Kailua Kona: Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour with Guide offers a compelling way to connect with Hawaii’s legendary marine giants. This tour combines small-group intimacy, expert guidance, and a truly mesmerizing natural spectacle. With a solid 4.8-star rating based on over 111 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this experience well worth the price of $89 per person.
What we love about this tour is how well-organized and safety-conscious it is, the chance to get up close with peaceful manta rays, and the knowledgeable crew who make the night feel both exciting and secure. That said, it’s not for everyone—those with mobility issues or recent surgeries might find the physical demands challenging. But if you’re comfortable swimming independently and want a once-in-a-lifetime encounter, this activity is likely to become a highlight of your trip.
This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic, family-run businesses that prioritize safety, environmental respect, and fun. It’s especially suited to those who love marine life, night adventures, and small-group experiences that foster a more personal connection to Hawaii’s ocean.
Key Points
- Small-group experience means more personal attention and fewer crowds.
- Expert crew and guides ensure safety and enrich your understanding of manta rays.
- Close encounters with manta rays reaching a 16 ft wingspan, in their natural habitat.
- Comfort and safety are prioritized with CPR-certified crew, wetsuits, and proper equipment.
- Ideal timing includes a scenic boat ride with sunset views.
- Not suitable for non-swimmers, pregnant women, or those with mobility restrictions.
An Overview of the Experience
The Kailua Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel is a highly-rated activity that captures the essence of Hawaii’s oceanic wonder. Starting from the north side of Honokohau Small Boat Harbor—marked by a simple yet clear meeting point—the tour lasts about 2 hours, including transportation, snorkeling, and the boat ride. The trip’s core is a 35-minute snorkel session among the gentle giants, with the boat ride out taking approximately 15-25 minutes. To ensure a comfortable experience, guests are advised to arrive on time and bring swimwear and a camera.
The tour company, Snorkel Big Island, operates a family-run business that emphasizes environmental care and safety. Their crew is CPR-certified, attentive, and well-versed in marine life, which enhances the overall experience. The boat itself is described as spacious, clean, and equipped with shorty wetsuits, snorkel gear, and safety gear, making the outing comfortable even for less experienced swimmers.
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The Itinerary in Detail
Starting Point and Transfer
The adventure begins at 74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy, on the north side of Honokohau Small Boat Harbor. Directions are straightforward: coming from Hwy 19, you turn west towards the harbor, follow signs to Kona Sailing Club, and park near the designated meeting spot by the Snorkel Big Island truck. This location is convenient, with plenty of parking, and the crew typically meets guests there, sometimes arriving by boat.
The Boat Ride and Sunset Views
Once aboard the boat, you’ll enjoy a 15-minute scenic ride to the manta ray feeding grounds. Reviewers often mention the sunset views during this transfer, which adds an extra layer of magic to the experience. The boat ride is generally smooth, but some reviews note the ride can be a bit choppy, so those prone to seasickness might want to prepare accordingly.
More Great Tours NearbySnorkeling with Manta Rays
The highlight begins when you plunge into the dark waters, guided by experienced and friendly crew members. The snorkel time lasts at least 35 minutes, during which large manta rays, some reaching a wingspan of 16 feet, glide gracefully beneath and around you. Several reviews mention the incredible sight of multiple mantas—up to seven at a time—appearing suddenly and swimming close enough to touch (though touching is not allowed to protect their delicate skin).
One reviewer described it as “an experience to see 20 or 30 manta rays under us, all eating krill and swimming in circles,” emphasizing how mesmerizing and surreal this looks. Guides like Sawyer, Johnny, Hunter, and others are praised for their knowledge, humor, and ability to create a safe, friendly environment that encourages awe and respect for these gentle giants.
Return and Reflection
After the snorkeling, the boat returns to the harbor, often with a clear night sky full of stars, making the journey back as memorable as the activity itself. Many reviews appreciated the crew’s effort to share videos and photos taken during the snorkel, allowing guests to relive the moment long after.
What Makes This Tour Special
Authentic and Family-Run: Unlike large commercial operators, this company’s family ownership translates into a more personal and caring experience. Guests frequently mention the crew’s friendliness, professionalism, and genuine enthusiasm.
Focus on Safety and Comfort: From CPR-certified crew to provided wetsuits and snorkel gear, every detail is aimed at ensuring a safe, comfortable outing. For swimmers, there’s no need to worry about equipment—everything is provided.
Close Encounters with Marine Life: The chance to see multiple manta rays up close and personal is unmatched. Many guests describe the mantas swimming within inches of them, often reaching out to touch their fins (though not touching the rays is emphasized).
Small-Group Atmosphere: With a maximum of six guests per trip, you’ll enjoy a more intimate, less crowded experience. This not only allows for better interaction with guides but also makes the experience more personal and relaxed.
Beautiful Nighttime Setting: The combination of sunset, glowing waters, and the illuminated mantas dancing beneath you creates a magical environment that’s perfect for photography and memories.
Practical Considerations and Tips
While most reviews are glowing, a few practical notes are worth keeping in mind. The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with recent surgeries, or those with limited mobility since climbing the boat ladder and swimming independently are required.
Guests are advised to arrive punctually, bringing swimwear, and consider taking a waterproof camera to capture the incredible moments. The boat ride can be a bit rough, so if you’re prone to seasickness, bring medication or consider that in your planning.
The price of $89 is quite reasonable when you consider the expert guides, safety measures, provision of wetsuits, and the rare opportunity to see such majestic marine animals. Many reviewers feel that the value far exceeds the cost when you consider the unforgettable nature of the experience.
The Overall Value
In terms of what you get for your money, this tour offers a compelling mix of safety, intimacy, and awe. The small-group format means you’re not just another face in a crowd—you’re part of a personal adventure into the night waters of Hawaii. The guides’ extensive knowledge and friendly demeanor make the experience educational as well as fun.
The sight of multiple manta rays swimming gracefully and coming close enough to touch is worth every penny. Many guests mention that this activity is a highlight of their trip—”an activity to do on this island,” as one reviewer put it. For families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate marine life, night snorkeling with manta rays here offers a rare and precious connection with nature.
Final Thoughts
This tour is perfect for those who seek a meaningful, authentic adventure rather than a commercialized spectacle. You’ll appreciate the attention to safety, the small-group setting, and the chance to witness Hawaii’s legendary manta rays in their natural environment. The experience is both peaceful and exhilarating, with a touch of magic that stays with you long after the water has settled.
If you’re comfortable swimming independently and eager to see Hawaii’s ocean at its most majestic, this activity should be top of your list. It’s a carefully curated mix of adventure, education, and genuine wildlife interaction—one that’s hard to beat.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, swimming independently and climbing a boat ladder are required, so it’s best suited for confident swimmers.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, and if you want, a waterproof camera for photos. Wetsuits and snorkeling gear are provided.
How long does the trip last?
The entire experience is around 2 hours, including transfer, snorkeling, and the boat ride.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for your travel plans.
Is this activity safe?
Yes, the crew is CPR certified, and safety protocols are strictly followed to ensure a secure experience.
What is the best time to do this tour?
The tour starts in the evening after sunset, when manta rays come to feed, and offers beautiful sky views during the boat ride.
To sum it up, the Kailua Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour offers a rare chance to witness one of nature’s most elegant creatures in their natural habitat. Its blend of safety, professionalism, and authentic wildlife encounters makes it a standout option for anyone visiting Big Island. Whether you’re a marine enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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