I've been reading this thread trying to keep up and I see where your headed I think. My vote 2"-2.5" lift (OME, TJM, etc.) go with a set of 35s (i think they will fill out the wheelwells nicely, but leave you some room around like you mentioned. If you want to get a belly lift, but need the step, look into some retractable steps. They will tuck up out of the way when sitting or driving, but fold down when you open the door. The Yakima gutter mounts and a pair of load bars will make a simple board mount for you.
Throw the store logo on the back glass and some billabong stickers and the like on the back sliding glass and rock that pig up and down the beach.
Your zeal for this project is refreshing. Lots of us get lost in the "norm" and forget that we all buy our rigs for our own reasons. I know most of these guys are just busting on you, and the ones who are even slightly serious can suck an egg. I welcome you and your enthusiasm for your new rig. Make it yours and get some sand on the tires and enjoy it. Look forward to seeing how your canvas turns out.
Oh and if you catch yourself out on a sandbar with the tide coming in, you will realize that snorkel you were googling might not seem so silly.
