The Hawaiian Islands are a must-see vacation destination for anyone who loves natural wonders, scenic beauty, and spectacular beaches that are ripe for a lazy afternoon in the sun. As one of the top tourist destinations in the country, this island paradise is the perfect place for anyone who wants to leave the stresses of the mainland behind and experience the natural flow of Hawaii. Whether you choose a popular island or a smaller island off the beaten path, you are sure to find an exciting and entertaining vacation on these welcoming islands.

The Big Island of Hawaii is the place to go if you are interested in the natural wonder of the world's most active volcano. For the past twenty years, Klauea has been erupting almost continuously, making for a spectacular sight when the lava meets the ocean. The ocean's waves ground the lava rocks into the sand that lines the shore, leading to the distinctive black sand beaches that are common throughout the Big Island. Other popular attractions are the restored villages scattered through the island that date three centuries back and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut orchard and factory, where tourists flock for Macadamia nuts and chocolate.

Oahu, the most populous island, is home to Honolulu and a variety of interesting sights that certainly should not be missed. The crown jewel of the area is Diamond Head, a tuff cone whose rim can be climbed to provide panoramic and breathtaking views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. If hiking is not on your itinerary and you prefer a more relaxing afternoon, head over to Hanauma Bay for the picturesque beach and views of the abundant turtles. Snorkeling and scuba diving are the best ways to see the vibrant marine life and coral reef, however, this is one of the most popular tourist destinations so there are typically large crowds.

Maui is the perfect island for anyone who is looking for endless recreation possibilities during their vacation. One of the most popular activities is traveling the "Road to Hana" or the Hana Highway, which connects Kahului to Hana on the east side of Maui and takes visitors past numerous waterfalls and attractions. Another possibility is to hop aboard a sailing or boat tour to Molokini for some of the best snorkeling on the Hawaiian Islands. To gain some perspective on the sheer beauty that is Maui, consider a helicopter tour over the island to see the lush rainforests and breathtaking waterfalls that abound.

Adventure and lovely scenery await those who decide to make Kauai their vacation destination in the Hawaiian Islands. Home to the Waimea Canyon, situated on the west side of the island, these cliffs are perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts who want to catch sight of what has been labeled the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Nearby on the northwest side of Kauai, the Na Pali Coast, with its rugged valleys, swift streams and sparkling waterfalls, can be enjoyed on land through the hiking trails, on water via kayak, or overhead on a helicopter tour.

Molokai and Lanai are the smallest of the most visited islands but this should not deter visitors, who are in for a treat when they venture to these interesting and phenomenal islands. Molokai, located northwest of Oahu, is the birthplace of the traditional hula dance and is home to the world's tallest sea cliffs. In Lanai, nature is untamed and the marine conservation area in Hulopoe Bay will give you a glimpse of Hawaii before tourism took over. Whether you are searching for unspoiled natural beauty or quiet beaches without the masses, these islands certainly will not disappoint.

No matter which island you visit, you will need accommodations that make it easy to enjoy the serenity and beauty that wraps itself around the Hawaiian Islands. For lodging with all the amenities of home in a location surrounded by astounding elegance, consider Hawaii vacation rentals for your next trip off the mainland. Escape from the stresses of daily life and slip into the natural, relaxed rhythm of the islands when you stay in a rental on the island of your dreams.