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 shares how local businesses are being affected, what visitors can do to support the community, and how people on the mainland can help even if they are not traveling to Kauai right now.
If you have a Kauai trip coming up in the next few weeks or months, this conversation will give you a local perspective on what recovery looks like and how to visit with more awareness and flexibility.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What Kauai’s recovery looks like right now
- Which areas are reopening and where visitors should use caution
- What to know if you have a Kauai trip coming up
- How local businesses are being affected
- Ways visitors can support recovery efforts
- How to help local businesses from the mainland
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Chapters:
- 1:41 Kauai Hurricane Update
- 1:15 Meet Megan Kealoha Matsuda
- 2:46 Damage and Closures Update
- 3:44 Why East Side Matters
- 5:21 Redefining Tourism Through Service
- 7:31 Tips for Upcoming Trips
- 9:01 Helping Local Businesses Fund
- 13:29 Final Takeaways and Next Episode
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Episode sponsored by Terraformation.
Terraformation is restoring a native Hawaiian forest at ʻIole in North Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island (the Big Island). Your support helps native trees grow from seed to canopy. As the forest takes root, it helps restore habitat and protect Hawaiʻi’s water and reefs.
🌳 Help grow the forest: hawaii.startaforest.com
Use promo code BEST for 15% off your first month or first year.
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About Your Host: Bryan Murphy is the founder of Hawaii’s Best Travel & a Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, since 2020. An HVCB member since 2019, he helps first-time & repeat visitors plan respectful Hawaii vacations w/ clear, practical advice & cultural insight.
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Hawaii travel podcast helps you plan a trip to Hawaii with clarity. Discover practical travel tips, island itineraries, & local insight to help you explore Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island.
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