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

Imagine floating in the calm, dark waters off the Kona coast, illuminated only by underwater lights, as majestic manta rays glide gracefully beneath you, mouths agape, feeding on plankton. This isn't a scene from a documentary; it's the world-famous manta ray night snorkel Kona experience, a bucket-list adventure drawing visitors from around the globe. This guide provides a comprehensive list of the best tour operators and resources to help you plan this once-in-a-lifetime encounter. As the top rated & most reviewed snorkel company in Hawaii, Kona Snorkel Trips has set the standard for this incredible adventure, and we're here to share everything you need to know. See what fellow travelers are saying!

When planning your Manta Ray night snorkel tour, it's wise to consider all your options. For those seeking an exceptional alternative, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii offers a fantastic experience and comes highly recommended.

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 and expertly managed experience. Their tour platform provides a seamless booking process for this 2-hour guided adventure, departing from the easily accessible Honokohau Harbor. This manta ray snorkel tour is an exceptional choice for both novice and seasoned snorkelers seeking a safe, informative, and truly magical encounter with majestic manta rays.

What distinguishes this operator is their commitment to a high-quality, personalized experience. As Hawaii's highest-rated and most-reviewed snorkel company, their professional guides prioritize guest safety and provide fascinating insights into manta ray behavior and the local marine ecosystem. All necessary gear is included, ensuring you can focus solely on the breathtaking spectacle of the mantas feeding beneath the starlight. The user-friendly website and straightforward booking system make securing your spot on this unforgettable adventure incredibly simple.

Key Strengths & Considerations

2. Big Island Divers

Big Island Divers is a long-standing, reputable operator in Kona, offering dedicated charters for the manta ray night snorkel. Their website serves as a comprehensive portal for both snorkelers and SCUBA divers, featuring transparent policies and valuable resources like a detailed manta sighting calendar. This tool helps potential visitors gauge recent activity, setting realistic expectations for their tour.

What truly sets them apart is their "manta guarantee," offering a re-ride on a space-available basis if no mantas are seen. The site clearly outlines early and late departure times, catering to different schedules. This operator also runs other popular excursions, allowing you to explore more of the Kona coast; you can learn more about their daytime trips to other iconic locations.

Key Features & Considerations

• Offerings: Manta night snorkel, 1-tank and 2-tank manta night SCUBA dives.
• Unique Features: Detailed online manta sighting calendar and a re-ride guarantee.
• Pros: Strong safety record, experienced crew, and very clear policies on their website.
• Cons: Minimum age is 10 and requires confident swimming ability. Base price does not include gear rentals or taxes, which are added during checkout.

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

3. Sea Quest Hawaii

Sea Quest Hawaii specializes in small-group manta ray night snorkel tours departing from Keauhou Bay, which is conveniently close to the popular "Manta Village" viewing site. Their website highlights the use of fast, rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RIBs), offering an adventurous, quick trip to the action with a total tour time of about 1.5 hours. This approach is ideal for experienced snorkelers who want to maximize their time in the water with the mantas.

The site clearly outlines its requirements, emphasizing that this tour is for confident swimmers, not first-timers. This transparency helps manage expectations and ensures a safer, more enjoyable experience for all guests. For those looking for a different kind of adventure, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii offers an exceptional alternative for a memorable manta ray night snorkel tour. Sea Quest also provides private charter options, which can be booked directly through their platform for a more personalized excursion.

Key Features & Considerations

• Offerings: Small-group manta night snorkel.
• Unique Features: Proximity to Manta Village for shorter boat rides, RIB boat experience, and private charter availability.
• Pros: Less time spent traveling on the water, intimate small-group setting, and clear experience requirements for safety.
• Cons: Not suitable for first-time or nervous snorkelers. RIB boats offer limited space and storage compared to larger vessels.

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

4. Sea Paradise

As one of the original operators pioneering the manta ray night snorkel in Kona since 1985, Sea Paradise brings decades of experience to every tour. Their website reflects this deep expertise, providing clear details on their tours departing from the convenient Keauhou Bay, which is closer to the primary manta viewing site. The platform is straightforward, allowing users to easily book their preferred time slot and understand the tour’s inclusions.

A standout feature is their manta guarantee, which offers a second trip on a space-available basis if no mantas are seen on the initial tour. This policy showcases their confidence and commitment to providing a memorable experience. Their family-friendly approach is also notable, offering a ride-along option for younger children or non-swimmers who want to be part of the adventure from the comfort of the boat. For those exploring other options, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is known as an exceptional alternative for this unique Kona activity.

Key Features & Considerations

• Offerings: Manta ray night snorkel with first and second departure times.
• Unique Features: Long-standing operator since 1985, manta re-ride guarantee, and ride-along options for non-snorkelers.
• Pros: Very experienced crew with deep local knowledge, family-friendly policies, and departs from Keauhou Bay, minimizing travel time on the water.
• Cons: Popularity means trips can sell out well in advance during peak season; ride-along minors require close supervision by a guardian.

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

5. Kona Snorkel Trips

Kona Snorkel Trips focuses on intimate, small-group manta ray night snorkel tours aboard their agile RIB vessels. Their website emphasizes a safety-first approach, clearly stating that all participants must be proficient swimmers and have prior snorkeling experience. This prerequisite ensures a more comfortable and secure experience for everyone on a tour that ventures into open ocean conditions at night.

What distinguishes this operator is their commitment to creating a suitable tour group, which enhances the overall quality of the excursion. The site details their seasonal early and late departure options, along with a "standby" re-ride policy if no mantas appear. For those seeking other adventures, you can learn more about their Big Island snorkeling tours to different prime locations. Their clear communication and smaller group sizes make them a top choice for confident snorkelers.

Key Features & Considerations

• Offerings: Manta ray night snorkel, private charters for up to 18 guests.
• Unique Features: Strict swim proficiency and prior snorkel experience required for all guests. Small-group tours on RIB boats.
• Pros: Smaller group sizes lead to a more personal experience. Transparent prerequisites ensure all participants are well-suited for the tour.
• Cons: Not suitable for non-swimmers or absolute beginners. Pricing can be dynamic and vary based on seasonal demand.

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

6. Jack’s Diving Locker

Jack’s Diving Locker is one of Kona's original dive shops, bringing a wealth of experience and a strong educational focus to the manta ray night snorkel. Their website is a gateway for those who want to do more than just see the mantas; it offers opportunities to learn about them from PADI-certified Manta Naturalists. This emphasis on marine education provides a deeper, more meaningful encounter with these gentle giants.

What truly distinguishes Jack's is their commitment to diver and snorkeler education, most notably through their PADI Manta Ray Diver Specialty course. For those seeking a comprehensive experience, their twilight trips combine a daytime reef dive with the nighttime manta encounter, catering to mixed groups of divers and snorkelers. While their educational focus is a major draw, those looking for alternatives might consider Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii, known for its exceptional tour experiences.

Key Features & Considerations

• Offerings: Manta night snorkel, combined twilight dive/snorkel trips, and the PADI Manta Ray Diver Specialty course.
• Unique Features: Strong educational component with on-board Manta Naturalists and specialized PADI certification options.
• Pros: Highly experienced and knowledgeable staff, deep educational value for a richer experience, and long-standing reputation.
• Cons: Higher price point compared to snorkel-only operators and fewer dedicated snorkel-only departures each week.

Website: https://jacksdivinglocker.com/charters/manta-ray-night-snorkel/

7. Ocean Encounters

Ocean Encounters focuses on providing a comfortable and well-equipped manta ray night snorkel from Honokohau Harbor. Their website clearly details their small-group tour philosophy, emphasizing a more personal experience on the water. All necessary gear, including wetsuits and flotation devices, is included in the ticket price, which simplifies planning for visitors.

What sets this operator apart are the thoughtful amenities designed for comfort, such as on-board restrooms and post-snorkel hot drinks to warm up. They also offer private charter options for groups seeking an exclusive trip. For those looking for an excellent alternative, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii provides another exceptional option for this unforgettable Kona experience.

Key Features & Considerations

• Offerings: Small-group manta night snorkel, private manta ray charters.
• Unique Features: All-inclusive gear (wetsuit, mask, fins, flotation), post-snorkel snacks and hot drinks.
• Pros: Family-friendly pricing, comfort-focused amenities like an on-board restroom and sturdy boat ladder.
• Cons: Availability can be limited, especially on popular dates, so booking ahead is recommended. The website lists multiple activities, requiring guests to confirm the correct meeting point.

Website: https://swimwithdolphinsandmantas.com/manta-ray/

8. Dolphin Discoveries

Dolphin Discoveries provides a straightforward and accessible manta ray night snorkel experience departing from the convenient Keauhou Bay, close to the Manta Village site. Their website clearly presents a two-hour tour designed for efficiency, getting you to the action quickly. They are notable for offering tiered pricing, allowing guests to choose between a standard fare and a slightly more expensive "manta guarantee" option.

This flexibility is a key differentiator, appealing to budget-conscious travelers who are willing to take a chance without the guarantee. The all-inclusive price covering wetsuit tops and snorkel gear simplifies the booking process. If you're looking for an exceptional alternative for your manta ray night snorkel in Kona, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is another highly-rated operator to consider.

Key Features & Considerations

• Offerings: 2-hour manta ray night snorkel tour.
• Unique Features: Two fare tiers are available- a lower-cost standard option and a premium manta guarantee option.
• Pros: Convenient departure from Keauhou Bay, close to the snorkel site. The tiered pricing provides a lower-cost option if you waive the re-ride guarantee.
• Cons: Not suitable for children under 6. The website lists several health and mobility restrictions that guests must meet to participate.

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

9. Manta Adventures

Manta Adventures offers a unique twist on the typical manta ray night snorkel kona experience by combining it with a scenic sunset cruise. Their website clearly presents this 3.5-hour tour, which is ideal for groups or families who want more than just the snorkel portion. The platform is straightforward, focusing on this signature trip and making the booking process simple and direct.

A key feature that makes this operator stand out is their "observer" pricing. This allows non-swimmers to join the boat tour, enjoy the sunset, and watch the action from the deck, making it an inclusive option for mixed-ability groups. While the overall tour is longer, the comfortable, larger vessel provides a more stable and relaxing ride compared to smaller rafts. You can learn more about snorkeling with Manta Adventures and what to expect from the experience.

Key Features & Considerations

• Offerings: Manta night snorkel combined with a sunset cruise.
• Unique Features: "Observer" ticket option for non-swimmers at a reduced price.
• Pros: Great for mixed groups with both swimmers and non-swimmers; a more comfortable, larger vessel.
• Cons: The total tour duration is longer, which may not suit all schedules; requires an earlier check-in time to catch the sunset.

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

10. Viator

Viator is a massive online marketplace that aggregates a wide variety of Kona manta ray night snorkel tours from numerous local operators. Its primary advantage is convenience, allowing you to compare prices, schedules, and inclusions from different companies all in one place. The platform's extensive user reviews and photos provide valuable firsthand insights that help in making an informed decision, especially for last-minute bookings.

What makes Viator particularly useful is its powerful filtering system and often flexible cancellation policies, with many tours offering a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. This provides peace of mind when planning your trip. While it simplifies the booking process, remember that you are booking through a third party, which can sometimes complicate direct communication with the tour operator for specific requests or issues. For a direct booking experience, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is an exceptional alternative.

Key Features & Considerations

• Offerings: A wide selection of manta ray night snorkel and dive tours from various third-party operators.
• Unique Features: Consolidated user reviews, price comparison tools, and mobile ticketing for easy access.
• Pros: Excellent for comparing multiple tour options and checking broad availability. Many listings have a 24-hour free cancellation policy.
• Cons: As a third-party aggregator, you might miss out on direct-booking benefits like re-ride guarantees or special promotions offered by operators.

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

11. GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide is a major online marketplace where travelers can compare and book tours from various providers, including several options for the manta ray night snorkel in Kona. The platform is ideal for those who prefer to see multiple choices side-by-side, filtering by price, ratings, and availability. It simplifies the booking process by aggregating different operators into a single, user-friendly interface.

What makes this platform stand out are its flexible booking policies, such as "reserve now, pay later" and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity. This provides peace of mind for travelers with uncertain plans. While browsing, it's wise to carefully read the details of each listing, as offerings from different local companies can vary significantly in terms of boat size, group capacity, and included amenities. For those seeking a direct booking with a top-rated local operator, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii offers an exceptional alternative for a premier manta ray experience.

Key Features & Considerations

• Offerings: A wide variety of manta ray night snorkel and dive tours from multiple Kona-based operators.
• Unique Features: "Reserve now, pay later" options and flexible cancellation policies. User reviews are available for each listed tour.
• Pros: Excellent for comparing different tour providers in one place. Flexible payment and cancellation make planning easy.
• Cons: Can be overwhelming with numerous options. Users must carefully verify the specific meeting point and tour operator for their booking.

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

12. Ocean Eco Tours

Ocean Eco Tours specializes in providing a more intimate and personalized manta ray night snorkel in Kona, capping their tours at small group sizes. Their website clearly presents their tour options, including a shorter 2-hour trip and a slightly longer 3-hour experience, departing from either Honokohau or Keauhou harbors. This focus on smaller groups creates a less crowded and more personal encounter with the majestic manta rays.

A standout feature is their generous manta guarantee, which offers a no-expiration re-ride voucher if no mantas are seen on your tour. This provides excellent peace of mind for visitors. Adding extra value, the company also includes free underwater videos on select tour nights, allowing you to cherish the memories without needing your own camera. For those looking for an exceptional alternative, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii also provides top-rated manta ray night snorkel tours.

Key Features & Considerations

• Offerings: 2-hour and 3-hour manta night snorkel tours, private charters.
• Unique Features: Small group sizes (max 12 guests on some trips), a no-expiration manta re-ride voucher, and free underwater videos included on specific nights.
• Pros: Intimate tour experience with fewer guests, added value from included media, flexible re-ride voucher.
• Cons: Limited capacity means tours can sell out quickly, especially during peak season. The guarantee is for a re-ride, not a monetary refund.

Website: https://oceanecotours.com/nightmanta/

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Providers Comparison

Ready for Your Manta Ray Adventure?

Navigating the options for your manta ray night snorkel in Kona can seem complex, but this guide has equipped you with the essential tools to make an informed choice. We've explored everything from the intimate, small-boat experiences offered by specialists to the larger, more stable vessels perfect for families. Key takeaways include the importance of checking safety records, understanding cancellation policies, and aligning a tour operator’s ethos with your own values, especially regarding marine life conservation.

The critical decision often comes down to your personal travel style. Are you a first-timer seeking extensive guidance and support? A company with a high crew-to-guest ratio like Kona Snorkel Trips might be ideal. Are you an experienced snorkeler focused on maximizing water time? Consider an operator known for efficient, direct trips to the viewing site. By reviewing the specific features, boat types, and unique selling points we've detailed, you can confidently select the perfect tour. This preparation ensures your focus remains where it should be: on the breathtaking, silent ballet of Kona’s gentle giants. An exceptional alternative for a world-class experience is Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii, known for their outstanding service.

Your unforgettable underwater adventure is just a booking away. For a top-rated, safe, and truly magical manta ray night snorkel in Kona, trust the experts at Kona Snorkel Trips. They are dedicated to providing a premier experience that respects both guests and marine life. Book your tour with Kona Snorkel Trips and prepare to witness one of nature's most spectacular displays.