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Wailua River access needs direct confirmation. DLNR’s October 23, 2026 notice lists limited Wailua River and designated landing/trailhead access. Its October 29 notice names Hāʻena and the first Waimea Canyon Lookout as exceptions, then says all other Kauaʻi state parks remain closed without naming Wailua. These notices do not give a consistent current access instruction for Wailua. Defer Wailua River outings until DLNR confirms permitted access. Hiking beyond the trailhead and Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls) remain closed. Individual kayakers may not enter Fern Grotto. Confirm any commercial departure separately with its operator. The DLNR park notices and Wailua park page contain the differing instructions. Do not follow the outing directions below unless DLNR confirms access. Check Travel Alerts before choosing an alternative.
The Wailua River is said to be the only navigable river in Hawaii (depending on how you define navigable). In the case of taking a boat a few miles inland to a lovely mecca of ferns and tropical plants - the Fern Grotto, it means Wailua River.
Fern Grotto Wall
The first road on Highway 56 after pulling off Highway 580 is the road to Smith’s Tropical Paradise (that’s the best name to give it, there doesn’t appear to be a real name for the road). There will be a ticket booth on the right where you’ll want to stop and purchase your ticket for the trip up the Wailua River.
Check Smith’s current ticket prices and tour times before booking. Individual kayakers are not permitted to access Fern Grotto under the current state-park notice.
Smith’s describes a two-mile river journey and a short walk from the landing to Fern Grotto. Confirm the current departure schedule with the operator before traveling.
The Fern Grotto is a large natural amphitheater with hundreds of ferns draped from it. The gardens leading up to the amphitheater are full of tropical plants and flowers, including the incredible split-leaf philodendrons or swiss-cheese plant - one of our favorites. It is actually native to Mexico, but it makes for a lovely addition to Hawaii's jungles.
The tour is about 30 minutes up the river in the large passenger boats, usually accompanied by entertainment, mele (song), and dance. The visit to the Grotto itself is usually between 30-45 minutes. The Fern Grotto is also a popular place for weddings, and many ceremonies take place there, several on the same day in some instances.
Once you’ve taken the tour and experienced the Grotto, turn left out of the dock parking lot. Smith’s Tropical Paradise is located beside the dock a little bit down the road and is worth a visit if time permits.
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