Kailua Kona’s manta ray night snorkel tour offers an unparalleled encounter with these majestic sea creatures. Guests will glide alongside the gentle giants, marveling at their impressive 16-foot wingspans as the sun dips below the horizon. Led by CPR-certified experts, the 2-hour adventure ensures a safe and memorable experience. With stunning views and a focus on eco-tourism, this tour promises an exhilarating glimpse into the underwater world of Kailua Kona. What makes this tour so unique, however, is the chance to…
Key Points
- A 2-hour manta ray night snorkel tour in Kailua Kona, Hawaii that allows participants to swim with these majestic creatures.
- The tour is guided by an expert crew with CPR and Lifeguard certification, and includes wetsuit and snorkel gear.
- Prior swimming and snorkeling experience is required, and the tour is not suitable for those with certain medical conditions.
- The tour includes a 15-25 minute boat ride to the snorkeling site with stunning sunset views.
- The tour has an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 87 reviews, with praise for the friendly and knowledgeable crew.
Tour Overview

The Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour in Kailua Kona, Hawaii, offers visitors a unique opportunity to swim alongside these gentle giants.
This 2-hour activity takes place in the waters off Kailua Kona, with a boat ride to the snorkeling site. Priced from $137.00 to $109.60 per person, the tour includes shorty wetsuits, snorkel gear, and at least 35 minutes of in-water time.
An expert crew with CPR and lifeguard certification guides the experience, which features stunning sunset views during the boat ride.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Experience Highlights
Swimming with giant manta rays, which can reach wingspans of up to 16 feet, is the highlight of this tour.
Guests are guided by an expert crew with CPR Lifeguard certification, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
The tour includes shorty wetsuits and snorkel equipment, providing comfort and protection in the water.
After a 15-25 minute boat ride to the snorkeling site, guests can expect at least 35 minutes of manta ray viewing time, accompanied by stunning sunset views.
This unforgettable encounter with these majestic creatures is a must-do activity for any visitor to Kailua Kona.
Safety and Requirements

Prior swimming and snorkeling experience is required for this tour, as guests must be able to independently climb a side boat ladder.
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with back/heart problems, recent surgeries, or pregnant women due to mobility restrictions.
Safety is a top priority, and the crew is CPR and Lifeguard certified to ensure a secure experience.
The crew is CPR and Lifeguard certified to ensure a secure experience, as safety is the top priority.
Guests should be prepared to get in and out of the water on their own.
Meeting Point & Directions
74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA is the meeting point for the Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour.
From Highway 19, guests turn west on Kealakehe Pkwy and take the first right to enter the north side of the harbor. They should park near the Kona Sailing Club and look for the Snorkel Big Island truck, a black Ram 2500.
This convenient location provides easy access to the boat launch site, ensuring a smooth start to the manta ray adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews
Guests have consistently praised the Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour, awarding it an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 87 reviews.
Many highlighted:
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The friendly and knowledgeable crew who guided the experience.
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The close encounters with the magnificent manta rays and the clean, organized boat.
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The informative guides and the excitement of the beautiful sunset during the boat ride.
Positive comments reflect the tour’s ability to deliver an unforgettable and well-executed encounter with these majestic marine creatures in the serene waters of Kailua Kona.
Manta Ray Encounter
Although the Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour offers an extraordinary opportunity to witness these gentle giants up close, the experience requires prior swimming and snorkeling experience. Guests will be guided by an expert crew with CPR and lifeguard certification, ensuring their safety throughout the adventure. The encounter itself lasts around 35 minutes, allowing ample time to observe the majestic mantas as they gracefully glide through the water. To enhance the experience, the tour includes shorty wetsuits and high-quality snorkel equipment.
| Manta Ray Encounter | | |
| — | — | — |
| Wingspans up to 16 feet | Glide through the water | Gentle giants |
| Guided by expert crew | 35 minutes of snorkel time | Shorty wetsuits provided |
Sunset Boat Ride
The 15-25 minute boat ride to the snorkeling site offers stunning sunset views over the ocean.
Guests are treated to:
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Vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple painting the sky as the sun dips below the horizon.
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Breathtaking panoramic vistas of the rugged Kona coastline and distant volcanic peaks.
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A chance to spot local marine life, like sea turtles and dolphins, gliding through the tranquil waters.
The comfortable ride on the safe, well-equipped boat sets the stage for an unforgettable manta ray encounter experience.
Guided by Experts
Expertly guided by a crew holding CPR and Lifeguard certifications, the Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour ensures guests’ safety throughout the experience. The team’s extensive knowledge of the local marine life and snorkel conditions allows them to lead the tour seamlessly. Their commitment to safety is evident in the required prerequisites and mobility restrictions, prioritizing participants’ wellbeing. This attention to detail instills confidence, enabling guests to fully enjoy the awe-inspiring encounter with the majestic manta rays.
| Safety Focused | Highly Trained | Guest-Centric |
|—————-|—————-|—————-|
| Certified crew | Expert knowledge | Prerequisites |
| Mobility requirements | Condition monitoring | Gear provided |
| Emergency preparedness | Site selection | Personalized guidance |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?
There is no minimum number of participants required for this tour. Guests can reserve their spots individually, and the tour will proceed regardless of the group size.
Are Underwater Cameras and Gopros Allowed on the Tour?
Underwater cameras and GoPros are allowed on the tour. The tour provider encourages guests to capture the incredible experience of swimming with manta rays. Guests should be mindful of not disturbing the wildlife during the snorkel.
Does the Tour Offer Any Food or Beverage Options?
The tour does not include any food or beverage options. Guests should bring their own snacks and drinks if desired, as there are no refreshments provided during the 2-hour snorkel experience.
Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
The tour doesn’t provide any food or drinks, but guests with dietary restrictions or allergies can bring their own snacks and beverages. The crew is accommodating and will do their best to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Is the Tour Appropriate for Families With Young Children?
The night snorkel tour may not be suitable for families with young children. It requires prior swimming and snorkeling experience, and has mobility restrictions that could make it challenging for young guests. The tour is better suited for older, experienced swimmers.
The Sum Up
Embark on an unforgettable manta ray encounter in Kailua Kona, Hawaii. This 2-hour night snorkel tour promises stunning sunsets, expert guidance, and the chance to swim alongside these gentle giants. With all necessary gear provided and a focus on safety, you’ll experience the breathtaking beauty of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
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