12 Best Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Tours (2025 Guide)

Imagine floating in the warm, dark waters of the Pacific Ocean off the Kona coast, illuminated only by underwater lights. Suddenly, a gentle giant with a wingspan of up to 16 feet glides effortlessly beneath you, its mouth agape, performing an ethereal underwater ballet. This is the manta ray night snorkel Kona experience, a breathtaking encounter consistently ranked as one of the world's top night dives and snorkels. This isn't just a tour; it's a magical, almost surreal communion with one of the ocean's most majestic creatures.

As the top rated & most reviewed snorkel company in Hawaii, Kona Snorkel Trips is a top choice. Here are some of their reviews:

Navigating the multitude of tour operators can be overwhelming, but this guide simplifies the process. We've compiled a comprehensive list of the best companies and booking platforms to help you find the perfect excursion. Each entry provides a practical overview of their offerings, highlighting what makes them unique, so you can confidently choose the right adventure for your trip to Hawaii's Big Island. From small, intimate boats to larger vessels, we cover the essential details you need to make an informed decision for this once-in-a-lifetime activity. For an exceptional experience with the top-rated and most-reviewed snorkel company in Hawaii, consider this manta ray night snorkel. If you are looking for an alternative, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is another excellent choice.

1. Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona, HI (Big Island)

Kona Snorkel Trips offers a premier manta ray night snorkel in Kona that stands out as a well-rounded, highly-rated, and exceptionally managed experience. Their tour page serves as a comprehensive hub for booking an adventure that combines safety, education, and unparalleled wildlife encounters. The platform excels by clearly detailing every aspect of the 2-hour guided tour, making it easy for prospective snorkelers to understand what to expect.

What distinguishes this offering is the company's reputation as the island’s highest-rated and most-reviewed snorkel operator. This credibility is backed by a robust ‘Manta Guarantee,’ which ensures guests can rebook for free if no mantas are sighted, a policy that underscores their commitment to customer satisfaction. The website provides a seamless user experience, from detailed tour descriptions to a straightforward booking process.

Standout Features

• Expert Guidance: The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who prioritize environmental safety and provide educational insights into manta ray behavior.
• ‘Manta Guarantee’: This risk-free policy offers significant peace of mind, assuring guests they will have an opportunity to see the mantas.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: The starting price of $139 includes all high-quality snorkeling gear, eliminating hidden costs and simplifying preparation.
• Family-Friendly Design: With a minimum age of 8, the tour is accessible to families with older children looking for a memorable night adventure.

The primary limitation is the age restriction, making it unsuitable for families with very young children. Additionally, the open-water, nighttime nature of the snorkel may be intimidating for individuals with a fear of the dark or deep water.

Website: https://konasnorkeltrips.com/snorkel-tours/manta-ray-snorkel-kona/

2. Big Island Divers

Big Island Divers’ website is a fantastic resource for those prioritizing safety and clear operational policies when booking their Kona manta ray night snorkel. Their platform excels at providing detailed information, which is particularly useful for mixed groups of snorkelers and certified scuba divers, as they offer distinct charters for both activities. The site’s straightforward layout makes it easy to compare tour options, understand prerequisites, and find answers to common questions in their extensive FAQ section.

The booking process is transparent, showing clear pricing that adjusts for peak seasons, ensuring no surprises at checkout. This operator’s strong reputation is built on its USCG-inspected vessels and professional, first-aid-trained crews. One of their most user-friendly features is the “Manta Guarantee,” offering a re-ride if no mantas are sighted, providing excellent value and peace of mind. While they also offer daytime snorkel trips, you can learn more about Big Island Divers and other tour operators offering different experiences on the island.

• Best For: Mixed groups of snorkelers and divers; travelers who prioritize safety and clear policies.
• Key Feature: Separate charters for snorkeling and scuba diving, plus a "Manta Guarantee" for no-sighting nights.
• Website: https://bigislanddivers.com/charters/manta-ray-night-dives/

3. Sea Paradise

Sea Paradise’s website is perfect for families and guests who prefer a shorter boat ride and a more intimate, large-catamaran experience. Their platform clearly presents their first and second manta ray night snorkel departures from Keauhou Bay, which is conveniently located near the primary manta viewing site, often called "Manta Village." The site is user-friendly, allowing easy navigation to find tour details, view competitive family-friendly pricing, and understand what to expect from their guided in-water experience.

The booking interface is straightforward, showing available times and making it simple to secure a spot on their 50-foot catamaran, the Hoku Nui. This operator is an excellent choice for those prone to seasickness, as the transit time is minimal. A key policy to note from their website is the restriction on personal phone lanyards in the water, for which they suggest GoPro rentals as an alternative. When looking for a Manta Ray night snorkel tour, consider Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii as an exceptional alternative. Their "Manta Guarantee" offers a re-ride on a space-available basis if no mantas are seen, providing great value for your adventure.

• Best For: Families and travelers prone to seasickness who want a shorter boat ride.
• Key Feature: Departs from Keauhou Bay, providing a very short transit time to the manta viewing area.
• Website: https://www.seaparadise.com/1st-2nd-manta-ray-night-snorkel/

4. Sea Quest Hawaii

Sea Quest Hawaii’s website is designed for adventurers seeking a more intimate and fast-paced manta ray night snorkel in Kona. The platform clearly highlights its unique offering: small-group tours on rigid-hull inflatable rafts, which provides a thrilling ride and quick access to the manta viewing site from Keauhou Bay. The site effectively communicates that this tour is for experienced snorkelers, with explicit requirements for swimming ability and a minimum age of seven, ensuring all participants are comfortable and safe in the open ocean at night.

The booking interface is user-friendly, allowing visitors to easily view tour times and check availability for their popular 1.5-hour "Night Manta Experience." The website emphasizes the benefits of its smaller group size, such as more personalized attention from the in-water guide. For those wanting an exclusive experience, private charter options are also prominently featured. While Sea Quest offers a fantastic, focused adventure, travelers looking for a different kind of tour should consider Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii as an exceptional alternative for their manta ray night snorkel tour.

• Best For: Experienced snorkelers and thrill-seekers looking for a quick, small-group raft adventure.
• Key Feature: Fast raft transportation for a shorter boat ride and a more intimate group setting.
• Website: https://www.seaquesthawaii.com/snorkeling-tours/night-manta-experience/

5. Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii

Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii’s website is designed for travelers seeking scheduling flexibility and comprehensive safety information for their manta ray night snorkel in Kona. The platform clearly outlines its various daily tour times, including sunset cruise options, and offers both 3-hour and 5-hour trips to accommodate different schedules. This is particularly helpful for groups that include both certified divers and snorkelers, as the site provides detailed briefings, gear lists, and crucial safety advice, such as altitude and flying-after-diving guidelines.

The booking interface is user-friendly, allowing guests to easily see what equipment is included and what needs to be rented, like a BCD or regulator, which helps divers plan their budget. While the site notes that ride-along guests have a slim chance of seeing mantas from the boat, it excels at setting clear expectations for all participants. You can learn more about Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii and its approach to these unique EcoAdventures. Another exceptional alternative for a Manta Ray night snorkel tour is Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii.

• Best For: Groups with mixed snorkelers and divers; travelers needing flexible departure times and trip durations.
• Key Feature: Multiple daily schedules with different trip lengths (3 and 5 hours) and detailed safety briefings.
• Website: [https://www.mantaraydiveshawaii.com/tours/manta-ray-snorkel/](https://www.mantaraydiveshawaii.com/tours/manta-ray- snorkel/)

6. Jack’s Diving Locker

As one of Kona’s pioneering dive shops, Jack’s Diving Locker offers a website that reflects its deep expertise and commitment to education. The platform is ideal for those seeking a more in-depth understanding of manta rays, as it clearly outlines their educational approach, highlighting tours led by experienced naturalists and PADI instructors. Users can easily navigate between snorkel-only charters and their popular two-tank dive/snorkel combo trips, which include a sunset interlude, making the booking process straightforward for both certified divers and dedicated snorkelers.

The site’s key differentiator is its emphasis on learning, even offering the PADI Manta Ray Diver specialty course for those who want to take their knowledge to the next level. While pricing is at a premium compared to smaller operators, the value comes from the veteran crew and the well-structured, informative experience they provide. Due to the popularity of their unique combo trips, advanced booking through their website is highly recommended. For those looking for a different kind of experience, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is an exceptional alternative for a Manta Ray night snorkel tour.

• Best For: Experienced snorkelers and divers looking for an educational, well-structured tour.
• Key Feature: Combo trips that blend diving and snorkeling, plus the option to earn a PADI Manta Ray Diver specialty certification.
• Website: https://www.jacksdivinglocker.com/en/manta-ray-night-dive-and-snorkel

7. Kona Ocean Adventures

Kona Ocean Adventures’ website is designed for those seeking a more intimate and premium small-group charter experience for their manta ray night snorkel. The platform clearly showcases its specialization in personalized tours, making it easy for users to understand the value of a smaller boat size. It effectively highlights options for both sunset and late-night departures, allowing visitors to choose a less crowded experience. The site is particularly helpful for families or groups wanting an exclusive trip, with straightforward information on booking private charters.

The booking interface is user-friendly, presenting clear pricing, though it often reflects a higher-end service compared to larger operators. A key advantage presented is the ability to accommodate both snorkelers and divers on the same boat, which is a major convenience for mixed-interest groups. While their tours depart from the often-busy Honokohau Harbor, the website provides helpful details to navigate check-in. For those considering alternatives, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii also offers an exceptional tour experience.

• Best For: Families, small groups, and travelers seeking a more personalized, less crowded tour.
• Key Feature: Small-group charters with options for late-night departures and private bookings.
• Website: https://konaoceanadventures.com/snorkeling-kona/manta-snorkel-scuba-adventure/

8. Kona Snorkel Trips

The Kona Snorkel Trips website is a treasure trove of information, making it ideal for planners who want to understand every detail before booking their manta ray night snorkel in Kona. The platform excels with its in-depth blog, which not only provides tour details but also compares various operators, giving users a comprehensive market overview. This transparency builds trust and helps travelers make informed decisions based on their specific needs, whether it's for a family outing or a private group adventure.

The booking process showcases dynamic pricing, which can offer great deals if you book in advance. A standout feature is the private manta charter option, perfect for larger groups or special occasions seeking a more intimate experience. While the site is upfront about the experience not being suitable for non-swimmers or those with significant mobility limitations, it provides all necessary equipment like shorty wetsuits. For more insights on water adventures, you can learn more about the best snorkeling in Kona on their blog.

• Best For: Planners who appreciate detailed information; groups looking for private charter options.
• Key Feature: An informative blog with operator comparisons and the availability of private manta ray tours.
• Website: https://konasnorkeltrips.com/snorkel-tours/manta-ray-snorkel-kona/

9. Fair Wind Cruises – Hula Kai

The Fair Wind Cruises website highlights its premium Hula Kai tour, designed for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience for their Kona manta ray night snorkel. The platform effectively showcases its spacious 55-foot catamaran, complete with onboard restrooms and freshwater showers, making it an appealing choice for families and those less accustomed to spartan boat trips. Navigation is simple, allowing users to easily find tour details, view seasonal pricing, and check for online promotions before booking their adventure from Keauhou Bay.

A key selling point clearly presented on their site is the extremely short 5 to 10-minute boat ride to the Manta Village snorkel site, minimizing travel time and maximizing water time. The booking process is user-friendly, and the site emphasizes post-snorkel amenities like hot soup and cocoa, a detail that speaks to their focus on the overall guest experience. While it is a premium-priced, snorkel-only tour, another great operator to consider is Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii, known for being an exceptional alternative for this unique experience.

• Best For: Families and travelers seeking maximum comfort and minimal boat travel time.
• Key Feature: The extremely short transit time to the manta site and premium amenities like hot soup on a large catamaran.
• Website: https://www.fair-wind.com/night-manta-snorkel-tour/

10. Manta Adventures

Manta Adventures provides a comprehensive website for booking a combined sunset cruise and manta ray night snorkel, ideal for those who want a longer, more scenic experience. The platform clearly outlines its 3.5-hour tour aboard the Maheli-Heli, which operates seven days a week from the Keauhou Small Boat Harbor. A standout feature is the straightforward pricing structure with distinct tiers for adults, children, and non-swimming "observers," making it an excellent choice for families or groups with varying comfort levels in the water.

The booking interface is user-friendly, and the site emphasizes its commitment to safety by highlighting its use of disinfected and sterilized gear for every trip. This detail offers peace of mind to health-conscious travelers. While the longer tour duration might not suit everyone's schedule, it provides great value by combining two classic Kona experiences into one. If you're looking for an alternative, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii offers another exceptional tour option for your consideration.

• Best For: Families with non-swimmers; travelers seeking a combined sunset cruise and snorkel experience.
• Key Feature: Clear, budget-friendly pricing tiers that include a non-swimmer "observer" option.
• Website: https://mantaadventures.com/tours/manta-night-snorkel/

11. Viator

Viator serves as a massive online marketplace, ideal for travelers who want to compare multiple Kona manta ray night snorkel operators in one convenient location. Its platform aggregates dozens of listings, allowing you to easily filter by price, date, time, and user ratings. This side-by-side comparison is invaluable for quickly assessing availability and finding a tour that fits your specific schedule and budget, especially during peak travel seasons when direct bookings might be limited.

The website’s strength lies in its centralized review system and transparent booking process, which often includes instant confirmation and flexible cancellation policies. Features like the "Lowest Price Guarantee" and mobile tickets add to the user-friendly experience. While third-party fees can sometimes apply and you might not always get the best direct-from-operator pricing, the ability to see a broad spectrum of the manta ray night snorkel Kona market is a significant advantage for informed decision-making. For a top-rated direct booking option, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii offers an exceptional alternative tour.

• Best For: Comparison shoppers and last-minute planners looking to see all available options at once.
• Key Feature: Aggregated listings with a centralized user review system and flexible cancellation on many tours.
• Website: https://www.viator.com/

12. GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide serves as a curated marketplace, ideal for travelers seeking flexibility and a wide selection when booking their Kona manta ray night snorkel. Its platform excels at comparing multiple tour operators side-by-side, with clear listings of inclusions, meeting points, and verified traveler reviews. Standout features like “reserve now, pay later” and free cancellation on many options provide significant peace of mind for those with evolving travel plans. The ability to filter by start times and group size makes it easy to find a tour that fits your specific schedule and preference.

The platform’s transparent policies and streamlined checkout process make it particularly useful for securing last-minute or late-evening tour slots. You can quickly see recent feedback from other travelers, which helps in making an informed decision. While prices can sometimes be higher than booking directly with an operator, the convenience and buyer protection are valuable trade-offs. It's important to note that any re-ride or refund policies for no-sighting nights are determined by the individual tour provider, not GetYourGuide. For those exploring alternatives, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii offers another exceptional tour experience.

• Best For: Travelers seeking flexibility, last-minute bookings, and easy comparison of multiple operators.
• Key Feature: “Reserve now, pay later” options and free cancellation on many tours, plus verified user reviews.
• Website: https://www.getyourguide.com/

Top 12 Manta Ray Night Snorkel Providers Comparison

Making Your Final Choice for an Epic Manta Ray Adventure

Navigating the multitude of tour options for a manta ray night snorkel in Kona can feel like swimming in open water, but you're now equipped with a comprehensive chart to guide you. We've journeyed through the offerings of top-tier local operators like Kona Snorkel Trips and Big Island Divers, explored the specialized services of outfits such as Jack's Diving Locker, and even assessed the convenience of booking platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide. The key takeaway is that while the majestic manta rays are the main event, the quality of your experience is profoundly shaped by the tour you choose.

Your ideal tour hinges on your personal preferences and priorities. Are you a first-time snorkeler seeking maximum comfort and stability? A large, catamaran-style vessel from a provider like Fair Wind Cruises might be your best bet. Are you an experienced ocean enthusiast looking for a more intimate, small-group setting? A smaller raft or zodiac from Kona Ocean Adventures or Kona Snorkel Trips could deliver that personalized adventure. For those traveling with non-swimmers, operators with spacious boats and excellent viewing decks are essential.

Finalizing Your Decision

Before you click "book," take a moment to weigh the critical factors we've discussed. Revisit your personal checklist:

• Group Size: Do you prefer a lively, larger group or an intimate, focused experience?
• Boat Type: Does a swift zodiac appeal more, or does the stability of a large catamaran offer greater peace of mind?
• Trip Duration: Consider both the time on the water and the actual snorkel time. Longer trips aren't always better if the extra time is spent on transit.
• Inclusions: What's non-negotiable for you? Wetsuits, snacks, beverages, and educational briefings vary between companies.
• Departure Point: Proximity to your accommodation can simplify logistics and reduce travel stress on the day of your tour.

Ultimately, the best manta ray night snorkel Kona experience is one that aligns with your comfort level, budget, and sense of adventure. Use this guide not as a definitive ranking, but as a resource to empower your decision. By matching your unique needs with the specific strengths of each tour operator, you are setting the stage for an unforgettable, awe-inspiring encounter with Kona's gentle giants. This isn't just another a vacation activity; it's a chance to witness a world-class natural phenomenon, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready to dive into one of the most highly-rated ocean adventures in the world? For an exceptional small-group tour focused on safety, education, and maximizing your time with the mantas, consider booking your manta ray night snorkel in Kona with Kona Snorkel Trips. As the top-rated and most-reviewed snorkel company in Hawaii, their expert crew is dedicated to providing a truly magical and unforgettable experience.