Episode 122: Turo Hawaii Adventures: Family Travel Tips from Jena Carvalho for Mother’s Day

In today’s episode, we delve into the innovative world of Turo, the peer-to-peer car-sharing service that’s changing how visitors explore our islands.
Whether you’re headed to the shores of Oahu, the landscapes of Maui, or anywhere across the beautiful Hawaiian archipelago, understanding Turo can significantly elevate your travel experience.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’re tired of the typical rental car process and are looking for a more personalized and integrated way to travel, this episode is for you.
Hear from Jena Carvalho, an experienced Turo host from Oahu, along with Leonani Puailihau, Turo’s Senior Community Relations Manager.
They share the benefits and insights of using Turo in Hawaii:
- Discover how Turo offers more than just cars—it opens doors to authentic local experiences.
- Learn about the community and economic benefits of Turo for Hawaiian residents and travelers.
- Gain practical tips on how to navigate the platform for the best possible travel experience.
This episode is perfect for travelers seeking a seamless and enriched Hawaiian journey and locals considering Turo as a viable income source.
Planning a trip to Hawaii? Have any questions? Join our Hawaii’s Best Travel Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning that I may earn a commission if you use a link provided.
This post gives general info and isn’t legal or authoritative advice. It helps travelers with tips but can’t replace personal abilities, fitness, experience, or local knowledge. Marine activities have risks; assess conditions and follow local laws.
About Today’s Guests
Jena Carvalho
Jena Carvalho is more than just a Turo host; she embodies the spirit of Hawaiian hospitality.
Balancing her roles as a medical staff director at Shriners Children’s Hospital and a mother of seven, Jena uses Turo to connect with travelers and offer them a slice of paradise on wheels.
Leonani Puailihau
As Turo’s Senior Community Relations Manager, Leonani Puailihau brings deep insights into the platform’s impact on sustainable tourism and local economies.
Her expertise highlights Turo’s role in promoting responsible travel and supporting local hosts.
Episode Highlights
Understanding Turo in Hawaii
Turo’s Growth in Hawaii: Exploration of how Turo has evolved in Hawaii and what this means for travelers and local hosts.
Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Jena discusses how she manages her Turo business alongside her professional and family life, providing insights for new and prospective hosts.
Impact on Local Communities
Economic Contributions: Discussion on how Turo helps retain tourist dollars within local communities.
Promotion of Sustainable Tourism: How the platform encourages travelers to respect and sustain Hawaii’s natural and cultural resources.
Advice for Travelers and Hosts
Starting with Turo: Jena shares essential tips for new hosts.
Making the Most of Turo: Advice for travelers on choosing vehicles and hosts that enhance their travel experience.
Make sure to subscribe to Hawaii’s Best Travel on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review if you loved this episode. Your feedback helps us improve and grow. Until next time, aloha and happy travels!
Listen On:
Resources
Find out more about today’s guest…
Self-Guided Island Tours
Travel Pono (responsibly)
- Pono Pledge Website
- Episode 70 – How to Volunteer in Hawaii
- Episode 87 – How to Travel Responsibly to Hawaii
Connect With Us
- Buy Me a Coffee
- Send Us a Message with any questions about Hawaii
- Hawaii’s Best Instagram
- Join our Hawaii’s Best Travel Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!
Bumper music, Ukulele and Chill, provided by Coby G (used with permission)
Bumper music, Aloha Friday, provided by Clay D (used with permission)
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- Leave an honest review and follow us on Apple Podcasts
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Bryan Murphy is the creator of Hawaii’s Best Travel and a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawai‘i Visitors Bureau. He’s an active member of the Hawai‘i Visitors and Convention Bureau and continues ongoing education focused on Hawaiian culture, history, and sustainable travel. As the host of the “Hawaii’s Best Travel” podcast—one of the top travel podcasts in the U.S.—Bryan shares practical, respectful guidance to help visitors experience Hawai‘i in a more meaningful way. His work reaches nearly half a million people across podcast, blog, and social media.










