Once the sacred capital of ancient Kauai and the birthplace of island royalty, the Wailua River is a beautiful sight to behold. And located off the river, at the base of Mauna Kapu – also known as Forbidden Mountain – is the magical Fern Grotto, known for its ferns that grow upside down from the roof of the grotto.
The naturally-formed lava cave was formed millions of years ago, and is home to various native Hawaiian plant species as well as colorful, exotic plants, that come together to make visitors feel as though they have entered a tropical rainforest.
Jim Mullhaupt/Flickr
The only way to reach the magnificent grotto is by boat via the Wailua River, which is Hawaii’s only navigable river, flowing down from one of the wettest spots on earth – Mount Wai’ale’ale. The exorbitant rainfall keeps this area lush and full of vegetation.
Tandy Penn/Flickr
Keira Morgan/Flickr
Unfortunately, the Wailua State Park vegetation has not grown back to its former splendor after the disastrous Hurricane ‘Iniki in 1992 – though the site is still quite stunning.
Tandy Penn/Flickr
Tandy Penn/Flickr
There are two options for reaching this marvelous slice of paradise – you can either rent a kayak and take the two-mile trek down the river by yourself, or take a tour offered by Smith’s Kauai.
Tandy Penn/Flickr
Frank Hamm/Flickr
The added benefit of taking a tour is that you will have the opportunity to listen to live entertainment – including song and storytelling. After all, the geological wonder is home to simply stunning acoustics, and there is little better than being serenaded with live music at the grotto.
Tandy Penn/Flickr
Glenn/Flickr
After your journey by water, all that is required is a short five-minute walk to an up-close-and-personal view of the stunning geological wonder. There’s no wonder why so many couples choose to get married in this most romantic setting!
Tandy Penn/Flickr
Isn’t this place simply magical? Are you ready to take a step back from your hiking excursions and beach-going to check out this Hawaiian hidden gem full of serenity?
Jim Mullhaupt/Flickr
Tandy Penn/Flickr
Keira Morgan/Flickr
Frank Hamm/Flickr
Glenn/Flickr
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
