10:35 Tip 8: Plan a No-Spend Staycation Day
    • 11:30 Tip 9 & 10: Travel in Shoulder Season and Fly Midweek
    • 13:48 Additional 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)

    17 min
  • Why Planning Your 2026 Hawaii Trip Feels Chaotic — And the Simple Fix

    Why does planning a Hawaii trip feel like you're drowning in browser tabs and contradictory advice?

    Most travelers don't realize how overwhelming Hawaii planning gets until they're second-guessing every decision and comparing endless hotel reviews.

    👉Plan your Hawaii trip with Bryan

    Hit play now to learn the five most common planning mistakes and the simple fixes that'll make your 2026 trip feel easier and more exciting.

    If you've ever wondered how to cut through the noise and build a Hawaii itinerary that actually works for your family, this episode is for you. You'll walk away with a clearer sense of what to focus on and what to skip.

    In this episode of Hawaii's Best, Bryan breaks down the top five planning mistakes travelers make so you can avoid stress and enjoy the trip you actually want.

    👉In this episode, you will:

    • Identify which sources to trust and how to stop information overload before it derails your plans
    • Match your itinerary to your family's pace instead of someone else's highlight reel
    • Respect cultural boundaries and stick to legal trails that honor Hawaii and its people

    _
    Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan a Hawaii trip that fits your rhythm and cuts through all the chaos.

    👉Start Planning Today!

    🤓Chapters:

    • 0:57 Understanding Hawaii's Unique Rhythm
    • 1:47 Top Mistake #1
    • 3:06 Top Mistake #2
    • 5:35 Top Mistake #3
    • 7:14 Top Mistake #4
    • 8:30 Top Mistake #5
    • 11:23 The Best Way to Plan Your 2026 Trip

    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
  • 5 Truly Free Oahu Activities Your Kids Will Love in Hawaii (No Hidden Fees)

    Think Hawaii's getting too expensive to enjoy with your family?

    With new fees hitting in 2026 and costs climbing across the board, it's easy to assume every experience on Oahu comes with a hefty price tag.

    🌺 Free Guide: Free Things to do on Oahu with kids (3 free bonus activities)

    👉 Hit play now to discover five completely free family activities on Oahu that deliver authentic Hawaiian experiences without the tourist trap prices or parking fees.

    If you've ever wondered how to stretch your Hawaii budget without sacrificing quality time with your kids, this episode is for you.

    You'll learn exactly where to go, what to bring, and how to experience the real Oahu without spending a dime.

    In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we uncover five free family activities across Oahu so you can create unforgettable memories without breaking the bank.

    👉 In this episode, we'll:

    • Explore a 400-acre botanical garden with peacocks, trails, and mountain views (completely free, no parking fees)
    • Discover protected tide pools, cultural classes, and a Saturday night hula show that locals actually attend
    • Hike a fully paved, stroller-friendly lighthouse trail with whale watching potential and panoramic coastal views

    _
    Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan your budget-friendly Oahu trip with five free activities your family will actually love.

    🤙Resources mentioned:

    • Guide: More FREE Things To Do on Oahu
    • Personalized Hawaii Travel Planning

    🎧Related episodes:

    • 5 Budget-Friendly Hotels on Oahu
    • Top 5 Snorkel Spots on Oahu
    • 6 Must-See Sunset Spots on Oahu

    _
    🤓Chapters:

    • 1:55 New Upcoming Fees and Taxes in Hawaii
    • 3:02 Free Activity #1
    • 6:09 Free Activity #2
    • 7:40 Free Activity #3
    • 9:06 Free Activity #4
    • 10:22 Free Activity #5
    • 13:24 A Few More Travel Tips
    • 14:19 Additional 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)

    17 min
  • What Christmas in Hawaii Is Really Like (and What to Expect)

    Have you ever wondered if Christmas in Hawaii is worth the hype or just another overpriced tourist trap?

    If you're dreaming of trading snow for sand this holiday season, you need to know what actually happens when Christmas meets the islands.

    👉 Hit play now to discover how locals celebrate Christmas Hawaiian-style and what you need to book months in advance to avoid missing out.

    If you've ever wondered how to experience an authentic Hawaiian Christmas without the tourist mistakes, this episode is for you.

    You'll learn exactly what to expect, from Santa arriving by outrigger canoe to Christmas morning surf sessions, plus the insider tips that'll save you money and stress.

    In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down everything about celebrating Christmas in Hawaii so you can plan the perfect tropical holiday without the guesswork.

    👉 In this episode, you will:

    • Discover unique Hawaiian Christmas traditions like Shaka Santa, beachside luaus, and how locals blend island culture with holiday spirit
    • Learn which Christmas events and luaus to book early (they sell out months ahead) and where to find the best celebrations on each island
    • Get practical planning tips for peak season travel, including when to book, what to pack, and how to save money while still catching all the festivities

    _
    Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan your Hawaiian Christmas the right way before everything books up.

    💻Related blog posts:

    • Ultimate Guide to Christmas in Hawaii
    • 10 Best Hawaiian Christmas Songs
    • Christmas on Oahu
    • Christmas on Maui
    • Christmas on Kauai
    • Christmas on the Big Island of Hawaii
    • Christmas in Honolulu
    • Top 10 Best Hotels for a Hawaii Christmas Vacation

    _
    🤓Chapters:

    • 1:24 Unique Hawaiian Christmas Traditions
    • 2:03 Christmas Luaus
    • 2:22 Outdoor Christmas Activities
    • 3:48 Beach Celebrations and Surfing
    • 5:02 Holiday Events Across the Islands
    • 5:57 Top Tips for Planning Your Hawaii Christmas Vacation

    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)

    10 min

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

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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…

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