The plane descends onto the island runway. You take in a deep breath of that sweet Hawaiian air, a tropical whiff of what's to come. You check into your hotel or condominium, unpack and consider your options. Where should you head to first? The options are endless, each one of them an entrance into yet another wondrous aspect of the island. With so much to consider, you may need a few suggestions. Below, you'll find a sampling of each island's ideal itinerary—in short, a perfect day.

OAHU

So much of the true jewels of this island can be found outside of Waikiki, so hop in your rental car and head north. For a little human fuel, stop off at Leonard's for their famous malasadas, or Portuguese-style donuts, before getting on the highway. Feast upon the views of the jagged green mountains and the white-sand picture-perfect beaches along the way, before you arrive in Haleiwa, the tiny town defined by one main road. Park along the side of the road and amble along the galleries, craft stores, and shave ice stands and feel the laid-back pulse of life in small-town Hawaii.

Take a picnic to Waimea Bay, and watch the expert surfers negotiate the massive waves in the winter, or if the water is calm, take a snorkel or swim in the bay. Then cool off at the Waimea Valley Audubon Center, formerly the Waimea Falls Park, strolling along the 35 distinct gardens that are home to rare and endangered plants, a bird sanctuary, and Hawaiian historic sites.

Before leaving this idyllic respite far away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, wait until sunset, then stop at Jameson's By the Sea for dinner and drinks, where you'll be stunned by the colors of the sunset. Back in town afterwards, stroll down torch-lit Kalakaua Avenue and window shop at high-end stores like Prada, then indulge in little goodies at the International Marketplace.

HAWAII'S BIG ISLAND

Try something the locals have been indulging in for years: Flumin' da ditch. Hook up with a local outfitter that will take you on a kayak through a historical sugar plantation irrigation system on a guided cultural wilderness adventure. The leisurely trip meanders over a 3.5 mile scenic portion of the system, traveling through pristine rain forests, over ravines and waterfalls and through dark, mysterious tunnels.

For lunch, drive to Bamboo Restaurant in Hawi. While you digest your scrumptious meal, explore some of the art galleries that are housed in refurbished early 1900 storefronts all along the main road. You'll find crafts and furniture handmade from koa, the island's most prized wood, as well as prints and sculptures presented by local artists. And if you're not ready to pack it in yet, head toward Waipio Valley and explore the area either by horseback, by wagon tour or for the true adventurer, hike the rim.

MAUI

An ideal day on Maui involves some greenery, some sun and sand, and some excellent local grub. Begin with breakfast at Sam Sato's in Wailuku, a local favorite that serves up hearty American breakfast fare, but is also known as home of the "dry mein" (a local noodle dish). After filling up on the goods, head out to historic 'Iao Valley for a mild hike and nature walk. Rising 750 feet above sea level, Iao Valley spans 10 miles and about 4,000 acres. Four streams meet in the valley, creating the 'Iao Stream, and above it all stands the Iao Needle, which towers 1,200 feet from the valley floor, and like its namesake, looks much like a sharp pin or needle. Take a guided excursion along 'Iao Stream, into a Hawaiian rainforest. Follow age-old footpaths to discover ancient rock terraces and investigate groves of coffee and Kukui, a Hawaiian fruit.

Time for lunch, so follow the locals to the ideal spot, the Aloha Mixed Plate Restaurant in Lahaina, where "two scoops rice” and “one scoop macaroni salad” always accompany the traditional plate lunch.

Once the food has settled, head out to Ka'anapali Beach, named the best beach in the U.S. for 2003 by Dr. Beach himself. Here, you can swim or snorkel or just do a little people watching. When your appetite has geared up again, take a seat at the Ka'anapali Beach Hotel restaurant for a sampling of some the island's best Pacific Rim cuisine and enjoy some free entertainment.

KAUAI

Begin the day on the north shore of this luscious island with a breakfast at Café Hanalei, indulging in either the expansive buffet or scrumptious a la carte menu. You'll need plenty of fuel for your next adventure: hiking the Kalalau Trail, which yields some of the most stunning views in all the islands. Though it goes on for 22 miles, the first two will get you to Hanakapiai Valley. Afterwards, head over to Zelo's Beachhouse for Hawaiian chicken or crab stuffed with fresh fish. Your well-earned rest can be indulged at Makua Beach, where you can snorkel or swim in crystal clear water, or read a book under the protective shade of a palm tree. For dinner, Bali Hai Restaurant calls your name.

MOLOKAI

Perk up with a cup of Morning Buzz at the Molokai Coffee Plantation Espresso Bar, then check in at the Mule Barn for an adventurous trip down the Pali to Historic Kalaupapa National Park with an excursion offered by Damien Tours, which includes lunch and guided tour of Kalaupapa Settlement. After your trustworthy mule packs you up the 26 switchbacks, dust off your jeans and head for an ice cold Mocha Mamma back at the Coffee Plantation. Dinner can be found seaside at the Oceanside Restaurant at Hotel Molokai. Afterwards, head over to Kaunkakai town to Kanemitsu Bakery and get some "Hot Bread," smothered in your choice of jelly, cream cheese or guava jam.

LANAI

Pile on the pancakes at the Blue Ginger Café in Lanai City, then explore the Garden of the Gods, where mysterious lava formations make for a beautiful, if eerie, landscape. Drive all the way to Polihua Beach, from which you can see Molokai, and if it's clear enough, all the way to Waikiki. Then head back for an afternoon of miniature golfing on the pristine grounds of the Lodge at Koele, where the bucolic gardens provides a serene backdrop. Suit up and eat a distinguished meal at the Lodge at Koele's main dining room.