Wailua River | Book Kauai Tours, Activities & Things to Do with HawaiiActivities.com
Kauai Top Sights & Attractions

Wailua River Adventures

4.56
Kauai’s Wailua River flows from Mt. Waialeale past lush jungle landscapes and hidden waterfalls, creating the perfect setting for outdoor adventure. Paddle a kayak through calm, scenic waters to explore secret falls and ancient sites, or take a relaxing boat cruise to the famous Fern Grotto. Whether you're chasing waterfalls or enjoying the ride, the Wailua River offers one of Kauai’s most rewarding nature experiences.
Pro Tips
  • - Bring bug spray. The Wailua River winds through heavily forested areas in one of the wettest places on earth, but a quick spray before departure will make for a much more enjoyable trip.
  • - Some tours will also let you dock your kayak and embark on a hike to secret waterfalls tucked back into the rainforest.

Top-Rated Activities for Kauai

Latest reviews of Wailua River Adventures

Smith’s Fern Grotto River Cruise with Live Hawaiian Music & Hula

Great time with amazing people

2026/02/07 Couples Rosey

We had a wonderful time on the excursion. The staff were friendly and helpful. I loved the music and interaction with the staff on the boat. The Fern Grotto and the story told of the history was great!! I will definitel... more

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Smith’s Fern Grotto River Cruise with Live Hawaiian Music & Hula

Aging Infrastructure

2026/02/02 Others Husband

Last visited fern grotto in 1978. So disappointed we couldn’t walk up into cave as before. Sidewalks were broken and heaving up. Difficult to walk. Dangerous

Wailua River Kayak & Secret Falls Hike - Guided Kauai Adventure

Great adventure

2026/01/29 Couples KNC

Great time kayaking down the river. Fun and muddy hike to a beautiful waterfall. We had lunch there and a swim and then started the trip back. Harrison was our guide so knowledge and helpful. Recommend this fun adventure... more

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Smith’s Fern Grotto River Cruise with Live Hawaiian Music & Hula

Great Time!

2026/01/25 Couples Sue Sue

Enjoyed the music and dancing as well as the informative narration. The natural beauty of the river and grotto is spectacular. Walking through the Rain Forest area gave you a sense of peace.

Smith’s Fern Grotto River Cruise with Live Hawaiian Music & Hula

Great Experience

2026/01/24 Friends Patty

Beautiful trip in a beautiful setting with great entertainment that included comedy, music and traditional dancing.
The walk to the grotto was so incredibly gorgeous. Do not miss this wonderful experience

Smith’s Fern Grotto River Cruise with Live Hawaiian Music & Hula

Nice small beautiful excursion!

2026/01/23 Families Kara

The boat ride along the river offered beautiful views of lush tropical landscapes, and the live Hawaiian music and hula added an authentic, festive touch.

Wailua River | Book Kauai Tours, Activities & Things to Do with HawaiiActivities.com
Kauai’s Wailua River flows from Mt. Waialeale past lush jungle landscapes and hidden waterfalls, creating the perfect setting for outdoor adventure. Paddle a kayak through calm, scenic waters to explore secret falls and ancient sites, or take a relaxing boat cruise to the famous Fern Grotto. Whether you're chasing waterfalls or enjoying the ride, the Wailua River offers one of Kauai’s most rewarding nature experiences.