Big Island: Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel & Lunch Cruise

Summary

Swim with manta rays after sunset on Hawaii’s Kona coast

You’ll float above glowing manta rays off Kona after sunset, guided by locals who know every trick to spotting them up close. All your gear is sorted — wetsuit, mask, fins — plus lunch and snacks on deck with new friends afterward. That hush when a manta glides right beneath you? It stays with you long after you’re dry.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel nervous until the boat actually slowed down off the Kona coast — it was darker than I thought it’d be, and the water looked almost inky under the spotlights. Our guide, Kaleo, handed out wetsuits and cracked a joke about “Hawaiian snow” (which just means you’ll get goosebumps). The air smelled faintly of salt and sunscreen. I could hear someone’s laughter echoing over the water as we slipped in, one by one.

Floating on that custom board, holding onto the handles while the lights shone down — that’s when I saw my first manta ray. Massive but somehow gentle, gliding right below us and flipping in slow-motion circles for plankton. The group got quiet except for a few muffled gasps through snorkels. At some point Kaleo pointed out how their bellies almost glow white in the light. It felt weirdly peaceful up there, just drifting and watching these creatures do their thing. I kept losing track of time; it was kind of hypnotic.

Afterwards, back on deck with towels and some local fruit (pineapple never tastes as good anywhere else), people started comparing what they’d seen — someone swore a ray winked at them but who knows. Lunch was simple but hit the spot after swimming: wraps, snacks, cold drinks. There was even vegan stuff if you wanted it. The crew checked in on everyone before heading back toward shore. I still think about that moment when everything went quiet underwater except for my own breathing — not sure I’ll ever forget it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manta Ray Night Snorkel Experience

• Arrive at Kona Coast location
• Receive snorkeling or diving gear
• Float on custom board with spotlights
• Watch manta rays feeding below
• Enjoy snacks, beverages, and lunch
• Use provided sunscreen and towels

Top questions

Is snorkeling with manta rays safe for beginners?

Yes, this night snorkel is suitable for all skill levels and includes guidance from experienced crew members.

What is included in the Kona manta ray night snorkel tour?

The tour provides all snorkel gear (mask, fins, wetsuit if needed), snacks, beverages, lunch, sunscreen, towels, and guidance from local experts.

How deep is the water during the manta ray night snorkel?

Snorkelers float at the surface; divers kneel at about 30 feet deep but no deeper than that.

Are dietary requirements accommodated for lunch?

Yes—vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and kosher options are available if requested at booking.

Is transportation or pickup included?

The tour includes easy access from nearby public transport options; check details when booking for specific pickup arrangements.

Can children join the night snorkel adventure?

Yes—children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult; infants may ride in a pram or stroller on board.

Are wheelchair users able to join this tour?

Yes—the boat and all areas are wheelchair accessible and service animals are allowed.

What’s included

Your day includes all snorkel equipment (mask, fins, wetsuit if you want one), expert guidance from local crew members throughout your experience, snacks and fresh local fruits on deck after swimming with manta rays off Kona’s coast, plus a catered lunch tailored to your dietary needs along with drinks like juice or local beer if you ask. Towels and reef-safe sunscreen are provided too before heading back to shore together.