Kauai: Waimea Town, Wailua River Cruise & Fern Grotto Tour
4.6 / 5 · 587 traveler reviews
Experience Kauai’s natural beauty and local culture in one day, with a local guide connecting the sights through island stories. Cruise the Wailua River to Fern Grotto, view Opaekaa Falls, visit Kauai Coffee, and explore Old Koloa, Hanapepe, and Historic Waimea Town. Enjoy free time to shop and choose your own lunch. From October 5, 2026, this temporary itinerary replaces Waimea Canyon and Spouting Horn.
Your experience
Stop 1
Board a spacious, open-air boat and cruise down Kauai's Wailua River encircled by miles of lush trees and tropical plants. Cool breezes lull you as the captain shares stories of ancient Hawaii when the river was flanked by multiple Hawaiian heiau (temples).
Stop 2
Take a leisurely boat ride down the Wailua River to the famed "Fern Grotto" aptly named for the Boston Ferns dripping from the roof of a verdant cavern carved out of the mountain side.
Stop 3
Cascading down into a hidden pool, this 151-foot-tall, 40-foot-wide waterfall is one of the island's most accessible major waterfalls.
Stop 4
Enjoy lunch on your own in historic Old Koloa Town, surrounded by its charming atmosphere.
Stop 5
Panoramic views of a valley covered in trees and wild green sugarcane. Hanapepe was one of the locations visited by famous explored Charles Wilkes in 1840.
Stop 6
The largest coffee farm in the United States, visit the Kauai Coffee Estate and sample a rich cup of famous Kauai coffee.
Stop 7
Explore Historic Waimea Town, a coastal community with deep roots in Kauai’s history. Enjoy time to stroll through town, browse local shops, and take in the relaxed atmosphere while your guide shares stories about the area’s past.
What’s included
- Admission to Smith’s Wailua River boat ride to Fern Grotto
- Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Pickup and drop-off at select Kauai hotels from Poipu to Kapaa
- Live narration by a professional driver/guide
Not included
- Gratuities
- Cruise port pick-up and drop-off
- Lunch
Before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please contact the tour provider at minimum of 7 days prior to the tour date for ADA and all special requests.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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