Fern Grotto Inn

Sharing Songs and Legends of the Wailua River Valley is a Family Tradition In 1946, Walter Smith, Sr. and his wife, Emily, started our family business with a small rowboat and a borrowed outboard motor. Four generations later, we continue Grandpa’s tradition of sharing our love of Kauai and its rich cultural heritage. During the two mile river journey, you’ll hear songs and stories of ancient Hawaii — like the King’s Highway, sacred Mount Kapu, and the First Hau Tree. In addition, guests enjoy learning the hula during a lesson provided by a young hula dancer. Everyone gets into the act during the river cruise! At the Fern Grotto landing, you’ll enjoy a short nature walk through the rainforest to the lush Fern Grotto. The Fern Grotto is a geological wonder of Kauai. Ferns grow upside down from the roof of the grotto, which was formed millions of years ago.Native Hawaiian plants and colorful exotic tropical plants provide a rain-forest atmosphere. The entire tour takes one hour and 20 minutes round-trip.