29 Locally Owned Spots to Eat on Kauai Guide

In this episode, you’ll discover 10 of the best locally owned restaurants on Kauai. Spots where the food is incredible and locals actually eat. From grab-and-go plate lunches to sit-down meals made with island ingredients, this list will help you skip the tourist traps and support the real food scene on Kauai. You’ll get insider tips, must-try dishes, and local advice for every stop. Become a member of Hawaii's Best: hawaiisbesttravel.com/members

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This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

Have you ever wondered what locals really want visitors to know before coming to Hawaii?
Most travelers focus only on beaches and bucket-list spots, but what really makes your trip unforgettable is connecting with the culture, supporting local businesses, and embracing the aloha spirit.

👉 Become a Premium Member of Hawaii’s Best
If you’ve ever wondered how to travel to Hawaii without being “that tourist”, this episode is for you. Learn how small acts of gratitude, supporting local businesses, and showing respect can transform your trip from just another vacation into something truly meaningful.
In this episode of our travel podcast, Kamaka Dias from Keep It Aloha shares powerful lessons on respecting Hawaiian culture, traveling responsibly, and connecting with the islands on a deeper level.
👉 In this episode, you will:

• Discover why gratitude and a simple shaka can go further than you think.
• Learn how to support local businesses across the Hawaiian Islands.
• Understand what it means to “Keep It Aloha” and travel with intention.

Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to learn how to keep your trip to Hawaii respectful, memorable, and full of aloha.
📱Connect with Kamaka:

• Instagram: @keepitalohapod
• Website: keepitaloha.com

🎧Related episodes:

• 5 Mistakes When Planning a Trip to Hawaii
• 3 First Day in Hawaii Mistakes to Avoid
• First Time to Hawaii

💻Related blog posts:

• Avoid These 10 Common Mistakes When Planning a Trip to Hawaii
• Top 9 Kauai Volunteer Opportunities

🤓Chapters:

• 2:32 Insights on Hawaiian Culture and Aloha
• 18:47 Embracing Aloha in Everyday Life
• 21:12 Understanding Local vs. Hawaiian Identity
• 25:05 Supporting Local Businesses in Hawaii
• 27:24 Future Vision for Hawaii

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• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

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This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

FREE Guide to the 10 Best Local Restaurants on Oahu

Looking for the best places to eat on Oahu? Beyond the resorts and chain restaurants, there are family-run spots serving dishes locals have loved for generations.

👉 Become a Premium Member of Hawaii’s Best

If you’ve ever wondered where locals actually eat and how food connects you to Hawaii’s culture, this episode is for you. Skip the chains, support the community, and make your trip more authentic.

In this episode, we count down the 10 best local restaurants on Oahu you can’t miss.

👉 In this episode, you will:
•Discover which neighborhoods are home to hidden gems worth the drive.
•Learn what makes these family-run restaurants so special.
•Understand how eating local supports families and gives you a more authentic Hawaii experience.
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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to hear the full countdown!

🎧Related episodes:

• Maui Food Guide Pt. 1
  • Apple | Spotify
• Maui Food Guide Pt. 2
  • Apple | Spotify
• bEASTside Kitchen
  • Apple | Spotify
• Oahu for the First Time
  • Apple | Spotify
• East Oahu Itinerary
  • Apple | Spotify

⎯

🤓Chapters:

• 2:07 Exploring the Top 10 Local Eateries
• 5:38 Highlighting Unique Experiences
• 10:28 Recap and Tips

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📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

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This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

Download your FREE "What to Pack for Hawaii" checklist!

Did you know that packing the wrong things for Hawaii can cost you time, money, and even your first day in paradise?

For many travelers, Hawaii feels like an easy trip to pack for, but there are a few must-haves and overlooked items that can completely change your experience.

👉 Unlock exclusive travel tips and bonus content by joining Hawaii’s Best Premium today.

If you’ve ever stressed about what to bring or what to leave behind, this episode is for you. Learn how to avoid common packing mistakes and discover the simple items that make your trip smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.

In this episode of our travel podcast, we’ll explore exactly what belongs in your bag for Hawaiʻi and why thoughtful packing helps you feel prepared, comfortable, and respectful of the islands.

👉 In this episode, you will:

• Find out the essentials that every traveler should pack for a Hawaii vacation.
• Learn about the smart extras that most people overlook but actually use all the time.
• Discover two bonus lifesavers that can save you money, stress, and those “why didn’t I think of that?” moments.

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to discover exactly what to pack for your Hawaii trip so you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying paradise.

🤙Resources mentioned:

• What to pack in Hawaii checklist

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🎧Related episodes:

• First Day in Hawaii Mistakes to Avoid
• Best Island to Visit in Hawaii

⎯

💻Related blog posts:

• Best Beaches in Hawaii
• Best Sunscreens for Hawaii

⎯

🤓Chapters:

• 0:44 The Importance of Packing Smart for Hawaii
• 2:08 Must-Have Items for Your Hawaii Trip
• 3:15 Essential Clothing for Hawaii
• 5:03 Footwear and Hydration Tips
• 6:19 Smart Extras to Enhance Your Trip
• 8:35 Bonus Tips and Conclusion

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• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

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This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

👉Download your FREE "How to Beat Post-Hawaii Blues" guide!

Did you know that 57% of travelers experience post-vacation blues, and Hawaii trips can hit especially hard?

You're not alone! This common phenomenon affects millions of travelers and can turn your post-trip glow into genuine sadness.

👉 Become a Premium Member of Hawaii’s Best

If you've ever wondered how to maintain that aloha spirit long after you've left the islands, this episode is for you. Learn proven strategies to soften that landing and keep Hawaii alive in your daily routine.

👉In this episode, you will:

• Discover how to prepare before leaving Hawaii to create a smoother transition home.
• Learn practical daily habits that keep the aloha spirit alive (including specific music, food, and decor recommendations).
• Get a clear action plan for maintaining excitement by planning your next Hawaiian adventure.

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to transform your post-Hawaii experience from crushing blues into lasting aloha that enriches your daily life.

🤙Resources mentioned:

• BetterHelp Therapy
• Post-Hawaii Blues Guide

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🎧Related episodes:

• Hawaiian Bath & Body Works
• Kamaka Dias - Keep it Aloha
• NoHo Home
• North Shore Plate Lunch

⎯

💻Related blog posts:

• Planning Your First Trip to Hawaii

⎯

🤓Chapters:

• (0:50) Understanding Post Vacation Blues
• (2:16) Step 1: Prepare Before You Leave
• (4:40) Step 2: Keep the Aloha Spirit Alive Daily
• (7:05) Incorporating Hawaii into Your Daily Life
• (9:50) Exploring Local Adventures
• (11:36) Step 3: Look Ahead with Excitement
• (12:10) Final Thoughts and Resources

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• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

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This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

FREE Guide for Avoiding Common Mistakes in Hawaii

What if the difference between being a respectful visitor and an unwelcome tourist in Hawaii comes down to just seven simple guidelines?

Hawaii isn't just a vacation destination. It's home to vibrant communities and fragile ecosystems that need protection. Yet many well-meaning travelers unknowingly make mistakes that damage coral reefs, disrespect sacred sites, or alienate local residents.

👉 Get insider access to responsible travel guides—subscribe to Hawaii's Best Premium!

Whether you're planning your first Hawaiian adventure or returning to explore deeper, this episode will transform how you experience the islands. Discover the seven most common visitor mistakes and learn practical alternatives that honor Hawaii's people, culture, and natural beauty.

👉 What you'll discover:

• Cultural awareness: Navigate local customs and language with confidence
• Safety essentials: Protect yourself while respecting Hawaii's powerful natural forces
• Mindful exploration: Find authentic experiences beyond typical tourist attractions

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Scroll Up and Hit play now and learn how small changes can make your Hawaiian experience more meaningful for you and the islands.

🎧Related episodes:

• Maui Food Guide Pt. 1
• Maui Food Guide Pt. 2
• Skip These Hawaii Tourist Traps

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💻Related blog posts:

• 5 Ways to Travel Responsibly to Hawaii

⎯

🤙Resources mentioned:

• NOAA Report
• 2020 Census

⎯

🤓Chapters:

• 2:18 - Hawaii Travel Mindset
• 3:18 - Respecting the Islands
• 4:31 - Staying Safe in Hawaii
• 5:55 - Local Culture & Etiquette
• 7:00 - Food, Fun, and Final Thoughts

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📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

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This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

Did you know many travelers  overlook September when planning their Hawaii vacation, missing out on one of the island's best-kept secrets?

For many visitors, Hawaii seems crowded and expensive year-round, but September offers a unique sweet spot that balances perfect weather, cultural experiences, and better value.

👉 Unlock exclusive travel tips and bonus content—join Hawaii's Best Premium today!

In this episode of our travel podcast, we explore why September might just be the perfect month for your dream trip to Hawaii.

👉In this episode, you will:

• Discover how September's weather offers warm, comfortable days with fewer crowds and ideal ocean conditions for swimming and snorkeling across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.
• Learn how you can find savings on flights and accommodations while enjoying more space on beaches and easier restaurant reservations.
• Experience Hawaiian culture through Aloha Festivals, canoe races, and local food events that only happen this time of year, while supporting local and practicing responsible travel.

⎯

Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to uncover why September might be Hawaii's best-kept secret and for travel hacks to make the most of your Hawaiian Islands getaway.

🤙Resources mentioned:

• Box Jellyfish Calendar
• Aloha Festivals

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🎧Related episodes:

• Hawaiian Culture with Kamaka Pili
• Hawaiian Words to Know with Kumu Kahanuola Solatorio
• Illegal Vacation Rentals

⎯

💻Related blog posts:

• Visiting Hawaii in September
• Best Months to Visit Hawaii

⎯

🤓Chapters:

• 00:52 Why September is the Best Month
• 4:12 Weather in September
• 7:56 Crowds and Costs in September
• 11:42 Cultural Events in September
• 14:10 Practical Tips for Visiting Hawaii
• 16:41 Responsible Travel and Conclusion

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• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

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This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

In this episode, you’ll discover why Niʻihau is the only major Hawaiian island you can’t visit, how it’s managed to stay closed to the public for over 150 years, and what makes life there so different from anywhere else in Hawaii. You’ll get a rare look at the traditions, access rules, and reasons this island has chosen privacy over tourism. Become a member to listen to this and so many more: hawaiisbesttravel.com/members

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• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

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This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

Grab the First-Day in Hawaii Checklist

Did you know simple first-day mistakes in Hawaii can derail your whole trip before day two even starts?

For a lot of visitors, the first 24 hours are packed with excitement—and that’s when avoidable slip-ups happen with ocean safety, jet lag, and logistics.

👉 Become a Premium Member of Hawaii’s Best

If you want to start smart and feel good from the moment you land, this episode is for you. You’ll learn how to set an easy, safe pace on day one so the rest of your vacation feels better.

In this episode of our travel podcast, we walk through the three most common day-one mistakes and give you simple fixes you can use whether you arrive in the morning, afternoon, or late at night.

👉 In this episode, you will:

• Learn when not to jump straight into the ocean and the quick checks to make before any swim.
• Beat jet lag and burnout with a light, flexible first-day plan that actually helps you enjoy more of your trip.
• Avoid rental car and check-in hassles with easy, money-saving logistics.

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Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to start your Hawaii vacation the right way—calm, safe, and ready for day two.

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🤙Resources mentioned:

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

⎯

🎧Related episodes:

• 10 Things I Wish I Would Have Known Before Visiting Hawaii
• 5 Common Mistakes Visitors Make Visiting Hawaii (from a Native Hawaiian)

⎯

💻Related blog posts:

• Planning Your First Trip to Hawaii
• 10 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens for Traveling to Hawaii

⎯

🤓Chapters:

• 1:11 The Importance of Your First 24 Hours
• 3:04 - Mistake #1
• 7:14 - Mistake #2
• 10:57 - Mistake #3
• 13:16 Bonus Tips for a Smooth Start
• 14:01 First Day Checklist and Resources
• 14:55 Join the Co

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📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

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This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

Download the HawaiianMiles to Atmos Rewards Checklist

Did you know HawaiianMiles are ending and some of the best perks for Hawaii travelers are going with them?

For years, HawaiianMiles made interisland and Hawaii travel more affordable and flexible, but with the launch of Atmos Rewards, many of those benefits are disappearing.

👉 Unlock exclusive travel tips and bonus content—join Hawaii’s Best Premium today!

If you’ve ever relied on HawaiianMiles for interisland flights, upgrades, or lounge passes, this episode is for you. Learn what’s changing, what’s staying, and how to prepare before the program shuts down.

In this episode of Hawaii’s Best, we break down the end of HawaiianMiles and what Atmos Rewards means for Hawaii travelers moving forward.

👉 In this episode, you will:

• Find out which HawaiianMiles perks are going away for good.
• Learn what Atmos Rewards is offering in exchange.
• Get a clear checklist of steps to take before September 25th.

⎯

Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play now to learn how these changes will impact your Hawaii travel and what to do before your miles disappear.

🎧Related episodes:

• Best Time to Visit Hawaii
• Top Hawaii Travel Questions Answered

⎯

💻Related blog posts:

• 10 Common Mistakes When Planning a Trip to Hawaii
• What is the Cheapest Month to Fly to Maui, Hawaii

⎯

🤓Chapters:

• 00:53 - Details of the Hawaiian Miles Program Ending
• 1:16 - Impact on Hawaiian Miles Members
• 3:33 - Key Dates and Actions to Take
• 5:09 - Loss of Benefits for Hawaii Travelers
• 7:30 - New Features of Atmos Rewards
• 11:16 - Checklist and Final Thoughts

⎯

✅ Official Sources

• Hawaiian Airlines – Loyalty Program Updates
• Hawaiian Airlines – Loyalty Benefit Changes
• Alaska Airlines Newsroom – Introducing Atmos Rewards

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📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

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This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)