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

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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

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💻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

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🤓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

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This Hawaii travel 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)

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

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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

Take the Survey

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👉End of the Year Listener Survey

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This Hawaii travel 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)

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

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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

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👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation

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• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

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This Hawaii travel 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 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

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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

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🤓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

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👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation

📲Connect

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• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

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This Hawaii travel 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)

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

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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

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👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation

📲Connect

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

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This Hawaii travel 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)

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

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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

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🤓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

_
👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation

📲Connect

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

_
This Hawaii travel 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 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

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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

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🤓Chapters:

• 1:24 Unique Hawaiian Christmas Traditions
• 2:03 Christmas Luaus
• 2:22 Outdoor Christmas Activities
• 3:48 Beach Celebrations and Sur

Take the Survey

_
👉End of the Year Listener Survey

👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation

📲Connect

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

_
This Hawaii travel 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)

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

_

👉Book Your 1-on-1 Hawaii Travel Consultation

📲Connect

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

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This Hawaii travel 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)