POPULARITY
Categories
Hawaii's Best - Guide to Travel Tips, Vacation, and Local Business in Hawaii
Did you know that most travelers miss out on Hawaii's best summer experiences just by sticking to the usual beach routine?If you're dreaming of a trip to Hawaii but worry about missing the real magic—or feeling overwhelmed by all the options—this episode is for you. Unlock the secrets to an unforgettable Hawaii vacation by discovering the seven must-do activities that locals and seasoned visitors swear by.
On this episode of Spotlight Now, we're joined by U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, for the latest out of Washington, D.C. Then we sit down with Carl Bonham, University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization executive director, for a check on Hawaii's economic outlook.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Police respond to a possible attempted murder in Waipahu overnight. The military is eyeing the Johnston Atoll. Why environmentalists are already standing in opposition. Plus, a spike in shark sightings across the country. What to know before getting in the water. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gov. Josh Green is signing into law a bill that creates a first-of-its-kind "green fee" to help Hawaii address the impacts of climate change. A man accused of shooting a woman after she refused to have sex with him appeared in court this morning on an attempted murder charge.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As we honor fallen service members on this Memorial Day, it's also a time for families to remember loved ones they've lost. We're live from Magic Island ahead of the annual Shinnyo Lantern Floating Ceremony. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today we are chatting with Marcie Cheung (@hawaiitravelwithkids), a travel expert specializing in family vacations to Hawaii. Marcie shares her extensive experience traveling to Hawaii, offering insights on planning trips, avoiding common mistakes, and maximizing family experiences. The conversation covers budget-friendly travel tips, choosing the right accommodations, and navigating the unique aspects of traveling with kids. Marcie also discusses the recovery of Maui post-fires, hidden gems across the islands, and the importance of making reservations for popular attractions. In this episode, you will learn:Marcie has been to Hawaii over 40 times, providing her with extensive knowledge.Planning ahead is crucial for a successful trip to Hawaii.Reservations are often required for popular attractions and hikes.Costco travel packages can save money on trips to Hawaii.Choosing the right accommodation depends on your travel style and needs.Maui is recovering and is ready for tourists, but some areas are still off-limits.The Big Island is becoming a hidden gem for travelers.Vacation rentals can be tricky due to legal issues in Hawaii.Car rentals are essential for exploring most islands.Hawaii is a family-friendly destination with many activities for kids....and more!You can find Marcie here!instagram.com/fh.travel.diariesYou can get your VIP ticket Goodybag for the April Bougie in a Backpack Virtual Travel Summit here , where you can check our Marcie's session!https://bougieinabackpack.thrivecart.com/vip-goody-bag-april-2025/You can find our FREE Travel Beginner's Blueprint Here: dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/457913/90732056966858389/shareWant to submit a question or comment to our Bougie Mailbag? You can do so here:forms.gle/Hb3iAbCfsK5BWnii8Be sure to join our facebook community: facebook.com/groups/bougieinabackpackFind us on instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bougieinabackpack/https://www.instagram.com/travelmackenziehttps://www.instagram.com/pennywisetraveler
Some breathtaking sights as crowds flock to Kilauea to catch the latest eruption episode. Stay tuned to learn what heights these lava fountains hit. Don't be fooled. Scammers are fooling local residents with a convincing con. What police say you should be on the lookout for. Paying tribute this Memorial Day with a jump from high above. We tag along on this local event which honors the legacy of our fallen veterans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this Memorial Day, fallen service members are honored at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. And in Washington, D.C., a U.S. veteran from Honolulu pays tribute to his late son at the USAA Poppy Wall of Honor.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A new twist in the case involving a Maui doctor accused of trying to kill his wife as Arielle Konig drops a request for a restraining order. Former victims of serial road rage suspect Nathaniel Radimak — and their high-profile attorney — react to his new charges in Hawaii. And what exactly is lurking in the hills above UH Manoa? What we're learning about an unfolding animal search.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The family of a young woman who was brutally attacked in Wahiawa lawyers up. Their message to the public as police provide an update on the suspects. Still recovering from a beating in prison, serial road rage suspect Nathaniel Radimak enters his plea on assault charges. And Hawaii wins a court order stopping the Trump administration's attempt to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hawaii's Best - Guide to Travel Tips, Vacation, and Local Business in Hawaii
Big News from Hawaii's Best!
Ted speaks with Alexander Rokoff of Rokoff Studio who shares his artistic journey, influenced by his family's artistic background and his father's legacy. He discusses his transition from cartooning to fine art, the impact of European art on his perspective, and the challenges he faced pursuing art as a career. Alexander emphasizes the importance of passion in art, the role of travel in shaping his work, and his current ventures in Hawaii, highlighting the significance of reinventing oneself as an artist. and the pride he takes in his work. TOPICS DISCUSSED01:10 Introduction to Alexander Rokoff and His Artistic Journey02:05 The Influence of Family and Early Artistic Development05:05 Transitioning from Cartooning to Fine Art07:25 Finding Success in Jewelry and Art11:00 The Impact of European Art on Alexander's Perspective15:10 Reinventing Oneself as an Artist17:35 Overcoming Adversity: The 2008 Economic Crisis19:20 Rediscovering Passion and Purpose in Art21:30 The Role of Travel and Cultural Exposure in Art26:15 Current Ventures and Future Aspirations in Hawaii27:30 Artistic Influences and Limited Palettes29:00 Life in Hawaii: A New Artistic Journey30:40 The Beauty of the Big Island's Landscapes34:30 Personal Reflections: Art and Family Legacy36:30 Creating Art with Pride and Purpose36:35 Participatory Art: Engaging Clients in the Process47:30 Buying Art: Trusting Your Instincts50:15 Future Aspirations: Large-Scale Projects in Hawaii CONNECT WITH GUESTAlexander RokoffWebsiteFacebookInstagramKEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE"Art is an addiction.""I never left the easel.""What would you do if nobody paid you?"
Sickening video this morning of a violent bullying incident in Central Oahu. The impassioned response from the community, and a suspect's mother pleas for forgiveness. A "life and death situation." A West Oahu lawmaker is telling local utility companies to step up to mitigate wildfire risk. What he says needs to be done. Planning a summer getaway? We look into whether you should be prepared for some sticker shock in this age of inflation concerns.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Heated exchanges on Capitol Hill between Gov. Josh Green and Republican members of a senate subcommittee. And the latest on two separate bomb threats interfered with Honolulu flights two days in a row. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This morning we continue to follow the latest Hawaiian Airlines bomb threat developments. Casey Lund is live at the airport with more. Coral damaged by a luxury yacht two years ago has finally been reattached to the ocean floor off of west Maui. We'll tell you just how many pieces were able to be rehabilitated. The latest from Washington in a high-stakes meeting into Hawaii's one-sided kidney trade. What Congresswoman Jill Tokuda is asking for that would benefit local patients. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Best Ever CRE, Joe Cornwell interviews Zasha Smith, a former engineer turned real estate investor based in Hawaii. Zasha shares how a Google search on “how to get rich” led her from burnout in a 70-hour workweek to flipping houses, raising over $9 million through Instagram, and eventually launching a debt and equity fund. She dives into her latest affordable housing development on the Big Island, where she's building 32 kit homes on $4K lots to support local families. Zasha also breaks down her social media strategy, her reasons for attending the Best Ever Conference, and her long-term mission to invest while making a positive impact in her home community. Zasha Smith Current role: Real estate investor, developer, and fund manager Based in: Maui, Hawaii Say hi to them at: Instagram @investwithzasha and https://www.linkedin.com/in/zashasmith/ Go to https://zbiotics.com/BESTEVER and use BESTEVER at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at https://www.stamps.com/cre. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Post your job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/BRE. Terms and conditions apply. Join the Best Ever Community The Best Ever Community is live and growing - and we want serious commercial real estate investors like you inside. It's free to join, but you must apply and meet the criteria. Connect with top operators, LPs, GPs, and more, get real insights, and be part of a curated network built to help you grow. Apply now at www.bestevercommunity.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
By all accounts, Green Point Nurseries on the Big Island of Hawaii is a success story, so we decided to pay them a visit. In this episode, we talk about how this family, now in its third generation of cut flower production, has gotten through the hurdles of family succession, shifting markets, and growing pains that any agriculture producer will experience over many decades of growing and selling in, and from Hawaii.Brought to you by University of Hawaii College of Tropical Ag. and Human Resilience (CTAHR), and the Seeds of Well-being (SOW) Project. This podcast is supported by the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Institute of Food and Agriculture and Hawaii Department of Agriculture.Resources:Green Point Nurseries UH Tadashi Higaki's publication with Donald Watson “Anthurium Culture in Hawaii” Hawaii Floriculture Nursery Association (HEFNA)Podcast with CTAHR Dean Greywall Dr. Tessie Amore Lava eruption in KapohoFind out more about us: Seeds Of Wellbeing website Seeds of Wellbeing Resource Hub All the SOW links
Hawaii's Best - Guide to Travel Tips, Vacation, and Local Business in Hawaii
Ever wondered how to experience the true magic of Kauai beyond the crowded tourist spots while making the most of your precious vacation time?For many visitors, Kauai's breathtaking landscapes are just the beginning, but navigating permits, weather patterns, and finding those special hidden spots can make the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one.If you're planning a trip to the Garden Isle or even dreaming of one, this quick 10-minute guide will transform how you experience Hawaii's oldest island.In this episode of Hawaii's Best, certified Hawaii destination expert Bryan Murphy reveals 10 essential tips that will plan your Kauai adventure.
Hokulea has set sail again. She left Oahu this morning after a delay over the weekend due to rough ocean conditions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hokulea and her sister, Hikianalia are setting sail this morning. We're live from Sand Island with Casey Lund, as the crew resumes its historic Moananuiakea voyage. A new tool for the Trump administration as it targets illegal immigrants across the U.S. and the data they now have access to. Are you a local business in need of some new restaurant equipment and furniture? Howard's going to tell you about an auction underway from the old Dave and Buster's.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Firefighters rush to save a woman trapped on a roof as flames engulf her home. As Hokulea prepares to resume her Pacific voyage, we hear from Kamehameha Schools students joining the historic journey. New surveillance video shows the moment 10 inmates escaped from a New Orleans jail.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A tangled mess of lines causes road closures in Kalihi. A day after forecasters say the central Pacific could see one to four tropical cyclones this hurricane season, federal emergency officials say they aren't prepared for upcoming storms and the potential damage they could bring.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Federal cuts are much deeper than first expected for the University of Hawaii. We're talking tens of millions of dollars. This morning UH's president reveals the latest numbers. The city's planning and permitting department has vowed "no more mercy," when it comes to illegal vacation rentals. We'll tell you how violators will have to pay up. Hawaiian Airlines rolls out a new policy for its passengers. What you need to know if you think you're going to miss a flight.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why you and your family should prepare now as NOAA forecasters share their predictions for this year's Central Pacific hurricane season. A Lahaina wildfire survivor accused of killing a fellow fire victim enters his plea in court. And federal funding cuts at the University of Hawaii are much deeper than expected.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hawaii's Best - Guide to Travel Tips, Vacation, and Local Business in Hawaii
Did you know overlooking one simple detail could be the reason your first trip to Maui goes wrong?For many travelers, Maui is a dream destination, but behind the stunning beaches and luxury resorts are unique challenges, from post-fire recovery to hidden costs—and missing just one can seriously impact your Hawaii vacation.If you want to avoid the mistakes that catch most first-time visitors by surprise and make the most of your Maui adventure, this episode is a must-listen.
It can be hard to talk about or admit that you're experiencing challenges with your mental health, especially moms who take on so much. Fellow mom Noe Sagapolutele started Wa'a Collective for locals and Native Hawaiians to have access to therapists that they can relate to. She explains why it is so important to prioritize mental health care.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Central Pacific hurricane season begins June 1 and today, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released its forecast on how many tropical cyclones are possible. And a serial road rage driver accused of an attack in Kakaako is still in the hospital after he was beaten up while behind bars.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
President Trump is making deals at every stop along his tour of the Middle East, and that includes making decisions that upends decades of American foreign policy. National intelligence director Tulsi Gabbard, former U.S. representative from Hawaii, fires the top two career officials leading the National Intelligence Council. And former Kauai mayor Bernard Carvalho wants his old job back, and he's set to make an official announcement tonight.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A new economic report reveals the severity of Hawaii’s ongoing housing crisis. Road closures and evacuations were ordered in Hawaii Kai after projectiles were turned in to police. Plus, we're learning more about a fatal crash on Maui from the good Samaritan who saw a truck slam into a man in Kihei.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Send us a textWhat if awe begins with remembering? In this episode, co-hosts Belinda Liu and Omar Brownson are joined by Dr. Paul Wang to explore the seasonal shift from budding to blooming—and how the heart holds the wisdom to navigate both. Rooted in Daoist philosophy, plant medicine, and the Gratitude Blooming card of Simplicity, this conversation offers a gentle invitation to slow down, feel more, and choose what truly matters.Don't miss the guided somatic practice at the end of this episode to support your emotional resilience and heart-centered mindfulness this spring.
Days after a key ruling over the military's use of Pohakuloa as a training ground, Gov. Josh Green weighs in on the years-long issue. A city ambulance is out of commission after a head-on crash in Waialua that injured a man in his 80s and a paramedic. And President Trump walks back triple-digit tariffs on Chinese products after weeks of a mounting trade war.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Getting ghost guns off our streets. Details on a new bill which looks to help local law enforcement keep us safe. New national oversight for military daycares. The mother of one local victim reacts to the changes. FEMA Funding has been cut for in-person disaster training. Howard Dicus is tracking what this means for the agency as hurricane season approaches.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Maui doctor accused of trying to kill his wife on an Oahu hiking trail has been denied bail by a judge. Plus new details from police on what led to a shooting at a busy intersection last week. And a 12-year-old boy has been released after he was accused of assaulting the principal and security guard at his school.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hawaii's Best - Guide to Travel Tips, Vacation, and Local Business in Hawaii
Are you unsure how to visit multiple Hawaiian islands during one vacation without wasting time and money?For many travelers, Hawaii's diverse islands offer unique experiences, but navigating between them can be confusing, expensive, and time-consuming if you don't know the local strategies.If you've ever wondered which islands to visit, how to travel between them efficiently, or how to experience the distinct character of each destination, this episode is for you.In this episode of Hawaii's Best, host Bryan Murphy breaks down everything you need to know about island hopping in Hawaii, from transportation options to choosing islands that match your interests.
Honolulu police are investigating a cell phone service outage caused by vandalism over the weekend. We'll tell you what we know so far. An Oahu woman is opening up about the tragic loss of her son to fentanyl. How it has inspired her to help others before it's too late. Is mother's intuition a real thing? We'll take a deeper dive into why some believe it's very real a bit later in the show. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The man accused of assaulting two women in Kakaako in a road rage attack last week appeared in court this morning. President Trump said he may speak with China's president at the end of the week after the two sides announced they've agreed to temporarily lower the tariffs they've imposed on each other.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The state land board is poised to make one of its most important decisions ever that could impact the Army's training at Pohakuloa. After years of litigation, the state lands a $700 million settlement in a giant pharmaceutical lawsuit. A man accused of assaulting two women in a road rage attack in Kakaako has a history of similar crimes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Moms, this is your week! Thank you for navigating a wild ride juggling kids and doing it all! As a mom of three young boys, life is bursting at the seams! I openly talked about my most memorable motherhood experiences on stage at a recent storytellers event by Civil Beat. Please have a listen and I hope you enjoy! Happy Mother's Day!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Catholics in Hawaii weren’t expecting Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Prevost to be elected Pope. They say it's a pleasant surprise to see the first American to lead the church in its 2,000-year history. And the Rainbow Warriors volleyball team is now two wins away from a national championship. Highlights from their four-set victory against Penn State.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Reaction this morning from a local teacher detained during an immigration raid on Maui. Details on the harrowing ordeal she and her colleagues went through. An investigation into a student who was sickened by gas at UH Manoa. What emergency hazmat crews discovered at the scene. A ruling for the 2021 fuel spill at Red Hill that contaminated the drinking water. What the families reaction was after this long-awaited decision. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A major project to widen Farrington Highway begins today in West Oahu, Jonathan Masaki explains how this will improve safety in the area. Federal authorities say they arrested 50 people for immigration violations this week on Oahu, Maui and Hawaii Island. And we check in on a state land board meeting that could impact the future of live-fire military training at the Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii Island.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hawaii's Best - Guide to Travel Tips, Vacation, and Local Business in Hawaii
Did you know trying to see and do everything on your first trip to Hawaii can leave you exhausted before your vacation even begins?Planning a visit to the Hawaii is exciting, but the endless options—choosing the right island, building your itinerary, and making sure you don't miss out—can feel overwhelming for any first-time traveler. I've been there!If you're hoping to plan a relaxing, memorable, and culturally respectful Hawaii vacation, this episode is for you.
The babysitter found guilty of manslaughter for giving a 7-month-old a fatal dose of Benadryl is sentenced. Two men were arrested in Hawaii as part of a nationwide crackdown to catch child sex predators. The University of Hawaii is launching a new weather dashboard so you can access the latest conditions in real time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dozens detained during immigration raids in Hawaii. Why a Hawaii senator is calling the actions "a shameful abuse of power." A group of Hawaii nurses say they are set to hit the picket line. What they say is needed to reach a new contract. The state land board are set to decide on the future of live-fire military training at the Pohakuloa Training Area. Why the Army received hundreds of comments from a concerned public.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a major ruling today, a federal judge says the government is responsible for making people sick from the Red Hill fuel spill, but families are appalled by the amount of damages awarded. Plus the world has a new pope and, for the first time in history, an American has been chosen to lead the Catholic Church.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The deadline is here. Starting today you will need a Real ID to get through airport security or you'll face additional screening. Casey Lund will join us live from Honolulu's Airport to look at how this change will impact your travels. A special town hall will take place today in Ewa Beach, looking to promote public safety. What topics will be covered and how you can join in. Showing off a new fleet. Oahu has 17 new emergency vehicles now ready to hit the road. We'll give you an inside look the first-of-its-kind bus here on island.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If Hawai'i is on your bucket list, you need to listen to this episode with Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung. Marcie is a family travel blogger and mom of two who's been to Hawaii more than 40 times, staying everywhere from luxury resorts to budget-friendly condos. She helps parents plan unforgettable Hawaii vacations with kids by sharing expert tips, honest reviews, and stress-free itineraries. You can learn more on her website hawaiitravelwithkids.com or follow Marcie on Facebook and Instagram. You can also listen to her podcast, Hawaii Travel Made Easy. Episode Highlights: The most popular tourist islands are: Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii (The Big Island) Oahu is best if you can only visit one island and are looking for a mix of experiences and attractions from Pearl Harbor to the Dole Plantation and also city life, nightlife and beaches on the North Shore or Waikiki Maui is also popular for luxury resorts, a quieter vacation, the famous Road to Hana, and also great restaurants and activities Kauai is even more laid back The Big Island is good for those that are looking to be adventurous and take road trips, plus this is where you will find Volcanoes National Park A first time visitor coming from the U.S. should look at least one week and spend it on Oahu because it has such a range of experiences. If you have two weeks, then you can island hop from Oahu to Maui or Kauai. Be active on Oahu and then relax on Maui or Kauai. Keep in mind that when you island hop you still need to fly and deal with all of the airport security, rental car lines, etc. that eats up a lot of a day in travel. The Big Island is really large and you need at least five to seven days. It takes several hours to drive from the beach area to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Expect to spend about $12,000 or more for a family vacation to Hawaii. Airfare from the West Coast is about $500 and closer to $900 from the East Coast. You can use a Southwest Companion Pass or Alaska Companion Pass if you have them. Accommodations keep getting more and more expensive. Midrange hotels are $350-500 and luxury resorts can easily go over $1000 per night. You need to beware about vacation rentals because they are being closely regulated in Honolulu and often they will be cancelled last minute as there are a lot of illegal vacation rentals. If you go with a vacation rental, go with something reputable. Food is also expensive because so much needs to be shipped in on the islands. Plan on spending about $100 a day on food if you are able to mix up going to restaurants and buying groceries or eating at food trucks. Rental car prices are high and you need a rental car for at least a few days on each island. Keep in mind that hotel parking can be $40-60 per night. Activities are also quite pricey, at $300-500 per person. Luaus are at least $200-350 per person. Narrow down your wish list to 2-3 activities and have beach or pool days or exploring on your own for the rest of the time. Minimum stays during winter break can be 7-14 days and this is the most expensive time to visit. When planning road trips or hikes, be sure to map them out to see how far they are and how long it will take to get there. Don't overpack your itinerary. Related Episodes: Insider tips for visiting the Disney Aulani Planning a Hawaiian vacation
Get ready for a super fun chat with the one and only Pet Symmetry! Lizzie sits down with Evan, Marcus, and Eric to talk all about their latest album "Big Symmetry," the surprisingly deep world of "wife guy" culture, sticking to their DIY roots, and how their sound has evolved into a big rock machine. Plus, they dive into balancing multiple bands and share details on their upcoming tour dates.
Hawaii's Best - Guide to Travel Tips, Vacation, and Local Business in Hawaii
Did you know picking the wrong week for your family's Hawaii vacation could double your costs and leave you battling crowds?If you've ever been frustrated by packed beaches or wondered why some trips seem so much smoother—and more affordable—than others, this episode is for you. Get the practical tips on how timing your trip to Hawaii can turn a stressful getaway into a relaxing adventure.In this episode of our travel podcast, we break down exactly when to visit Hawaii for the lowest prices and quietest beaches, and share which three weeks families should skip to avoid crowds and high costs.
Hawaii's Best - Guide to Travel Tips, Vacation, and Local Business in Hawaii
Did you know that picking the wrong spot for sunset on Oahu can turn a perfect evening into a headache?Most visitors imagine a postcard view, but the reality is often crowded beaches, expensive parking, and missing the best moments because of poor planning.If you're tired of fighting the crowds or settling for a disappointing sunset, this episode is for you. You'll get straightforward advice to help you skip the hassle and actually enjoy one of Oahu's best experiences.In this episode, you will:Find out which 7 Oahu sunset spots are actually worth your time and how to get there without the usual stress.Learn simple, real-world tips for parking, timing, and what to bring—so you get the sunset you want, not just the one everyone else settles for.Get honest details on which spots are crowded, which are better for families, and how to support local businesses and keep Hawaii beautiful while you're there.⎯Scroll up ⬆️ and hit play to make your next Oahu sunset easy, memorable, and stress-free.