Honeymooning in Hawaii

The newest state in the union, Hawaii is comprised of eight main islands: Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui and Hawaii – known as "Big Island," to avoid confusion with the state of Hawaii. Most likely, your plane will arrive in Oahu at Honolulu International Airport, but direct flights from the mainland (the contiguous United States) also land in Maui, Kauai and The Big Island.

Kauai
The "Garden Isle" is the state's fourth-largest island. Aptly named, this island is the oldest and most northern island of Hawaii. Its scenery includes green valleys, mountain peaks and rough cliffs. In order to discover some of its tropical rain forests and waterfalls, you will need to approach it by sea or air.

Oahu
The third-largest island is where east meets west and where the ancient meets the modern. Oahu is a diverse melting pot in many respects. It is also home to the sites of Honolulu, Pearl Harbor and Waikiki. If you want to be physically active, consider hiking Diamond Head or enjoying the surf.

Molokai
If you want to know what Hawaii looked like before it became a resort destination for the world, visit the island of Molokai. The majority of its population is native Hawaiian, so you can get a good feel for the authentic culture – as well as some beautiful beaches. It's only 38 miles long and 10 miles across at the widest point. You will find some of the highest sea cliffs in the world – up to 3,900 feet. And the island is also home to Kalaupapa National Historical Park and some of the state's largest white sand beaches at Papohaku Beach.

Lanai
This is the smallest inhabited island in the state, but it still offers you everything you want from a trip to Hawaii. It has luxury resorts where you can be pampered, as well as challenged by the championship-level golf courses. Or you can get away from it all and explore every one of the island's 30 miles of paved road.

Maui
It may be the second-largest island, but Maui has maintained its small town charm. With countless waterfalls, whale watching and some of the best beaches in the world, it will feel like you're visiting another world. About 75 percent of Maui is actually a volcanic park – Haleakala National Park. In this park, you will find Maui's highest peak, which rises 10,023 feet above sea level. The park itself is more than 30,000 acres of public land and offers you a chance to get a magnificent view of the sun rising and miles of wilderness to hike. One visit, and it's easy to see why Maui is called "The Magic Isle."

Big Island
If you want to see every climate zone in a single day, visit the Big Island. It has active volcanoes in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, rainforests along the Hamakua Coast, black sand beaches along Punaluu Beach and the snow-capped peaks of the dormant volcano Maunakea.

One of the most well known honeymoon destinations for years, Hawaii is still an incredible opportunity for just-married couples.