Reflecting on Lahaina's resilience, this episode dives into the aftermath and recovery one year after the devastating wildfires. We explore the community's heroic efforts, the ongoing rebuilding, and the lessons learned from this tragic event. What we discuss: The historical significance of Lahaina and the impact of the 2023 wildfire Immediate community response and the role of local heroes Personal reflections on discovering the extent of the disaster Ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts in Lahaina, including challenges and progress Future strategies for disaster prevention and enhancin ..read more

Jalene Kanani Bell, visionary behind NOHO Home, joins the show! We talk story about her journey from hula performer to leading Hawaiian-inspired home decor. The conversation delves into cultural authenticity, design innovation, and her approach to sustainable business practices. What we discuss with Jalene Kanai: Jalene's journey from keiki hula performer to textile design leader The influence of Jalene's mother on her creative and entrepreneurial spirit Incorporating Hawaiian culture and values into modern home decor Challenges and rewards of maintaining cultural authenticity in business Su ..read more

Join us as we explore the top five mistakes travelers make when planning their trip to Hawaii. Host Bryan Murphy shares not only the common pitfalls but also offers expert advice and actionable tips to ensure your Hawaiian adventure is as perfect as the postcards. From overpacking your itinerary to underestimating costs, tune in to learn how to navigate your journey thoughtfully and make the most out of your visit to the islands. What we discuss: Overpacking the itinerary and its impact on enjoying a Hawaii trip. Ignoring local advice and warnings, including respecting 'Kapu' signs and safet ..read more

Kamaka Dias, advocate for Hawaiian culture, joins the show! We talk story about his journey from growing up in Hilo to his transformative experiences with the Peace Corps in Madagascar. The conversation delves into the principles of living and traveling with 'Keep it Aloha,' his efforts in supporting local businesses through HawaiiVerse, and the importance of cultural sensitivity and reciprocity. What we discuss with Kamaka Dias: Kamaka Dias' upbringing and education in Hawaii His experiences abroad and with the Peace Corps Cultural insights and identity shifts The Race to 50K to pay off stu ..read more

Hawaii in the summertime! ? Explore top activities, vibrant events, and essential travel tips. Discover the best beaches, hikes, and cultural experiences to make your Hawaiian summer vacation unforgettable. What we discuss on this episode: Overview of Hawaii's summer weather Importance of experiencing more than just beaches Top summer activities Key summer events and festivals: Packing essentials for a summer vacation in Hawaii Tips for enjoying longer daylight hours and trade winds Resources mentioned in this episode: Reef-Safe Sunscreen Guide Previous episode of King Kamehameha Day Previ ..read more

Jena Carvalho, a dynamic Turo host on Oahu, joins the show! We talk story about her experience managing a thriving Turo business while balancing her roles as a medical staff director and mother of seven. The conversation illuminates the complexities of peer-to-peer car sharing, the impact on local Hawaiian communities, and how Turo supports responsible tourism and local entrepreneurship. What we discuss with Jena Carvalho and Leonani Puailihau: Resources mentioned in this episode: Turo's Website Jena's Turo Page ? Full show notes and resources can be found here: https://hawaiisbesttravel.c ..read more

? Dive into the top 5 snorkel spots on the island of Oahu. From the vibrant marine life of Queen's Beach in Waikiki to the serene turtle coves of the North Shore, host Bryan Murphy talks about the must-visit underwater destinations on Oahu. Learn crucial safety and conservation tips to experience Oahu's breathtaking natural wonders responsibly. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Hawaii traveler, this episode will inspire you to embrace the island's aquatic adventures. What we discuss on this episode: Top 5 Best Snorkel Spots on Oahu Safety and Snorkeling Etiquette Importance ..read more

? Catherine Mejia, Turo’s Senior Public Affairs Manager, and Leonani Puailihau, Turo’s Senior Community Relations Manager, join the show! We talk story about their pivotal roles in reshaping how travelers explore Hawaii with Turo. The conversation delves into the essence of Turo's peer-to-peer car sharing, its profound impact on local communities, especially following the Maui wildfires, and its deep-rooted commitment to fostering responsible tourism throughout the Hawaiian Islands. What we discuss with Catherine Mejia and Leonani Puailihau: Introduction to Turo and its role in Hawaii The pe ..read more

Previously aired in 2019: Bob Gunter, President and CEO of Koloa Rum Company, joins the show! We talk story about his pivotal role in founding and developing Koloa Rum Company on Kauai. The discussion illuminates the rich history of sugar and rum production in Hawaii, the company's dedication to local sourcing, and its commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation. What we discuss with Bob Gunter: The historical significance of sugar and rum production in Hawaii Bob Gunter's background and his role at Koloa Rum Company The inception and evolution of Koloa Rum Company since 2009 The ..read more

Originally aired in May 2023. In a captivating episode of "Hawaii's Best," you're taken to North Shore Plate Lunch in Norco, California, where hosts Damon Leiataua and Duane Anderson share their journey from a catering business to opening a restaurant that brings Hawaiian cuisine to the mainland. Inspired by a meaningful trip to Hawaii, they decided to create a space where the community could experience authentic Hawaiian plate lunches like garlic shrimp and loco moco, all while planning to expand their unique brand of island hospitality further across Southern California. The story is a blend ..read more