Best Kauai Northeast, Fern Grotto River Cruise & Lighthouse Tour
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
An incredible full-day tour of Kauai's north and east shores with a river boat cruise to Fern Grotto and a visit to the Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge. (Lighthouse is open Wednesday, but we visit the Lookout on Mondays.)
Hotel pickup from the Princeville to Kapaa (others meet at Smith's Boats). Enjoy luxury transportation while you learn about the island from an our expert guides as you explore lush waterfalls, scenic mountain views, and beautiful beaches. No other tour combines all these attractions in one day!
Available options
Land and River Tour
See North and East shores of Kauai by land with a narrated tour, see the Lighthouse, and ride up the Wailua River with Hula Dancing and Music to the Fern Grotto.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
River boat cruise to the Fern Grotto
Professional and entertaining tour guide
Hotel pickup & drop-off (Princeville to Kapaa only)
Air-conditioned vehicle
6-hr Sightseeing tour of the North and East Shores
Luxury Sprinter or SUV depending on passenger counts
Kilauea Lighthouse & Wildlife Refuge (open Wed., visit Lookout Mon.)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Board a spacious, open-air river boat for a two mile leisurely journey to the Fern Grotto where you’ll enjoy a short nature walk through the rainforest. The Fern Grotto is a geological wonder of Kauai where ferns grow upside down from the roof of the grotto. A natural amphitheater of lava rock and tropical vegetation is the perfect backdrop as you are serenaded and entertained by Hawaiian musicians and hula dancers.
2
Stop 2
Visit Kauai's East Side 151-foot tall and 40-foot wide waterfall cascading down into a hidden pool. "Opaekaa" means "rolling shrimp" which were once abundant in the stream.
3
Stop 3
Visit Kauai's bird sanctuary, see firsthand the refuge's seabirds like the red-footed boobies, the wedge-tailed shearwaters, and the red and white-tailed tropicbirds. Also check out the 100 year old, 52-ft Lighthouse. Lighthouse is only open on Wednesdays. We visit the Lookout on Mondays.
4
Stop 4
See breathtaking views of Anini's calm beaches and clear waters.
5
Stop 5
Tour around Hanalei Bay and Pier, see lush landscaping, and waterfalls on the mountains as well as beautiful beaches.
6
See the beautiful Wai'oli Church in Hanalei with it's stunning stained glass windows and Hawaiian architecture.
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
68 reviews
5★
48
4★
12
3★
5
2★
0
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.6
125 reviews
5★
100
4★
12
3★
6
2★
2
1★
5
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Kauai
Kauai, known as the Garden Isle, is the oldest and fourth largest of the main Hawaiian Islands. It is renowned for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. The island is less developed than its neighbors, providing a more secluded and tranquil experience.
Top Attractions
Waimea Canyon
Known as the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific,' Waimea Canyon offers breathtaking views and hiking trails through its vibrantly colored cliffs and lush valleys.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to enter, parking fees may apply
Na Pali Coast
The Na Pali Coast is famous for its dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and secluded beaches. It can be explored by hiking, boat tours, or helicopter tours.
Nature
Full day
Free for hiking, boat tours and helicopter tours range from $150 to $300 per person
Wailua River State Park
This state park offers access to the Wailua River, with activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and visiting the Fern Grotto and Opaekaa Falls.
Nature
Half day
Free to enter, activities have separate fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poke
A Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, usually tuna, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Served over rice or as a salad.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish, gluten-free if soy sauce is replaced
Loco Moco
A Hawaiian comfort food made with white rice, topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains beef, can be made vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Ziplining
Beachcombing
Spa treatments
Sunset watching
Hula performances
Cultural tours
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the island is lush and green.
22-29°C
72-84°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone (HST, GMT-10:00)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kauai is generally safe, but travelers should be cautious of natural hazards and take precautions to ensure a safe visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of strong ocean currents and rip tides
- • Carry enough water and sunscreen when hiking
- • Secure valuables in rental cars
Getting there
By air
- Lihue Airport • 3 km (2 miles) from Lihue
By bus
Lihue, Kapaa, Princeville
Getting around
Public transport
The Kauai Bus system connects major towns and attractions but has infrequent schedules. Plan your trips accordingly.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Lihue
Kapaa
Princeville
Day trips
Niihau
18 miles (29 km) from Kauai • Full day
Known as the 'Forbidden Island,' Niihau is a privately owned island with a rich Hawaiian cultural heritage. Visitors can take guided tours to experience the island's traditional way of life.
Hanapepe
12 miles (19 km) from Lihue • Half day
A charming town with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore art galleries, historic sites, and enjoy local dining.
Festivals
Kauai Moolelo Festival • June
Kauai Coffee Festival • May
Pro tips
- Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace
- Visit the Waimea Canyon and Na Pali Coast for stunning landscapes and hiking trails
- Try local dishes like poke and loco moco for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience
- Respect the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage by following the 'Leave No Trace' principle
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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