In short
- The riverboat requires guests to climb six steps.
- The trail from the boat dock to the grotto is paved and flat.
- The observation deck is flat and made of wood.
In this article
Visiting the Fern Grotto requires taking a boat ride up the Wailua River. While the walking paths at the destination are flat, the boat itself has physical barriers. Here is what you need to know about navigating the tour with mobility aids.
Is the Fern Grotto wheelchair accessible?
No, the boat tour is not fully wheelchair accessible.
You must climb six steps to board the riverboat. Crew members can assist, but you must be able to manage the stairs. You can bring a manual wheelchair or a stroller on board once folded. Motorized wheelchairs are not permitted on the boat.
How long is the walk to the Fern Grotto?
The walk is a 10-minute stroll on a flat, paved path.
Once the boat docks, visitors walk through a tropical rainforest to reach the site. The paved trail makes pushing a stroller or a manual wheelchair easy. The path ends at a wooden observation deck where the music performance takes place.
Can you go inside the Fern Grotto cave?
No one can walk inside the cave due to rockfall hazards.
Following rockfalls in 2006, the state closed the interior of the cavern. All guests must view the hanging ferns from the designated wooden observation deck. This rule applies to everyone for safety reasons.
What are the best options for strollers?
Bring a lightweight, foldable travel stroller.
You need to fold your stroller to carry it up the six steps onto the boat. Large jogging strollers are difficult to manage on the stairs. The 10-minute walk at the landing is smooth enough for small wheels.
Are there accessible restrooms on the tour?
Yes, accessible restrooms are located at the Wailua Marina.
Use the facilities at Wailua River State Park before your tour begins. The state park charges a $5 entrance fee and a $10 parking fee for non-Hawaii residents. Credit cards are required for these payments.
How does the terrain compare to Secret Falls?
The Fern Grotto is much easier to navigate than Secret Falls.
The Fern Grotto offers a relaxing boat ride and a paved 10-minute walk. Secret Falls requires renting a kayak, paddling for 45 to 60 minutes, and hiking a muddy trail. Secret Falls is not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs.
Questions travellers ask
Can I drive to the Fern Grotto?
No, the Fern Grotto is only accessible by boat via the Wailua River. You must take a commercial boat tour to view the site.
Do independent kayakers have access to the Fern Grotto?
No, individual kayakers are strictly prohibited from landing at the Fern Grotto. Only commercial boat tours can dock at the site.
How much does the boat tour cost?
Tickets for the Smith's Fern Grotto River Cruise start from $35 for adults and $17.50 for children aged 2 to 12. Prices change and do not include state park fees for non-residents.
