Kona: Night Manta Ray Snorkel Small Group & Light Board

Summary

Swimming with manta rays by moonlight in kona’s quiet waters

You’ll float beneath the stars off Kona’s coast, holding onto a glowing light board as wild manta rays glide within arm’s reach. With your local guide leading the way in a small group, you’ll move to wherever the action is best that night — then warm up with snacks and stories back on deck. It’s one of those Hawaii moments you won’t forget.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the boat lights made the water glow — not blue, but sort of milky and alive. We were just off Kona, maybe fifteen minutes from shore, and it felt like another world. Our guide, Keahi, grinned as he handed out wetsuits and said something about “the regulars” showing up soon. I laughed but my hands were shaking a little — nerves or excitement, hard to tell. The salt air mixed with something sweet from the snacks they’d set out (banana bread? I never asked), and everyone kind of shuffled around quietly until it was time.

Getting in was colder than I expected — not freezing, but enough to make me gasp through my snorkel. We all grabbed onto this floating light board that hummed softly and lit up the water below. Keahi slid into the water last and started pointing out shapes moving under us. Suddenly there it was — a manta ray, huge and silent, just gliding right up from the dark. Its wingspan had to be twice my height. It looped so close I could see tiny marks on its belly. Someone next to me whispered “oh wow” but mostly we all just floated there, mouths open, watching these gentle giants do slow barrel rolls for what felt like forever.

I tried saying “hahalua” (manta ray) like Keahi taught us earlier — pretty sure I butchered it because he grinned at me underwater. The whole group drifted together as he gently pulled us toward where more rays were feeding on plankton drawn by our lights. Sometimes one would swoop inches from my mask and I’d forget to breathe for a second. It didn’t feel scary though — more like being let in on a secret show that happens every night in Kona if you know where to look.

Back on the boat everyone was shivering and chattering about which ray came closest or who accidentally swallowed seawater (me). The sky over Hawaii Island was full of stars and someone passed around hot chocolate while we tried to towel off with numb fingers. I still think about that feeling — floating in warm black water with those enormous creatures swirling below, all of us strangers sharing something we couldn’t really explain after.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Night snorkel with manta rays

• Board small boat with max 12 passengers
• Receive safety and interaction briefing
• Snorkel at active manta ray areas
• Hold light board to attract manta rays
• Watch manta rays feed and perform
• Enjoy non-alcoholic refreshments and snacks
• Return to harbor with coverup and towel

Top questions

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

The tour carries a maximum of 12 passengers per trip for a small-group experience.

Is snorkel equipment provided for the Kona manta ray tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included with your booking.

How close do you get to the manta rays during this Kona snorkel?

You can watch manta rays from just inches away while holding onto the light board at the snorkel site.

Are refreshments included after snorkeling with manta rays?

Yes, non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, and a special treat are included after your swim.

Is this Kona night snorkel suitable for non-swimmers?

No, travelers must be able to swim without assistance; flotation devices are not allowed for safety reasons.

What is unique about snorkeling with manta rays in Kona?

Kona is one of the only places worldwide offering consistent nighttime encounters with wild manta rays returning nightly to feed.

Can pregnant travelers join this night snorkel tour?

No, this activity is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to safety considerations.

Do you need prior snorkeling experience for this tour?

You should have at least moderate swimming ability; previous snorkeling experience is helpful but not required.

What’s included

Your evening includes use of all snorkeling equipment plus snacks and non-alcoholic drinks after your swim. A local guide leads your small group (up to 12 guests) directly to where manta rays gather each night off Kona’s coast before returning you safely back to harbor under the stars.