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

256 Episodes

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Kauai Is Welcoming Visitors Back. But Are Travelers Returning?

2026-10-0210:17

Kauai is welcoming visitors back after Hurricane Lowell, but travelers have been much slower to return. In this episode, I break down what the latest passenger numbers actually show, why they should not be confused with official visitor counts, and what this next stage of recovery means for local businesses and anyone with a Kauai trip coming up. I also cover what’s currently open, which major parks and outdoor areas remain closed, the latest guidance for visitors, and why supporting business...

Are Visitors Welcome in Hawaii? What 5 Native Hawaiians Have to Say

2026-09-2914:05

Are visitors welcome in Hawaii? After years of mixed messages around tourism, that’s a question a lot of travelers are still quietly asking. In this episode, I went back through conversations I’ve had with five Native Hawaiians and listened again to what they’ve shared about visitors, respect, the land, and what it means to visit Hawaii knowing that you’re stepping into someone else’s home. I’m not Hawaiian, and I’m not trying to speak for Hawaii. Instead, I want their voices to lead this con...

Why Fall Is Still My Favorite Time to Visit Hawaii

2026-09-2511:40

Could fall still be my favorite time to visit Hawaii after one of the most unusual hurricane seasons in years? 👉 FREE Hawaii during fall guide -> If you’re planning a fall trip, the real question isn’t whether September, October, or November is perfect, but whether the pace, weather, crowds, and tradeoffs fit the kind of trip you want. 👉 Hit play now to hear why I still choose fall and the specific window I’d pick if I could travel anytime. If you’ve ever wondered how to plan a Hawaii trip...

Kauai After Hurricane Lowell: A Local Perspective on Recovery and How to Help

2026-09-2216:01

Kauai is welcoming visitors back after Hurricane Lowell, but recovery is still uneven. In this episode, I’m joined by Meghann Kealoha Matsuda, a lifelong Kauai resident, entrepreneur, and community organizer who has been directly involved in recovery efforts on the island. We talk about what things actually look like on the ground right now, which areas are reopening, where visitors still need to be cautious, and what people with upcoming Kauai trips should know before they go. Meghann also s...

The Oahu Tourist Traps 1,000 Travelers Say to Skip

2026-09-1515:47

Which Oahu 'tourist traps' are actually worth skipping, and which ones are still worth your time? In this episode, I break down some of the most commonly debated Oahu spots, including Dole Plantation, the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet, Waikiki, luaus, Pearl Harbor, Waimea Valley, and more. I also share results from a listener poll on the most overrated Oahu attractions and explain where I agree, where I don’t, and what I’d do instead. Plus, I share a quick Kauai travel update following Hurricane Lo...

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