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

Ever wonder why your Hawaii dollars disappear into big chains instead of the hands that actually shape the islands?

Supporting local businesses in Hawaii matters, but most visitors stick to resorts and miss the family-run spots that keep communities thriving.

👉 Hit play now to hear 9 local business owners share their stories and learn exactly how to support Hawaii's heart, whether you're visiting next week or shopping from home.

👉In this episode, you will:

• Hear directly from local owners about what responsible tourism actually looks like and why small businesses matter
• Discover where to shop, eat, and explore to keep your money in the community (from shave ice to ukuleles to home decor)
• Learn how to support these businesses online, even if you're not planning a trip anytime soon

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to discover the local businesses that make Hawaii feel like Hawaii and how you can support them this season.

🤙Businesses mentioned:

• 1:47 Tutu's Pantry - Episode
• 5:39 Lexbreezy - Episode
• 9:19 Patrick Parker - Episode
• 12:23 Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice - Episode
• 17:03 The Sunrise Shack - Episode
• 21:46 Margaritas - Episode
• 24:45 NoHo Home - Episode
• 29:57 Little Bird Photography - Episode
• 32:15 Kamaka Ukulele - Episode

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.

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🌴 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)

Free PDF Guide - "Oahu vs. Maui"

✨ New Service: Get Your Custom Hawaii Trip Plan

What if you won't know whether you picked the right island until your flights are booked and your money's spent?

Choosing between Oahu and Maui isn't just about beaches and resorts. It's about matching your vacation style to the island that'll actually deliver what you're after.

👉 Hit play now to discover the real cost differences, personality traits, and decision framework that'll help you pick the perfect island before you commit.

If you've ever wondered how to choose between Oahu's urban energy and Maui's laid-back luxury, this episode is for you. You'll learn the stuff most first-timers don't think about so you can book with confidence.

In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down the personality, cost, and logistics of both islands so you can match your vacation goals to the right destination.

👉In this episode, you will:

• Discover why Oahu costs roughly $1,500 less per week than Maui and where those savings come from
• Learn which island fits first-timers, families, honeymooners, and budget-conscious travelers
• Get 2026 updates on Maui travel following the West Maui fires and how tourism supports recovery

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to pick the island that matches your Hawaii vacation style and budget.

🤙Resources mentioned:

• Interactive Quiz - "Which Island Is Right for You?"
• Get Your Custom Hawaii Trip Plan

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🎧Related episodes:

• Maui for the First Time
• Oahu for the First Time
• Ultimate Guide to Island Hopping

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🤓Chapters:

• 1:31 Exploring Oahu: The Gathering Place
• 3:35 Discovering Maui: The Valley Isle
• 4:59 Cost Comparison: Oahu vs. Maui
• 6:55 Food and Activities: Budget vs. Luxury
• 9:53 Which Island to Choose?
• 13:38 More Hawaii 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)

What are the three planning mistakes most first-time Hawaii visitors don't see coming?

Planning your first Hawaii trip means navigating flights, islands, and accommodations—but the real pitfalls aren't what you'd expect.

👉 Hit play now to discover three under-the-radar mistakes that could derail your trip and learn how to avoid them for a smoother, more authentic Hawaii experience.

If you've ever wondered how to plan a Hawaii vacation that feels relaxed instead of rushed, this episode is for you.

You'll learn the most common planning traps first-timers fall into and exactly how to sidestep them before you book.

In this episode of Hawaii's Best Travel, Bryan unpacks three overlooked mistakes first-time visitors make so you can enjoy a more meaningful, stress-free Hawaii vacation.

👉 In this episode, you will:

• Skip the over-scheduling trap and learn how slowing down creates space for authentic island moments
• Connect with Hawaiian culture respectfully by supporting local businesses and visiting meaningful cultural sites
• Let go of weather anxiety and pick travel dates that work for your schedule and budget

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to skip the common first-timer mistakes and plan a trip that captures the true spirit of Hawaii.

🎧Related episodes:

• Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Families
• The True Meaning of Aloha w/ Kahanui Solatorio
• Hawaiian Words to Know Before Visiting

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💻Related blog posts:

• 23 Critical Things to Know for Planning a Trip to Hawaii
• 5 Ways to Travel Responsibly to Hawaii
• Best Time to Visit Hawaii

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🤓Chapters:

• 1:12 Travel News Update: FAA Flight Cuts and Shutdown Impact
• 5:47 Mistake #1
• 7:49 Mistake #2
• 10:26 Mistake #3
• 13:24 Final Thoughts and 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)

Are you flying to Hawaii in the next few months and worried the FAA's flight cuts could derail your trip?

With the government shutdown entering day 36 and 10% of flights being eliminated at 40 major airports starting today, Hawaii travelers face a uniquely tough situation because every West Coast hub feeding the islands is being cut.

👉 Hit play now to get the exact steps you need to take in the next 24 hours to protect your booking before rebooking becomes a nightmare.

If you've ever wondered how to prepare for major travel disruptions without losing money or getting stranded, this episode is for you.

You'll learn which airlines are waiving fees, why your travel insurance probably won't help, and what to do right now to position yourself for success.

In this episode of Hawaii's Best Travel, we break down how the FAA's phased flight cuts are impacting travel to and between the islands so you can make informed decisions about your trip.

👉 In this episode, you will:

• Discover which specific airlines are offering full refunds even on non-refundable tickets and how to take advantage of those policies before they change
• Learn why standard travel insurance won't cover government shutdowns and what type of coverage actually works if purchased within the right timeframe
• Get a clear action plan for what to do today, from enabling app notifications to deciding whether to reschedule or prepare for longer airport wait times

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to protect your Hawaii trip before the cuts reach 10% next week.

💻Related blog posts:

• FAA Flights Cuts in Hawaii

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🤓Chapters:

• 00:47 FAA's 10% Flight Cuts Explained
• 1:24 Government Shutdown and Its Effects
• 2:39 Impact on Hawaii's Air Travel
• 3:01 West Coast Hubs and Inner Island Travel
• 4:04 Airlines' Response to Flight Cuts
• 4:35 Travel Tips During Flight Reductions
• 7:28 Importance of Travel Insurance
• 8:45 Final Recommendations

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)

Free Guide: 5 Can't Miss Things to Do on Oahu

Are you about to waste money on overcrowded Oahu attractions that even locals skip?

Most families overspend on 'tourist traps' while missing the authentic experiences that create lasting memories, whether you're on a budget or ready to splurge.

👉 Hit play now to get the list of 5 must-do Oahu activities, plus insider booking strategies and free alternatives that rival any paid tour.

If you've ever wondered which Oahu activities are actually worth your time and money, this episode is for you.

You'll learn exactly how to book the best experiences, avoid the planning mistakes that drain your budget, and discover free activities that deliver unforgettable moments.

In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down the top five things to do on Oahu so you can plan a trip your family will remember forever.

👉 In this episode, you will:

• Master Hanauma Bay's new reservation system with two booking options, including a month-ahead strategy most visitors don't know about
• Discover a hands-on North Shore honeybee experience with 10+ honey tastings that works for kids, teens, and adults
• Unlock five unforgettable free activities, including a botanical garden entrance that's one of Oahu's most photographed spots

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to get the guide to Oahu's best activities and start planning your perfect island adventure.

🎧Related episodes:

• Oahu for the First Time
• 6 Must-See Sunset Spots on Oahu
• Waimea Valley

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💻Related blog posts:

• Visiting Oahu for the First Time
• 15 Free or Cheap Things to Do on Oahu
• HiHoney Farm Review

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🤓Chapters:

• 1:24 Booking Changes for Hanauma Bay
• 3:41 Top Activity #1
• 4:58 Top Activity #2
• 7:22 Top Activity #3
• 9:09 Top Activity #4
• 10:49 Top Activity #5
• 12:45 Bonus Tips and 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)

Free Guide: Visiting Hawaii in November

Can November actually be a good time to visit Hawaii, or will you end up stuck in rain and crowds?

If you're planning a Hawaii trip and wondering whether November is worth it, you need to know the truth about shoulder season timing, weather patterns, and how to avoid the Thanksgiving rush.

👉 Hit play now to discover why November offers some of the lowest prices and smallest crowds of the year, plus island-by-island weather breakdowns you won't find anywhere else.

If you've ever wondered how to plan a Hawaii trip that delivers sunshine, savings, and stress-free vibes without the summer chaos, this episode is for you.

You'll learn exactly when to visit in November, what weather to expect on each island, and which special events happen only during this month.

In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down November travel in Hawaii island by island so you can plan a trip with lower prices, fewer crowds, and still-warm weather.

👉 In this episode, you will:

• Discover why the first three weeks of November see 75% fewer visitors than peak season, with hotel rates at their lowest and flight deals you can actually use
• Learn island-specific weather patterns, from Maui's dry west side to Oahu's North Shore winter swells, plus exactly what to pack for each microclimate
• Access November-only experiences like the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, Triple Crown of Surfing, and the first humpback whale sightings of the season

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to plan your November Hawaii trip with insider timing, weather intel, and money-saving strategies that work.

🎧Related episodes:

• Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Families
• Best Time to Visit Hawaii

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💻Related blog posts:

• Ultimate Guide to Hawaii in November
• The Best Time to Go to Hawaii

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🤓Chapters:

• 1:39 Travel Updates and Federal Shutdown Impact
• 3:01 Weather and Crowds in November
• 8:05 Island-Specific Weather Insights
• 11:14 Events and Activities in November
• 13:16 Thanksgiving and Holiday Celebrations
• 13:50 Maui's Recovery Update
• 15:23 Conclusion 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)

Free PDF: Hawaii with Teens Survival Guide + 7-Day Oahu Itinerary

Traveling to Hawaii with teenagers isn't about dragging them through your dream itinerary. It's about finding the sweet spot between adventure and autonomy so everyone actually enjoys the islands.

👉 Hit play now to discover 10 field-tested strategies that turn eye rolls into genuine engagement and help you create those "this is why we came" moments your family will talk about for years.

If you've ever wondered how to balance freedom, downtime, and family connection on a Hawaii trip with older kids, this episode is for you. You'll learn practical ways to plan smarter, avoid the most common mistakes, and give your teens just enough independence to make the trip memorable for all the right reasons.

In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we break down exactly what works when traveling to Hawaii with teens so you can spend less time negotiating and more time making memories.

👉 In this episode, you will:

• Discover which island fits your family's vibe and how to let teens help choose activities they'll actually care about
• Learn the art of pacing your days so you avoid meltdowns, build in sleep and space, and still hit those wow-factor experiences
• Find out how to give teens freedom within boundaries, keep them fed and connected, and go beyond the beach to connect with Hawaiian culture

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to transform your Hawaii trip from stressful to unforgettable with strategies that work for the whole family.

🤙Resources mentioned:

• Free PDF: Hawaii with Teens Survival Guide + 7-Day Oahu Itinerary

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🎧Related episodes:

• What to Pack for Hawaii
• Volunteer at Maui Cultural Lands

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💻Related blog posts:

• Fun Things to Do in Hawaii with Teens
• What to Where in Hawaii

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🤓Chapters:

• 1:47 Choosing the Right Island for Your Family
• 4:29 Involving Teens in the Planning Process
• 5:35 Balancing Activities and Relaxation
• 7:19 Unique Experiences and Keeping Teens Engaged
• 12:52 Final Tips and Next Steps

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’ve seen a thousand “Hawaii travel hacks” online, but which ones actually work?

In this episode, you’ll discover 9 proven hacks locals actually use to save money, avoid crowds, and make your trip to Hawaii smoother and more authentic.

If you’ve been planning a Hawaii trip and feel unsure which advice to trust, this episode is for you. Bryan breaks down the hacks that truly deliver—tested by locals, verified by travelers, and perfect for anyone wanting a more authentic island experience.

In this episode of Hawaii’s Best Travel, you’ll learn how to travel smarter, spend less, and explore Hawaii with more confidence and aloha.

👉 In this episode, you will:

• Discover 9 real Hawaii travel hacks that actually save time and money.
• Learn which local tools and apps make exploring the islands easier.
• Get practical tips for traveling responsibly and enjoying a more authentic trip.

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to uncover the 9 Hawaii travel hacks that actually work—straight from the locals who know them best.

🤙Resources mentioned:

• HOLO Card
• GoHawaii App
• Go City Oahu Pass
• Foodland Maikaʻi Rewards
• Safeway Club Card

🎧Related episodes:

• Federal Shutdown Impact
• Shaka Guide Episode
• Turo Episode

💻Related blog posts:

• Ultimate Guide to Island Hopping
• Where to Find Parking in Waikiki
• Do I Need a REAL ID to Fly to Hawaii

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)

Grab the FREE guide to the best local food spots on Maui!
Did you know most visitors miss Maui’s best food because they stick to resort restaurants?
Locals know the real gems are tucked in Wailuku, Paia, Kihei, and Lahaina, and they’re worth finding.
If you’ve ever wondered where locals actually eat on Maui, this episode is for you. You’ll get real, firsthand tips from longtime Maui resident Liza Pierce on how to eat well, support local businesses, and skip the tourist traps.
In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we share the ultimate Maui food guide, featuring everything from iconic spots like Mama’s Fish House to hidden food truck finds and plate-lunch favorites.
👉 In this episode, you’ll:

• Find 25 local favorites across Maui that visitors often overlook.
• Learn how to plan your meals, avoid long lines, and save money.
• Get local etiquette tips so you can eat respectfully and travel with aloha.

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to get insider food tips from a Maui local and make every bite on your trip count.
📱Connect with Lisa:

• Instagram: @amauiblog
• Website: amauiblog.com

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🎧Related episodes:

• Leilani’s on the Beach
• Maui Brewing Company
• Tutu's Pantry

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💻Related blog posts:

• 10 Best Restaurants in Paia, Maui
• Best Coffee Shops on Maui
• Rethinking the Road to Hana on Maui

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🤓Chapters:

• 3:28 Exploring Wailuku's Local Eateries
• 5:06 North Shore's Culinary Delights
• 8:27 South Maui's Hidden Gems
• 15:49 Supporting Local Restaurants in Maui
• 17:32 Popular Dining Spots in Whalers Village
• 19:11 Must-Try Desserts and Breakfast Spots
• 25:11 Tips for Visitors 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)

Grab Your Free PDF Guide
With headlines everywhere creating confusion, many travelers are unsure what's actually open, what's closed, and how this impacts their carefully planned Hawaii vacation.
If you're traveling to Hawaii during the shutdown or have upcoming reservations, this episode cuts through the confusion with facts, not opinions. Learn exactly what's operating and what backup plans will save your itinerary.
In this episode of our travel podcast, we break down the current federal shutdown's real impact on Hawaii travel, from airport delays to national park access.
👉In this episode, you will:

• Know exactly what's open and what's not—from TSA operations to Pearl Harbor's nonprofit sites that remain accessible.
• Plan with confidence using official sources and smart backup options for Haleakalā, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and other federal sites.
• Cut through confusion with facts from the 2018 shutdown and reassurance about essential services continuing normally.

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to learn exactly what's open, what's limited, and the simple swaps that will keep your Hawaii itinerary on track.
🤙Sources:

• https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2025/09/30/how-federal-government-shutdown-impacts-hawaii
• https://thehill.com/homenews/senate/5530414-government-shutdown-funding-bills
• https://www.politico.com/news/2025/10/01/government-shutdown-national-parks-00123456
• https://www.doi.gov/shutdown
• https://crsreports.congress.gov
• https://www.kff.org/health-reform/issue-brief/
• https://www.gohawaii.com
• https://www.nps.gov/state/hi/index.htm
• https://www.recreation.gov

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🤓Chapters:

• 1:41 Current Situation and Immediate Effects
• 3:37 Travel Logistics During the Shutdown
• 4:30 State and County Parks Status
• 7:02 Federal Parks and Museums: What to Expect
• 9:10 Lessons from the 2018 Shutdown
• 10:17 Planning Tips and Final Thoughts

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🌴 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)