re: Tahiti, Cook Islands, or Hawaii for Honeymoon?

I did not stay over the water. I stayed in a cottage with no telephone/internet/tv. It was AWESOME. 30 feet to the best water I've ever seen. Same with Moorea. Just phenomenal.

We flew Air France from LAX to Papaete. Stayed a night, and jumped over to Moorea. The nice thing is that because the island is surrounded by a tropical reef, the huge lagoon is completely placid and makes for crazy long swims and snorkels.

Not many Americans there. Mostly French, Aussies, Kiwis, Japanese and then Americans , Germans, etc.

The island is pristine and there is no real development. The fish/fruit is awesome. It's definitely once in a lifetime. You don't have to stay over the water to enjoy it completely. Maybe do that for two nights to save some money.

Again, research Kauai as well. It's got that rural feel, and those majestic mountain views. The water is nowhere near Tahiti of course, but the resorts are just phenomenal and un crowded-unlike other parts of Hawaii.