Your Ultimate Guide To The 12 Best Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Tours (2026)

The Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona is more than just a tour; it's a breathtaking ballet of gentle giants in the moonlit Pacific. Choosing the right operator is the key to transforming this bucket-list adventure into a lifelong memory. To help you plan, we've created a comprehensive guide to the top tours and resources available. As Hawaii's top-rated and most-reviewed snorkel company, we at Kona Snorkel Trips know what makes this experience truly special. Below the reviews, you'll find everything you need to prepare for an unforgettable night swimming alongside these magnificent creatures.

Navigating the multitude of tour options can be overwhelming. This guide simplifies that process by directly comparing the key details that matter most, from boat types and group sizes to safety protocols and insider tips. Each entry includes direct links and analysis to ensure you find the perfect match for your manta ray night snorkel Kona adventure. For those exploring all possibilities, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii presents another exceptional alternative worth considering. Let's dive into the details and find the ideal tour for you.

1. Kona Snorkel Trips

As Hawaii’s highest-rated and most-reviewed snorkel company, Kona Snorkel Trips sets the standard for a premium manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website is a comprehensive resource for booking a tour that prioritizes safety, intimate wildlife encounters, and ecological responsibility. The platform excels at providing clear, detailed information about their tours, making it easy for both first-time snorkelers and seasoned ocean enthusiasts to find and book the ideal experience.

Why It Stands Out

What distinguishes Kona Snorkel Trips is their operational excellence and commitment to a superior guest experience. They operate from a private dock at Honokohau Marina, which simplifies parking and gets you to the snorkel sites faster. Their custom-built vessel, the Orca, features propeller guards for safety and is designed for smaller groups (up to 18 guests), ensuring a less crowded and more personal encounter with the manta rays.

Their signature Manta Ray Night Snorkel tour utilizes a custom-built snorkel board with high-powered lights, which attracts more plankton and, consequently, more mantas for an unforgettable up-close view. With lifeguard-certified guides and a strict reef-safe sunscreen policy, every aspect of the trip is thoughtfully managed. You can learn more about their safety-first approach and read some excellent snorkeling safety tips on konasnorkeltrips.com.

Planning and Booking

• Best For: Families, first-timers, and marine life enthusiasts seeking a high-quality, safe, and eco-conscious tour.
• Pricing: Manta ray tours start at approximately $139 and include all necessary gear like masks, snorkels, fins, and wetsuits.
• Pro Tip: Due to their popularity and small group sizes, tours sell out quickly. It is essential to book well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

2. Big Island Divers

Big Island Divers offers a direct booking platform for their highly-regarded manta ray night snorkel Kona tours, prioritizing guest safety and marine conservation. Their website is a comprehensive resource for planners, providing detailed pre-trip information, transparent pricing, and robust safety protocols for their USCG-inspected vessels. This operator is an excellent choice for those who value a crew with deep expertise and a company with a strong safety record.

Key Features and User Experience

A standout feature is their live manta sighting calendar, allowing you to check recent activity levels and potentially time your booking for a higher chance of encounters. They also offer a unique manta guarantee: if you don’t see any mantas, you can return for free on a standby basis. For a guaranteed seat on a future trip, an upgrade fee of about 50% is required. Snorkel tours are priced at $129, while dive options start at $149 for a one-tank trip. One important policy to note is that full-face snorkel masks are not permitted, so you will need to be comfortable using a traditional mask and snorkel.

• Pros: Strong safety reputation with clearly stated onboard equipment (AED/Oxygen), transparent pricing, and a useful manta sighting calendar.
• Cons: The "come back free" guarantee is on a standby basis, and the restriction on full-face masks may be a drawback for some snorkelers.

Website: https://bigislanddivers.com/charters/snorkeling/kona-manta-ray-night-snorkel/

3. Sea Quest Hawaii

Sea Quest Hawaii provides a streamlined booking experience for their unique manta ray night snorkel Kona tours, which utilize smaller, agile rafts (RHIBs) for a more intimate adventure. Departing from Keauhou Bay, their website emphasizes the benefits of a short ride to the Manta Village, which is ideal for those prone to seasickness. The platform clearly outlines their strong commitment to sustainability and sets explicit requirements for participants, making it a great choice for confident swimmers seeking a small-group tour.

Key Features and User Experience

A key advantage highlighted on the site is the inclusion of essential gear like wetsuits and even prescription snorkel masks, a significant convenience for those with vision needs. The website transparently states the tour’s physical requirements, such as a minimum age of 7 and mandatory swimming proficiency, which helps manage guest expectations. Pricing for their 1.5-hour tour is straightforward. The user experience is enhanced by numerous recent customer testimonials, offering social proof and insight into the quality of the trip from a guest's perspective.

• Pros: Proximity to the manta site reduces transit time, inclusion of prescription masks is a valuable perk, and the small-group raft format offers a less crowded experience.
• Cons: The tour is not suitable for non-swimmers, and the raft-style boats have limited storage and fewer onboard amenities compared to larger vessels.

Website: https://www.seaquesthawaii.com/?utm_source=openai

4. Sea Paradise (Hoku Nui catamaran)

Sea Paradise offers a stable and comfortable manta ray night snorkel Kona experience aboard their large sailing catamaran, the Hoku Nui. Departing from Keauhou Bay, the website facilitates easy booking for a tour that prioritizes comfort and family-friendly amenities. The platform clearly details the vessel's features, including onboard restrooms and the provision of snacks and hot drinks, making it a strong choice for families or those concerned about comfort on the water. The short travel time from the pier to the manta viewing site is a significant advantage.

Key Features and User Experience

A key highlight on the Sea Paradise website is the ‘Ride-along’ option, which allows non-snorkeling members of a group to join the excursion at a reduced price. The booking process is straightforward, with transparent pricing and clear descriptions of what's included, such as snacks and hot chocolate after the snorkel. They also offer a manta guarantee on certain sailings, which is a reassuring feature for guests. The convenience of the Keauhou Bay departure means a very short boat ride to the manta site, minimizing the chance of seasickness and maximizing time in the water.

• Pros: Excellent for families with a ride-along option, very short transit time to the manta site, and comfortable catamaran amenities like restrooms.
• Cons: The larger group size on the catamaran can feel less intimate than a tour on a smaller vessel.

Website: https://www.seaparadise.com/?utm_source=openai

5. Dolphin Discoveries

Dolphin Discoveries is a veteran-owned operator providing a straightforward booking platform for their daily manta ray night snorkel Kona excursions. Their website focuses on a value-driven experience, departing from the Keauhou area for a two-hour tour. This is a solid choice for travelers seeking a competitively priced tour from an established local company that includes the essential gear, like wetsuit tops and snorkel equipment, without unnecessary frills. Their frequent departures offer good flexibility for last-minute planners.

Key Features and User Experience

A notable feature on their website is the option to purchase a ‘Manta Guarantee’ fare. While the base price is lower, this paid upgrade ensures you can return on a future trip if no mantas are sighted, providing an extra layer of assurance. The website clearly outlines its offerings, though it’s important to note that some tours have age and weight restrictions. Additionally, visitors may need to arrange their own transportation to the Keauhou Bay departure point, as hotel pickups are not standard. This approach helps keep the base cost competitive.

• Pros: Good value with a defined upgrade to improve sighting assurance, frequent departures, and an established local presence.
• Cons: The lower base price may mean fewer extras, and some offerings cap ages/weights or may require independent transit to the bay.

Website: https://www.dolphindiscoveries.com/

6. Fair Wind Cruises (Hula Kai)

Fair Wind Cruises offers a polished manta ray night snorkel Kona experience aboard their Hula Kai vessel, departing from Keauhou Bay. Their website provides a clear booking process for a trip known for its quick access to the manta viewing site and comfortable amenities. This operator is well-suited for confident snorkelers who appreciate efficiency and extra comforts, such as hot beverages after the swim. The focus is on a streamlined and well-managed tour from start to finish.

Key Features and User Experience

A major advantage highlighted on their site is the extremely short boat ride, approximately 5 minutes from Keauhou Bay to the Manta Village viewing area. The platform clearly details their environmental pledge and gear policies, including a ban on full-face snorkel masks. After snorkeling, guests can enjoy hot soup and hot cocoa, and there is even bar service available on board. This tour is marketed toward guests who are comfortable in the water, as less support is offered for complete beginners or non-swimmers.

• Pros: Highly efficient operation with a very short transit time to the manta site, plus thoughtful amenities like hot drinks and soup.
• Cons: The experience is not wheelchair accessible and is less suitable for nervous beginners or those who cannot swim.

Website: https://www.fair-wind.com/?utm_source=openai

7. Kona Style (Kona Snorkel & Sail)

Kona Style offers a value-focused manta ray night snorkel Kona experience aboard their spacious 50-foot catamaran, the Honi Olani. Their website provides straightforward booking for both sunset and late-night tours, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers and those looking to avoid peak crowds. The platform clearly details what's included, from gear and wetsuits to complimentary drinks and snacks, ensuring a hassle-free planning process.

Key Features and User Experience

A key attraction is the seasonal late-night departure, which sails after other boats have returned, offering a more serene and less crowded viewing environment. The website lists competitive pricing, with sunset tours starting from $89 and late-night options from just $80. The catamaran platform provides stability and comfort, with onboard amenities that enhance the trip. While you can book directly online, the site makes it clear that this is a larger group tour, which may be a consideration for those seeking a more private experience.

• Pros: Attractive price points, a less-crowded late-night option, and the stability and amenities of a large catamaran.
• Cons: The later departure may not be suitable for families with young children, and the larger group format is less intimate than smaller vessels.

Website: https://konasnorkelandsail.com/manta-ray-snorkel-kona/?utm_source=openai

8. Anelakai Adventures

Anelakai Adventures offers a booking platform for a profoundly unique manta ray night snorkel Kona experience, focusing on cultural connection and minimal environmental impact. Their website details their motor-free approach, using a traditional double-hull canoe paddled by culturally rooted guides. This is the ideal choice for eco-conscious travelers, those seeking an intimate and authentic Hawaiian experience, or anyone who prefers a quieter, more serene alternative to large, motorized tour boats.

Key Features and User Experience

The most distinctive feature presented on their website is the tour itself: a paddle-powered, ultra-small-group (maximum of six guests) excursion from Keauhou Bay. This ensures a peaceful and personal encounter. Their platform also highlights an exceptional option for non-swimmers or those hesitant to get in the water; guests can comfortably view the mantas directly from the canoe. Because of the extremely limited capacity, the website’s booking system is straightforward, but it’s crucial to book well in advance as spots fill up quickly.

• Pros: Extremely intimate and culturally authentic tour, zero-impact (no engine/fuel), and an excellent option for non-swimmers.
• Cons: Very limited availability with fewer departure times; less flexibility and higher demand compared to larger operators.

Website: https://www.anelakaiadventures.com/

9. Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii

Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii operates as a manta-specialist tour provider, and their website is a direct booking portal for their dedicated manta ray night snorkel Kona EcoAdventures. The site focuses on providing clear logistical information for guests, with details on their purpose-built vessels departing from Honokohau Harbor. Their long-standing reputation makes them a trusted choice for travelers who prioritize experience and deep local knowledge in their tour operator.

Key Features and User Experience

The website streamlines the booking process by providing an extensive FAQ section that addresses everything from certification requirements to what to expect at the snorkel site. This is particularly helpful for first-timers who may have questions about the rays themselves. Their check-in process is clearly outlined, occurring right at the harbor slips for maximum convenience. This focus on guest preparedness and logistics ensures a smooth experience from booking to boarding, reinforcing the safety and professionalism of the operation.

• Pros: Well-established, manta-focused brand with thousands of positive reviews, purpose-built platforms for comfort, and clear guest information.
• Cons: Departures are very popular and often require booking weeks in advance, with limited to no walk-up availability on peak dates.

Website: https://www.mantaraydiveshawaii.com/

10. Kona Ocean Experience

Kona Ocean Experience offers a uniquely compact and time-efficient manta ray night snorkel Kona tour, making it an ideal choice for travelers on a tight schedule or families looking for a shorter excursion. Their website provides a straightforward booking process with transparent, all-in pricing, departing from the convenient Keauhou Bay. This tour is perfect for those who want the full manta ray encounter without dedicating half a day, focusing on getting you in the water with the gentle giants quickly and efficiently.

Key Features and User Experience

The primary advantage presented on their site is the tour’s brevity; the entire experience is about one hour long. Their pricing is exceptionally clear, with adult tickets at $145 and children at $95, including all taxes and fees upfront, which simplifies budgeting. The site clearly outlines what is included, such as all necessary gear, wetsuits, and in-water flotation aids, ensuring guests feel prepared. Clear instructions on arrival times and seasonal departure windows help streamline the check-in process for a smooth, no-fuss adventure.

• Pros: The time-efficient format is excellent for busy itineraries, and the all-inclusive pricing model prevents surprise fees.
• Cons: With a total trip time of only one hour, there is less time for in-depth instruction, photography, or simply soaking in the on-water experience compared to longer charters.

Website: https://konaoceanx.com/tours/night-manta-snorkel/

11. Viator

Viator is an online travel marketplace that aggregates a wide variety of manta ray night snorkel Kona tours from different local operators. It acts as a one-stop-shop, allowing users to compare prices, schedules, and reviews for companies like Fair Wind and Dolphin Discoveries all in one place. The platform is particularly useful for last-minute planners or those who want to see a broad spectrum of available options before booking, with the convenience of standardized cancellation policies and mobile ticketing.

Key Features and User Experience

Viator’s main strength is its powerful search and filter function, letting you sort tours by departure point, duration, and user ratings. Each listing provides detailed inclusions, meeting points, and operator-specific policies. The aggregated user reviews offer a broad perspective on operator consistency, helping you make an informed choice. While marketplace fees can sometimes result in slightly higher prices than booking direct, many listings offer a "reserve now, pay later" feature and a generous free cancellation window, providing excellent booking flexibility. Learn more about planning what to do in Kona on Viator.com.

• Pros: Excellent for comparing multiple operators at once, aggregated reviews provide valuable insights, and standardized, often flexible, cancellation policies.
• Cons: Prices may be slightly inflated due to marketplace fees, and tour inclusion details can vary significantly between listings, requiring careful reading.

Website: https://www.viator.com/en-IN/tours/Big-Island-of-Hawaii/Manta-Ray-Night-Snorkel-from-Kona/d669-3226MANTA?utm_source=openai

12. GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide serves as a curated marketplace, aggregating multiple manta ray night snorkel Kona tours from various operators. This platform is ideal for travelers who want to compare different tour options, lengths, and prices in a single location. Its primary strength lies in offering flexibility, with many listings providing ‘reserve now & pay later’ options and free cancellation, which is a significant advantage for those with fluid travel plans.

Key Features and User Experience

The website simplifies the decision-making process by consolidating listings that range from quick 80-minute trips to more extensive 2.5-hour excursions. High-volume user reviews on top-selling tours provide valuable social proof and insight into the reliability of different providers. Each listing clearly outlines meeting points and what to bring, although it's crucial to read the fine print, as inclusions and manta guarantees can vary significantly between the aggregated partners and their direct websites. For those seeking an alternative, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is another exceptional option for a manta ray night snorkel tour.

• Pros: Easy to compare operators, capacities, and inclusions; strong review volume helps in selection; flexible booking and cancellation policies are a major plus.
• Cons: Tour details and terms can differ from booking directly with the operator; careful reading of each individual listing is required to avoid surprises.

Website: https://www.getyourguide.com/island-of-hawaii-l661/big-island-hawaii-night-manta-ray-snorkel-experience-t76846/?utm_source=openai

12 Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Providers Compared

Final Thoughts on Your Once-in-a-Lifetime Manta Encounter

Embarking on a manta ray night snorkel in Kona is more than just another vacation activity; it's an immersive, almost spiritual encounter with one of the ocean's most majestic creatures. Witnessing these gentle giants glide and somersault through the illuminated water is an experience that resonates long after you've returned to shore. This guide has equipped you with the essential tools and knowledge to move from dreaming about this adventure to confidently planning it. You now understand the critical differences between tour operators, the importance of Manta Ray Green Listed practices, and how to prepare for a safe and comfortable evening on the water.

We've explored a range of options, from the intimate, small-group settings offered by companies like Kona Snorkel Trips to the larger catamaran experiences provided by operators such as Sea Paradise. The key takeaway is that the "best" tour is the one that aligns with your personal preferences, whether you prioritize a quick trip to the site, in-depth educational content, or specific vessel amenities. Your decision-making process is now streamlined, allowing you to focus on the excitement of the upcoming adventure rather than the stress of uncertainty.

Key Takeaways for Your Manta Ray Snorkel Kona Adventure

Before you make your final booking, let’s revisit the most crucial points from our deep dive:

• Vessel Type Matters: Your experience will differ significantly between a swift rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RIB) and a spacious, amenity-rich catamaran. Consider your group's needs regarding travel time, comfort, and onboard facilities like restrooms.
• Location, Location, Location: While both Manta Village (Keauhou Bay) and Manta Heaven (near the airport) offer incredible viewing opportunities, their reliability can fluctuate. Check recent sighting reports or call operators directly for the latest intel.
• Safety and Sustainability First: Always choose a Manta Ray Green Listed operator. This certification ensures the company adheres to strict guidelines designed to protect both the mantas and the snorkelers, guaranteeing a responsible and ethical encounter.
• Prepare Accordingly: Remember to bring a towel, a change of clothes, and any necessary personal items. While most tours provide gear, confirming what's included and bringing your own prescription mask if needed will enhance your comfort.

By leveraging the tools and insights provided, you're not just booking a tour; you're investing in a seamless and unforgettable experience. The planning you do now paves the way for a magical night, allowing you to be fully present as these magnificent creatures perform their silent, beautiful ballet. The manta ray night snorkel Kona experience is truly a bucket-list item, and with the right preparation, it will undoubtedly become a highlight of your trip to the Big Island.

Ready to make your dream of swimming with gentle giants a reality? At Kona Snorkel Trips, we specialize in creating intimate and unforgettable manta ray night snorkel adventures. Our expert guides and top-rated tours are designed to provide a safe, educational, and truly magical experience. Visit us online to learn more and book the adventure of a lifetime.