Manta Ray Night Snorkel at Kona, Big Island – A Magical Underwater Experience

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Introduction

Experience one of Hawai’i’s most unforgettable wildlife encounters with the Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona, Big Island. This thrilling and magical excursion takes you into the ocean at night, where you’ll float above graceful, giant manta rays as they glide and feed beneath you.

With expert guides, high-quality snorkeling gear, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat, this adventure is a must-do for ocean lovers, snorkelers, and wildlife enthusiasts.


Why Choose the Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel?

1. Witness One of the Most Unique Marine Experiences in the World 🦋🌊

  • Kona is one of the few places in the world where you can snorkel with manta rays at night.
  • Observe giant, winged manta rays gracefully feeding on plankton, just inches away from you.

2. No Diving Experience Required – Perfect for Beginners 🏊‍♂️

  • Easy and safe snorkeling with flotation devices provided.
  • Professional guides ensure a smooth, fun, and safe experience for all skill levels.

3. High Success Rate – Almost Guaranteed Sightings

  • Kona’s manta ray sites have a 96% success rate in sightings.
  • If you don’t see a manta, many tour operators offer a free second trip.

4. Small Group Tours for an Intimate Experience 🤿

  • Limited capacity ensures a more personal and up-close encounter.
  • Guides provide educational insights about manta rays and marine conservation.

5. Convenient Departures from Kona & Keauhou 🚤

  • Depart from Honokohau Harbor or Keauhou Bay, close to manta ray feeding grounds.
  • Short boat rides (10–20 minutes) make it an easy excursion.

What to Expect on the Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour

1. Check-In & Safety Briefing at the Marina(30–45 minutes before departure)

  • Arrive at the designated boat harbor in Kona or Keauhou Bay.
  • Meet your certified guides and captain, who will provide a safety briefing.
  • Get fitted with snorkel gear, wetsuits, and flotation devices.

2. Scenic Boat Ride to the Manta Ray Viewing Site(10–20 minutes ride)

  • Enjoy a beautiful sunset boat ride along the Kona coastline.
  • Learn about manta rays, their behavior, and the importance of marine conservation.

3. Enter the Water & Hold Onto a Floating Light Board 🌊🌟 (45–60 minutes in the water)

  • Float face-down on the surface, holding onto a specially designed floating light raft.
  • The UV lights attract plankton, which in turn brings the giant manta rays.
  • Watch in awe as mantas perform barrel rolls inches from your face, feeding in the glowing water.

4. Return to the Boat & Head Back to Shore 🚤

  • Dry off and enjoy warm beverages while sharing stories of your incredible experience.
  • Head back to the marina, full of awe and excitement.

Best Manta Ray Snorkel Locations in Kona

1. Keauhou Bay (Manta Village) – Best for Beginners

  • Calm waters and reliable manta sightings make this the most popular location.
  • Ideal for families and first-time snorkelers.

2. Garden Eel Cove (Manta Heaven) – Best for Frequent Sightings

  • Located near Honokohau Harbor, offering deeper waters and more mantas.
  • Great for snorkelers and divers alike.

3. Manta Point – Exclusive & Less Crowded

  • Located near Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, this secluded area is great for a quieter experience.

Why Kona is the Best Place to Snorkel with Manta Rays

1. Unique Feeding Behavior – Barrel Rolling Mantas

  • Manta rays in Kona perform mesmerizing barrel rolls, creating a ballet-like underwater show.

2. Warm, Clear Waters for the Best Visibility

  • Kona’s waters remain warm year-round (75–80°F / 24–27°C), perfect for night snorkeling.

3. No Harmful Interaction – Ethical & Eco-Friendly Tour

  • Unlike other wildlife encounters, no touching or feeding is involved, keeping the mantas safe and undisturbed.

Who Should Book This Tour?

Snorkel & Ocean Lovers – A bucket-list experience for anyone who loves marine life.
Families & Kids (Ages 8+) – A safe, educational, and awe-inspiring activity for all ages.
Adventure Seekers – Enjoy the thrill of snorkeling at night with giant rays.
Photography EnthusiastsCapture surreal, glowing underwater photos of these gentle giants.

🚫 Not Recommended For:

  • Non-swimmers or those uncomfortable in deep water (flotation devices are provided, but you must feel comfortable in open water).
  • Children under 8 years old (depending on the tour operator).
  • People prone to seasickness (consider taking motion sickness medication beforehand).

Tips for an Unforgettable Manta Ray Snorkel Experience

1. Book in Advance – Tours Sell Out Fast!

  • Manta ray snorkeling is one of the most popular activities on the Big Island.

2. Wear a Wetsuit for Comfort

  • Even though the water is warm, a wetsuit helps with buoyancy and prevents chills.

3. Bring a GoPro or Underwater Camera

  • Capture stunning videos of the mantas gliding beneath you.

4. Take Motion Sickness Medication if Needed

  • Boat rides can be choppy, so consider taking seasickness medication (like Dramamine) 30 minutes before departure.

5. Follow the Guide’s Instructions – No Touching the Mantas!

  • Let the manta rays come to you, and enjoy their graceful underwater dance.

Ticket Options & Inclusions

Tour TypeIncludes
Standard Manta Ray Snorkel TourBoat ride, snorkel gear, wetsuit, guide
Luxury Private TourPersonalized experience, premium boat, small group
Manta Ray Snorkel + Sunset CruiseSunset viewing, snorkeling, drinks/snacks
Combo Tour (Snorkel + Night Dive for Certified Divers)Snorkeling + Scuba diving with mantas

Booking Your Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona

For a hassle-free experience, reserve your Manta Ray Night Snorkel through Viator, which offers:
Instant Confirmation
Flexible Cancellation Options
Best Price Guarantee

To secure your spot, visit Viator for availability and pricing.


Conclusion

The Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona is an unparalleled wildlife encounter, offering thrilling close-up views of one of the ocean’s most majestic creatures. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-time adventurer, this magical experience will leave you in awe.

Book your Manta Ray Night Snorkel today through Viator and witness the breathtaking beauty of Kona’s manta rays! 🌊✨🦋

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