Is Kauai Back to Normal? Plus More of Your Hawaii Questions Answered
Is Kauai back to normal after Hurricane Lowell? What’s reopened, what’s still closed, and what should visitors know before planning a trip?
In this episode of Hawaii's Best, I'm answering real questions sent in by listeners about Kauai recovery, planning a multigenerational Oahu vacation, Hawaii's unpredictable weather, and ways to give back to the islands.
I'm also sharing how my family approaches planning trips with different ages, why I don't put too much trust in Hawaii weather forecasts, and what visitors should understand about the ongoing recovery in Kauai and Lahaina.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- Kauai after Hurricane Lowell: What's reopened as of November 3, 2026, which state parks remain closed, and alternatives for exploring the North Shore.
- Oahu family vacation planning: How to plan nine days with family members ages 13 to 82 without exhausting everyone.
- Hawaii weather in November: Why a forecast showing rain doesn't necessarily mean your vacation will be a washout.
- Lahaina recovery: What's changed in West Maui and what visitors should know about ongoing rebuilding.
- Giving back to Kauai: Practical ways to volunteer, donate, and support communities beyond simply shopping local.
I was especially encouraged by how many of you asked about helping Kauai recover. It's a reminder that visiting Hawaii isn't just about where we go, but also how we treat the people and places we visit.
Helpful resources:
- Official Kauai Visitor Guide | Go Hawaii
- Kauai recovery and ways to help
- Haena State Park reservations and shuttle
- Kauai recovery updates and volunteer opportunities
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🎙️ Got a Hawaii question you’d like answered? Send me a short voice message. Your question may be answered on an upcoming episode of Hawaii’s Best.
Chapters:
- 1:44 Planning an Oahu Family Trip for Ages 13 to 82
- 4:16 Oahu Activities the Whole Family Can Enjoy
- 5:35 How to Plan Your Days Without Overdoing It
- 6:33 Why Hawaii Weather Forecasts Can Be Misleading
- 8:36 Kauai After Hurricane Lowell: What's Open and Closed?
- 10:42 Lahaina Recovery: What's Reopened?
- 11:06 How to Give Back to Kauai Beyond "Support Local"
- 14:13 Coming Up: What I Actually Pack for Hawaii
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.
_🌴 Plan Your Hawaii Trip With Bryan
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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