Updated: Monday, March 7, 2011 6:06 pm

Hawaii topped the list of U.S. states with the greatest sense of well-being among residents, based on a 2010 telephone survey by the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index.

According to Fox News, the survey weighed factors such as participants' self-evaluation, emotional health, work environment, physical health, behavior and basic access to healthcare, safety and community. Though Hawaii found the top spot, warm weather wasn't a shoe-in for happiness around other parts of the country - Alaska also made the top ten, and several southern states ranked among the nation's unhappiest.

Of course, you don't have to live in Hawaii to soak up some of the cheer. These islands have been a favorite among those planning destination weddings for its infectious beauty and sense of well-being.

A dream barefoot wedding on the sands of Maui or Oahu is easily doable thanks to Hawaii's endless offerings of pristine public beaches. Once you toss your hibiscus bouquet and call it official, you and your wedding party will have the retreat of a lifetime soaking up the blissful rays and snorkeling in the azure waters.