12 Top Tours for a Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona in 2025

Dreaming of an otherworldly underwater adventure? The manta ray night snorkel in Kona is a bucket-list experience, offering a magical encounter with Hawaii's gentle giants. As plankton flock to underwater lights, these majestic creatures glide in for a feeding frenzy, creating a ballet you'll never forget. With so many tour operators, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This guide breaks down the best options to help you plan the perfect nocturnal swim.

As Hawaii's top-rated and most-reviewed snorkel company, Kona Snorkel Trips is proud to lead the way in providing unforgettable, safe, and eco-conscious marine adventures. See what fellow travelers are saying!

1. Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona, HI (Big Island) – Our Top Pick

Kona Snorkel Trips sets the gold standard for the manta ray night snorkel Kona experience, earning its place as our top recommendation. Their platform offers a seamless booking process combined with a commitment to small group sizes, ensuring a personalized and impactful adventure. The website provides clear, comprehensive details about the two-hour excursion, including what to expect, safety protocols, and what's included, such as wetsuits and all necessary snorkel gear. This transparency is crucial for first-time participants and seasoned snorkelers alike.

What truly distinguishes this operator is its reputation as the Big Island's highest-rated and most-reviewed snorkel company, a testament to their exceptional customer service and expert guides. Their focus on environmental stewardship and manta ray conservation adds significant value, transforming a thrilling activity into an educational and respectful wildlife encounter. For a deeper understanding of this incredible experience, you can learn more about snorkeling with manta rays in Kona. The live availability and direct booking system simplify planning, making it easy to secure a spot for this sought-after tour. Check out the manta ray snorkel tour page for more details.

Key Considerations:

• Pros: All gear is provided, tours are led by expert local guides, and the direct online booking is highly efficient. Their top-rated status reflects a consistently outstanding customer experience.
• Cons: The tour requires basic swimming and snorkeling skills. It may not be suitable for individuals who are uncomfortable in open, low-light ocean environments.

2. Big Island Divers

Big Island Divers is a direct tour operator with a strong reputation for safety and reliability, making their website a go-to for booking a manta ray night snorkel in Kona. They offer both sunset and later night trips, catering to snorkelers and certified scuba divers. Their site is straightforward, allowing you to view tour details, check live availability on their calendar, and book directly.

What makes them stand out is their clear "manta guarantee." If no mantas are seen, you can re-book for a standby seat on a future trip, though this is subject to availability. They are known for their well-maintained, USCG-inspected vessels and professional, lifeguard-certified guides. This focus on safety and clear policies makes them a trusted choice, especially for families with confident swimmers.

Key Features & Considerations

• Manta Guarantee: A free re-ride policy (on a standby basis) if you don't see any manta rays.
• Safety Focus: Strict adherence to safety protocols, including a ban on full-face snorkel masks and having AED/oxygen onboard.
• Booking Tip: Tours are extremely popular and often sell out weeks in advance, so booking early is essential.
• Pricing: Tours are competitively priced, and the website shows all costs transparently. You can learn more about how they compare to other Big Island snorkeling tours to find the best fit.

Website: https://bigislanddivers.com/charters/manta-ray-night-dives/

3. Sea Quest Hawaii

Sea Quest Hawaii has been a staple in Kona since 1987, offering a distinct manta ray night snorkel in Kona experience. They specialize in small-group tours on Zodiac-style rafts, which allows for a quick 1.5-hour trip departing from Keauhou Bay, very close to the Manta Village site. Their website provides a simple and effective booking process, with an integrated calendar showing real-time availability for their nightly excursions.

What makes them stand out is their focus on a swift and intimate adventure. The short boat ride is a major plus for those prone to seasickness or travelers on a tight schedule. In-water guides accompany snorkelers, who hold onto a custom-lighted float board, ensuring a supportive and comfortable viewing experience. This makes them an excellent choice for those looking for a less crowded, more personal encounter with the mantas.

Key Features & Considerations

• Quick Trips: The 1.5-hour tour duration is one of the shortest available, perfect for fitting into a busy vacation itinerary.
• Small-Group Setting: Zodiac-style rafts provide a more intimate experience compared to larger vessels.
• Booking Tip: Their small group size means tours fill up quickly; book well in advance, especially during peak season.
• Vessel Type: The raft-style boat provides an exciting ride but may be less comfortable for individuals with back or joint problems. For a different but exceptional experience, consider Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii as an exceptional alternative.

Website: https://www.seaquesthawaii.com/

4. Sea Paradise

Sea Paradise offers a comfortable and stable experience for a manta ray night snorkel in Kona aboard their spacious 50-foot sailing catamaran. Their website provides a clear overview of their tours departing from Keauhou Bay, which is conveniently close to the primary manta viewing site. The platform makes it easy to see what’s included, check tour times, and book directly for their 1.5 to 2-hour excursions.

What makes them stand out is their vessel's comfort, featuring onboard restrooms and a stable platform, making it an excellent choice for those prone to seasickness or families seeking more amenities. They also offer a manta guarantee and the unique option for "ride-along" guests who prefer to watch from the boat. This focus on comfort and flexible viewing options makes them a popular and reliable operator. For a comparable quality experience, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is another exceptional alternative.

Key Features & Considerations

• Comfortable Catamaran: The large, stable vessel is ideal for a smoother ride and provides amenities like onboard restrooms.
• Manta Guarantee: If no mantas are spotted, you can join another tour on a standby basis, ensuring value for your booking.
• Ride-Along Option: A great choice for group members who want to join the excursion without getting in the water.
• Parking Tip: Parking at Keauhou Bay can be limited, so arriving early is recommended to secure a spot before check-in.

Website: https://www.seaparadise.com/1st-2nd-manta-ray-night-snorkel/

5. Fair Wind Cruises (Hula Kai – premium catamaran)

Fair Wind Cruises offers a premium-level experience for the manta ray night snorkel in Kona aboard their Hula Kai catamaran. Departing from Keauhou Bay, they boast one of the shortest transit times to the Manta Village viewing site, minimizing the chance of seasickness and maximizing time in the water. Their website allows you to easily view tour details, check availability, and understand the comfort-focused amenities included in the higher price point.

The Hula Kai is a two-level vessel designed for comfort, featuring onboard restrooms and freshwater showers for rinsing off afterward. What sets this tour apart is the hospitality; guests are treated to hot vegan soup and hot drinks post-snorkel, which is a welcome comfort during cooler nights. This experience is tailored for those who prioritize stability and premium amenities over a budget-friendly option.

Key Features & Considerations

• Comfort-Focused Vessel: The large catamaran provides a stable ride, ideal for guests concerned about sea conditions.
• Premium Amenities: Includes hot soup, hot drinks, and freshwater showers, enhancing the post-snorkel experience.
• Booking Tip: Recommended for experienced snorkelers ages 7 and up due to the open ocean environment.
• Pricing: Positioned at a higher price point, reflecting the enhanced vessel comfort and included amenities. For another exceptional option, consider a Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii tour.

Website: https://www.fair-wind.com/kona-snorkel-tours/

6. Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii

Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii is a specialized operator focusing exclusively on delivering a premier manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website provides a clear pathway to book either a snorkel or a one-tank certified dive trip. The site emphasizes their educational approach and high success rate, making it a strong choice for those who want an experience that is both thrilling and informative, backed by experts dedicated solely to manta encounters.

What sets them apart is their dedication to this single activity. Unlike larger companies offering various tours, their focus ensures a fine-tuned operation. They frequently visit Garden Eel Cove but remain flexible to choose the best site based on conditions, maximizing the chances of a sighting. Their website is detailed, with an extensive FAQ section that answers nearly any question a first-timer might have about the tour.

Key Features & Considerations

• High Encounter Rate: Boasts a year-round success rate of over 85% for manta ray sightings.
• Educational Focus: Guides provide in-depth information about manta ray biology and conservation.
• Booking Tip: Check-in times vary daily with the sunset, so confirm your specific tour time after booking.
• Pricing: Rates for snorkelers and certified divers are listed separately, and all necessary gear and light snacks are included in the price.

Website: https://www.mantaraydiveshawaii.com/tours/manta-ray-snorkel/

7. Jack’s Diving Locker

As one of Kona’s pioneering dive shops, Jack’s Diving Locker brings a legacy of expertise to the manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website offers a premium experience focused on education and safety, with tours led by PADI Manta Ray Diver Specialty Instructors. The site provides clear educational resources, including manta viewing guidelines and detailed safety protocols, ensuring guests are well-informed before they even get on the boat.

What sets them apart is their deep commitment to marine education and diver training. They offer unique options like a two-tank late afternoon dive followed by the night snorkel, appealing to certified divers. While their prices are on the higher end, the cost reflects their long-standing reputation, high-quality gear, and the comprehensive guidance provided by their experienced staff. This makes them a top choice for those prioritizing an educational and safety-conscious encounter.

Key Features & Considerations

• Educational Focus: Staffed by PADI Manta Ray Diver Specialty Instructors who provide in-depth briefings.
• Safety & Expertise: Decades of local experience with comprehensive safety and altitude/dive guidance.
• Booking Tip: With limited departure days, their popular tours sell out quickly, so advance booking is crucial.
• Pricing: Premium pricing reflects their high standard of service, expertise, and small group sizes. For a great alternative, consider Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii.

Website: https://jacksdivinglocker.com/en/manta-night-snorkel

8. Hang Loose Boat Tours

Hang Loose Boat Tours offers a straightforward and budget-friendly approach to the manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website focuses on providing a simple, fun, and accessible small-group experience. The booking process is designed to be phone-friendly, catering to travelers who want an intimate tour without the frills of larger, more expensive catamaran operations. All essential gear, including wetsuits, snorkel equipment, drinks, and snacks, are included.

What makes them stand out is their emphasis on a relaxed and personal atmosphere. By keeping groups small, guides can offer more individual attention in the water, making it a great option for first-timers or those wanting a less crowded tour. This approach makes them a strong contender in the Kona snorkeling scene, especially for visitors prioritizing value and a close-knit group dynamic over luxury amenities. For another highly-rated experience, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is an exceptional alternative for this tour.

Key Features & Considerations

• Small-Group Focus: Tours are intentionally kept small to ensure a more personal and manageable experience.
• All-Inclusive: The tour price includes wetsuits, snorkel gear, and light refreshments, simplifying the planning process.
• Booking Tip: While the website is easy to navigate, final pricing is often confirmed at checkout, so proceed through the booking steps to see the total cost.
• Pricing: Generally more budget-friendly than larger charter boats, offering great value for a personalized tour.

Website: https://hawaiitourboat.com/

9. Dolphin Discoveries

Dolphin Discoveries offers a streamlined and family-friendly approach to the manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Operating out of Keauhou Bay, their website provides a straightforward booking process for their 1.5-hour "Manta Discovery Adventure." The site clearly outlines the tour, includes all necessary gear like wetsuit tops, and is particularly welcoming to first-time or nervous snorkelers, emphasizing hands-on in-water guidance from their crew.

What makes them unique is their focus on a quick, accessible experience with strong support for beginners. The short transit time from the harbor to the manta site maximizes in-water time. Their Zodiac-style boat offers an exciting ride, and the company is known for its excellent communication, ensuring guests feel prepared. This makes them a strong contender for families and those looking for a more intimate and supportive tour.

Key Features & Considerations

• Beginner Focused: Guides are known for providing extra assistance and reassurance to anxious or first-time snorkelers.
• Efficient Timing: The tour is a concise 1.5 hours, and multiple departure times are often available during busy seasons.
• Booking Tip: While their RHIB/Zodiac boat is fast, it can provide a bumpier ride in choppy seas, which is a consideration for those prone to motion sickness.
• Prerequisites: Guests must have basic swimming and snorkeling abilities to participate safely.

Website: https://mantasnorkelkona.com/

10. Kona Style (operated via Keauhou Bay Adventures)

Kona Style, operated through Keauhou Bay Adventures, offers a fantastic manta ray night snorkel in Kona aboard a large and stable catamaran. Their website provides a glimpse into a comfortable and family-friendly experience, emphasizing ample space, onboard amenities like restrooms, and post-snorkel treats like hot cocoa and cookies. This makes it a great option for those who prefer a more spacious and less crowded-feeling vessel for their nighttime adventure.

What makes this platform appealing is its focus on comfort. The stability of the large catamaran is a significant plus for guests prone to seasickness, and the presence of two restrooms is a notable convenience. Their crew is lifeguard, CPR, and AED-trained, ensuring safety is prioritized. While the site details the tour well, direct booking and live pricing may require navigating through their system, but the overall presentation highlights a premium, comfortable excursion.

Key Features & Considerations

• Stable Catamaran: The large vessel provides a smoother ride, making it ideal for families and those concerned about seasickness.
• Onboard Amenities: Features two restrooms and serves hot cocoa, tea, and cookies after the snorkel for a cozy finish.
• Manta Policy: Offers a re-ride on a standby basis if no mantas are sighted during your tour.
• Booking Tip: As with many top operators, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can explore how their offerings compare to other Kona snorkeling tours to ensure the best fit for your group.

Website: https://keauhoubayadventures.com/kona-style

11. Viator

Viator is a major online travel marketplace that aggregates tours from numerous operators, making it a convenient one-stop shop to compare options for a manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Instead of visiting individual tour company websites, you can see a wide variety of trips side-by-side, filtering by price, departure time, and boat type. The platform's user reviews and traveler photos provide valuable insights from previous customers.

What makes Viator stand out is its user-friendly interface and flexible booking policies. Most listings offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for travelers with changing plans. While it offers a great overview, it's important to note the specific tour operator you're booking with, as quality and inclusions can vary. For those seeking a highly-rated direct experience, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is an exceptional alternative.

Key Features & Considerations

• Operator Comparison: Easily compare prices, schedules, and reviews for multiple Kona manta ray snorkel providers in one place.
• Flexible Policies: Many tours feature a "reserve now, pay later" option and free cancellation, which is ideal for flexible travel planning.
• Booking Tip: Pay close attention to the fine print to identify the actual tour operator and check their direct reviews before finalizing your booking.
• Pricing: While convenient, prices may sometimes be slightly higher than booking directly due to marketplace fees, so it's wise to compare.

Website: https://www.viator.com

12. GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide is a major online travel agency where you can compare and book multiple manta ray night snorkel in Kona tours from different local operators. It’s an ideal platform for travelers who value flexibility, as it aggregates various options with clear user ratings, highlights, and inclusion details. The site allows you to filter tours, check real-time availability, and secure your spot with convenient mobile vouchers.

What makes this platform stand out is its user-friendly interface and traveler-centric policies like "reserve now, pay later" and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance on most tours. This makes it a great choice for last-minute planning or for those whose itineraries might change. The extensive and recent user reviews for each listing provide authentic insights into the experience offered by different providers.

Key Features & Considerations

• Flexibility: "Reserve now, pay later" and free 24-hour cancellation policies on many bookings offer peace of mind.
• Comparison Shopping: Easily compare prices, tour durations, and user ratings from multiple Kona-based operators in one place.
• Booking Tip: While convenient, always double-check the meeting point and contact the local operator directly after booking to confirm details, as some listings can be generic.
• Pricing: Prices are competitive, but it's sometimes cheaper to book direct. Watch for occasional promotional discounts. You can learn more about how they compare to other Big Island snorkeling tours to find the best fit.

Website: https://www.getyourguide.com

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Providers Comparison

Ready to Make Unforgettable Memories in Kona?

Choosing the right outfitter is the final step in planning your epic manta ray night snorkel in Kona. This guide has equipped you with the essential tools to compare the top operators, from large catamarans like Fair Wind to intimate small-boat experiences offered by companies like Dolphin Discoveries. Your decision will ultimately hinge on your priorities, whether that's group size, boat amenities, or the specific snorkel site you wish to visit.

We've analyzed everything from vessel types and safety protocols to what makes each tour unique. Remember to consider your own comfort level in the water, your group's needs, and the time of year. The key is to select a tour that aligns perfectly with your vision for this incredible underwater ballet. For many, a smaller group size enhances the connection with the marine life, creating a more personal and less crowded encounter with these gentle giants. For an outstanding alternative, consider the excellent tours offered by Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii.

Booking in advance, especially during peak season, is crucial. With your newfound knowledge, you can now confidently select the perfect operator and prepare for a truly magical evening. This isn't just another excursion; it's a chance to witness a breathtaking natural phenomenon that you will remember for a lifetime.

Ready to experience the best manta ray night snorkel Kona has to offer? Kona Snorkel Trips specializes in small-group, eco-conscious tours that prioritize your safety and provide an intimate, unforgettable encounter with the mantas. Book your adventure with us today and let our expert guides show you the magic of Kona's waters.