Big Island: Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Gear & Snacks

Summary

Swim with wild manta rays under neon lights on Big Island

You’ll float above glowing waters off Hawaii’s Big Island as giant manta rays swirl beneath you—sometimes so close you can see every detail. With all your snorkeling gear included (plus snacks and a local guide), this night swim feels part adventure, part dream. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to share the ocean with something wild after dark…this is it.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the dock lights made the water look almost electric—like someone dropped blue ink into the ocean. We met our guide, Kaleo, who handed out wetsuit tops and made a joke about how “nobody looks cool in these.” He was right. There were maybe ten of us, all fumbling with zippers and laughing at ourselves. The air smelled salty but clean, and you could hear distant waves slapping against the hull while we waited for everyone to get sorted.

I’ll admit, I was nervous climbing down the ladder into that black water. Kaleo kept talking—something about how the manta rays off Kona are some of the biggest anywhere—but I had to focus on not losing a fin. Once I slipped in though, floating on my stomach with my face just inches from the surface, it felt weirdly peaceful. The neon lights below us made everything glow. Suddenly this huge shadow glided right underneath me—a manta ray, so close I could see its gills fluttering like curtains. Someone gasped (maybe me), and then there were more—three or four at once, looping through beams of light like they were flying in slow motion.

I remember one moment where time sort of stopped: my hand brushed against another snorkeler’s by accident and we both laughed underwater—just bubbles and muffled sounds. It’s hard to explain how big those rays feel when you’re actually there; photos don’t really do it justice. Kaleo floated nearby pointing things out (“That one’s called Lefty!”), and at one point he passed around a little snack bar for anyone who wanted it while we warmed up back on deck.

By the time we headed back, I was shivering but couldn’t stop grinning. The whole ride in, everyone was swapping stories about which ray got closest or who almost swallowed their snorkel (guilty). Even now, weeks later, I still think about that glowing water and those silent shapes drifting just below us—you know? It sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manta Ray Night Snorkel Experience

• Arrive at snorkel location
• Prepare snorkeling gear
• Enter water at night
• Observe manta rays feeding
• Watch ocean creatures under neon lights
• Complete night snorkel

Top questions

Do I need snorkeling experience for the Big Island manta ray night snorkel?

Yes, previous swimming and snorkeling experience is required for this tour.

What’s included in the manta ray night snorkel tour?

The tour includes snorkeling gear, wetsuit top, floatation device, snacks, bottled water, and a professional guide.

Is pickup provided for this manta ray night snorkel?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; check confirmation details for meeting location specifics.

How long does the night snorkel last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but expect several hours including briefing and boat ride.

Are children allowed on this Big Island manta ray tour?

Yes, children aged 2 years and older can join if they meet health requirements.

What happens if no manta rays are seen during my snorkel?

If no manta rays are sighted, you’ll be offered another trip free of charge.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers or beginners?

No; participants must be comfortable swimmers with snorkeling experience.

What should I bring to the night snorkel tour?

Bring a towel, change of clothes, sweatshirt or light jacket as recommended by the operator.

What’s included

Your evening includes all snorkeling equipment—mask, fins, wetsuit top—and a floatation device if needed. A professional local guide leads you through everything onboard and in the water. Light refreshments like snacks and bottled water are provided after your swim so you can warm up before heading back in.