The Hawaiian Islands are known for their brilliant, pristine white sand beaches – but perhaps just as stunning are the incredible rivers that flow through the Aloha State. And while all of Hawaii’s rivers are stunning, Kauai’s Wailua River is easily the most accessible - and prettiest - of Hawaii’s five navigable rivers. The Wailua River was once the sacred capital of ancient Kauai and the birthplace of island royalty but is also home to a wonderful riverboat cruise you’ll want to add to your Hawaii bucket list.
Operated by Smith’s Kauai, this magnificent riverboat cruise is one you’ll never forget. The Wailua River is one of Hawaii’s only navigable rivers, flowing down from one of the wettest spots on earth – Mount Wai’ale’ale, which averages 488 inches of rainfall each year.
While the Wailua River is certainly a beautiful sight to behold, it’s what you’ll find near the river that will absolutely take your breath away. Located off the river, at the base of Mauna Kapu – also known as Forbidden Mountain – is the magical Fern Grotto, known for its ferns that grow upside down from the roof of the grotto.
The only way to reach this secluded grotto is by boat via the Wailua River, and a tour with Smith’s Kauai is obviously the best way to experience this magical slice of Hawaiian Paradise.
Smith’s began as a small, family-operated business in the 1940s with a small rowboat and a borrowed outboard motor. Four generations later, Smith’s is easily one of the best family-friendly attractions on Kauai.
Powered by an ingenious rear-engine system invented by Walter Smith, Sr., the spacious open air boats provide guests with panoramic views of the river while traveling upstream.
After landing near the fern grotto, guests will take a short nature walk through the rainforest to reach this natural wonder.
The naturally-formed lava cave was formed millions of years ago, and is home to various native Hawaiian plant species as well as colorful, exotic plants, that come together to make visitors feel as though they have entered a tropical rainforest.
On the epic Smith’s Kauai Fern Grotto River Tour, you will have the opportunity to listen to live entertainment – including songs, storytelling, and even a short hula lesson. The geological wonder is home to simply stunning acoustics, and there is little better than being serenaded with live music at the grotto.
The tour lasts approximately one hour and twenty minutes, and tickets are $25 per adult and $12.50 per child. For more information, or to book your riverboat cruise, check out the Smith’s Kauai website.
Be sure to check out these 10 incredible rivers while you're in Hawaii.
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