Kona: Manta Ray Night Snorkel Small Group Tour & Gear

Summary

Swim with manta rays at night off Kona’s coast in small groups

You’ll float above glowing waters off Kona as manta rays sweep beneath you—sometimes so close you can feel their movement in your chest. With all snorkel gear provided (even Rx masks), small group size, snacks and drinks included, plus guidance from locals who know these waters by heart—you’ll leave with salt on your skin and maybe a little awe tucked away.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll never forget this,” Kris said as we wobbled down the dock at Honokohau Harbor. I was still pulling at the sleeves of my wetsuit — not exactly graceful — and trying to remember if I’d packed a towel like they told us. The air smelled faintly salty and metallic, and the sky had that deep blue before it tips into black. There were only about ten of us on the Zodiac (it fits sixteen max), swapping nervous jokes about what it feels like to float in the dark ocean waiting for giant manta rays. Someone asked Kris how big they really get, and he just grinned and held his arms wide — “Over 20 feet across sometimes. But don’t worry, no teeth.”

Once we were out past the lights of Kona, our guide handed out snorkel gear and Rx masks for those who needed them (I did, and honestly, being able to see clearly made all the difference). We slid into the water one by one — that first shock of coolness hits you right through the wetsuit — then grabbed onto this floating bar attached to a big raft. The LED lights below started glowing, drawing in swirls of plankton. It’s weird: you’re just lying there, face down, holding on while these ghostly shapes start circling underneath. When the first manta ray swooped up from below, its wings nearly brushing my fins, I think my heart actually stopped for a second.

The guides kept us together (no drifting off), quietly pointing out when a new ray approached or when to look left or right. Sometimes you’d catch someone’s muffled gasp through their snorkel — hard not to react when something that size glides up so close you could count its spots if you wanted. Li laughed when I tried to say “hāhālua” (manta ray) in Hawaiian; pretty sure I butchered it but she appreciated the effort. After a while you lose track of time because it’s just you and these enormous creatures moving through shafts of light.

I still think about that moment when everything went quiet except for my own breathing and the slow sweep of wings below me. On the ride back to harbor (yes, bring something warm — it gets chilly), everyone was quiet in that good way where nobody wants to break whatever spell was left over from being out there with them.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manta Ray Night Snorkel Experience

• Check in at Honokohau Harbor
• Receive wetsuit, snorkel gear, flotation
• Board 32ft Zodiac with guide
• Snorkel holding bar on raft
• Watch manta rays feed on plankton
• Return to harbor after 2-hour trip

Top questions

How long is the Kona manta ray night snorkel tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours from check-in at Honokohau Harbor to return.

Is snorkel gear included on this night tour?

Yes, all snorkel gear is provided including wetsuits, flotation devices, and limited Rx masks by request.

What is the maximum group size for this manta ray snorkeling?

The boat takes up to 16 passengers per trip for a small group experience.

Are drinks or snacks provided during the tour?

Yes, island juices, soda, bottled water and light snacks are included after snorkeling.

Where does the Kona manta ray night snorkel start?

The tour starts with check-in at Honokohau Harbor near Kailua-Kona.

Is this night snorkeling suitable for children?

No children under 5 years old are permitted on this tour.

Are wetsuits free or do I need to pay extra?

Wetsuits are included at no extra charge for all guests.

Can pregnant women join this manta ray snorkeling tour?

No, pregnant women are not allowed on this activity due to safety reasons.

Do I need swimming experience for this Kona night snorkel?

The activity is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your evening includes check-in at Honokohau Harbor where you’ll get fitted with a wetsuit (no extra charge), full snorkel gear including flotation devices and optional Rx masks by request. Island juices, soda, bottled water and light snacks are served after your swim before heading back to shore with your small group.