Manta Ray Snorkeling by Night in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Exciting Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays on the Big Island

The Manta Ray Snorkeling by Night in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii offers a captivating chance to see wild manta rays in their natural environment along the Kona Coast. For $127.10 per person, this approximately 1-hour tour provides a unique experience in the dark, when the manta rays are most active. It stands out for its small-group format, with a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and safety. The tour departs from 78-7130 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, and is highly recommended, with 96% of reviews giving it a positive endorsement.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a memorable, guided snorkeling experience that combines safety, fun, and close encounters with gentle giants. It uses purpose-built lightboards to attract plankton and draw the manta rays near, creating a magical, almost otherworldly sight. The inclusion of all equipment, wetsuit tops, and flotation devices makes it accessible for most people with basic swimming skills, though it’s not suited for those with recent surgeries or mobility issues.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 12 participants for a more intimate adventure
• Guided tour with all equipment included, including wetsuits and floatation devices
• Nighttime snorkeling along the Kona Coast to see manta rays at their most active
• Purpose-built lightboards attract plankton, bringing the manta rays close to snorkelers
• Approximate duration of 1 hour, with flexible scheduling based on weather and manta activity
• Highly rated with 5.0/5 from over 630 reviews, praised for safety, guides, and magical encounters

How the Night Snorkel Is Organized in Kailua-Kona

The tour begins at 78-7130 Kaleiopapa Street, where guests meet the crew and are fitted with snorkeling gear and wetsuits. Once everyone is prepared, the small-group cruise departs into the waters along the Kona Coast. The focus is on night snorkeling, when manta rays are most active and eager to feed on plankton attracted by the light devices.

The boat itself is a historically accurate Hawaiian sailing canoe, adding an authentic touch to the experience. The guides emphasize safety and provide detailed instructions to help guests feel comfortable in the water. Throughout the hour, the crew stays attentive, checking on everyone’s well-being, and ensuring participants have a smooth experience.

The Unique Experience of Swimming with Manta Rays at Night

The highlight of this tour is the chance to float and snorkel alongside massive, peaceful manta rays. These gentle giants often come within inches of snorkelers, brushing against them during their graceful glide. The lighted floatation devices create an entrancing spectacle, with the rays swirling and feeding in the moonlit water.

Guests frequently describe the sight of multiple manta rays swimming in unison as magical and breathtaking. The rays are completely wild animals, so sightings are not guaranteed every night, but the use of purpose-built lightboards significantly enhances the chances of a close encounter. Even if manta rays take a night off, the small-group format and expert guides make the experience worthwhile.

Guided Snorkeling Equipment and Warmth Considerations

All necessary snorkeling gear is included, with both standard and Rx (prescription) masks available for those who need them. The wetsuit tops provided help keep participants warm during the nighttime immersion, especially since the water can be a little chilly. The floatation devices assist in maintaining buoyancy, making it easier to focus on observing the manta rays.

Guests are advised to be able to swim and climb a short ladder unassisted. The tour emphasizes safety and comfort, with guides explaining procedures and helping those who may feel nervous or inexperienced. The gear and instructions are designed to make the experience accessible, regardless of prior snorkeling experience.

The Small-Group Canoe Experience and Its Authentic Feel

This tour’s canoe-based approach sets it apart from larger boat tours. The historically accurate Hawaiian sailing canoe provides a more intimate and authentic setting for the adventure. It’s also part of what makes this experience so highly praised, with many reviewers calling it “the best” or “most magical” they’ve had in Hawaii.

The small size of the group allows for personalized attention from the crew and a less crowded, more relaxed environment. The friendly, professional crew is consistently praised for their knowledge, safety guidance, and warmth. Many mention how the crew made them feel comfortable, even if they were initially nervous about swimming with large animals at night.

The Manta Rays and Their Graceful Movements

The manta rays encountered on this tour are described as large, gentle, and angelic-looking. Their peaceful nature and graceful swimming styles create an almost surreal scene. The rays often come close enough to brush against snorkelers, which many describe as “unforgettable”.

Guests frequently comment on the size of the rays and how beautiful and tranquil they appear. The swirling movements and the standard of safety ensure that even those new to snorkeling can enjoy this encounter.

Timing, Duration, and Weather Considerations

The duration of approximately 1 hour makes this a concise yet impactful activity. The tour operates at night, typically after sunset, aligning with the manta rays’ feeding habits. The activity is scheduled 14 days in advance, reflecting strong demand.

Since the tour requires good weather, cancellations due to poor weather conditions are possible, with options for rescheduling or full refunds. The tour starts at dusk and ends back at the meeting point, with most travelers able to participate if they can swim and climb a short ladder.

Limitations and What to Keep in Mind

While most aspects are highly praised, some guests note weather impact—choppy waters or rain can diminish visibility, but do not prevent the experience outright. The tour is not recommended for individuals who have recently undergone surgery or have mobility issues.

The lightboard attraction can be tiring for some, and manta ray sightings are not guaranteed. However, the Manta Ray Guarantee offers a second chance on a future night if no rays are seen, making it a low-risk adventure.

Why This Tour Stands Out Among Kona Coast Adventures

The combination of small-group intimacy, authentic Hawaiian canoeing, and guided snorkeling with purpose-built lightboards creates an experience that is both respectful of nature and exciting. Many reviews describe it as “beyond amazing” and “the highlight of their trip”.

Guests consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable crew, highlighting their support and safety focus. The close proximity to the giant manta rays and the serene atmosphere make this tour more than just a snorkel—it’s a shared connection with these magnificent creatures.

The Sum Up: A Nighttime Adventure for Nature Lovers in Kona

The Manta Ray Snorkeling by Night tour in Kailua-Kona offers a unique opportunity to observe wild manta rays in their natural feeding environment. The small-group canoe experience, all-inclusive equipment, and expert guides combine to create a safe, fun, and memorable activity.

While manta ray sightings are not guaranteed every night, the use of specially designed lightboards and the dedicated crew make success highly likely. The about 1-hour tour is perfect for those seeking a short yet impactful adventure, especially for families with children 5 and older.

This tour’s high ratings, positive reviews, and authentic approach make it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to connect with Hawaii’s marine wildlife in a respectful and exciting setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 and above can participate, provided they can swim and climb a short ladder unassisted.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes snorkel equipment (normal and Rx masks), wetsuit tops, and floatation devices.

Can I see manta rays every night?
No, manta rays are wild animals, and sightings are not guaranteed. However, the Manta Ray Guarantee offers a second opportunity if no rays are seen.

What should I wear?
Guests should wear comfortable swimwear under the wetsuit top. The provided wetsuits help keep warmth in during the night swim.

How long does the tour last?
The snorkeling segment lasts about 1 hour, starting after sunset and ending back at the meeting point.

Is the boat accessible for everyone?
Guests need to be able to swim and climb a short ladder. The tour is not recommended for those with mobility restrictions or recent surgeries.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refundable.

What happens in bad weather?
If the weather is poor, the tour may be canceled, and guests will be offered rescheduling or full refunds.

How can I prepare for the tour?
Bring towels if needed, and opt-in for text message updates for parking and check-in instructions. No food or drinks are included, so consider bringing snacks for after the tour.

Who leads the tour?
The friendly and knowledgeable crew from Eka Canoe Adventures guide guests through the entire experience, emphasizing safety and fun.