From Keauhou Bay: Manta Ray Night Tour

Discover the Keauhou Bay Manta Ray Night Tour for $130

The Keauhou Bay Manta Ray Night Tour, offered by Adventures in Paradise Inc, delivers a unique night-time experience in Kailua-Kona. Priced at $130 per person and lasting around one hour, this tour promises an up-close view of some of the ocean’s most graceful creatures. It departs from the Keauhou Boat Harbor, where participants meet at the public restrooms just past the boat trailer parking. This tour suits those comfortable in water and capable of climbing a boat ladder unaided, with a maximum participant weight of 275 lbs.

What makes this experience stand out is the chance to witness manta rays performing slow, elegant underwater somersaults. The guides use bright lights to attract the rays, giving visitors an extraordinary opportunity to see these enormous, 12-16 foot wide creatures up close. Although the hour-long duration may seem brief, it offers a focused, intense encounter with these otherworldly animals in their natural habitat. This tour is ideal for those seeking a memorable, nature-focused adventure in the evening.

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Key Points

• Price of $130 per person for a 1-hour night manta ray experience
• Departures from Keauhou Boat Harbor in Kailua-Kona
• Guided tour with professional in-water guides
• Bright lights are used to attract graceful manta rays
• Adults 7-73 years old are welcome, with no mobility issues required
• Maximum weight limit of 275 lbs to participate

Keauhou Bay: The Starting Point for Nighttime Marine Encounters

This tour begins at Keauhou Boat Harbor, a familiar landmark for visitors in Kailua-Kona. Participants are instructed to gather at the public restrooms just past the boat trailer parking area. The meeting spot is easy to find and close to other local amenities, making the check-in process straightforward. The departure typically takes place during the evening hours with flexible scheduling, depending on the sunset and weather conditions.

The harbor setting provides a convenient launch point for the boat ride out to the manta ray feeding area. The boat ride itself is brief but essential, transporting guests to the prime viewing zone where the guides set up the bright lights to draw in the rays. The location’s calm waters and dark surroundings enhance the surreal experience of observing manta rays gliding effortlessly beneath the surface.

The Expertise of the Guides: Sarah and Matt Leading the Way

The team behind this tour, including guides Sarah and Matt, brings enthusiasm and professionalism to the experience. Their knowledge of manta behavior and the local marine environment helps ensure that guests feel well-supported and informed throughout the trip. The guides lead the in-water observations, providing instructions on snorkel use and safety protocols.

Their friendly approach and clear explanations contribute to a comfortable experience, especially for those new to snorkeling or night-time marine encounters. The guides’ expertise in attracting mantas with lighting techniques ensures that viewers get an uninterrupted view of these majestic creatures performing their underwater ballet.

The Bright Lights: Attracting the Manta Rays Close to You

A key feature of this tour is the use of bright lights that serve as a beacon for the manta rays. These rays are naturally drawn to the plankton-rich waters illuminated by the tour’s lights, enabling an intimate viewing of their slow, mesmerizing movements. As the rays come close—often within arm’s reach—they perform graceful underwater somersaults, which are both fascinating and breathtaking.

The illumination technique creates a surreal scene, making it possible to see the large mouths and paddles that manta rays use for feeding. Guests can get a rare glimpse inside the manta’s mouth, observing the gills and internal structure through their large, open mouths. This natural light attraction provides a dynamic visual display that is as informative as it is beautiful.

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What You Can Expect During the One-Hour Night Experience

The tour typically lasts about one hour, a duration that balances excitement with comfort. Once on the boat, the guides provide snorkeling equipment—including masks and snorkels of good quality, wetsuits, and flotation devices. Swimming ability is required, as participants need to be able to climb the boat ladder comfortably.

Once in the water, guests will float silently in the dark, observing the manta rays as they perform slow, elegant maneuvers. The experience is designed to be peaceful and awe-inspiring, with the guide’s instructions ensuring everyone feels safe while watching the rays in their natural habitat. The minimal noise and darkness contribute to the surreal quality of the encounter.

Safety and Accessibility Notes for the Tour

This tour is suitable for adults aged 7-73 who are free from health, strength, or mobility problems. Participants must be able to climb the boat ladder without assistance, which is an important consideration for safety. Because wheelchair users are not accommodated, those with mobility challenges should consider this before booking.

The maximum participant weight is 275 lbs, ensuring safety and comfort during the water activities. The tour includes safety gear, instructions from guides, and in-water supervision, making it a well-supported experience for those who meet the criteria.

The Experience Provider: Adventures in Paradise Inc

Adventures in Paradise Inc is known for organizing marine tours that highlight Hawaii’s natural beauty. Their professional team ensures that safety and enjoyment are balanced during the manta ray night tour. The company’s focus on quality equipment and expert guides helps deliver a trustworthy and memorable experience for all participants.

The booking process offers the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour and the flexibility of reserve now, pay later options. These features make planning stress-free, even if plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts on the Keauhou Bay Manta Ray Night Tour

This tour offers a rare opportunity to observe massive manta rays performing their nighttime dance in their natural environment. The guided experience, combined with expert lighting techniques, delivers an intimate viewing that is both educational and awe-inspiring.

While the duration is just one hour, the quality of the encounter makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone interested in marine wildlife or seeking a peaceful, nature-centered adventure. The guides’ professionalism and the stunning visuals they help create set this tour apart from similar activities.

If you are comfortable with snorkeling in open water and prefer an intimate, guided experience, this tour will likely be a highlight of your time in Kailua-Kona. Expect to come away with memories of dancing mantas in the dark that will last long after the experience ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $130 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It is approximately one hour long.

Where does the tour start?
Participants meet at Keauhou Boat Harbor, at the public restrooms past the boat trailer parking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 7 and up are welcome, provided they can climb the boat ladder independently.

What equipment is included?
Guests receive good quality masks and snorkels, wetsuits, and flotation devices.

Are guides experienced?
Yes, guides like Sarah and Matt are known for their knowledgeable and friendly approach.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, wheelchair users are not able to participate due to physical requirements.

What is the maximum participant weight?
The maximum weight per participant is 275 lbs.

What makes this tour special?
The use of bright lights to attract manta rays and the opportunity to see their natural behavior in dark waters make this a truly surreal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby