Episode 167: Travel with Aloha with Bryan Murphy

Aloha is not just a word—it’s a way of life. It’s about fostering love, respect, and community.
— Bryan Murphy

This week, we're honored to welcome Bryan Murphy, creator and host of the popular podcast and social media brand "Hawaii's Best." Growing up in Southern California, Bryan developed an early fascination with the Hawaiian Islands that eventually evolved into something deeper—a calling to share Hawaii's magic with the world.

Bryan takes us on a journey through his transformation from casual tourist to passionate advocate for responsible travel to Hawaii. He describes that pivotal moment stepping off the plane for the first time, breathing in the warm Hawaiian air, and feeling an immediate connection that would shape his future. That initial visit sparked what would become a lifelong mission to help others experience Hawaii not just as a destination, but as a way of life centered around the spirit of aloha.

In this episode, we explore the profound meaning of aloha beyond its marketing use, the unique character of each Hawaiian island, and how Bryan's media brand has become a bridge between visitors and locals. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about finding purpose through passion, embracing adventure one step at a time, and what it truly means to travel with aloha.

Bryan also discusses:

  • 02:11 - The Spirit of Aloha

  • 04:04 - First Impressions of Hawaii

  • 06:51 - The Unique Culture and Climate of Hawaii

  • 08:59 - Understanding the Aloha

  • 19:58 - Challenges and Changes in Hawaiian Tourism

  • 25:52 - A Quick Guide to Hawaii's Islands

  • 27:55 - Exploring Oahu: Beyond Waikiki

  • 29:20 - Local Eats and Hidden Gems

  • 30:30 - Discovering Maui: The Valley Isle

  • 31:28 - Whale Watching and Outdoor Adventures

  • 33:31 - Volunteering and Cultural Experiences

  • 34:44 - The Big Island: Diverse Landscapes

  • 36:21 - Kauai and Lesser-Known Islands

  • 39:13 - His Journey and Passion for Hawaii

  • 42:18 - Building a Media Brand

  • 44:54 - Future Plans and Reflections

You can learn more about Bryan by following his podcast on Apple and Spotify or by visiting his website HawaiisBestTravel.com.

See below for photos Bryan shared from his adventures.

Watch the Full Behind The Scenes Episode

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Episode 166: On Living and Dying with Niki DiGaetano