Hawaii question

Ok, so we are from the east coast and are planning to go to Hawaii for 10 nights. Most itineraries I see are for 3 different islands. So far we are thinking of Oahu, Maui and Kauai.  Some people say we are nuts for doing 3 islands in 10 nights, but that seems the norm. Has anyone here been to Hawaii, if so what did you do? Here is what we like. Oahu I guess is pretty commercialized, but I feel that Pearl Harbor is a must if in Hawaii and the Waikiki beaches are famous, then we are going to Kauai because it is relaxing, lush and beautiful and Maui seems to be the most popular island with the best beaches. I am torn because there does seem to be alot to do on the Big Island of Hawaii with the waterfall tours, taking a helicopter ride over the volcanos, and it having an active volcano. If we did make it easy and just chose 2 islands, not 3, how do we know what to choose? This is a big, important decision not only because it's our honeymoon, but it may be a place we never get back to so I want to do it right. Please give me your advice. Oh, we are not big into water sports like snorkeling/diving if that helps. We want to do some relaxing on the beach, hike, see the beautiful scenery, etc.

I have only been to Maui but I personally know that the 5 nights I was there wasnt enough time to totally explore the island how I would like to.  Perhaps two islands would be best for 10 nights.

I've been to all the Islands. And DH & I chose Oahu for our mini-moon.

I would suggest only doing 2 Islands. Oahu and Maui. Although Kauai is beautiful & relaxing, you can get the same relaxing feeling on Oahu & Maui. We actually opted to just rent beach chairs & an umbrella every day we were in Waikiki & lounge on the beach. It was awesome! I'm also pretty sure every Island offers some type of hiking, heli rides, & good beaches. So I guess you really can't go wrong. I just remember Kauai being slightly harder to get around on because it's not as commercialized as the other Islands.

Good luck on choosing. I know it's hard because it's so amazing over there!

I lived on Oahu up until last year. For a great hike go to Kokohead, you'll get an amazing view of other islands and it's not that bad of a hike (takes about 45 min). Also, for the BEST beach on the island head to the east side to Lanikai. Located in Kailua. Any local can tell you how to get there. There's a great place in Honolulu that has a great deal for parasailing and jet skiing, and also check out the Dole plantation for the most delicious pineapple ice cream! You won't regret checking these places out!

We honeymooned on Maui for 6 nights. We spent most of time relaxing bc we were so tired from the holidays and our wedding. And our trip out was long- like nearly 24 hours after all of the delays that we had. We spent most of our first day sleeping. I think it depends on what kind of honeymoon you want bc two or three islands in 10 days seems feasible if you want to do and see more and relax less.

My friend lived in Kuaui for 2 years and LOVED it there!!!  We are looking at 10 nights/11 days in Hawaii too....not sure where we are gonna go either!

We're going to Oahu - there's so much to do and you get a little bit of everything on that island, the northside is calm and relaxing, and the southside is party time!

We considered adding an island, because I did want to go to the Big Island to see the volcano. But after reading reviews of the hotels and the area, it seemed like there was literally just the volcano to see, and a coffee plantation if you're into that.

So if we do go, it will be a day trip where you leave at 8 am, take the helicopter tour, and fly back to Oahu by 9pm. Thats a thought?

Everytime that I've been to Hawaii it's been for 10 days.  We usually have 3-4 days on Oahu and 6-7 on Maui.  And that never seems like enough.  My parents did 3 days on Kauai and 7 on Maui and they felt that was perfect for them.  I think 10 days for three islands is going to be a little rushed.  Pearl Harbor is a must do especially if you like history.  There is so much to see and do on each island.  I'm a big fan of Maui.  I love that is very relaxing and beautiful but has areas that are exciting and fun, too.