Going on a boat dive today - but definitely looking to do more diving after. It's expensive to do diving with a shop! Much better to go with a buddy. For gear don't forget: Gloves, hood, 3mm wetsuit if you have it (thermalcline it can get cold I'm told), your own mask, fins, BC, computer, compass, booties, etc. The only thing I didn't bring is tank & weights which is what most places you pay to take you out include. You can rent a wetsuit for $8 a day if needed.
It has been windy here, but there are beaches where it's still VERY calm and are diveable. I'd be glad to dive with you when you arrive. We'd have to start as soon as you get here - I'm only on Kauai till 3/18. My number is 650-887-4699 (Rick). I'm staying in Princeville (northshore) but it only takes about an hour to get ANYWHERE on the island of Kauai.
Hope to hear from you soon! Now I better get moving - I have to leave in 5 minutes for my boat dive! (It's 5:15am here!)