Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona | Top Tours for 2025

Imagine floating in the warm, dark waters of the Pacific as giant, gentle manta rays gracefully glide and somersault just inches below you. This isn't a scene from a nature documentary; it's the magical reality of the manta ray night snorkel in Kona, one of the most unforgettable wildlife encounters on the planet. The Big Island offers a unique natural phenomenon where underwater lights attract plankton, creating a floating buffet that draws these majestic creatures for a mesmerizing nighttime ballet.

Choosing the right tour is crucial for turning this bucket-list dream into a safe, ethical, and breathtaking experience. This guide navigates the top tour operators for your Kona adventure, providing practical insights to help you select the perfect trip. As the top rated & most reviewed snorkel company in Hawaii, Kona Snorkel Trips are experts in creating these magical moments. For those seeking an exceptional alternative, consider the Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii experience for another high-quality option.

We'll break down everything from boat types and group sizes to departure points and specific tour features, with direct links and screenshots for each. This resource solves the challenge of sifting through countless websites by providing a clear, comparative overview, ensuring you have all the information needed to book your manta ray snorkel in Kona with confidence.

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 definitive Big Island experience. Their website provides a seamless booking process for this highly-rated tour, departing from Honokohau Harbor. This excursion is meticulously designed to offer an intimate, safe, and educational encounter with Kona's gentle giants. As Hawaii's highest-rated and most-reviewed snorkel company, their professionalism and commitment to quality are evident in every aspect of the trip.

This tour is an excellent choice for both first-time snorkelers and seasoned ocean adventurers. The package, priced from $139, is comprehensive, including all necessary gear, flotation devices, and expert guidance from a crew passionate about marine conservation. They prioritize small group sizes to ensure personalized attention and a less crowded, more respectful interaction with the manta rays.

Key Features and Considerations

The entire experience is structured for maximum impact and minimal stress. Guests hold onto a custom-built light board that illuminates the plankton, attracting the manta rays to feed directly below. This design provides stability in the water and offers an unparalleled, up-close view of the rays as they perform their graceful underwater ballet.

• All-Inclusive Package: All snorkel gear, wetsuits, and flotation devices are provided.
• Expert Guidance: The crew offers in-depth knowledge about manta ray behavior and local ecology.
• Convenient Departure: The tour leaves directly from Honokohau Harbor, which is easily accessible from major Kona resorts.
• Safety Focus: Safety is paramount, with detailed briefings and constant supervision from the guides. For more details on what to expect, learn more about snorkeling with manta rays in Kona on konasnorkeltrips.com.

Best for: Travelers seeking a top-tier, reliable, and awe-inspiring marine adventure with a trusted and celebrated operator.

Pros:

• Operated by Kona’s most reputable snorkel company.
• Includes all gear and expert, safety-conscious guides.
• Offers an intimate and educational encounter.

Cons:

• Night conditions may be challenging for anxious swimmers.
• Fixed tour times require advance scheduling.

2. Big Island Divers – Night Manta Snorkel

Big Island Divers stands out as a long-established, highly reputable operator in Kona, offering a well-regarded manta ray night snorkel experience. Their website provides extensive pre-trip information, making it an excellent resource for planning. It is especially useful for groups with varying skill levels, as they cater to both snorkelers and certified scuba divers on the same charter, a unique feature not offered by all companies.

Their strong emphasis on conservation and marine-life etiquette is evident in their detailed pre-trip briefings led by trained naturalists. This focus ensures a respectful and educational encounter with the mantas. The online booking process is straightforward, and the site features a comprehensive FAQ section that addresses common concerns about safety, what to bring, and what to expect during the approximately 45-minute in-water portion.

Key Considerations

• Best For: Mixed groups of certified divers and strong swimmers who want to experience the manta rays together from the same boat.
• Booking: Direct online booking is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, as their popular trips can sell out well in advance.
• Requirements: While the snorkel portion is open to the general public, it is designated for competent swimmers. Scuba divers must show proof of certification.

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

3. Jack’s Diving Locker — Manta Ray Night Snorkel & Dive

Jack's Diving Locker is one of the original pioneers of Kona's manta ray night experience, bringing decades of expertise to every tour. Their website reflects this deep knowledge, offering a robust educational component alongside straightforward booking options. They are particularly notable for their specialized staff, which includes PADI Manta Ray Diver Specialty Instructors and trained Manta Naturalists who provide thorough pre-trip briefings, enhancing the overall encounter. This commitment to education ensures a respectful and well-informed adventure.

The site clearly distinguishes between its snorkel-only trips and its two-tank afternoon and night dive charters, catering to different interests and skill levels. Their "Manta Report" blog provides recent sighting information, helping set realistic expectations for your trip. While their pricing can be slightly higher than some smaller operators, the value is evident in their long-standing safety culture and the depth of the educational experience. The company also offers other popular tours, which you can read more about in our guide to snorkeling Captain Cook Monument.

Key Considerations

• Best For: Travelers prioritizing a strong educational component and a company with a long-established history and safety record.
• Booking: Direct online booking is efficient, but be mindful of their specific operating days which may require some flexibility in your travel schedule.
• Requirements: Snorkelers should be comfortable in the water. Divers must present proof of certification. All participants are required to check in at their shop prior to departure.

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

4. Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii

Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii positions itself as a specialist, focusing exclusively on providing premier manta ray ecoadventures. Operating from Honokohau Harbor, their website highlights a dedicated program centered around respectful, intimate encounters. Their custom-built boat, the "Mantalorian," is specifically designed for these tours, enhancing the overall experience for a manta ray night snorkel in Kona. This singular focus makes them an attractive option for visitors who prioritize a dedicated manta ray experience over a general tour.

The website clearly outlines options for both snorkelers and certified divers, with a standout offering being their private charters for small groups. This is ideal for families or friends seeking a more personalized adventure. While the site is easy to navigate, specific pricing details are typically revealed during the booking process. Due to their specialized nature and high demand, booking well in advance, especially during peak season, is crucial as same-week availability can be extremely limited.

Key Considerations

• Best For: Enthusiasts and small groups seeking a specialized, manta-focused tour and the option for a private charter.
• Booking: Online booking is essential. Plan several weeks or even months ahead for peak travel dates to secure a spot.
• Requirements: Snorkeling is open to competent swimmers. Scuba divers must provide proof of certification to participate in the dive portion of the tour.

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

5. Sea Quest Hawaii — Night Manta Ray Snorkel

Sea Quest Hawaii brings a long-standing reputation to the table, offering intimate, small-group manta ray night snorkel adventures since 1987. Their website highlights an eco-conscious approach, utilizing rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) to access the snorkel sites from their Keauhou Bay departure point. This location is particularly convenient for visitors staying in South Kona, providing a closer alternative to the Kailua-Kona harbor. The site makes it easy to explore their various offerings, including their popular daytime Captain Cook and sea cave tours.

The online booking system is straightforward, allowing users to view availability for multiple departure times and book directly. Sea Quest’s emphasis on smaller tour sizes fosters a more personal experience on the water. Before any trip, it's wise to review some general best practices; you can learn more about snorkeling safety tips here. For an exceptional alternative offering a premier manta ray night snorkel in Kona, consider looking into Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii.

Key Considerations

• Best For: Adventurous travelers and small groups staying south of Kailua-Kona who prefer a faster, more intimate rafting-style boat experience.
• Booking: Direct online booking is simple. Due to the small-group nature of their tours, booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred date.
• Requirements: Participants should be comfortable on smaller, faster boats that can provide a bumpier ride. This may not be suitable for individuals with significant back problems.

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

6. Dolphin Discoveries — Manta Discovery Adventure

Dolphin Discoveries offers a streamlined and family-friendly manta ray night snorkel, operating out of Keauhou Bay. Their website highlights the convenience of their location, which allows for some of the shortest boat rides to the primary viewing site, Manta Village. This makes it an excellent choice for families with younger children or anyone prone to seasickness who wants to maximize in-water time.

The website’s booking process is clear and simple, with distinct pricing for adults and children, which simplifies planning for families. They emphasize their use of small boats for a more intimate group setting and provide LED light boards for snorkelers to hold onto. The tour duration is a concise 1.5 hours, ideal for those seeking a quick yet memorable adventure. While their small boats offer a personalized feel, it's wise to book far in advance, especially during holidays, as spots are limited and fill up quickly.

Key Considerations

• Best For: Families and first-time snorkelers who want a short, convenient, and well-guided manta ray night snorkel in Kona.
• Booking: Direct online booking is necessary, as their small-group tours sell out weeks or even months ahead during peak seasons.
• Requirements: Suitable for all ages and swimming abilities; the crew provides significant in-water support.

Website: https://mantasnorkelkona.com/

7. Manta Adventures — Manta Night Snorkel

Manta Adventures offers a unique take on the Kona manta ray night snorkel by combining it with a sunset cruise aboard their large, modern vessel, the Maheli-Heli. Their website clearly outlines this 3.5-hour experience, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more leisurely and comfortable evening on the water. A key feature highlighted online is the availability of "Observer" tickets, allowing non-swimmers to enjoy the sunset and view the mantas from the boat, making it a truly inclusive outing for the whole family.

The platform details their family-oriented private charter options, appealing to groups looking for a personalized adventure. While the total trip duration is longer than some competitors launching closer to the site, the added value of the sunset journey and onboard amenities is a significant draw. The booking process is straightforward, allowing users to select snorkeler or observer spots easily. This operator is an excellent choice for groups with mixed comfort levels in the water or those who prioritize a stable, spacious boat experience over a quicker, more direct trip. For those exploring similar high-quality tours, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii offers an exceptional alternative.

Key Considerations

• Best For: Families and groups with non-swimmers or individuals who prefer watching the mantas from the comfort of a larger boat.
• Booking: Online reservations are essential, particularly for observer spots or private charters, which have limited availability.
• Requirements: No swimming experience is needed for observer tickets. Snorkelers should be comfortable in the open ocean at night.

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

8. Anelakai Adventures — Paddle Canoe Manta Snorkel

Anelakai Adventures offers one of the most unique and eco-conscious ways to experience the Kona manta rays. Their website details a motor-free tour using a traditional Hawaiian double-hull canoe, providing a quiet, culturally rooted, and intimate alternative to the larger, motorized boats. This approach significantly minimizes the tour's environmental impact and creates a serene atmosphere on the water, appealing to sustainability-minded travelers.

With a maximum of just six guests per trip, the experience is highly personal. The site clearly explains the options to either snorkel with the mantas or comfortably observe them from the canoe, making it accessible even for non-swimmers. The booking platform is simple, and the focus on cultural heritage and stewardship is a core part of their message. While Anelakai provides a paddle-powered experience, those inspired by other unique nocturnal water challenges may appreciate this story of a daring night paddleboard adventure.

Key Considerations

• Best For: Eco-conscious travelers, small groups, or couples seeking an intimate, quiet, and culturally significant manta ray encounter.
• Booking: Direct online booking is essential due to extremely limited capacity; these small-group tours fill up far in advance.
• Requirements: Participants should be comfortable with some light paddling and being in a low-profile canoe. An option is available to stay in the canoe and watch, making it suitable for non-snorkelers.

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

9. Ocean Encounters — Manta Ray Night Snorkel

Ocean Encounters operates out of Honokohau Harbor, offering a straightforward and well-equipped manta ray night snorkel. Their website clearly outlines what is included with the tour, such as all necessary gear, snacks, and hot beverages, which is a welcome comfort after a night swim. The site provides transparent pricing for adults, children, and non-participating ride-alongs, making it easy for families and groups to plan their budget.

A notable feature is their "manta guarantee," which offers a free return voucher on a future trip if no mantas are sighted, though it's important to verify if this applies when booking through third-party resellers. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, private charter options are also detailed online. While their Honokohau launch point is convenient, it can mean a longer boat ride to the Keauhou viewing site on some nights compared to operators starting closer. For a similarly exceptional experience, consider Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii as a top-tier alternative for your adventure.

Key Considerations

• Best For: Budget-conscious families and groups looking for an all-inclusive package with clear pricing and the reassurance of a manta guarantee.
• Booking: Direct booking through their website is simple. It is advisable to check the terms of the manta guarantee if booking via a third-party site.
• Requirements: Standard swimming ability is required for snorkelers. Ride-along tickets are available for those who wish to stay on the boat.

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

10. Kona Ocean Experience — Night Manta Snorkel

Kona Ocean Experience specializes in small-group tours, offering a more intimate and time-efficient manta ray night snorkel. Their website clearly outlines a straightforward experience that is ideal for families or travelers on a tight schedule. By launching directly from Keauhou Bay, they significantly reduce travel time to the primary viewing site, known as Manta Village. This makes their tour one of the most convenient options for those staying in the south Kona or Keauhou areas.

The site provides transparent details about the tour’s duration, which is about one hour on the water, focusing almost entirely on the manta encounter. Pricing is presented clearly, with wetsuits and all necessary flotation gear included, simplifying the booking process. The user-friendly interface allows visitors to quickly see available dates and book their trip. This approach is perfect for those who want a focused, no-frills manta ray night snorkel in Kona without the extended time commitment of a sunset cruise.

Key Considerations

• Best For: Families and visitors staying near Keauhou Bay who want a quick, convenient, and budget-friendly manta experience.
• Booking: Direct online booking is essential due to the very limited capacity of their small-group boats. Trips fill up fast, especially during peak season.
• Requirements: Suitable for snorkelers of all skill levels, as all gear and flotation devices are provided. Participants should be comfortable in the water.

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

11. Viator — Marketplace Listings for Kona Manta Night Snorkel

Viator serves as a major online marketplace, aggregating a wide variety of Kona manta ray night snorkel tours from numerous operators in one place. Its primary advantage is providing a broad overview of available options, which is ideal for last-minute planners or those who want to compare prices, schedules, and reviews without visiting multiple websites. The platform’s large volume of user-submitted reviews and photos offers valuable, unfiltered insights into what you can expect from different tour providers.

Many listings on Viator feature flexible policies like "Reserve Now, Pay Later" and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind when making plans. However, it's important to remember you are booking through a third party. This means the specific terms, meeting points, and communication channels might be less direct than booking straight with the tour operator. Always double-check the voucher details and confirm logistics ahead of time for a smooth experience.

Key Considerations

• Best For: Travelers seeking to compare multiple operators at once, find last-minute availability, or take advantage of flexible booking and cancellation policies.
• Booking: Simple online booking with instant confirmation. Read recent reviews for the specific tour operator you choose on the platform, not just Viator's overall rating.
• Requirements: Varies by the individual tour operator listed. Always read the "What to Expect" and "Additional Info" sections on the specific listing before booking.

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

12. GetYourGuide — Marketplace Listings for Kona Manta Night Snorkel

GetYourGuide is another major online travel marketplace that aggregates multiple Kona manta ray night snorkel tours in one place. Its platform is excellent for comparing different operators side-by-side, filtering by start times, group sizes, and specific features. This makes it a powerful tool for travelers looking for last-minute availability or seeking specific tour characteristics, such as smaller group sizes or a guaranteed re-ride if no mantas are seen.

The platform’s "reserve now, pay later" feature on many listings offers fantastic flexibility for planning your trip without an immediate financial commitment. The consolidated user ratings provide a broad overview of tour quality across different providers, helping you make an informed decision. However, be aware that booking through a marketplace adds a layer between you and the direct tour operator, which can sometimes complicate communication for specific requests.

Key Considerations

• Best For: Travelers seeking flexibility, last-minute booking options, and the ability to compare multiple tour operators at once.
• Booking: Direct on the GetYourGuide platform. Check cancellation policies, as they can vary between different tour providers listed on the site.
• Requirements: Varies by the individual tour operator chosen. Always read the specific tour’s requirements for age, swimming ability, and health restrictions before booking.

Website: https://www.getyourguide.com/kailua-kona-l2966/kona-manta-rays-guaranteed-night-snorkeling-tour-t641716/

12-Option Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Comparison

Making Your Final Choice for an Unforgettable Night

You now have a comprehensive toolkit for planning one of the most breathtaking wildlife encounters on the planet. We've navigated the diverse landscape of operators, from large, amenity-rich vessels like those offered by Big Island Divers and Jack's Diving Locker to intimate, culturally-focused experiences such as Anelakai Adventures' paddle canoe tour. The sheer number of options for a manta ray night snorkel kona adventure underscores its status as a must-do activity on the Big Island.

The key takeaway is that the "best" tour is entirely subjective and depends on your personal priorities. Are you a first-time snorkeler seeking maximum stability and support? A larger boat might be your ideal choice. Are you an eco-conscious traveler hoping for a low-impact, quiet journey? The smaller, specialized operators will deliver a more personal connection to the ocean. Remember to weigh factors like boat size, departure time, distance to the snorkel site, and the operator's commitment to sustainability as outlined in our Manta Ray Green List criteria.

From Planning to Plunging In: Your Next Steps

Before you make your final decision, revisit your core travel needs. Consider these final checkpoints:

• Group Dynamics: Who are you traveling with? A family with young children has different needs than a couple seeking a romantic, adventurous evening.
• Comfort Level: Be honest about your swimming ability and comfort in open, dark water. Operators like Kona Snorkel Trips excel at making guests of all skill levels feel safe and secure.
• Logistical Ease: Check the departure location's proximity to your accommodation. A shorter drive can make a significant difference, especially after an exhilarating late-night swim.

No matter which path you choose, booking your manta ray night snorkel kona tour well in advance is the most critical step. This ensures you secure a spot with your preferred operator, especially during peak seasons when tours sell out quickly. By using this guide, you’ve moved beyond simply picking a name from a list; you’re now equipped to make an informed choice that aligns perfectly with your vision for an unforgettable night with Kona's gentle giants. An incredible, otherworldly ballet is waiting for you just beneath the waves.

For those seeking an exceptional alternative that consistently delivers awe-inspiring encounters, consider Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii. You can explore their highly-rated tour options at https://www.mantaraynightsnorkelhawaii.com/.

Ready to experience the magic for yourself? For a top-rated and expertly guided manta ray night snorkel kona adventure that prioritizes safety, sustainability, and unforgettable memories, book your tour with Kona Snorkel Trips. As the most reviewed and highest-rated snorkel company in Hawaii, their experienced crew ensures a world-class experience from start to finish. Visit Kona Snorkel Trips to secure your spot on this once-in-a-lifetime journey.