I dive with long hair and just pull it back into a ponytail to dive (not long enough for a good braid). The bangs go on top of my head so I have no hair floating around my face.
If you want specific recommendations for gear to try, here's my set-up:
Definitely check out the Zeagle Zena. Not only the Zena for a BC, but check into Zeagle regs as well. They've tested extremely high in ScubaLab testing, so you can get a moderately priced reg with expensive reg performance. I have a Zeagle Envoy reg and octo and find both to breathe very easily at all depths, including the surface.
For a computer, I dive with an Aeris AI. I like the air integrated feature so I can use it to track my consumption and relax when I find myself getting excited and breathing too quickly. I also like it because it smaller size and fits easily in my hand.
I just got a new mask and I'm very excited about it. It's an Oceanic Mini-Shadow and has a very low volume, no frame, and a very soft silicone apron. vs the stiffer ones that I've used in the past. It's made specifically for a smaller face, and fits me like a glove. If you have the opportunity to check one out, definitely do, it's worth a look (and try).
For a wetsuit, I won't dive anything but a Henderson Hyperstretch. A lot of people feel it isn't worth the money, but for me the comfort is worth every penny I've spent on both my 3mm and 5mm suits. I dive only warm water and find that a 3mm is good for me down to about 72 degrees, as long as I'm not diving repetitively. We dove 2 tanks for 8 days straight in maui recently, and after getting cold on days 7 and 8, I'll always go with a 5mm when doing repetitive diving from now on in water cooler than 80-82 degrees.
Good luck and have fun finding gear. If you aren't in a hurry and relax, you'll find just the right gear. It takes patience sometimes, but you're so lucky to live in S. Florida where there's lots of gear to try on and play with.
