Kona: Night Manta Ray Snorkel Tour & Hot Chocolate

Summary

Swim with manta rays at night in Kona’s warm waters guided by locals

You’ll slip into warm Kona waters after dark for a guided night snorkel with manta rays—just a short boat ride from shore. With wetsuits and gear included (plus hot chocolate after), you’ll float as these gentle giants glide past under the lights. It’s one of those rare moments where everything else fades away.

What’s the experience like?

Someone handed me a wetsuit before I’d even found my sea legs, and I was still fumbling with the zipper when our guide—Kaleo—grinned and said not to worry, “the water’s warmer than you think.” The boat ride was barely long enough for my nerves to catch up, but the sky was already going deep blue behind us. There’s something about night air on the South Kona Coast—salty, almost sweet, and full of that quiet hum you only get far from city lights.

I’ll admit, floating there with my mask pressed tight and the dark all around, I kept glancing sideways for movement. Kaleo pointed down with his flashlight and suddenly there they were—manta rays gliding out of the shadows like old ghosts. Their wings looked impossibly wide up close. One brushed past my hand (I flinched), but it felt more like velvet than skin. Someone next to me tried to whisper “wow” through their snorkel and ended up just bubbling instead. We all laughed—well, as much as you can laugh underwater.

The whole thing lasted less than an hour but time got weird down there. When we climbed back onto the boat—awkwardly, because those ladders are trickier than they look—someone passed around hot chocolate that tasted way better than it had any right to. I didn’t see how anyone could guarantee manta rays every night but apparently it’s rare not to spot them here; if you miss out, they let you come back again for free (which feels fair). Anyway, I still think about that flickering light on their backs and how quiet everyone got watching them move.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Night snorkel with manta rays

• Boat ride to snorkeling site
• Snorkel with manta rays
• Experience guided night swim

Top questions

How long is the boat ride for the Kona night manta ray tour?

The boat ride is very short; you'll reach the snorkeling spot within minutes of leaving shore.

Is snorkeling experience required for swimming with manta rays in Kona?

Yes, everyone in your group should have snorkeling experience and be able to swim confidently.

What happens if we don’t see any manta rays during the tour?

If no manta rays are seen during your tour, you can join another night or afternoon trip free during your vacation (subject to availability).

Are wetsuits and snorkel gear provided on this Kona tour?

Yes, both wetsuits and snorkel gear are included in your booking.

Is hot chocolate included after snorkeling with manta rays?

Yes, hot chocolate is served after you return to the boat from your swim.

Do I need to be physically fit for this activity?

You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness and be able to climb a short ladder back onto the boat.

Is public transportation available near the departure point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your evening includes a quick boat ride from Kona’s coast, all necessary snorkel gear and wetsuits provided by friendly staff, plus hot chocolate served on board after your swim before heading back under the stars.