to the OP, I'm going to Hawaii...........as LWJ stated above...........which friggin Island is a good place to start.
Going to Hawaii is like I want to go to Africa, where should I go.
Alaska Airlines is the best fares out of Seattle or San Fran. AVOID Southwest Air.
Over 10 trips I've been to hawaii on 3 islands, wet side lava side garden side desert side of each.
you said a "bucket list" trip but right now your bucket is empty.
My vote would be the Big Island, spend a couple days in each, Kona west and Hilo east side.
It's easy to drive the whole big island perimeter. There at 13 distinct weather zones on Big Island too.
My "another item" checked off the bucket list was a helicopter out of Poipu on Kauai.
and of course opted to do it with all doors off, just me , wife, and pilot.
enjoy my Bucket Item Video:
https://vimeo.com/151172342