Kailua Kona: Night Manta Ray Snorkel Small Group Tour

Summary

Swim with manta rays in Kona’s glowing waters after sunset

You’ll float above glowing waters as manta rays glide beneath you on this small-group night snorkel in Kailua Kona. With local guides leading you from Keahou Harbor and all gear included, you’ll watch these gentle giants feed just inches away—an experience that sticks with you long after you’re dry.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the harbor lights flickered on the water as we climbed onto the Pueo Kai 2 — just twelve of us, plus our captain and guide, who both seemed to know every ripple off Keahou Harbor. There was this salty breeze and a kind of quiet excitement, like everyone was holding their breath a little. Our guide, Tia, handed me a wetsuit and grinned when I fumbled the zipper. “Don’t worry,” she said, “the rays don’t judge.” That made me laugh — helped with the nerves.

The boat ride was barely five minutes, but my heart was already thumping by the time we reached Manta Village. The sun had just dipped below the horizon, leaving that weird blue glow you only get in Hawaii. Tia explained how the plankton gathers under our lightboards — apparently it’s like an all-you-can-eat buffet for manta rays. I tried to imagine them circling below us while she talked about their wingspans (some bigger than me), but honestly, I didn’t expect them to come so close.

Floating there with my face in the water, holding onto the board as instructed (feet up — important!), it felt like time slowed down. Suddenly there they were: giant shadows swooping up from below, mouths wide open for plankton. One brushed past so close I could see its spots and feel this rush of cool water along my arm. Someone next to me gasped — or maybe that was me? The only sounds were muffled breathing through snorkels and Tia quietly pointing out which ray was which (“That’s Big Bertha — she’s been coming here for years”).

I still think about that moment when one did a slow barrel roll right under us — like some underwater acrobat showing off just because it could. We stayed out there maybe forty minutes? Hard to tell. When we climbed back aboard, everyone looked dazed and happy and a little chilly (the hot tea helped). On the way back to shore, someone asked if we’d really seen wild animals or just dreamed it up together in the dark — and honestly, I’m still not sure.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manta ray night snorkel experience

• Board the Pueo Kai 2 boat
• Enjoy 5-minute boat ride to Manta Village
• Enter water at Manta Village
• Hold onto lightboard with flotation devices
• Watch manta rays feed on plankton
• Observe manta rays performing barrel rolls
• Snorkel for 30-45 minutes
• Return to the boat guided by snorkel guide

Top questions

How long is the boat ride from Keahou Harbor to Manta Village?

The boat ride takes about five minutes from Keahou Harbor to Manta Village.

How many people are on each manta ray night snorkel tour?

The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 passengers per group.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is provided as part of your booking.

Are wetsuits included in the Kona manta ray night snorkel?

Yes, wetsuits are available for use during your tour at no extra cost.

What happens if we don't see any manta rays?

If no manta rays appear (about 8% chance), you'll be offered a free trip on another available charter.

Where does this Kona manta ray snorkel depart from?

The tour departs from Keahou Harbor in South Kona.

How long do we spend in the water with the manta rays?

You’ll spend approximately 30–45 minutes in the water depending on conditions and feeding activity.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?

No, hotel pickup is not included; you meet at Keahou Harbor for departure.

What’s included

Your evening includes a quick boat ride from Keahou Harbor with a small group, all snorkeling equipment and wetsuit if you want one, guidance from experienced local staff who know every ray by name, plus drinks onboard before heading back ashore after your swim.