Kona Manta Rays Guaranteed Night Snorkel in Keauhou Harbor

Snorkeling with manta rays in Keauhou Harbor is a captivating adventure that promises a close encounter with these gentle giants. Priced at $69 per person, this 1 hour and 20-minute tour is highly recommended, with 93% of travelers suggesting it to others. The tour features a short 3-minute boat ride after dark, bringing you to a prime feeding spot where 150,000 lumens of custom-made light attract plankton and, consequently, the manta rays. This experience is ideal for those with prior snorkeling experience and basic swimming skills, offering a safe, intimate setting with small groups of up to 17 guests.

An impressive aspect of this tour is the manta ray guarantee policy—if you do not see any rays, you can come again for free. The tour is operated by Hawaii Island & Ocean Tours, with a mobile ticket system making booking straightforward. While the short boat ride limits travel time, it ensures maximum time in the water to witness these ethereal creatures in their natural environment. The tour’s popularity and average booking 18 days in advance highlight its appeal, making it a must-do activity for anyone seeking a memorable night adventure on the Big Island.

Key Points

• Guaranteed manta ray sightings or free return visit
• Short 3-minute boat ride to reduce travel time and maximize snorkeling
• Small group size of up to 17 guests for a more personal experience
• Custom light board with 150,000 lumens attracts plankton and rays
• Includes snorkeling gear, mask, and lifejacket (not mandatory but available)
• Ideal for experienced snorkelers with basic swimming skills

Keauhou Harbor as the Perfect Night Snorkel Location

The tour departs from 78-7138 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, and starts after sunset, ensuring the best conditions for manta ray sightings. The harbor’s calm, warm waters create a comfortable setting for night snorkeling, while the natural environment enhances the feeling of observing the rays in their home waters. The short boat ride means less hassle and more time floating in the water, watching these mystical creatures glide gracefully around you.

The harbor’s location and the ease of access make this tour particularly appealing to visitors staying in Kailua-Kona. Its proximity to the coast means you can quickly reach the launch point and return comfortably at the end of the experience, ready to continue your evening with unforgettable memories.

How the Guided Night Snorkel Works

The tour begins with a simple check-in process, where wetsuits (if rented for $10) and snorkeling gear are provided. The guides are certified, including in-water guides who emphasize safety and non-intrusive observation. The small boat ensures you are close to the action without disturbing the manta rays, which tend to come near because of the attracting light board.

Once in the water, you’ll float for up to 30 minutes alongside the guide, observing up to a dozen or more manta rays feeding around you. The rays often come within inches, offering an up-close view of their graceful movements. Many reviews praise how knowledgeable and helpful the guides are, making even nervous snorkelers feel comfortable. The light board produces an impressive 150,000 lumens, attracting plankton and, in turn, the manta rays, creating a surreal spectacle.

Safety Measures and Physical Requirements

This tour is suitable for most travelers with basic swimming skills and the ability to climb a boat ladder independently. The guides prioritize safety and clarity in instructions, making the experience accessible for confident snorkelers. The maximum weight limit is 275 pounds, and the activity is not recommended for those with recent surgeries or mobility restrictions.

Participants should be comfortable in water, as the tour takes place in dark conditions with floating on a light board and riding gentle waves. The option to rent a wetsuit helps stay warmer during the roughly 30-minute session, which many find enhances comfort and prolongs enjoyment.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The small boat size is a key feature, reducing the disturbance to manta rays and providing a more intimate experience. The guarantee policy offers peace of mind—if no rays are seen, a free re-booking is available. This is especially reassuring given the unpredictability of wildlife encounters.

Guests consistently praise the friendly, professional crew—including guides like Peter, Shay, Devin, and David—for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and support. They explain the behavior of manta rays clearly and ensure everyone feels safe and excited during the activity.

The short boat ride is a practical benefit, leaving more time for snorkeling and less time traveling. The light board creates a mesmerizing environment, while the warm waters keep the experience comfortable and enjoyable.

Practical Tips for Your Night Snorkel

Since many reviews highlight the importance of staying warm, renting a wetsuit for $10 is recommended. Bringing a waterproof case or GoPro is encouraged to record the incredible sights. The tour’s timing after sunset ensures the best chance to see manta rays feeding, but weather can influence the experience—cancellations are fully refunded if weather conditions are poor.

Guests should arrive prepared for an adventure in dark waters, but the guides’ clear instructions and safety measures make it accessible even for those less experienced. The 30-minute float can be physically demanding, especially if prone to seasickness, so packing light and bringing motion sickness remedies can enhance comfort.

Why This Tour Is a Top Choice on the Big Island

The combination of a guaranteed sighting policy, small group size, and short boat ride makes this snorkeling tour stand out from others on the Big Island. It offers high value for money with excellent reviews and a stellar reputation for safety, professionalism, and wildlife encounters.

The proximity to Kona adds convenience, while the warm, calm waters create an inviting environment for night snorkeling. With many travelers stating it was their highlight of the trip, this experience delivers unforgettable moments with majestic manta rays that seem to glide effortlessly in the darkness.

Kona Manta Rays Night Snorkel: Final Thoughts

This tour provides a unique, safe, and personalized way to see Hawaii’s iconic manta rays in their natural habitat. The $69 price offers good value, especially considering the guarantee of sightings and the knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with their enthusiasm and professionalism.

While the activity requires basic swimming skills and comfort in dark waters, many reviews highlight how even nervous snorkelers feel safe thanks to the guides’ support. The short boat ride and intimate group size make this tour accessible and comfortable, with excellent chances of witnessing multiple manta rays close-up.

This activity suits travelers looking for a memorable wildlife encounter and who appreciate a small-group, eco-conscious experience. For those eager to see Hawaii’s famous manta rays in their natural environment, this tour is an outstanding choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is snorkeling gear included in the tour?
Yes, mask, snorkel, and lifejacket are included. Wetsuits are optional and can be rented for $10.

How long is the snorkeling session?
The floating in the water lasts approximately 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to observe manta rays feeding.

What is the guarantee policy?
If no manta rays are seen, guests can come back for free to try again.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It’s best for those with basic swimming skills and prior snorkeling experience. Comfort in dark waters is important.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 78-7138 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, and returns to the same location after completing the activity.

How many guests are on each tour?
Up to 17 guests participate, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is weather a concern?
Yes, the activity requires good weather; poor conditions may lead to cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling options.