Kona: Night Manta Ray Snorkel Tour & Sunset Boat Ride

Summary

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

You’ll float above glowing waters in Kona as manta rays swirl beneath you—guided by locals who know every current. Watch the sunset from deck, slip into a wetsuit, and share quiet awe as these gentle giants glide past. Whether you swim or just watch from above, it’s one of those nights that lingers long after.

What’s the experience like?

There was this low hum from the boat’s engine as we left Honokohau Harbor, and I remember the salty air sticking to my skin—the kind of feeling you only get on the Big Island. The sky was still streaked orange when our guide, Keoni, handed out wetsuits and cracked a joke about how everyone looks good in neoprene at dusk (not true, but it made us laugh). I kept glancing at the horizon, half-nervous, half-excited. It’s weird how quickly you forget you’re nervous when someone hands you a swimming noodle and tells you the manta rays are already circling below.

We floated just off Kona, faces down in the water, holding onto a light board that glowed blue underneath. The water felt cooler than I expected—maybe it was just nerves. Suddenly these huge shadows drifted up from the dark, so close I could see their gills fluttering open. Someone next to me whispered “whoa” through their snorkel. Our guide shone his torch gently along their wings and told us how each manta has its own spot pattern—like fingerprints. There was this moment where time sort of paused; all you could hear was your own breath and the soft swish of fins. I didn’t expect to feel so calm floating there.

If you’re not up for swimming (my aunt chickened out last minute), there’s plenty of space on deck to watch everything from above—the guides made sure she had snacks and bottled water while we were in the water. The boat ride back was quiet except for some tired laughter and talk about which island is best (Keoni says Kona wins). My hair smelled like salt for days after, but honestly? I still think about those silent shapes moving under me. Makes regular snorkeling feel kind of tame now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manta Ray Night Snorkel Experience

• Depart from Honokohau Harbor
• Enjoy sunset over the water
• Snorkel with manta rays
• Use provided snorkel gear and wetsuits
• Relax on observation deck
• Return to harbor

Top questions

Do I need to know how to swim for the Kona manta ray night snorkel?

Yes, basic swimming experience is required to join the snorkeling activity.

Is all snorkel equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, snorkel gear including mask, wetsuit jacket, and swimming noodles are included.

Can kids join the night manta ray snorkel in Kona?

Children can join if accompanied by an adult; kids under 5 must bring their own life vests.

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

If no mantas appear, you're invited back for free on another night—no refunds or discounts offered.

Where does this manta ray tour depart from?

The tour departs from Honokohau Harbor near Kailua-Kona on Hawaii’s Big Island.

Is there an option if I don’t want to swim?

Yes, there is a "Ride Along" option so you can stay on board and observe without entering the water.

Are snacks or drinks included during the tour?

Bottled water and snacks are provided during your time on board.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup; guests meet at Honokohau Harbor for departure.

What’s included

Your evening includes a leisurely boat ride from Honokohau Harbor with professional local guides leading you to prime manta sites near Kona. All snorkel equipment is provided—including mask, wetsuit jacket, swimming noodle for flotation—as well as bottled water and snacks while onboard before heading back under the stars.