Hawaii Travel & Vacation Guide: Hawaii’s Best Things to Do in Hawaii & Hawaii Travel Tips
Dreaming of a Hawaii vacation that’s unforgettable, authentic, and stress-free? Hawaii’s Best Travel is the top Hawaii travel podcast helping you plan your Hawaii vacation from start to finish with the best Hawaii travel tips, things to do in Hawaii, and insider advice from local voices. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveler, this Hawaii travel and vacation guide helps you uncover the most memorable experiences across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, Lanai, and Molokai. Each episode features practical Hawaii travel planning advice, cultural insights, and expert recommendations so you can explore the islands responsibly and with confidence. Hosted by Bryan Murphy — Certified Hawaii Travel Expert and founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel — the show combines real-world experience with official training through the Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau. Bryan has visited the islands more than 30 times and remains active in Hawaii’s visitor industry. His guidance follows the principles of Ma‘ema‘e Hawai‘i, emphasizing authenticity, respect for natural resources, and regenerative tourism practices that care for (mālama) the islands. As one of the leading voices in Hawaii travel, Bryan provides practical Hawaii vacation planning strategies, Hawaii travel hacks, and budget-friendly recommendations that make exploring Hawaii simple and meaningful. You’ll also hear interviews with local residents, business owners, and cultural practitioners who share personal stories and Hawaii travel insights you won’t find in typical guidebooks. What you’ll discover on Hawaii’s Best Travel: • Top things to do in Hawaii and can’t-miss activities on every island • Up-to-date Hawaii travel news and visitor tips • Authentic food, culture, and traditions that define the Hawaiian Islands • Responsible and respectful Hawaii travel guidance aligned with local values Each week, tune in for concise, value-packed episodes and inspiring guest interviews that help you plan your Hawaii vacation with clarity and aloha. From learning how to visit sacred sites respectfully to finding the best Hawaii travel itineraries, you’ll gain insider knowledge that transforms your trip from ordinary to unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii or dreaming of your next island getaway, this is your trusted Hawaii travel guide to experience the islands authentically and responsibly. Subscribe to Hawaii’s Best Travel today and start planning your perfect Hawaii vacation. Tune in each week for concise, value-packed solo episodes and inspiring guest interviews to help your Hawaii travel planning!
Episodes
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 we...
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 y...
For many travelers, Hawaii is about beaches and hotels, but behind the beauty lies a way of life rooted in community, culture, and aloha ʻaina (love for the land).
👉 Unlock exclusive travel tips and bonus content—join Hawaii’s Best Premium today!
If you’ve ever wondered what everyday life on Lanai is really like and how those lessons can make your Hawaii trip more meaningful, this episode is for you. Hear from cultural pra...
Free Guide to Words to Know Before You Visit
The first thing you’ll meet in Hawaii isn’t the beach. It’s the language.
Learning a few real words helps you read signs, follow directions, and show respect from day one.
👉 Unlock exclusive travel tips and bonus content—join Hawaii’s Best Premium today!
If you’ve ever wondered how to read kāne/wahine restroom signs, what kapu means, or when to use makai and mauka, this episo...
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. Beco...
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 fo...
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 mak...
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...
👉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.
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If you've ever wondered how to maintain that aloha spirit long after you've...
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 ...
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 trav...
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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📲Co...
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...
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 ...
Ever feel like planning a Hawaii vacation is just too overwhelming?
In this episode, we break down the top 10 listener questions so planning your Hawaii trip feels less stressful — and a lot more exciting.
👉 Unlock exclusive travel tips and bonus content—join Hawaii’s Best Premium today!
If you’ve ever wondered how far in advance to book airfare, whether a $5,000 budget is realistic for a family, or if it’s OK to bring home lava rock...
Did you know you can see Oahu’s Windward side in just one day without feeling rushed or missing the best spots?
For many visitors, the east side is simply a scenic drive, but behind those stunning views are hidden beaches, lush gardens, and photo-worthy moments most travelers overlook.
If you’ve ever wondered how to plan a one-day itinerary that combines jaw-dropping scenery, local secrets, and perfect photo ops, this episode is for ...
Did you know visiting Hawaii at the wrong time could double your costs and leave you battling crowds at every turn?
Many travelers dream of the perfect Hawaiian getaway, but poor timing can turn paradise into an expensive, overcrowded nightmare that leaves you wondering what went wrong.
If you've ever felt overwhelmed trying to figure out when to visit Hawaii or worried about making costly mistakes this episode is your roadmap. ...
Ever found yourself stuck in a long line at a Hawaii “must-see” and wondered if you’re missing out on the real magic of the islands?
For many travelers, Hawaii’s top attractions seem like a dream come true, but beneath the hype, it’s easy to get caught up in crowded spots and miss what makes the islands special.
👉 Unlock exclusive travel tips and bonus content—join Hawaii’s Best Premium today!
If you want to skip the overrated and di...
Join us for a special members-only episode as you discover the true story of Duke Kahanamoku and the birth of modern surfing. You’ll explore how Duke’s courage and resilience transformed not just a sport, but the world’s understanding of aloha. Learn how you can be inspired by his journey—overcoming prejudice, introducing surfing to new shores, and leaving a legacy that continues to connect people across the globe. Become a member ...
Did you know most visitors to Maui miss out on the island’s most authentic experiences by sticking to the same two or three attractions?
👉 Unlock exclusive travel tips and bonus content—join Hawaii’s Best Premium today!
For many travelers, Maui is all about the Road to Hana and Haleakalā, but beyond the crowds lies a side of the island filled with local culture, hidden gems, and unforgettable adventures that rarely make it into guid...
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