FERN GROTTO , known to the ancients as Ma‘ama‘akualono, is a lovely spot at the base of Mauna Kapu (Forbidden Mountain).
Draped in long sword ferns that hang upside down from the roof of the cave, it is known for its excellent acoustics. The Hawaiian Wedding Song , a traditional Hawaiian ballad, has been performed thousands of times at ceremonies in the grotto.
SMITH’S KAUA‘I organizes tours to the grotto. Aboard riverboats, which look like barges with canopies, the crew entertains passengers with music, hula and legends of the Wailua area. The inexpensive, Smith family-run tours are conducted daily, and originate at WAILUA MARINA STATE PARK just outside of KAPA‘A. Visit smithskauai. com for more details. SMITH’S KAUA‘I 808-821-6895
