Located in Kapaa, Fern Grotto Inn is on a river. Travellers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Kauai Museum, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Lydgate Beach and Opaekaa Falls Overlook. Kealia Beach and Kalapaki Beach are two other places to visit that come recommended. Discover the area's water adventures with snorkelling, surfing/body boarding and swimming nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails.
What's nearby
Lae Nani Beach - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
Smith's Tropical Paradise - 13 min walk - 1.2 km
Coconut Marketplace - 19 min walk - 1.6 km
Lydgate Beach - 2 min drive - 0.8 km
Wailua Falls - 23 min drive - 16.0 km
Getting around
Lihue, HI (LIH) - 11 min drive
Restaurants
Island Country Markets #93 - 16 min walk
Starbucks - 3 min drive
Lava Lava Beach Club - Kauai - 17 min walk
The Garden Grille & Bar - 10 min walk
Tropical Dreams Hawaiian Gourmet Ice Cream - 4 min drive
About this property
Fern Grotto Inn
Riverfront cottages with kitchenettes and pillowtop beds
Along with free use of bicycles, this cottage has concierge services and laundry facilities. Free WiFi in public areas and free self parking are also provided. Other amenities include express check-in, express check-out and a garden. All 9 soundproofed accommodations feature free WiFi and pillowtop beds. Guests will find kitchenettes with fridges, ovens, stovetops and microwaves.
Fern Grotto Inn offers 9 air-conditioned accommodations with complimentary bottles of water and coffee/tea makers. Each accommodation is individually furnished and decorated. Pillowtop beds feature Egyptian cotton sheets and premium bedding. Accommodation at this 3.5-star cottage has kitchenettes with fridges, stovetops, microwaves and kitchenware and utensils. Bathrooms include baths or showers, bidets, complimentary toiletries and hairdryers.
Guests can surf the web using complimentary wireless Internet access. Smart televisions come with Netflix. Additionally, rooms include rice cookers and an iron/ironing board.
Recreational amenities at the cottage include complimentary bicycles.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on-site or nearby; fees may apply.
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Check-in start time: 3 PM; check-in end time: midnight
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age - 21
Check-out
Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out
Express check-out available
Special check-in instructions
There is no front desk at this property
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours will receive an email with special check-in instructions and key retrieval information; access will be through a private entrance
Access methods
Key retrieval, private entrance
Pets
Pets not allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Cashless transactions are available
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Property Registration Number GE-193-000-2432-01, TA-193-000-2432-01, 410040230000
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
Frequently asked questions
Is Fern Grotto Inn pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Fern Grotto Inn?
Self-parking is free at this property.
What time is check-in at Fern Grotto Inn?
Check-in start time: 3 PM; check-in end time: midnight.
What time is check-out at Fern Grotto Inn?
Checkout is at 11 AM.
Where is Fern Grotto Inn located?
Situated on a river, this cottage is 1 mi (1.6 km) from Lydgate Beach and 1.5 mi (2.4 km) from Opaekaa Falls Overlook. Kealia Beach and Kauai Museum are also within 9 mi (15 km).
Fern Grotto Inn Reviews
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
My wife and I spent a week for our honeymoon, nice little cottage for a quick getaway, close to main towns with shops and beaches. Overall had a good time.
Jake
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
James
18 Aug 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Just a calm and quiet place to stay.
James
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Wendall
20 Dec 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Nice cozy property with lots of extra amenities such as kayaks, beach equipment, etc. We would visit again in the future
Wendall
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Timothy
8 Aug 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The amenities and the property was well taken care of and it was a lovely place to stay.
Timothy
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Russell
24 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This was our first visit to Hawaii and we couldn't have found a better property to stay at. Secluded, quiet and well maintained. The River Cottage was so well equipped with kitchen ware, microwave, full oven, refrigerator and even Alexa for listening 🎧 to music at night on our Lanai.
Paul the property manager was gracious and the cottage was immaculate. From this property, you are only five minutes by car away from Smith Family Farms where there is a 30 acre botanical garden and luau that runs several days a week. Reservations are a must.
There is also the Fern Grotto cruise that is a wonderful hour and a half journey with entertainment that is well worth your time and definitely affordable.
We plan on going back in 2026. It felt like our home away from home and about 15 minutes away from the Lihiue airport.
Russell
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Keri Marie
29 Mar 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This was the perfect place for our stay!! We absolutely loved the River cottage and highly recommend it to couples. It’s renovated, with all the amenities, and a built in alarm clock (roosters lol) Fern Grotto Inn was a beautiful place and will forever be a special place for us.
Keri Marie
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
Eric Norman
28 Jul 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Quiet property, convenient, close to activities
Eric Norman
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Paula
10 May 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Beautiful and peaceful cottage on the river and 5 minutes from the beach. Very comfortable bed and woke up to a palm tree breeze every morning along with a rooster reminding us it was time to get up 😊
Paula
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jaeyoon
9 May 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Clean, well maintained, and quiet.
Jaeyoon
Stayed 6 nights in May 2023
10/10 Excellent
Pavel
19 Feb 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
It was very clean and comfortable place, very efficient and warm home feeling, the kitchen had absolutely everything you could need. I would recommend this place to anybody looking for a small kitchen, great location place.
Maria & Pavel
Pavel
10/10 Excellent
Monica
11 Sept 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
We enjoyed the location - walk to a beach for sunrise and kayak in the evening on the river. It was an extremely peaceful setting. The room was comfortable and it was fantastic to have a kitchen with a nice size refrigerator. There was even free laundry on premise! Complimentary beach gear and kayak equipment were available. The grounds would have benefited from more watering and love. We look forward to a return visit.
Monica
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Cecil M
26 Jul 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
We enjoyed our stay at the beautiful Fern Grotto Inn. The room was clean and its furnishings and atmosphere greatly enhanced our Kauaiin experience by introducing us to local culture and customs. The well maintained grounds reflected the beauty of the "garden island" and the kind and friendly staff were quick to address our every need. We would highly recommend this property to anyone looking for an awesome Hawaiian experience!
Cecil M
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Sheryl
20 Mar 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The property and suite were beautifully kept. We loved that they had bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling equipment which we used at the river which was right next to us and at the beach across the street. The bike path nearby was amazing views over the ocean. As everywhere in Kauai there are roosters so bring earplugs because they start early.
Sheryl
Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
Richard
30 Dec 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Very clean. Easy to check-in. Use of kayak and bike was very inviting. It was central for our exploring the island. Will definitely recommend and return!
Richard
8/10 Good
Bernadette
24 May 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
If you don’t want to pay the high prices for a resort this was an excellent choice. We had 5 days on the island . Being close to the hotel was not our goal. We got up and out exploring each day. Back to shower for dinner at one of the multiple restaurants within 5 minutes away. The beach once you locate is also 5 minutes away. Perfect choice for us
Bernadette
Stayed 6 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jerry
18 Jun 2023
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This was our first time visiting Hawaii and our stay at Fern Grotto Inn was a pleasant one. The room was very clean , plenty of towels . The air conditioner , toaster oven, microwave worked perfectly. The grounds are well kept . There are fruit trees on the property as well. The inn keeper was very hospitable and attentive to our needs.
Jerry
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Lisa
8 Oct 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
This place was quiet and cozy. Walking distance to the beach, river, restaurants and bike path. Kayaks, bikes, beach equipment all to use. No need to rent anything. We stayed in the River Cottage and it was fully loaded down to chocolates and a 2 beers in the fridge. Definitely want to go back
Lisa
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2022
10/10 Excellent
Daniel
29 Jun 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The Fern Grotto Inn was an amazing place to stay for our visit to Kauai. We had the Ohana house all to ourselves. It had all the comforts of home. The property is gorgeous and has access to the Wailua river. It is close to a wonderful beach - Lydgate Beach which is walkable but I would recommend driving to it. Close to shops and restaurants. Easy access to the highway which takes you everywhere. Our host was accessible and always on property if anything occurs. Lovely stay!
Daniel
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2022
10/10 Excellent
Gregory
24 Nov 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
True Hawaii. We were immersed in the sounds of birds, breezes, and we could even hear the ocean at night! Really
appreciated the easy access to the river and they had all the outdoor amenities like kayaks, coolers, boogie boards, and bikes (for the 10 mile bike path just a block up the road!) It was central to the Kauai adventure tubing, Smiths luau, and only 30 mins from the north shore. Kapaa town is 5 mins and has all amenities. The road this property is on is also on a Heritage trial —which has multiple sacred sites to visit, a Hindu temple, and a waterfall! I can’t say enough about this place.
Gregory
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023
10/10 Excellent
Hnia
9 Sept 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Booking the River cottage instead of a hotel and resort was such a great decision. The cottages are surrounded by lush gardens with trees laden with fruit and flowers. The area is quiet and affords you complete privacy. The check in process was great! Everything was already prepared for us when we went inside. The cottage is fully equipped with everything you could possibly need and was impeccably clean. There is an access point to the Wailua river with kayaks available. Laundry facilities were also such a convenience. I would love to stay here again! Such a magical and whimsical place.
Hnia
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Amber
9 Jul 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
We stayed in Coco Unit D for my honeymoon recently for 5 nights and we had the most incredible stay. The river view from the unit was stunning. The units themself are small but really comfortable and have everything you’d need such as AC and a kitchen with dishes and pots and pans and coffee maker and a comfortable bed and plenty of towels. The location is really ideal since it’s in between Poipu/Waimea and the north shore and 10 minutes away from the airport.
But what makes this place really stand out is the amenities it has to offer. We used the free kayaks to kayak to Secret falls trailhead which was about 40 minutes away. We used the free bikes to bike along the ocean. We loved being able to do our laundry here and use the snorkel equipment. Also the mango trees! There are about 5 mango trees on the property that you are allowed to harvest from and the mangoes are so delicious! There was also a star fruit tree and a small lime tree!
Paul has truly put so much thought into his property and I couldn’t have imagined a better place for us to have stayed at for our honeymoon.
Amber
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
8/10 Good
DeeDee
9 Jun 2010
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort
Fern Grotto Inn, Almost Perfect
My husband and I loved this property. It is small, convenient, and intimate. We enjoyed the fact that there are only four cottages on the property and that the growns were like a backyard at home. The location is perfect (about halfway between Lihue and Kapaa), across the road from a lovely beach, across the river from Smith Family Gardens, and 100 paces from the Wailua River Tours. The only drawback to the Fern Grotto Inn is that it is not a resort. We didn't have maid service during our stay, but we did have to pay a $100.00 cleaning fee. So be sure to budget that into your travel expenses (we didn't, because the bill came the day we were checking out). We had to use the cash we were going to use to pay the extra baggage fee from the airlines (put that on credit card). If wouldn't have been a big deal if we had known. I wouldn't have spent 3-hours cleaning the cottage that morning and would have left it the way it was when we woke up.
I don't want to be negative, because the rest of the trip was perfect. I just don't like expensive surprises.
DeeDee
8/10 Good
MARCIA
20 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, communication
MARCIA
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
8/10 Good
Julia
18 Feb 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
This property is situated right next to Wailua State Park and across from
Wailua Beach and minutes from Lydgate Beach Park. Immaculate and well- maintained. It was noisier than I expected due to traffic and bridge construction but very cute garden where you can sit outside
Julia
Stayed 13 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Meghan Tracey
13 Jan 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
It was amazing! The perfect place to stay! We even had the river in the backyard to kayak