Over the years I have received quite a few emails asking about the Fern Grotto on Kauai since many readers have heard that it is not what it used to be. I have to admit that until my recent trip to Kauai, I had not visited the Fern Grotto in almost fifteen years.

In fact, the Fern Grotto is not what it used to be. Hurricane Iwa in 1982 and Hurricane Iniki in 1992 both caused some damage to the grotto area, but the most serious damage was caused by the 42 days of rain that drenched Kauai in early 2006 and which caused landslides and damage to the ferns in the grotto.

That being said, however, a trip down the Wailua River to the Fern Grotto on a Smith's Fern Grotto Wailua River Cruise is still a worthwhile experience and a lovely well-spent hour and a half on your visit to Kauai.

Find out more details in our Review of Smith's Fern Grotto Wailua River Cruise and our Gallery of 24 Photos of Smith's Fern Grotto Wailua River Cruise.

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Oahu's annual festivals and events provide visitors and locals an opportunity to embrace the multi-cultural heritage, deep traditions and customs that are special to the island.

Whether it is a cultural festival highlighting Hawaii's diverse people and their origins, an energetic concert series, a world-class surfing event, or a culinary event featuring the island's top chefs, there is sure to be something for everyone every month of the year.

Check out our guide to 2011 Festivals and Events On Oahu.

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_{South African Paul Canning at Pipeline on the North Shore of Oahu}

Known as the "surfing capital of the world," Oahu's North Shore spans from La'ie to Ka'ena Point. Still, it's an area that far too many visitors never take the opportunity to see.

If you want to see great surfing, a drive to the North Shore is a must trip, but there's a lot more to the North Shore than just surfing. Whether it's the Polynesian Cultural Center in La'ie, the James Campbell Nature Wildlife Refuge and a fresh shrimp lunch in Kahuku, the beautiful and lush Waimea Valley or a walk through historic Haleiwa, the North Shore has so much to offer.

In this feature we'll show you the best ways to get to the North Shore by car and then we'll take a look at some of the highlights of the area.

Join me for a Driving Tour of Oahu's North Shore.

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_{Kamehameha I's 1795 Warriors at 'Aha 'Aina, a Royal Celebration - Photo by John Fischer, licensed to About.com}

Aha 'Aina, a Royal Celebration at The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort is Waikiki's only oceanfront dinner and show. It is a culinary and sensory celebration, commemorating Hawaiian culture and transforming the traditional island luau experience in a style that only The Royal Hawaiian can do.

Where most luaus offer only buffet lines and standard luau foods, Aha 'Aina is a fine dining experience with a superb after-dinner show produced by Hawaii's premier entertainment company, Tihati Productions.

Read our review of Aha 'Aina, a Royal Celebration and view a gallery of 24 photos taken during the evening.

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