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Kauai Vacation: Fern Grotto

View from a boat on the Wailua River

Wailua River Cruise & Fern Grotto Tour

Revised 4/2021

Seventeen years ago, my hubby and I celebrated our fifth wedding anniversary by vacationing in Kauai.  While there, we went on a river cruise to see the famous Fern Grotto.  Unfortunately, I was in a wheelchair at the time.   Because the trip into the Fern Grotto included a trek through the forest, therefore inaccessible, I was tied to the boat.  Now that I am not chair-bound, I am excited to jump ship.  Will it be worth the price of admission?  Read along to find out.

Note: Follow Hawaii and CDC guidelines when visiting.  Always wear your face mask when in public.

The Riverboat Cruise

The Wailua River

Located on the east side of the island in the beautiful town of Wailua, is Smith’s Tropical Paradise.  It isn’t too far from Lihue, but it is off the road a bit.  Once there, we parked, when inside the building, and purchase our tickets for the riverboat ride which also includes a Fern Grotto Tour.  Seniors receive a nice discount, so request it. 

Arrive 15 minutes early to purchase your tickets.  Peruse the nifty gift shops and have some Kona coffee while you wait.

We cruised the open-air boat up the Wailua River, which is the only navigable river in the entire state of Hawaii.  During our roughly 15-minute trip, we were treated to songs and hula dancing.  Visiting hula dancers contributed to our entertainment as well. It truly felt like being a part of a huge family.  At one point, we were asked to rise and join in.  We learned a few moves but mostly laughed at ourselves.  It was great fun. 

On our return trip, our host educated us about the immediate area and Hawaii in general. It was a peaceful ride in which we relaxed and listened while taking in the amazing shoreline.  We learned about the various vegetation lining the shore and the history behind each.  For example, the Hau tree looks a bit messy but has beautiful hibiscus flowers (they are related).  This tree has many uses ranging from cordage, floats, hula skirts, spears...you get the idea.

Tip: Sit on one of the benches lining the boat hulls.  You'll be able to see the river and shoreline more easily.    



The Fern Grotto 

Known as one of Kauai’s geological wonders, the Fern Grotto is housed inside the lush Wailua Marina State Park.  Once the boat stops, it is a short walk through a colorful jungle-like setting.  The walk is paved and is now accessible.  Good news for those with mobility issues.

The Grotto is a fern-covered, lava rock cave where royals were once wed.  It is now protected from the public by a fence, which is attached to a large deck.  On this large deck, a group of musicians and hula dancers entertained us with the Hawaiian Wedding song.  Besides excellent singing and dancing, our host was funny.   

Video by CruiseMaven

How do I rate it?

Although it isn't terribly exciting, it is something I feel everyone should do at least once. Without going on a tour, one would have to rent a kayak or some sort of boat to be able to experience this beautiful, lush river.  And to reach the park by boat is truly a treat.

It is a FOUR-STAR activity in my book.  I would go again. 

Please Read

Restaurant Reviews: Kona Coffee Purveyors, Spitfire Rotisserie and Flatbread and The Hula Grill

Hotel Room Review: Hilton Garden Inn in Waikiki Room #1435

Activity Review: Fun Activities in Honolulu 2020 

Comments

  1. This sounds pretty cool. But you know ... we go on several trip each year but I have yet to visit Hawaii! That's just wrong. I'm going to have to make it a point to get there soon!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's a great place to visit. I'm even considering moving there.

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