My favorite part of Kauai was snorkeling at Kee Beach and Tunnels Beach on the North Shore. The beauty of the Napoli Coast, cascading waterfalls off the sheer cliffs, literally made you dizzy. The sand was so deep; your feet would just sink in. We then walked out into the waters and immediately entered an underwater fantasy of beautiful tropical fish, eels, coral reefs. The most astonishing surprise was the many sea turtles. We swam with at least 10 - 15 sea turtles. Some were as big as my boys (4 ft)...they were so close, I could touch them. They let me swim right with them as they fed off the coral reefs. It was AMAZING! I got some GREAT underwater shots! I felt like I was dreaming. I could have swum with my head under water all day and NEVER been bored.
If you are tight on money, skip the activities, rent the snorkel gear (we brought our own), and hit the beaches... especially Kee and Tunnels. You will not be disappointed.
I'd trade all my activities in for the days I snorkeled off these beaches. Even our sunset cruise/snorkel trip didn't provide NEAR the snorkel excitement that I found here! You've GOT to DO this! Be brave and bring fish food (you can purchase in the stores), but don't let them see you have it. Swim with small amounts hidden in the palm of your hand and let out a kernel or two at a time to prevent being bitten. You quickly learn you are in their territory and no match for hungry fish! But...it's worth the great shots that you get of all the fish!
Quick Tips:
I'd suggest a 10 day trip rather than 7 so you can adjust for jet lag. Aston Islander at the Beach was a nice, reasonable hotel for the extra 2 days, right on the ocean.
Another suggestion... go to a timeshare presentation, especially if you have a big group. My husband and I went to an Embassy Suites time share presentation and saved over on 3 activities that we wanted to do for our group of 6.
Plan for expensive meals. Even when you shop, prices are high....ie. milk (.00); bread (.00). Shelves are often bare.
Prepare by reading all the Kauai journals. Read also the Hidden Kauai by Ray Riegert. On the long trip over, outline things to do/shop/see/eat for the areas you will be in. The organization will save you tons of money and time.
ABSOLUTELY, buy 8 hour waterproof Banana Boat lotion before going to the beaches, or you will get fried. This offers excellent protection.
Also, Hilo Hattie is a MUST for shopping. They have tons of gifts, souvenirs,& goodies at the best prices.
Best Way To Get Around:
Having 6 in our group - we rented 1 mini-van with a luggage rack on top...crowded coming to and from airport...but worked the majority of the time. If it was just my husband and me... I would rent a convertible and soak it all in! :)