Float above Kona's nighttime manta ray feeding grounds
1 hr 30 mins
Mask, snorkel, flotation belt
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.
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
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
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.
75-6082 Ali'i Drive, Kailua Kona, HI 96740
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.
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!
Josephine Crozier
September 2, 2026
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!
Josephine Crozier
September 2, 2026
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