Kauaichris

I would definitely have to say Kauai. Yes, I am a bit biased living here. But I have lived on the other islands, and there really is no place like Kauai. The Waimea Canyon and Polihale Beach are otherworldly. If any of my friends come I always recommend a few tours. Napali.com is Captain Andy's site, and they have been doing tours on the Na Pali forever and give killer tours. www.safarihelicopters.com is also a must do. I just know them, but I think any helicopter tour would be unforgettable. Also, for great places to stay, I thinke www.hawaiianbeachrentals.com has the biggest selection, and you can find stuff all over the island. For food, I would definitely hit up Sushi Bushido in Kapaa. A lot of people go to Kintaros, but I actually think Bushido is much better and better atmosphere. And spend a few days playing at Hanalei Bay. Sunsets there are not to be missed.

Tomsd

You can find peace and solitude on the beach at any of the six main Hawaiian Islands. From up on the North Shore on Oahu - private places at Waimea (aee VRBO) or at Turtle Bay - or over at Lanakai by Kailua, to any number of places on Big Island - to such places as Kapalua/Napili on Maui - or our favorite - up at Hanalei/Princeville on Kauai - or down at sunny Poipu.

Hawaii is your oyster - so just google and google and find what fits your parameters.

Tomsd

BTW - the garden isle of Kauai - does get some rain on the North Shore - 4 sure - that's why it's so lush - but unless is's a huge winter storm - it passes through and then you are rewarded with sunshine and fresh waterfalls streaming down the hills of Bali Hai.

edjim

The amazing thing about Hawaii beaches is that it's fairly easy to avoid the crowds on all of the islands. Kauai is tropical and has mountains and canyons; Maui has great beaches for snorkeling and Haleakela crater; and the Big Island has a mountain, a volcano, and a ton of diverse scenery. All three islands have plenty to see and do in a week's time.