Thanks for the great advice. We are going in July and staying up north. I know i have to check water conditions daily but but these are good links and good advice. Any suggestions for a safe place for a very novice snorler(my sweet other)? She is desperate to do this and I will make sure she has a best on but I would love some suggestions.

Snorkler......spell check

Lydgate Park is probably the calmest spot to snorkel because it's completely protected -- like being in a pool. It's about a 30 minute drive from the North Shore -- but you can combine it with banana macadamia nut pancakes for breakfast or lunch at Kountry Kitchen and make it a perfect day ;-). You could also visit nearby Opeaka'a Falls -- although I prefer Wailua Falls which are closer to Lihue.

Most of the time Anini and Ke'e are also quite tame in the summer.

Enjoy!

Songdoc, you can't imagine how helpful you have been! I have read all your trip reports and have been mesmerized !:):). I wish we could hang with you on our semi-annual Nashville Memphis trip! Thanks for the advice.

now I am kinda getting scared that the waves might be too much... since I want to stay on poipu... i am thinking about maybe just doing something like florida (siesta key) since it is known for it's calm waves. I love love love Hawaii though!! =( I have been to maui twice and oahu once and really want to give kauai a shot but it might be best if I wait till my little man is a little older.
boo.
can't beat the weather in hawaii though.

willowjane: so glad to have helped :-)

laceelite: I honestly don't think you need to worry. There are lots of safe places to swim ... including swimming pools ;-).

I have never been to Kauai without seeing kids safely splashing in the ocean. You'll be able to see if you've got a day -- or an area -- with high waves.

It may not be quite what you have in mind, but Hanalei Colony Resort meets your criteria in terms of 2 rooms, reasonably priced, and it does have a small pool. There's also a spa, good restaurant, and coffee shop on site. And the remote, north shore setting is spectacular. The beach there is nice too, but not really swimmable. However, Tunnels, Ke'e, and Lumahai are all a short drive away, as are the many beaches of Hanalei Bay.