The Wailua River Cruise with Smith's Tropical Paradise is a peaceful Kauai boat tour through one of the island’s most scenic river valleys. First, board a spacious open-air boat for a relaxing ride along the Wailua River, the only navigable river in Hawaii. Then, enjoy songs, stories and island scenery as you travel toward the famous Fern Grotto.
The Wailua River is fed by Mount Waialeale, one of the wettest places in the world. As a result, the valley is known for lush greenery, tropical plants and beautiful river views. During the two-mile journey upstream, guests can hear stories of old Hawaii, enjoy Hawaiian music and take part in a hula lesson.
Fern Grotto Tour Experience
After the boat reaches the Fern Grotto landing, guests take a short nature walk through a tropical rainforest setting. The path leads to Fern Grotto, a fern-covered lava rock cave and one of Kauai’s well-known geological landmarks. In addition, the grotto is known for its natural acoustics and peaceful garden surroundings.
The open-air boat offers views from both sides, so guests can enjoy the river scenery throughout the ride. Mangrove trees line the riverbanks, and the calm pace makes this tour a good choice for families, couples and visitors who want an easy Kauai sightseeing activity.
Garden Stroll Add-On
A Garden Stroll admission may be added for guests who want to visit the Smith's Tropical Paradise garden grounds without attending the luau. The garden is open daily from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. However, guests who are attending Smith's Garden Luau will have time to walk through the garden after luau check-in and do not need to add the Garden Stroll for that same evening.
If you plan to visit the garden in the morning or early afternoon before attending the luau later, you would need to purchase the Garden Stroll admission separately. For an evening option after the river cruise, see Smith's Garden Luau. For a full-day sightseeing tour that also includes Waimea Canyon, visit the Waimea Canyon, Wailua River & Fern Grotto Tour.
Wailua River Cruise Highlights
- Enjoy Smith's famous Wailua River Cruise to Fern Grotto
- Ride along the only navigable river in Hawaii
- Relax aboard a spacious open-air boat with views from both sides
- Hear Hawaiian songs and stories during the river journey
- Take part in a fun hula lesson during the cruise
- Learn about Hawaiian traditions and Kauai’s river valley history
- Walk through a tropical rainforest area to the fern-covered Fern Grotto
