Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel
About Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel
This evening trip from Kona takes you out by boat to watch manta rays feed under lights in the water after dark. It has more than 6,300 reviews and a 4.8 rating, and the operator offers a free return trip if you do not see a manta ray.
The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and does not include hotel pickup, so you drive yourself to the harbor meeting point. Snorkel gear, a jacket-style wetsuit top and a flotation device are provided, and non-swimmers can book a ride-along option.
What’s included
- For snorkeling option: Snorkeling gear, jacket style wetsuit top, floatation device
- Bottled water
- Professional guide
- Light Snacks
- Live commentary on board
Meeting point
After turning into the harbor, TAKE the very first road to the RIGHT. Follow the road, pass Boat Storage and a small gas station -Sea Store&Deli on the left, then TURN LEFT. As you drive in, you will see a small brown roof building to the right -RESTROOMS with pavilion. Meet your crew there.
What to expect on the day
You meet the crew at the pavilion by the restrooms inside the harbor, then board for a short ride to the manta viewing site with live commentary on the way. In the water you float at the surface holding on to a light board or flotation while manta rays glide below to feed on plankton drawn in by the lights.
Bottled water and light snacks are served on board. You climb a short ladder to get back on the boat, so a basic level of fitness is needed. Trips depend on the weather and the operator offers a new date or a full refund if it cancels.
Prices and extra costs
- Included: Snorkel gear, jacket-style wetsuit top and flotation device for snorkelers, professional guide, live commentary, bottled water and light snacks.
- Not included: Gratuities, hotel pickup and drop-off, and GoPro rental, which is subject to availability and must be reserved by phone.
What to bring
- A towel.
- A change of clothes.
- A sweatshirt or light jacket for the boat ride back.
Tips for a better day
- Swimming experience: You must have previous swimming and snorkeling experience to get in the water, otherwise choose the ride-along option.
- Finding the meeting point: Take the first road to the right after entering the harbor, pass the boat storage and the small gas station, then turn left to the brown-roofed restroom building.
- No sighting: If no manta rays appear, ask about the free return trip the operator offers.
Who it’s best for
Best for: Confident snorkelers who want a short evening outing and a close look at manta rays, and families with children who can swim.
Consider another option if: You would rather snorkel in daylight on a reef. The Captain Cook snorkel catamaran visits Kealakekua Bay with lunch on board.
Restrictions
The minimum age is 2 and the maximum age is 70 unless approved by the operator. Snorkelers must have previous swimming and snorkeling experience and be able to climb a short ladder. Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, back or neck problems or injuries in the last 3 years, or advanced pregnancy. Guests who appear intoxicated may be refused without a refund. Service animals are allowed.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
FAQ about Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel
How long is the manta ray night snorkel?
The trip lasts about 2.5 hours.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you need to make your own way to the harbor meeting point.
What if we do not see any manta rays?
The operator guarantees a manta ray sighting or your next trip is free.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, to get in the water you need previous swimming and snorkeling experience. Non-swimmers can book the ride-along option.
What equipment is provided?
Snorkelers get snorkel gear, a jacket-style wetsuit top and a flotation device.
Is food included?
Bottled water and light snacks are included.
What is the age range for this tour?
The minimum age is 2 and the maximum age is 70, unless the operator approves otherwise.
Can I rent a GoPro?
GoPro rental is available at extra cost, subject to availability. Call the operator to reserve one.
What should I bring?
The operator recommends a towel, a change of clothes and a sweatshirt or light jacket.
What is the cancellation policy?
You get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure. If the operator cancels for weather, you can choose another date or a full refund.
