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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Kailua Kona…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Snorkeling
    5. /Late-Night Manta Ray Snorkel in Kailua-Kona
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    Late-Night Manta Ray Snorkel in Kailua-Kona

    Float above Kona's nighttime manta ray feeding grounds

    4.8 stars• 3.2K reviews

    Duration

    1 hr 30 mins

    Includes

    Mask, snorkel, flotation belt

    Highlights

    Explore Kona's open ocean after dark as you snorkel from a surface light board designed to attract zooplankton. Watch for manta rays feeding and rolling beneath you, though wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

    • Float at the surface using a light board that attracts zooplankton
    • Snorkel in open-ocean conditions with guidance on positioning and safety
    • Watch for manta rays feeding and barrel rolling beneath the board
    • Experience a later-night tour time, when fewer boats may remain at the site
    • Ride a RIB Zodiac Navy Seal vessel

    Itinerary

    Tour Flow Overview:

    Brief check-in at the BIO (Big Island Outdoor) storefront (75-6082 Ali'i Drive, Kailua Kona, HI 96740 AT LEAST ONE HOUR BEFORE YOUR TOUR TIME)

    12-15 Minute Drive (In your own vehicle) to Harbor Location which will be provided during your check in

    4–5 minute boat ride to the manta ray viewing site

    20–40 minutes of guided in-water snorkeling with manta rays

    Return boat ride back to the harbor

    What's Included

    • Mask and snorkel
    • Flotation belt or pool noodle

    Important details

    • Ages 5+ only
    • Weight must be under 275 lbs
    • Requires previous snorkeling experience, basic swimming skills, and confident independent swimming in ocean conditions
    • Requires climbing a boat ladder unassisted
    • Requires communicating in English to follow safety instructions
    • Not suitable for back, neck, or mobility issues
    • Arrive wearing a swimsuit
    • Check in at least 1 hour before your tour time
    • Complete the required waiver before the tour
    • Optional rentals are not included: life jacket $10 for ages 13+; upper-body wetsuit $15; shorty full-body wetsuit $30
    • Allow a 1-hour buffer before and after the tour for possible delays

    Cancellation Policy

    Free cancellation up to 72 hours before the tour; parties of 6 or more must cancel 7 days before. No refund for no-shows. Full refund if the operator cancels due to weather, mechanical issues, or other unforeseen circumstances.

    Product ID: HAREU9

    FAQs

    Yes. You must know how to swim and tread water with your own strength, snorkel independently, and follow guide instructions in open-ocean conditions.

    You must be at least 5 years old, not be pregnant, be physically able to climb a boat ladder, and not have back or neck problems. Some materials say you must weigh under 275 lbs; other materials list under 300 lbs.

    Arrive wearing your swimsuit. You may bring items like an underwater camera, prescription glasses, small medical devices, and your own mask and snorkel. Some personal belongings (including bags and towels) are not permitted onboard and must be left for storage before boarding.

    Meeting details

    75-6082 Ali'i Drive, Kailua Kona, HI 96740

    Experience provided by Hawaii Island & Ocean Tours

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text 1-877-GREET-WELL

    Report an issue

    Guest

    $104.94

    Ages 13 & Up

    0

    12 or younger

    $94.34

    Under 12 Years Old

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

    • Free Cancellation Available

      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.8
    Excellent
    3.2K reviews•Google Maps
    2,744
    79
    37
    42
    87

    Night snorkeling with manta rays sounds intimidating, but the crew here has a real talent for making first-timers feel at ease. Guides like Lucas, Rory, Devon, and Keilani come up repeatedly in reviews for being knowledgeable, warm, and genuinely enthusiastic about the experience. Groups typically see multiple mantas, sometimes as many as 7 or 8, and close encounters are the norm rather than the exception. One reviewer described them brushing against her knees, another said a giant female kept circling back for repeat visits. The operation runs small boats, usually around 12 guests, which means less waiting around and more time actually in the water. They also back their tours with a return guarantee if you don't spot any rays, something several reviewers found meaningful. Worth noting that wetsuits are available but come at an added cost, so pack a swim shirt if you'd rather skip that expense. Overall, the vibe is enthusiastic, professional, and well worth booking ahead.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 4
    5/5

    I had been dreaming to go see the manta rays for a long time and that dream came true! We were blessed by 8 manta rays that night when we were told it is usually 2 to 5 max. They were also very playful and came very close. We also saw dolphins! Overall, we were very lucky! The team was also great, shout out to Greg who guided us in the water and told us cool stories about the Manta rays. Everyone was very nice, welcoming and professional. I highly recommend it! You won’t regret it!

    Photo of Josephine Crozier

    Josephine Crozier

    September 2, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    I had been dreaming to go see the manta rays for a long time and that dream came true! We were blessed by 8 manta rays that night when we were told it is usually 2 to 5 max. They were also very playful and came very close. We also saw dolphins! Overall, we were very lucky! The team was also great, shout out to Greg who guided us in the water and told us cool stories about the Manta rays. Everyone was very nice, welcoming and professional. I highly recommend it! You won’t regret it!

    Photo of Josephine Crozier

    Josephine Crozier

    September 2, 2026

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