Kona: Sunset Sail & Night Manta Ray Snorkel with Drinks

Summary

Sunset sailing along Kona coast then night snorkeling with manta rays

You’ll sail along Kona’s coast at sunset before snorkeling with wild manta rays after dark—gear and wetsuits included. Guides share stories and help you spot hahalua up close while you float under the stars. Warm drinks on deck wrap up a night that’ll stick with you long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped barefoot onto the deck just as the sky started shifting—those weird pinks and oranges you only get in Hawaii. The catamaran felt bigger than I expected, with everyone sort of shuffling around, finding spots to lean against the rail. Our guide, Keoni, handed me a ginger ale and grinned like he knew what was coming. There was this salty wind that stuck to my skin and the sound of someone’s laughter mixing with the slap of waves. I didn’t expect to feel nervous yet, but I did.

The sail down the Kona coast was slow in that good way—just enough time to watch the sun drop behind black lava rocks and try (badly) to pronounce “hahalua” when Keoni explained about manta rays. He told us how they come for plankton drawn by lights at night. Someone asked if they ever bump into you; he just shrugged and said, “Sometimes—they’re gentle.” That made me laugh, but I still double-checked my snorkel mask twice. The boat anchored near what they called ‘manta ray village’, and suddenly it was all business: wetsuits zipped up, masks on, people half-whispering because it got dark fast.

Getting in the water took me a second—I hesitated at the ladder, not gonna lie—but then I slid in and everything changed. The ocean felt cooler than I thought it would be. Down below, beams from our float lit up these huge shapes gliding out of nowhere. One came so close I could see its belly spots—like paint splatters—and I forgot about being cold or awkward or anything else really. You could hear muffled squeaks through snorkels whenever someone spotted one up close. Afterward, back on board wrapped in towels with hot cocoa (which tasted oddly perfect), everyone was quiet for a bit. Then someone started talking about stars over Kona town and we all watched them flicker as we headed back.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset sail and manta ray snorkel

• Sail along Kona coast
• Watch legendary Kona sunset
• Receive manta ray explanation
• Snorkel with manta rays
• Return to Kona pier

Top questions

What time does the Kona sunset & manta ray snorkel tour start?

Start times vary throughout the year to match sunset; check your booking confirmation for details.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all snorkel gear plus wetsuits and swim noodles are included.

Can children join the manta ray snorkel adventure?

Children under 5 can stay on the boat but aren’t allowed in the water; all kids must be with an adult.

Do I need to know how to swim for this Kona manta ray tour?

Yes—strong swimming skills are required for anyone entering the water.

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

If no mantas appear while snorkeling, guests can rebook another night for free (subject to availability).

Are drinks or food included during the trip?

You get complimentary soft drinks, juice, water, hot cocoa and tea; alcoholic drinks are available for purchase onboard.

Where do we check in for this tour?

Check-in is at KONASTYLE retail outlet in Courtyard Marriott King Kamehameha Beach Hotel—arrive 45 minutes early.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup; guests meet at Kona pier (Courtyard Marriott location) before departure.

What’s included

Your evening includes all snorkel equipment, wetsuits, instruction from certified local guides, complimentary soft drinks and juices during the cruise plus hot cocoa or tea after snorkeling—all starting from easy check-in at Kona pier before sailing out together along Hawaii’s coast.