So you've imagined your perfect day… a romantic oceanfront open-air pavilion with breathtaking views in every direction. You're on a beautiful beach with a soothing sea breeze gently blowing through your hair while you gaze at your honey against a backdrop of pure white powdered sand and enticing blue waters. Where are you? Hawaii, of course! As the most popular destination spot, Hawaii offers many different islands, all with their own unique allure.

One of the award-winning beaches of Hawaii is Oahu's North Shore. Picture yourself breathing the fresh sea air while saying your vows along the beach and then being whisked off to an open air or ballroom reception.

The North Shore, affectionately called "the country" by local residents, offers a diversity of scenery, culture, and activities in a warm and friendly community. Minutes away are the old sugar plantation villages of Kahuku and the famous Polynesian Cultural Center. Here, you will find an intimate look at life in Hawaii and other South Pacific islands in a 40-acre setting recreating villages of Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Tahiti, the Marquesas, the Maoris of New Zealand - all topped off with lavish evening entertainment extravaganzas.

Along the North Shore coastline are also some of the world's most legendary surfing spots - Sunset Beach, the Banzai Pipeline, and Waimea Bay. In the winter, gasp at waves up to 30 feet high breaking offshore with awesome power as skilled surfing professionals risk all for the thrill of the ride. From December to April, take pleasure in the mighty and playful Humpback whales while they make their annual migration from Alaska.

If it's Maui-style you're looking for…

Maui is the perfect destination for people who want to "get away from it all" without giving up the conveniences of modern life. It is a tranquil hideaway and yet all of Maui's major attractions are within easy reach: Ho'okipa Beach, Hana town, and Lahaina are all within an hour's drive. Waterfalls and natural pools are always close at hand. Tropical flowers… no problem!

Maui is also home to some of the most beautiful, privately-owned gardens in the world. Secluded and tropically lush, these gardens blend natural elements together in easy moderation. You will see and experience sunny days that typically end with gorgeous sunsets and gardens that bloom all year round. And, let's not forget to mention they also have incredible beaches to lie on and blue and green waters to dive into! So what are you waiting for? Run away in your white dress and tux to the gorgeous blue waters and pure white sands of Maui or Oahu, Hawaii!

This article was contributed by Karen Hohlen.