Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua-Kona: Small Group Nightlife Underwater Experience
4.8
216 Ratings
Kailua-Kona
Experience the thrill of a small group night snorkel with manta rays in Kailua-Kona. Expert crew, stunning underwater views, and a commitment to conservation make this a must-do activity.
Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Grander Marlin Sportfishing - Small Groups. 6 Passenger Max.

Departing from Honokohau Harbor a 15-20 minute boat ride gets you to either Garden Eel Cove (northern manta site “Manta Heaven”) or further south down to Keauhou “Manta Village”. Slide in and relax hanging onto our custom-made light board to witness these huge, acrobatic, gentle giants feed on tiny pieces of plankton. Our experienced guide helps get everyone in the best possible viewing position to give guests an up close and personal encounter all while keeping everyone safe and comfortable. Afterwards, enjoy sipping on some hot cocoa and light snacks before heading back to the harbor. Be sure to look up checking out the stars and the city lights during the ride back. A night filled with magnificent mantas and fun memories is sure to be remembered.

What's Included
  • Certified In-water Guide/Lifeguard
  • Use of snorkeling equipment
  • Shorty Wetsuit
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Private transportation
  • Prescription Snorkel Mask
Additional Information

Our intimate groups of six or less and a team of experts make our tours stand out. We might visit the manta site close to the Kona airport in the north, or switch our course and head further south to Keauhou, depending on where the mantas have been spotted the most. Our competent captains and dedicated guides go above and beyond to guarantee you have the most rewarding experience possible.

Before booking this activity, participants must have had previous swimming and snorkeling experiences. Participants must also be able to climb up a boat ladder on their own. This activity is not advised for individuals who have had surgeries or who suffer from mobility or physical constraints, nor is it recommended for pregnant women. Please reach out to the tour operator for any exceptions.

As a family-operated venture, we take immense pride in teaching our guests about the significance of preserving our earth, oceans, wildlife, and one another.

Ensure timely arrival for your scheduled tour.

  • Basic swimming skills are required
  • Previous snorkeling experience is required
  • Guests must be able to independently climb up a boat ladder
  • Guest must be able to converse in English to understand verbal instructions and safety briefings
  • Your safety is our priority! If you or anyone in your group would like a lifejacket please contact our reservation line.
  • Our Manta Policy: Manta Rays are wild animals and Snorkel Big Island cannot guarantee their presence. If a manta ray is not seen on your night out with us you may try again on a different night for a rebooking fee. Please keep in mind that seats may be extremely limited during certain times of the year. We usually are very successful in finding mantas for you; however if they decide to take the night off the costs involved with setting up the charter will not allow us to offer you a refund. We appreciate your business and understanding of this policy.
  • Please confirm your check in time directly with tour provider. Check in time may be up to 40 minutes prior to tour time.
  • Not recommended for travelers with physical or mobility restrictions
Location
Snorkel Big Island
Kealakehe Parkway
Honokohau Small Boat Harbor. Coming from Hwy 19, turn West toward the ocean on Kealakehe Pkwy. Take the 1st right turn to enter the North side of the harbor. Follow the road around to a large dirt parking lot. Park near Public Restroom Pavillion.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.8
(216 Ratings)
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Andrew_k
Jun 23, 2024
Swimming with Rays - Wow, what a cool experience! We really enjoyed this trip. I wasn't quite ready for what we saw, but man oh man, these manta rays came awfully close to us. We learned ALOT from our guides, and i definitely would recc this experience. One thought--we went at the 550pm slot , so we had to wait a bit for the sun to start setting. It may be better to do the later trips just so the sun is set and you can jump right in. Otherwise, this was a great trip!
Review provided by Viator
Deborah_s
Jun 21, 2024
You must do this! - Best experience ever. Life changing. We had intimate contact with about 17 rays. So beautiful to be in a small group where we could stay away from the big crowds. Absolutely recommend.
Review provided by Viator
Elizabeth_m
Jun 18, 2024
Great adventure! Smaller size group better - Awesome night! A little unnerving going out in a smaller boat across dark waters but the captain was great. The smaller boat made it feel more adventurous and authentic. Awesome experience!!! Easy to get in and out of water. Many manta rays! Bring a towel for the ride back.
Review provided by Viator
Timothyhj88mm
Jun 16, 2024
Smaller group bigger experience - This was a great experience, it may be a small boat but it was a big product. The Captain was great and the guide in the water was very knowledgeable. He knew the names of the Manta’s and gave answered all our questions. We saw so many Manta’s that some of them bumped into us. We did the 9:30 pm swim and loved it. The wet suit kept us warm enough to enjoy the swim. I would recommend smaller groups, it seems to get a more personal experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Melissa_s
Jun 16, 2024
Choose this tour ! - There were so many mantas ! I spoke with people who did a different tour and they said they only saw 2 or 3 but there were easily 15-20 on our tour ! John and his family were very nice and we had a great time.
Review provided by Viator
Ann_m
Jun 16, 2024
Higher price than other tours but worth the money. - Small group operator gave great directions for meeting spot. Great use of time getting to the manta ray area. Very personal felt like a family trip.
Review provided by Viator
Matt_e
Jun 16, 2024
Great time! - Great experience with a great crew! If you’re in a party of 6 or less book these guys over one of the big charters.
Review provided by Viator
Tim_s
Jun 14, 2024
Amazing experience - This trip was amazing! The photos and description do not do the actual experience justice. Worth every cent
Review provided by Viator
Rick_d
Jun 14, 2024
Beyond expectations. - Great team all around! We had Capt John, and Ian, on the Manta Ray commentary. Smooth ride going out and spectacular experience when we reached the Light. The Manta's playfulness, is a sight to be seen, with this company. Very personal, as opposed to the larger tour groups. Sam, coordinated us to the site. It is very dark, upon arrival, but this is one of those experiences that will blow your mind, when you're in the water. Just don't kick, lol. Thanks again, Rick and Rose.
Review provided by Viator
Thanh_p
Jun 7, 2024
They don’t want to eat you /s - Scary but totally safe. Top 10 amazing experiences. Captain was great. Just make sure you’re comfortable floating with a noodle at night.
Review provided by Viator
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up to 6 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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