Fern Grotto Kauai
Discover the enchanting Fern Grotto on Kauai, a natural lava cave draped in lush ferns, accessible by a scenic Wailua River boat tour.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Fern Grotto Kauai
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the enchanting Fern Grotto on Kauai, a natural lava cave draped in lush ferns, accessible by a scenic Wailua River boat tour.
"A beautiful historic site with dazzling ferns and excellent acoustics, well worth the walk."
🎯 Book Smith's Tours Early
Popular tours like Smith's fill up fast, especially on weekends. Book ahead to secure your spot!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
A short, paved walk leads to the grotto. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the stroll.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Fern Grotto Itself
Wailua River
A stunning lava rock cave draped in lush ferns, creating a natural amphitheater with incredible acoustics.
Wailua River Boat Cruise
Wailua River
Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Wailua River, often accompanied by live Hawaiian entertainment.
Hawaiian Music and Hula
Onboard Smith's Tours
Experience traditional Hawaiian songs and hula performances during the cruise, adding cultural flair.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Accessibility and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Smith's Tours Early
Popular tours like Smith's fill up fast, especially on weekends. Book ahead to secure your spot!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
A short, paved walk leads to the grotto. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the stroll.
🎶 Enjoy the Live Music
Many tours feature live Hawaiian music and hula performances on the boat ride back.
🛶 Kayak for a Different View
For an adventurous option, kayak up the Wailua River and hike to the grotto viewpoint.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Smith's Tours Early
Popular tours like Smith's fill up fast, especially on weekends. Book ahead to secure your spot!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
A short, paved walk leads to the grotto. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the stroll.
🎶 Enjoy the Live Music
Many tours feature live Hawaiian music and hula performances on the boat ride back.
🛶 Kayak for a Different View
For an adventurous option, kayak up the Wailua River and hike to the grotto viewpoint.
📸 Capture the Lush Scenery
The river journey and the grotto itself offer beautiful photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Fern Grotto boat tour a pleasant experience, appreciating the scenic Wailua River cruise and the natural beauty of the fern-draped cave. The live Hawaiian entertainment is a highlight for many, adding cultural richness. However, some find the grotto itself less impressive than anticipated, especially compared to other natural wonders, and note that direct access to the cave is restricted.
"Nice boat ride to the fern Grotto. It was nice but wasn’t overly impressive. I’ve seen a lot more impressive ones than this one. I enjoyed the walk to the Grotto and back to the boat more. Some singing entertainment on the way back from the grotto."
Mike M
"This is a nice place that is very developed and maintained. Go on weekends to avoid the large crowds that the Smiths boat tours bring. To access it without the boat tours, paddle up the Wailua River and land and the kayak area. Then just hike up the grotto viewpoint. Sadly you cannot access the grotto anymore beyond the viewpoint."
LC 444
"This is one of the most beautiful fern grottos, I've ever seen the beautiful lava cavern dripping with ferns forms a natural amphitheater with excellent acoustics at the grotto Keeping with island custom, a song was serenaded to me with the traditional Hawaiian wedding song.
I highly recommend that if you ever want to see something so beautiful, there's about a 200 yd, walk up and back to this grotto, but well worth the walk, please go see it. And enjoy."
James Coonrod
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fern Grotto is primarily accessible via boat tours on the Wailua River. Smith's Family Tours is a popular operator, offering a river cruise that includes entertainment and a short walk to the grotto. Alternatively, you can kayak up the Wailua River and access the grotto viewpoint. 
No, Fern Grotto is not directly accessible by car. The only ways to reach it are by boat tour or by kayaking up the Wailua River.
Many visitors recommend taking a guided boat tour, such as Smith's, for a comprehensive experience that includes entertainment and a guided walk. Kayaking offers a more independent adventure.
Yes, you can drive to various points along the Wailua River to launch kayaks. Kamokila Hawaiian Village is mentioned as a starting point for kayak rentals.
Parking availability can vary depending on the specific launch point. It's advisable to check with your chosen tour operator or rental company for the most up-to-date information on parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the tour operator. Smith's Fern Grotto cruise typically costs around $40-$50 per person. Kayak rentals are also available, with prices around $40 for a double kayak.
It is highly recommended to book your Fern Grotto tour tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit on a weekend or during peak season, as tours can sell out.
Most tours include the boat ride along the Wailua River, live Hawaiian entertainment, and a guided walk to the Fern Grotto viewpoint. Some may also include cultural demonstrations.
Discounts may be available for kama'aina (local residents), military personnel, or children. It's best to check directly with the tour operators for current offers.
While you can kayak up the Wailua River and access the grotto viewpoint independently, most visitors opt for a guided tour for the full experience, including entertainment and cultural insights.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The walk from the boat landing to the Fern Grotto is a short, flat, and paved path, approximately 200 yards long. It's lined with lush vegetation and flowers, making for a pleasant stroll.
You cannot stand directly underneath the Fern Grotto itself, as it is a protected area. Visitors view it from a designated viewpoint.
Many tours feature live Hawaiian music, hula performances, and cultural demonstrations, adding a vibrant and authentic touch to the journey.
The boats and the path to the grotto are generally accessible. However, it's always a good idea to confirm specific accessibility details with your chosen tour operator.
The Fern Grotto is known for its excellent natural acoustics. Guides often demonstrate this by singing or playing music, which resonates beautifully within the cavern.
📸 📸 Photography
The Fern Grotto itself, with its cascading ferns, is a prime photo opportunity. The scenic Wailua River journey and the surrounding lush rainforest also offer beautiful shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed at Fern Grotto. However, always be mindful of other visitors and follow any specific guidelines provided by your tour guide.
Morning light can be softer and less harsh, potentially offering better photographic conditions. However, the lush greenery is beautiful throughout the day.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the beauty of Fern Grotto. The natural light and vibrant colors will make your photos pop.
Drone usage is typically restricted in natural and cultural sites to protect the environment and visitor experience. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by the park or tour operator.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The walk to the grotto is short, flat, and paved, making it manageable for little legs. Remember to bring sun protection and stay hydrated, as it can get warm. Consider booking a tour that offers ample entertainment to keep younger ones captivated. While the grotto itself might not be a 'wow' factor for very young children, the overall journey along the Wailua River and the cultural performances make it a memorable outing for the whole family.
🛶 Adventurous Kayakers
This allows you to explore the river at your leisure and access the grotto viewpoint without being on a set schedule. It's a great way to connect with nature and experience the beauty of Kauai's natural landscape up close. Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection for your kayaking adventure.
💍 Couples and Honeymooners
Many couples choose to have their wedding or recommitment ceremonies at the grotto, drawn by its picturesque setting and the traditional Hawaiian serenades. It offers a unique and intimate experience, perfect for celebrating love amidst stunning natural scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wailua River: Kauai's Sacred Waterway
+1For those seeking a more active adventure, kayaking up the Wailua River offers a unique perspective. You can rent kayaks and paddle at your own pace, enjoying the serene beauty of the surrounding jungle. This allows for more flexibility and the chance to stop and appreciate the natural surroundings.
Historically, the Wailua River area was a sacred place for Hawaiian royalty, and remnants of ancient heiau (temples) can still be found nearby. The river's importance is deeply woven into the fabric of Kauai's history and culture, making the journey to Fern Grotto a step back in time.
Understanding Fern Grotto: Nature's Masterpiece
When visitors arrive, guides often demonstrate the grotto's sound capabilities by singing or playing music, which echoes beautifully within the cavern. This natural amphitheater has made it a popular spot for special occasions, including weddings and vow renewals, adding a romantic and memorable element to the experience.
While you can't venture deep into the cave, the viewpoint offers a clear and impressive perspective of the grotto. The short, accessible walk from the boat landing ensures that most visitors can enjoy its beauty. The surrounding path is also a delight, lined with vibrant flowers and bamboo groves, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Smith's Fern Grotto Cruise: A Popular Choice
The cruise is often highlighted for its live Hawaiian music and hula performances, which add a significant cultural dimension to the journey. This entertainment is a major draw for many visitors, creating a festive and engaging atmosphere as you travel to the grotto.
Upon arrival at the Fern Grotto landing, guests embark on a short, guided walk to the grotto itself. While the grotto is a natural wonder, the overall experience with Smith's is often described as a well-rounded excursion that combines natural beauty with cultural immersion and entertainment, making it a highly recommended activity for many visiting Kauai.
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