Big Island: Night Manta Ray Snorkel Tour Kailua-Kona & Pickup

Summary

Swim with manta rays at night off Kona’s coast under the stars

You’ll float above glowing waters off Kailua-Kona as giant manta rays glide below—sometimes close enough to make your heart skip. Guided by locals who know every current, you’ll get all gear included (plus GoPro photos) and end with hot cocoa under Big Island stars. It’s less about thrill and more about awe—one of those nights that lingers long after.

What’s the experience like?

"You ready for this?" our guide Kanoa grinned as we shuffled down the dock at Honokohau Harbor, wetsuits half-zipped and hair already salty from the breeze. It was just after sunset, that in-between time when everything goes a bit blue and quiet except for the slap of water against the boat hull. I could smell sunscreen and something faintly metallic — maybe the gear? Anyway, we climbed aboard KIBOU, found our spots, and someone cracked a joke about looking like awkward penguins. I was nervous but also kind of buzzing inside.

The ride along the Kona coast was smoother than I expected. Kanoa pointed out where you can sometimes spot whales (not tonight though — maybe next time), and told us how they call this place Manta Ray Heaven. When we anchored, he explained how those underwater “campfires” work — lights that pull in plankton, which brings in the manta rays. The water looked dark but not scary, more like velvet with little glints from the lights below. I hesitated before sliding in; my mask fogged up right away (classic). But as soon as I grabbed onto the floating platform, all that worry sort of faded.

I didn’t expect to feel so calm floating there — you’re just holding on, breathing through your snorkel, listening to muffled splashes and your own heart beating too fast. And then suddenly there they were: these huge manta rays looping underneath us, their bellies almost glowing in the light. One did a slow roll right beneath my hands and I swear it looked straight at me (probably not, but still). Someone nearby giggled nervously — maybe me? The guides kept checking on everyone, making sure nobody drifted off or panicked. Honestly, it felt safe even if my brain kept going wowwowwow.

After about 45 minutes — which went by weirdly fast — we hauled ourselves back onto the boat. My fingers were wrinkly and cold but they handed out hot cocoa and tea while we motored back under a sky full of stars. Everyone was a bit quiet now; you could hear people whispering or just staring out at the dark water. I still think about that moment when everything slowed down except those graceful shapes moving below us. If you’re thinking about a manta ray night snorkel tour in Kailua-Kona… well, it’s hard to explain until you’re there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manta Ray Night Snorkel Experience

• Arrive at Honokohau Harbor
• Board speedboat KIBOU
• Cruise along Kona coast at sunset
• Gear up for snorkeling
• Snorkel at Manta Ray Heaven
• Float on lighted platform watching manta rays
• Enjoy hot cocoa and snacks on return
• Cruise back under the stars

Top questions

Where does the manta ray night snorkel tour depart from?

The tour departs from Honokohau Harbor near Kailua-Kona on the Big Island.

Is hotel pickup included for this Kona manta ray snorkel tour?

Pickup is available from select hotels for an additional fee; otherwise, guests can drive themselves.

How long do you spend snorkeling with manta rays?

You spend approximately 45 minutes in the water during the night snorkel experience.

Are beginners welcome on this Big Island manta ray tour?

Yes, beginner snorkelers are welcome; guides provide tips and support throughout.

What is provided on the Kona night snorkel tour?

Snorkeling equipment is included along with free GoPro photos taken by crew members.

Is this activity suitable for children or families?

The tour is family-friendly and open to all ages; lifeguard-certified guides are present.

Can I bring food or drinks on board?

You may bring your own food and drinks; alcohol is allowed after snorkeling (no glass bottles).

What should I do if I'm prone to motion sickness?

If you're prone to motion sickness, take medication one hour before departure as recommended by operators.

What’s included

Your evening includes use of all snorkeling equipment plus free GoPro photos taken by crew members while you swim with manta rays near Kailua-Kona. Pickup from select hotels is available for sunset tours (for an extra fee), or you can arrive early if driving yourself. After snorkeling, enjoy hot cocoa or tea on board as you return to Honokohau Harbor under the stars.