We have not been to Hawaii in many years, but now have an opportunity to have a family gathering of sorts with Son 1 and SO, Son 2 with DIL and 9 yr old granddaughter, who has just learned how to snorkel. I opened my mouth one day and told her if she learned to snorkel, we would go to Hawaii. Well, she called me on it, not that I'd forgotten.
My first target area is Poipu Beach area of Kauai, where DW and I spent wonderful days snorkeling years ago. I believe it is still a top spot for that, and the beach of course. Kauai also has many hiking options.
Due to several factors, the least of which is DGD's school year, we have to take this trip on Easter Week, ending 4/24.
We need a minimum of 3 Bdrm, 4 is good. House would be ideal, though separate condos could work, but that gets expensive.
I want to give our young lady a thrilling snorkel for her first time. Am I missing something good by targeting Poipu?
Condos and houses seem plentiful, but the area seems a bit daunting since we have been there. Much growth. I want to at least hear the ocean, as I don't think on the ocean is a budget option. Walking distance to the beach is a priority. Any lodging ideas?
Thanks for any comments or suggestions.

Best snorkeling in the State is on the Big Island because it is the youngest island. But there may be critera other than snorkeling. Are you interested in snorkeling or snorkeling on Kauai?

If you are willing to go to the Big Island instead of Kauai, there are many nice rentals houses near Kealakekua Bay (which also has great snorkeling) in or near the village of Napoopoo.

Here are a couple of listings (I can provide additional ones if you want)

http://www.vrbo.com/240237

http://www.alohahouse.net/index.html

There is also a great snorkeling area within 10 minutes of Kealakekua Bay on Honaunau Bay by Place of Refuge--called Two Step (though you will not see that name on any sign.

Here's a website about some snorkeling options http://www.webbitt.com/snorkel/mainsnor.html

The info on Big Island is wonderful! Thanks. I had not even considered Hawaii. Great.

"Are you interested in snorkeling or snorkeling on Kauai?"

The primary purpose of the trip, other than a family gathering, is to provide a wonderful snorkeling experience for young granddaughter. I was focused on Poipu, but that is the reason for the post. What other great snorkeling spots in Hawaii am I missing. Remember, she is a beginner, first time in the ocean. So we need beaches or easy entry, at least at first.

We're staying a week, so hopefully, after a few days of easy stuff (what's the snorkeling equivalent of a bunny hill?) she will be ready for some farther out stuff.

Some other activities would be great; like hiking culture, nature. Cpt Cook, and the "Refuge" sounds good. But these would be secondary to snorkel/beach activities.

Thanks again for the big island tips.

If you want a really "WOW" experience you cannot beat the night snorkel with the Manta Rays off Kona on the Big Island. The smallest Ray was three yards across! The big ones were 5-6 yards. Lights attract the planton and the Manta Rays just do giant loops beneath you. It will be safe for your GD as they give you a foam loop to hold onto to keep the group together. Each snorkeller also has glow stick attached to their mask and their own flashlight.

We went with this operator and were most impressed by them and the dive. This was one of the best travel experience I have ever had.

http://www.jacksdivinglocker.com/cha...mantanight.htm

LOVED Kauai (full disclosure this was 20+years ago). We were not there with a child, but you inspired me to get out an old beach guide to Kauai. "You could not imagine a perfect beach for children than this ..(Poipu) The first morning in Kauai(when we woke up at 0 dark 30 because we were still on East Coast time we went to Ke'e Beach which is where the Rd (is it still 56?) ends at the Na Pali Cliffs --which is a calm lagoon in the summer (only). "In summer the turquoise water is perfectly still and clear...Snorkeling can be spectavular close to the reef, even in the shallow water where you can stand up at will." (But in winter it can be treacherous as all windward north shore beaches) That first jet lagged morning you can get there early enough to park. (Very limited)

Lydgate Beach Park, South of the Wailua River on the east coast. "A lava rimmed pool provides safe swimming for babies and toddlers, even in the winter. ..one of the best snorkeling spots on the island...safe because the rocky wall prevents the currents from pulling a swimmer out to sea."

We did go to the Big Island years later with a 7 year old. We found safe snorkeling by stopping at the ranger (?) station on the road. We asked for a calm and safe snorkeling spot for our son(I think the term is ke'e --but it's been a while). He told us what mile marker to go to for a protected reef. It was terrific (and no one else was there).

Is it possible to go wrong in Hawaii? I'm jealous of your trip! Have a wonderful time

I've snorkel all the islands, and Kauai is good but nothing compared to the big island. For children, Kahalu'u beach is very protected and lots of fish. Also two step is a wonderful underwater world. A snorkel cruise to Captain's Cook Monument is super for kids. A very tame and safe swim is at Boathouse Beach at the Muana Lani. It's a safe beach with some snorkeling further out. I don't recommend Kapoho Tidepools for children.

If you are interested in the Big Island, I can recommend Sea Village condominiums, just below Kona. It is a very well-kept, smallish property, with a small pool, free tennis courts, barbecue grills in the garden area, etc.

They have two-bedroom condos, with two baths. And fantastic ocean views.

Most are privately owned and rented VRBO. Google Sea Village on the Big Island and you will find several listings. Prices are very good.

http://snorkelbob.com/cgi-local/Soft...c57+1282631935

Click on the letters in the red circles.

This link has snorkel spots for Oahu, Maui & Big Island

http://www.hawaiisnorkelingguide.com/

This is for Kauai:

http://www.summitpacificinc.com/Kaua...norkeling.html

Google:

Snorkel (snorkeling) spots Kauai (also Oahu, Maui & Big Island)

Snorkel map Kauai (ditto)

Snorkel places Kauai (ditto)

You can snorkel any of the islands & have a good time. You ought to also look for other reasons to choose an island.