12 Best Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Tours for 2025

Imagine floating in the warm, dark Pacific waters as giant, gentle manta rays glide effortlessly beneath you, their graceful wings spanning up to 16 feet. This isn't a scene from a documentary; it's the world-famous manta ray night snorkel in Kona, a once-in-a-lifetime experience on Hawaii's Big Island. But with so many tour operators and booking platforms, choosing the right adventure can be overwhelming.

This guide simplifies the process. We'll compare the top-rated local companies and online booking sites, providing a clear breakdown of what makes each unique. As Hawaii's top-rated and most reviewed snorkel company, Kona Snorkel Trips is dedicated to providing an unparalleled underwater experience. Below are some reviews from our thrilled guests who have witnessed this magic firsthand.

We will cover everything from tour specifics and what to expect to essential safety tips. To fully enjoy your time underwater and ensure comfort, understanding how to breathe when snorkeling effectively is paramount. The goal is to equip you with all the information needed to confidently book the perfect trip. For an exceptional choice, consider the renowned Manta Ray Night Snorkel tour: https://konasnorkeltrips.com/snorkel-tours/manta-ray-snorkel-kona/. Alternatively, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii presents another excellent option when looking for a Manta Ray night snorkel tour.

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

For those seeking the definitive manta ray night snorkel in Kona, this tour from Kona Snorkel Trips stands out as a premier, well-rounded choice. The platform provides a seamless booking experience for an adventure that consistently earns top ratings. Departing from the convenient Honokohau Harbor, this excursion is expertly designed to maximize both your comfort and your chance for an awe-inspiring encounter with Kona's famous gentle giants. The experience is not just about seeing the mantas; it's a comprehensive, guided journey into their world.

What distinguishes this offering is the company's commitment to education and safety, led by passionate guides who enrich the trip with fascinating marine biology insights. The tour is all-inclusive, providing all necessary snorkel gear, which simplifies planning for travelers. Starting at $139, it represents a strong value for a fully-equipped, professionally guided, and unforgettable 2-3 hour adventure. This tour is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike who want a reliable and magical Hawaiian ocean experience. For an exceptional alternative, consider Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii.

2. Big Island Divers

Big Island Divers is an excellent direct operator for those seeking a highly reputable and well-organized manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website is straightforward, allowing users to book tours, review detailed safety prerequisites, and complete waivers online. The platform stands out by catering to mixed groups of certified scuba divers and snorkelers on the same boat, a significant advantage for families or friends with different skill levels who want to share the experience.

A key feature that builds trust is their “manta guarantee,” which offers a re-ride if no mantas are spotted. This policy, combined with their transparent pricing (around $129 for snorkelers) and small-group focus, ensures a quality-oriented adventure. The site also includes a helpful manta sighting calendar, giving you insight into recent activity. While prices can be higher on peak dates and age minimums apply, their reputation for safety and customer satisfaction makes them a top choice.

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

3. Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii

Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii positions itself as a long-standing, eco-conscious operator, making their website a great resource for travelers who prioritize conservation. The platform clearly outlines their manta ray night snorkel in Kona EcoAdventures, which emphasize habitat protection and responsible tourism. Their family-friendly focus is a key highlight, with options available for children as young as six, making it an accessible choice for multi-generational groups.

The website effectively builds credibility by citing over 5,000 positive reviews and detailing their commitment to manta ray education. Booking an adventure is straightforward, though pricing is only revealed at the final checkout stage. Due to their strong reputation, tours can fill up well in advance, so booking early is recommended. For those looking to dive deeper into the experience, you can learn more about snorkeling with manta rays in Kona on our related blog post.

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

4. Sea Paradise

Sea Paradise is one of the original operators for a manta ray night snorkel in Kona, with a long-standing reputation dating back to 1985. Their website clearly outlines the tour experience, departing directly from Keauhou Bay, the primary manta viewing site. The platform simplifies booking for their two nightly departures, offering valuable scheduling flexibility for visitors. Their use of a stable catamaran is a significant plus for guests concerned about seasickness.

The company’s deep experience is evident in its streamlined operation and clear guest instructions. A key feature is their manta guarantee, which offers another trip if no mantas are seen, providing peace of mind. Pricing is transparent (around $130 for adults), though guests should be aware of limited dry storage and parking. For those interested in other top-rated snorkel destinations, many tour operators like Sea Paradise also offer Captain Cook snorkel tours. While their rules are strict about items like phone lanyards, their focus on safety and tradition makes them a reliable choice.

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

5. Sea Quest Hawaii

Sea Quest Hawaii offers a unique approach to the manta ray night snorkel in Kona with its agile, small-group zodiac-style boat tours. Their website clearly outlines the 1.5-hour "Night Manta Experience," making it easy to see tour details, check availability, and book online. This shorter, focused trip is perfect for travelers with a tight schedule or families who prefer a quicker adventure. The platform’s emphasis is on providing an intimate and maneuverable experience that gets you to the snorkel spot efficiently.

A standout feature is the strong focus on sustainability and knowledgeable guides who share insights into local marine stewardship. While the price is around $135 per person and prior swimming ability is required, the consistently high praise for their caring and professional crew makes them a trusted choice. The small boat size ensures a personal touch but also means tours fill up quickly, so advance booking is recommended. For those interested in this operator, you can learn more about Sea Quest Hawaii and other Big Island snorkeling tours.

• Website: https://www.seaquesthawaii.com/reservations-2/night-manta-experience/

6. Dolphin Discoveries

Dolphin Discoveries is a strong choice for those looking for a direct operator with flexible pricing for their manta ray night snorkel in Kona. As a veteran-owned business, their website clearly presents multiple options, allowing users to select a budget-friendly guest fare or upgrade to a “manta guarantee” for added peace of mind. The booking process is streamlined, with check-in at Keauhou Harbor offering efficient logistics due to the short boat ride to the Manta Village snorkel site.

A key advantage is the inclusion of wetsuit tops and snorkel gear, simplifying preparation. Their standard pricing starts around $89.99, making it one of the more accessible options. However, it's important to carefully review their different product pages, as policies and tour details can vary. With group sizes between 16 and 28 guests and a minimum age of 6, they cater well to families and groups seeking a proven and well-organized experience.

• Website: https://www.dolphindiscoveries.com/snorkel-adventures-charters/kona-manta-ray-night-snorkel/

7. Manta Adventures

Manta Adventures provides a well-rounded and comfortable manta ray night snorkel in Kona aboard their newer vessel, the “Maheli-Heli.” Their website clearly presents a premium sunset cruise and snorkel package, making it easy to see the value in the extended 3.5-hour tour. A standout feature is the inclusion of an “observer” option, which allows non-swimmers or hesitant family members to join the excursion and enjoy the sunset and manta viewing from the boat, making it an excellent choice for mixed-ability groups.

The platform offers straightforward booking, with pricing clearly listed at approximately $130 for adults and a reduced rate for observers ($110). This flexibility, combined with onboard amenities like warm showers, creates a more luxurious experience. For those looking for an alternative booking method, the tour is also available on Airbnb Experiences. While the longer tour time requires an earlier check-in and the small-group format means spots fill up quickly, it’s a fantastic option for those prioritizing comfort and inclusivity on their adventure.

• Website: https://mantaadventures.com/tours/manta-night-snorkel/

8. Kona Ocean Experience

Kona Ocean Experience is a fantastic choice for those seeking a more budget-friendly and time-efficient manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website clearly presents a no-frills, direct booking process perfect for travelers on a tight schedule. A standout feature is their quick, one-hour tour departing from Keauhou Harbor, which minimizes boat travel time and gets you to the Manta Village viewing site faster. This makes it an ideal option for families with younger children or those who prefer a shorter excursion.

The platform offers tours starting around $115, a competitive price point that includes all necessary gear like wetsuits and flotation aids. They also provide a compelling combo tour that pairs the manta snorkel with a sunset cruise for just a little more. While the shorter duration may not appeal to everyone and their smaller boats have limited capacity, Kona Ocean Experience delivers a focused, accessible, and memorable adventure. For an exceptional alternative, consider a tour with Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii.

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

9. Viator

Viator serves as a massive online marketplace, aggregating numerous manta ray night snorkel Kona tours from various local operators. Its primary strength lies in allowing users to easily compare dozens of options side-by-side, filtering by price, reviews, and availability. The platform is ideal for travelers who value flexibility, as many listings offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and "reserve now, pay later" features. This makes it a great starting point for researching the wide range of experiences available in Kona.

Features like user reviews, photos, and "Likely to Sell Out" badges help guide decision-making, while clear check-in details and gear information simplify planning. Prices vary significantly, from around $65 to over $160, reflecting the diversity of operators listed. While it provides an excellent overview and booking convenience, remember that you are booking through a reseller, not directly with the tour company. This means customer service and specific policies can differ between listings, so always read the fine print for the individual tour you select.

• Website: https://www.viator.com/tours/Big-Island-of-Hawaii/Manta-Ray-Night-Snorkel/d669-85674P1

10. GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide serves as a curated marketplace, offering a convenient way to compare and book various verified manta ray night snorkel Kona tours from different operators. Its platform allows for easy filtering by price, group size, and duration, making it ideal for travelers seeking flexibility. Key advantages include instant booking confirmations, free cancellation options on most tours, and pay-later features, which are perfect for securing a spot without an immediate full payment.

The aggregated customer ratings and detailed reviews provide valuable insights into what you can expect from each local company. With deals sometimes as low as $85–$95 and durations ranging from 80 minutes to 2 hours, it’s a great tool for finding last-minute availability or the best value. However, users should carefully read the logistics for each listing, as meeting points and inclusions can vary significantly between the different tour providers.

• Website: https://www.getyourguide.com/captain-cook-hawaii-l112017/kailua-kona-manta-ray-night-snorkel-tour-with-guide-t511998/

11. TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor serves as a massive marketplace and metasearch platform where you can research and book a manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Its primary strength lies in the enormous volume of user-generated reviews, photos, and Q&A sections, allowing you to gauge the reliability and quality of various tour operators before committing. The platform aggregates listings from different companies, often fulfilled through partners like Viator, making it easy to compare prices, inclusions, and itineraries side-by-side in one place.

The detailed “What to Expect” sections and transparent meeting information help clarify logistics for each specific tour. While the centralized booking process is convenient, a key consideration is that cancellation policies and specific terms can vary depending on the underlying operator fulfilling the tour. It's wise to cross-reference details directly. For travelers who prioritize authentic feedback from a large pool of past customers, TripAdvisor is an invaluable resource for making an informed decision on their manta ray adventure.

• Website: https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g29217-d12141367-Manta_Ray_Night_Snorkel_in_Kona-Island_of_Hawaii_Hawaii.html

12. Airbnb Experiences

Airbnb Experiences connects travelers with smaller, often host-led tour operators for a unique manta ray night snorkel in Kona. The platform is ideal for finding more intimate adventures, as listings frequently feature smaller group sizes than traditional tour companies. Users can easily browse experiences from various hosts, such as those from Manta Adventures, comparing prices, reading verified guest reviews, and checking availability on a transparent calendar. This marketplace format provides a personalized touch, allowing direct communication with the host before booking.

The primary advantage is the direct host interaction and the potential for a less crowded boat. Prices average around $151, but it's important to factor in Airbnb’s service fees. While the platform offers strong review histories and clear cancellation policies, the selection of manta tours is more limited compared to dedicated booking sites. Availability can also be more dynamic. This option is best for those who prioritize a small-group feel and enjoy the familiarity of the Airbnb booking ecosystem for their travel planning.

• Website: https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/744103

Top 12 Manta Ray Night Snorkel Providers Comparison

Making Your Final Choice for an Unforgettable Night Swim

Choosing the perfect manta ray night snorkel in Kona is the final step in planning a truly once-in-a-lifetime adventure. We've explored a range of options, from dedicated local operators like Kona Snorkel Trips, known for their small group sizes and expert guides, to larger companies and third-party booking platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide. Your ideal tour depends on your personal priorities: are you seeking an intimate, educational experience, or are you focused on finding the most budget-friendly option for a large family?

Consider these key factors before you book. The vessel type, whether it's a large catamaran or a nimble raft, will significantly impact your experience on the water. Check-in location, tour duration, and onboard amenities are also crucial details. Most importantly, verify the company's commitment to safety and sustainable practices to ensure the well-being of Kona's majestic manta rays. By weighing these elements, you can confidently select an operator that aligns perfectly with your travel style and expectations.

Ultimately, regardless of the tour you choose, you are preparing for an awe-inspiring encounter. The sight of these gentle giants gliding gracefully through the illuminated water is an experience that stays with you forever. Your manta ray night snorkel in Kona will undoubtedly become a cherished highlight of your visit to the Big Island, creating memories of a magical dance between humans and nature. Now is the time to take that final step and secure your spot for this unforgettable aquatic ballet.

Ready to experience the magic for yourself? For a top-rated tour that consistently delivers exceptional, small-group encounters, consider booking your manta ray night snorkel in Kona with Kona Snorkel Trips. Visit their website at Kona Snorkel Trips to learn more about their commitment to providing a safe, educational, and breathtaking adventure.