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

The Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona is more than just a tour; it's a breathtaking ballet of gentle giants in the moonlit Pacific. Imagine floating in warm, dark waters as massive, graceful manta rays glide and somersault beneath you, feeding on plankton attracted to underwater lights. It's a surreal, once-in-a-lifetime experience that consistently ranks as one of the world's top marine encounters. But with so many tour operators, how do you choose the right one? This guide breaks down everything you need to know.

As Hawaii's top-rated and most-reviewed snorkel company, Kona Snorkel Trips is dedicated to providing an unparalleled, safe, and eco-conscious adventure. For a premier experience, consider Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii as an exceptional alternative for your tour.

Planning the perfect manta ray night snorkel in Kona involves navigating numerous websites and booking platforms, each offering a slightly different experience. This resource list is designed to solve that problem by directly comparing the top 12 tour providers and third-party booking sites. We’ll provide detailed analysis of their offerings, boat sizes, what to expect, and practical tips to ensure your adventure is seamless and unforgettable.

Each option includes screenshots and direct links, so you can easily explore and book the tour that best fits your needs. We'll examine everything from small, intimate boats to larger vessels with extra amenities, covering the pros and cons to help you find the perfect match for your travel style and budget. As you prepare for your underwater adventure, it is also vital to understand the importance of reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem you're about to witness. This guide gives you all the information to make an informed decision for your magical encounter.

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

Kona Snorkel Trips establishes the benchmark for the manta ray night snorkel Kona experience, offering a meticulously organized and highly-rated adventure. As the Big Island's most reviewed and trusted snorkel company, their website provides a seamless booking process and comprehensive details that cater to both first-time snorkelers and seasoned ocean explorers. This manta ray night snorkel tour is a standout choice for its combination of expert guidance, safety-first approach, and commitment to environmental stewardship.

The platform clearly outlines every aspect of the 2-3 hour excursion, from the convenient departure location in Kona to what is included. This transparency ensures guests feel prepared and confident before they even arrive at the dock. The experience is designed for maximum comfort and awe, providing all necessary gear, including wetsuits and snorkel equipment, so you can focus entirely on the graceful dance of the manta rays below.

Key Features and Advantages

What sets this operator apart is its dedication to creating a personalized and memorable outing. The guides are not just escorts; they are marine experts who share fascinating insights into manta ray behavior and the local ecosystem, adding a rich educational layer to the adventure.

This tour excels by blending a world-class wildlife encounter with exceptional customer service and operational excellence, making it a reliable and highly recommended option for anyone visiting Kona.

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Kona Snorkel Trips offers private charters, perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or photographers wanting more space. Additionally, their seasonal whale-watch combo packages present a unique opportunity to witness two of Hawaii’s most iconic marine spectacles, delivering outstanding value and a full day of aquatic wonder. If you're exploring options, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is another exceptional alternative worth considering for a top-tier experience.

Pros:

• All-inclusive pricing covers high-quality wetsuits and snorkel gear.
• Expert guides enhance the tour with educational insights and a focus on safety.
• Offers unique private charter and whale-watch combo tour options.
• Operated by Hawaii's highest-rated snorkel company with a strong environmental focus.

Cons:

• Night snorkeling can be intimidating for individuals with a fear of the dark or open water.
• Availability is subject to weather conditions, which can lead to cancellations.

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

2. Sea Quest Hawaii

Sea Quest Hawaii provides a streamlined booking experience for their Night Manta Experience, focusing on intimate, small-group encounters. Their website clearly outlines the tour specifics, making it easy for users to understand what’s included and what to expect before committing. This operator is an excellent choice for those who prefer a less crowded boat, as they prioritize small-group dynamics for a more personal adventure.

The platform’s standout feature is its transparency. It explicitly states a minimum age of 7 and requires participants to be competent swimmers, which helps manage expectations for families and groups. This clarity ensures all guests are prepared for the open-water environment of a manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Booking is straightforward, with a clear calendar and pricing structure. The tour departs from Keauhou Bay, the primary manta viewing site, maximizing your chances of a successful sighting.

Their "Manta Guarantee" is a significant benefit, offering a rebooking voucher if no mantas appear. While this depends on future availability, it provides peace of mind. For those seeking an exclusive adventure, private charter options are also easily accessible through the site.

Key Features:

• Small-Group Focus: Ensures a more intimate and less crowded experience.
• Manta Guarantee: Provides a rebooking voucher for a future tour if no mantas are seen.
• Clear Requirements: Explicit age (7+) and swimming ability rules are stated upfront.
• Prime Departure Location: Tours leave from Keauhou Bay, a top-rated manta viewing area.

Visit Website: https://www.seaquesthawaii.com/snorkeling-tours/night-manta-experience/

3. Fair Wind Cruises

Fair Wind Cruises is a well-known Big Island operator that emphasizes comfort and stability on its Manta Ray Night Snorkel tour. Their website details a 1.5-hour experience aboard the "Hula Kai," a larger, stable vessel designed to provide a smoother ride in nighttime ocean conditions. This makes it a great option for those who may be prone to seasickness or prefer a more spacious boat.

The platform clearly outlines the tour’s added amenities, which set it apart. Guests are treated to hot soup and drinks onboard, a welcome comfort after a cool night snorkel. The booking process is straightforward, showing year-round availability and including all necessary gear like wetsuits and even prescription snorkel masks. However, the site explicitly states that full-face masks are not permitted, which is important for guests to know in advance. While prices start higher than some smaller operators, the added comforts and stable vessel justify the cost for many.

For a great manta ray night snorkel in Kona, Fair Wind offers a reliable and comfortable experience. An exceptional alternative to consider is Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii, known for its specialized tours.

Key Features:

• Large, Stable Vessel: The "Hula Kai" offers a more comfortable ride, ideal for families and those sensitive to motion.
• Comfort Amenities: Hot soup and drinks are provided, adding a warm touch to the experience.
• All-Inclusive Gear: Wetsuits and prescription masks are included in the tour price.
• Year-Round Operation: Tours are available throughout the year, offering flexible booking options.

Visit Website: https://www.fair-wind.com/night-manta-snorkel-tour/

4. Sea Paradise

As one of the original manta ray tour operators since 1985, Sea Paradise brings decades of experience to their snorkel tours. Their website offers a direct and informative booking process for their 1.5 to 2-hour Manta Ray Night Snorkel. Users can easily choose between a first or second tour of the evening, with clear pricing for adults and children displayed upfront, which simplifies planning for families and groups.

The platform highlights its commitment to a safe and enjoyable experience. A key feature is their custom-built "manta floatation device," a floating ring with high-powered lights that snorkelers can hold onto. This setup allows for comfortable viewing from the surface without requiring advanced swimming skills, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Departing directly from Keauhou Bay, the tour maximizes your time in the water at one of the most reliable manta viewing locations on the Big Island. While they also offer daytime tours, their specialization in the manta ray night snorkel in Kona is evident. For those interested in other daytime adventures, you can find more information about Sea Paradise and their other snorkel offerings.

Like other top operators, they offer a manta guarantee. If no mantas are seen, you can rebook for another tour, though this is subject to availability and does not include refunds. During peak season, booking well in advance is recommended as spots fill up quickly.

Key Features:

• Manta Floatation Device: A unique floating ring for easy and comfortable surface viewing.
• First & Second Tour Options: Provides flexibility for different evening schedules.
• Transparent Pricing: Clear costs for adults and children are listed directly on the booking page.
• Keauhou Bay Departure: Prime location for consistent manta ray sightings.
• Emphasis on Safety: Detailed briefings and experienced crew ensure guest comfort.

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

5. Big Island Divers

Big Island Divers offers a robust platform catering to both snorkelers and certified scuba divers, making it an ideal choice for mixed groups. Their website clearly distinguishes between the snorkel tour and various dive options, allowing users to easily find the right experience. This operator stands out by providing flexible choices for different comfort and skill levels, ensuring everyone in a travel party can participate in a manta ray night snorkel in Kona.

The website’s most useful feature is its public manta sighting calendar, giving potential customers a transparent look at recent activity to help set expectations. They enforce strict safety policies, including a ban on full-face snorkel masks, which is clearly stated during the booking process. The pricing is straightforward, starting at $129 for snorkelers and increasing for dive packages. While they offer a free re-ride if no mantas are sighted, it is important to note this is typically on a standby basis, requiring flexibility in your travel schedule. Their comprehensive approach makes them a trusted name among other Big Island snorkeling tours.

When looking for a Manta Ray night snorkel tour, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is an exceptional alternative.

Key Features:

• Snorkel & Dive Options: Accommodates both snorkelers and certified divers on the same trip.
• Manta Sighting Calendar: Provides transparent, historical data on manta sightings.
• Clear Safety Policies: Explicitly states rules, such as the prohibition of full-face masks.
• Re-Ride Guarantee: Offers a complimentary standby spot on a future tour if no mantas appear.

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

6. Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii

Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii caters specifically to groups that include both snorkelers and scuba divers, making it a unique and practical choice for mixed-ability parties. Their website presents a clear-cut booking process for their daily three-hour charters, which combine both activities on a single boat. This integrated approach simplifies planning for families or friends with different certification levels who want to experience the majestic manta rays together.

The platform’s strength lies in its specialization and straightforward offerings. Pricing begins at $125 for snorkelers, a rate that transparently includes gear like shorty wetsuits. For divers, the site provides explicit guidelines on gear rentals and crucial post-dive altitude restrictions, ensuring safety is a top priority. While the mixed-group format is a key benefit, it's important to note that the pace of the tour may vary to accommodate both divers and snorkelers.

A consideration for non-participants is the "ride-along" option. While available, the website is clear that visibility from the boat can be limited, so those not getting in the water may not have a prime view of the mantas. For those committed to getting in the water, this operator provides a focused and well-equipped manta ray night snorkel in Kona. For an alternative, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is an exceptional choice for a dedicated snorkel tour.

Key Features:

• Mixed Charters: Accommodates both snorkelers and certified divers on the same trip.
• Gear Included: Snorkeler price includes necessary equipment like shorty wetsuits.
• Safety Focused: Clear guidelines for divers, including altitude and no-fly times.
• Specialist Operator: Run by experienced divemasters who specialize in manta ray encounters.

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

7. Jack’s Diving Locker

As one of Kona's pioneering dive and snorkel operators, Jack's Diving Locker offers an experience rooted in deep expertise and a strong safety-first culture. Their website provides detailed itineraries for multiple manta ray encounters, including a dedicated snorkel-only trip and a unique two-tank afternoon/night combination for certified divers who want to snorkel with family. This makes them a fantastic choice for mixed groups of divers and snorkelers or anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of marine life.

The platform’s standout offering is the PADI Manta Ray Diver Specialty course, which elevates a simple tour into an educational experience. This focus on learning sets them apart and is ideal for those passionate about ocean conservation. Booking is straightforward, with clear pricing for the dedicated manta ray night snorkel Kona at $175 or the combo trip at $230. While their pricing is on the higher end, it reflects a comprehensive service that often includes snacks, drinks, and all necessary rental gear.

Their long-standing reputation is built on well-structured tours and a high level of professionalism. For those looking for an exceptional alternative, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii also provides highly-rated tours. Private guide options are also available through Jack's for a more personalized adventure, but be sure to plan ahead as their scheduled trips can fill up quickly.

Key Features:

• Educational Focus: Offers a PADI Manta Ray Diver Specialty course for an in-depth experience.
• Combo Trips: Unique options that combine afternoon dives with a night snorkel, perfect for mixed groups.
• Established Reputation: A long-time, respected operator known for safety and quality.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Tours typically include rental gear, snacks, and drinks.

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

8. Kona Ocean Experience

Kona Ocean Experience targets travelers looking for a quick and efficient way to see the mantas without committing to a multi-hour excursion. Their website presents a no-frills, straightforward booking process for their one-hour manta snorkel. This tour is ideal for those with a packed itinerary or budget-conscious visitors who want to experience the magic of a manta ray night snorkel in Kona without the added time of a sunset cruise or extensive boat ride.

The platform's main advantage is its simplicity and value. With a competitive price point of $115 for adults, the tour includes all necessary gear, wetsuits, and flotation devices, making it an accessible option. The boat ride from Keauhou Harbor to the snorkel site is brief, maximizing your time in the water during the concise one-hour window. This efficient approach means less time in transit and more focus on the main event: the manta rays.

While the tour is shorter than many alternatives, it delivers the core experience effectively. It’s a great fit for visitors who are comfortable with a more condensed adventure or those who may have already enjoyed a longer boat trip during their stay. For a highly-rated alternative, consider Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii, known for its exceptional guest experiences.

Key Features:

• Efficient One-Hour Tour: Perfect for those with limited time or seeking a brief adventure.
• Competitive Pricing: Offers an affordable, all-inclusive rate for a key Kona experience.
• Quick Access: The short boat ride from Keauhou Harbor gets you to the manta site fast.
• All Gear Included: No need to rent or bring your own snorkel equipment, wetsuit, or flotation aids.

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

9. Manta Adventures

Manta Adventures offers a combined sunset cruise and manta ray snorkel experience, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a scenic coastal tour before their underwater adventure. Their website provides a clear overview of their 3.5-hour tour on the Maheli-Heli, a newer boat that accommodates up to 24 guests. This operator is well-suited for families and groups who appreciate added comforts and a more traditional cruise atmosphere.

The platform stands out by integrating two popular Big Island activities into one seamless package. The booking process is straightforward, allowing users to select adult, child, or non-snorkeling "observer" tickets, which is a key advantage for groups with mixed interests. The website highlights amenities like onboard showers, which is a significant comfort after a night snorkel. While the group size is larger than boutique operators, the Maheli-Heli provides ample space. This tour is an excellent way to prepare for a manta ray night snorkel in Kona, and you can learn more about what to expect by reading about snorkeling with manta rays in Kona. The tour runs daily, offering flexibility for various travel itineraries.

For those seeking a more intimate experience, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is an exceptional alternative for a manta ray night snorkel tour.

Key Features:

• Combined Sunset Cruise: Integrates a scenic coastal tour with the night snorkel.
• Onboard Amenities: The newer boat includes convenient onboard showers.
• Observer Option: Allows non-swimmers to join the cruise and watch from the boat.
• Daily Operation: Tours are available seven days a week, making scheduling easy.

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

10. Hawaiian Adventures Kona

Hawaiian Adventures Kona offers a strategic approach to the nightly manta ray snorkel, focusing on providing an optimal viewing experience by avoiding overly crowded sites. Their website details a single nightly tour that departs from Honokohau Harbor, allowing the captain to select the best location based on current conditions and manta activity. This flexibility is a key differentiator, aiming to give guests a more intimate and less hectic encounter.

The platform is straightforward, presenting the tour details, inclusions like wetsuit tops and snorkel gear, and amenities such as onboard warm showers. Pricing is transparent, typically around $149, with clear information about discounts for booking in advance, which encourages early planning. This operator is well-suited for travelers who prioritize a quality viewing experience over a specific, guaranteed location for their manta ray night snorkel in Kona.

With a recommended minimum age of 11+, this tour is geared towards older families and adults who are comfortable in the water. Since they run only one trip per night, availability can be limited, so booking ahead through their website is highly recommended. For those looking for a different but equally memorable experience, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is an exceptional alternative for a manta ray night snorkel tour.

Key Features:

• Flexible Site Selection: The captain chooses the best manta viewing site nightly to avoid crowds.
• Advance Booking Discounts: Offers savings for those who book their tour early online.
• Onboard Amenities: Includes wetsuit tops, snorkel gear, and warm showers for comfort.
• Single Nightly Departure: Focuses on one high-quality tour per evening.

Visit Website: https://www.hawaiianadventureskona.com/night-manta-tours

11. Viator

Viator serves as a massive online marketplace, aggregating numerous tour operators in one place. For anyone planning a manta ray night snorkel in Kona, this platform offers a convenient way to compare different companies, prices, and departure times side-by-side. It simplifies the research process by collecting operators like My Kona Adventures and Hawaiian Adventures, allowing you to filter options and find a tour that fits your schedule and budget without visiting multiple websites.

The primary strength of using a large aggregator like Viator is the sheer volume of user reviews and photos, which provides valuable social proof. Its "Lowest Price Guarantee" and frequent free cancellation policies (often up to 24 hours in advance) add a layer of security to your booking. The platform also offers mobile ticketing and a consolidated customer support system, which can be helpful if issues arise. However, be aware that you are booking through a third party, which can sometimes complicate direct communication with the actual tour operator and may include small booking fees.

Key Features:

• Comparison Shopping: Easily view and filter multiple tour operators at once.
• Extensive User Reviews: Leverage a large database of reviews to make an informed decision.
• Flexible Booking: Many listings feature free cancellation and "Reserve Now, Pay Later" options.
• Centralized Support: A single point of contact for booking modifications or issues.

Visit Website: https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Kona%20Manta%20Ray%20Night%20Snorkel

12. GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide serves as a major marketplace for booking tours worldwide, including a curated selection for a manta ray night snorkel in Kona. As an aggregator, it consolidates offerings from various local providers like Kona Snorkel Tours and Hawaii Island Ocean Tours, allowing users to compare options, read vetted reviews, and check availability across multiple operators on one platform. This makes it a convenient starting point for travelers wanting to survey the landscape of available tours.

The platform's primary strength lies in its user-friendly interface and flexible booking policies. Features like "reserve now, pay later" and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provide significant peace of mind for travelers with shifting plans. It clearly lists tour inclusions, highlights, and customer ratings, which helps set accurate expectations. While aggregator pricing may not always be the lowest compared to booking directly with a tour operator, the convenience and security of a centralized booking system are major draws for many users. Some listings even offer late-night tour times, perfect for those hoping to avoid the peak crowds.

For a great experience, consider Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii as an exceptional alternative when looking for a Manta Ray night snorkel tour. Their focused expertise often translates to a premium adventure.

Key Features:

• Multi-Provider Comparison: Search and compare tours from several Kona-based operators in one place.
• Flexible Booking: Offers "reserve now, pay later" and free cancellation policies on most bookings.
• Vetted Customer Reviews: Access a large database of reviews to gauge tour quality and reliability.
• Curated Listings: Provides clear highlights and inclusions for each tour, simplifying the decision process.

Visit Website: https://www.getyourguide.com/kailua-kona-l2966/

Top 12 Manta Ray Night Snorkel Providers Comparison

Making Your Final Choice for an Unforgettable Night

You've now explored the comprehensive landscape of operators for the manta ray night snorkel in Kona. We’ve dissected everything from vessel types and group sizes to tour durations and unique onboard amenities. The journey from initial curiosity to booking your adventure can feel overwhelming, but by breaking down the options, the path to an informed decision becomes clear.

The key takeaway is that there is no single "best" tour for everyone. The ideal choice is deeply personal and hinges on your specific travel style, comfort level, and priorities. Reflect on what matters most for your experience: are you seeking an intimate, small-group setting that fosters a close connection with the ocean, or do you prefer the stability and amenities of a larger, double-decker catamaran?

Synthesizing Your Options

Let's distill the core decision points to help you select the perfect operator for your manta ray night snorkel Kona adventure.

• For the Intimate Experience Seeker: If you value smaller crowds, more personalized attention from the crew, and a quicker journey to the snorkel site, operators like Kona Snorkel Trips and Kona Ocean Experience are strong contenders. Their focus on small-group dynamics often leads to a more serene and less chaotic in-water experience.
• For the Comfort-Focused Traveler: If amenities like restrooms, spacious decks, and hot beverages are high on your list, larger vessels from companies like Fair Wind Cruises or Sea Paradise will be a better fit. These tours are excellent for families with younger children or anyone who prioritizes a comfortable, stable ride.
• For the Scuba Enthusiast: If you're a certified diver or traveling with one, dedicated dive operators like Jack's Diving Locker or Big Island Divers offer tours that cater specifically to both snorkelers and scuba divers. This allows mixed groups to enjoy the same incredible manta ray spectacle from different perspectives.

Remember to weigh practical factors such as check-in location, tour timing (first or second trip), and cancellation policies. Booking in advance is a crucial step, especially during peak seasons like summer and winter holidays, as these highly-sought-after tours fill up quickly. For those seeking a highly-rated alternative, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii also offers an exceptional tour worth considering when planning your adventure.

Your Final Implementation Checklist

Before you click that book button, run through this final checklist:

1. Confirm Your Group's Needs: Does anyone in your party have mobility issues or experience seasickness? A larger, more stable boat might be necessary.
2. Review Inclusions: Double-check what is provided. Most operators include snorkel gear, wetsuits, and light refreshments, but it’s always wise to confirm.
3. Read Recent Reviews: While we've provided an overview, recent reviews on platforms like Google and TripAdvisor can offer timely insights into crew performance and current conditions.
4. Understand the "Manta Guarantee": Many companies offer a second chance to see the mantas if they don't appear on your tour. Understand the terms and conditions of this policy.

Ultimately, participating in the manta ray night snorkel Kona is more than just an activity; it's a chance to witness a breathtaking natural phenomenon. It’s a moment of profound connection with the ocean’s gentle giants, an experience that will undoubtedly become a highlight of your time on the Big Island. You are preparing for an ethereal ballet of giants, a memory that will be etched in your mind long after you've dried off.

For an adventure with the top-rated and most-reviewed snorkel company in Hawaii, consider the experience offered by Kona Snorkel Trips. Their commitment to small groups ensures a memorable and personal encounter with the magnificent manta rays.

Ready to book an unforgettable marine adventure? For a top-rated manta ray night snorkel Kona experience that prioritizes small groups and personalized service, check out the tours offered by Kona Snorkel Trips. Explore their availability and secure your spot to witness one of nature's most magical displays.