Considering Hawaii for a 20th anniversary trip.. our priorites are great snorkeling, pretty, uncrowded beaches, interesting place to stay, non- commercialized. Is this possible in Hawaii? Thanks.

Rent a beach house on the north shore of Kauai. If you're like me, you will never want to come home!

Agree with Maggi about Kauai. Snorkeling and swimming at north shore beaches can be great in the summer months, not so in the winter. There are many beach rentals on Tunnels Beach, which is a beautiful spot.

Yes to Northshore Kauai and yes to Hana, Maui if you can handle no commercialism! Note that winter and north shores = high surf so unlikely snorkling, mid spring to mid fall should be fine though.

If I may borrow a word, I find the above Kauai locales fascinating, however some beaches there can get a little crowded while others can be tricky to access. See guide book here is link:

http://www.wizardpub.com/kauai/kauai.html

Some might recommend outside US locations: e.g. Cook Islands, Bora Bora etc (have not been, personally).

Lanai. Good snorkeling, beaches where you are the only person there, and pretty much nothing else. The water is very clear because there is no runoff like the other islands (it is drier, not lush). The north shore of Kauai is much more scenic though. Manele Bay, Lodge at Koele (where we stayed), Hotel Lanai, and I think there is a very limited selection of B&B's or private rentals.

I'll put my vote in for the Big Island--gorgeous resorts, uncrowded (not the most "touristy" island), great snorkeling and beaches, lots and LOTS to do and see.

Kauai is also beautiful, that would be my second choice based on your list of "wants." However, I think the Big Island is more interesting overall.

Lanai does have fantastic snorkeling--like nothing I've ever seen before--but I would not choose just that island for a trip. It is very small and very quiet, and I feel the other islands have better blends of relaxation/recreation. If you want to visit Lanai my recommendation would be to add two or three days there in addition to another island.

all of the outer islands. I can't imagine coming to Hawaii and not seeing the Volcano at night. On the other hand Maui and Kauai are very pretty islands. Kauai being my favorite.

1. Kaui
2. Big Island