Explore
The Fern Grotto area sits two miles upstream on the Wailua River. It includes a short paved trail, botanical grounds, and a wooden viewing deck.
After your 2-mile riverboat cruise, you will dock at the Fern Grotto landing. This site was historically a sacred place reserved strictly for Hawaiian royalty. Since a series of rockfalls in 2006, visitors can no longer walk inside the lava rock cave itself.
Instead, you will explore the surrounding botanical grounds and view the fern-covered cavern from a designated observation deck. The hanging ferns have rebounded steadily since they were damaged by hurricanes in 1982 and 1992.
10 minsFlat, paved path
A short, flat, paved path leads directly from the boat landing to the grotto. Watch for native flora, including tropical gingers and peacock palms. Visitors must stay on the paved path for safety and environmental protection. Comfortable walking shoes are sufficient for this easy walk.
15 minsMusical performance
This wooden viewing platform sits safely in front of the cavern. It provides a clear view of the lava rock cave and its hanging ferns. Musicians perform the Hawaiian Wedding Song here to demonstrate the natural amphitheater acoustics. Entering the cave itself is strictly prohibited.
10 minsHawaiian ti plants
The area surrounding the grotto is filled with introduced and native flora. Look for Hawaiian ti plants near the platform, traditionally believed to bring good luck. Mosquitoes are common in this jungle environment, so apply reef-safe bug repellent before leaving the boat.
