Hawaii, located in the Pacific Ocean, is the only state made up solely of islands in the U.S. and, as all the clichés tell you, it is paradise. Hawaii is one of the few destinations that regularly lives up to the hype given it by guidebook writers and recently returned vacationers. The sky turns shades of coral, baby pink, and yellow at sunrise and sunset. The beaches are white (and black and gold) and warm while the drinks are cold and served with miniature umbrellas. You can even learn to hula dance.

Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island are the most popular among visitors, but the smaller islands offer a quiet charm away from the crowds. If you’re looking for the classic Hawaii resort and beach experience one of the popular islands is a good bet. If you prefer a quieter beach with a cooler beer from the corner store while you listen to the waves or losing yourself in solitude, then one of the smaller islands would be better.

From stunning pink, red, and white beaches to majestic volcanoes, the natural beauty of Hawaii is the initial attraction for most visitors. There are many ways to explore the islands including hiking, biking, relaxing on the beach, or horseback riding.

The islands of Hawaii were created by volcanic activity and there are many volcanoes on the islands today. The only active volcanoes are located on the Big Island. With a guide, you may be able to get close to them and see the lava flows. For a less adventurous volcanic experience, there are many dormant and extinct volcanoes just waiting for you to hike them.

Life underwater is at least as fascinating (maybe even more so) than life above water in Hawaii. Snorkeling is one of the easiest ways to see the bright colors of tropical fish and coral beneath the surface. Hawaii also has excellent SCUBA diving sites for beginning, intermediate, and advanced divers.

If you don’t want to or can’t swim, you can take a submarine tour of many of the coral reefs and wrecks. Most tours have a guide who narrates what you’re seeing and can answer any of your questions, which makes the submarine tour a good supplementing to snorkeling or diving, too.

Hawaii has long been recognized as a fantastic location for a honeymoon, wedding, or romantic getaway and there are good reasons for that. The islands have a friendly, relaxed atmosphere that welcomes visitors immediately and pulls them into the slow pace of life with practiced ease.

Many resorts off all-inclusive packages that allow you to just show up and dive into as much or little activity as you like. These packages make planning a honeymoon or vacation very easy. Once you arrive, the vacation is all about you and your significant other. You could spend every day stretched out on the beach together or challenge each other to learning a new water sport.

Imagine celebrating your honeymoon, anniversary, or much needed vacation for two with a sunset cocktail. Maybe a mai tai at a beachfront bar? Perhaps follow it with a classic moonlit walk on the beach?

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