Manta Ray Night Snorkel at Kona, Big Island

Imagine gliding through darkened waters, the only illumination coming from the natural glow of feeding manta rays. This is exactly what you get with the Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona, a 2-hour tour that costs around $70 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides, this outing takes you to Keauhou Bay, where these gentle giants come close enough to touch.

What we love about this experience is how personal and close-up the sighting becomes. First, the guides are clearly passionate and well-informed — many reviewers mention their guides by name, praising Bryce for his exceptional care and expertise. Second, the chance to see multiple manta rays feeding simultaneously makes this tour truly special, with some guests counting up to 8 or 9 rays at once.

One consideration is the check-in process, which can be a bit tricky—some reviews mention difficulty finding the location or parking. Also, this activity involves swimming in open water at night, so it’s best suited for those comfortable in the water and in good health. It’s not ideal for very young children or anyone with medical conditions, but it’s perfect for animal lovers, adventure seekers, and those craving a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you’re comfortable swimming and looking for an authentic, awe-inspiring encounter with nature, this tour is an excellent choice. It appeals especially to those who cherish unique wildlife experiences and aren’t put off by a bit of adventure in the dark.

Key Points

• Close Encounters: Expect to see manta rays up close feeding underneath specially designed rafts, with many guests commenting on how close these creatures come.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Bryce and others are noted for their knowledge, friendliness, and safety awareness, making the experience both educational and secure.
• Highly Rated: With a perfect 5.0 rating from over 1,300 reviews, this tour consistently impresses visitors.
• Value for Money: At $69.99, the tour offers a memorable experience that is often highlighted as worth every penny.
• Limited Duration: At approximately 2 hours, this is a quick but intense adventure, including check-in, gear fitting, a safety briefing, and about 30 minutes in the water.
• Physical Requirements: Swimmers should know how to swim, be comfortable in open water, and be able to climb a metal ladder to reboard the boat. Children must be at least six years old and good swimmers.
• Weather Dependence: The tour is weather-dependent; poor conditions can lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• Group Size: Limited to 28 guests, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Optional Ride-Alongs: If swimming isn’t your thing, you can join as a passenger, but it’s a paid ticket reserved for that purpose.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The experience begins with a check-in at 78-6831 Alii Dr., Kailua-Kona, which many reviewers suggest arriving at least 15 minutes early to avoid any last-minute rush or confusion. The check-in process involves signing an electronic waiver and getting fitted with short-sleeve wetsuits and snorkeling gear — everything you need for a comfortable night in the water.

The tour departs at a designated time, roughly an hour after check-in, so timing is important. Once on the boat, the crew takes you on a quick five-minute cruise out into the Pacific Ocean to the most optimal viewing location in Keauhou Bay. This short ride is often appreciated because it gets you swiftly into position without long transit times, maximizing your in-water time.

The real highlight begins once you arrive at the designated spot. Here, the guides will give a safety briefing, emphasizing how peaceful and non-threatening manta rays are — many reviews mention how the rays are accustomed to humans and will come close, sometimes swimming underneath or feeding right near the rafts.

You’ll hold onto specially designed rafts, which keep you stable and close to the rays in the water. Expect about 30 minutes of in-water observation, during which the manta rays are actively feeding on plankton attracted by underwater lights. Guests describe the experience as surreal—seeing multiple rays gracefully gliding, their bodies illuminated by the plankton’s bioluminescence.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

According to reviews, the guides are a major part of what makes this tour memorable. Many guests mention guides like Bryce by name, noting their knowledge, friendliness, and commitment to safety. They take the time to identify the manta rays and share fascinating facts, which adds an educational element to the adventure.

The up-close nature of the experience is another rave review point. Several reviewers mention how the manta rays swim close enough to almost touch, their gentle movements contrasting with their impressive size. One guest exclaimed, “The mantas get SO close to you!” This personal proximity is what makes this tour stand out from other snorkeling trips.

Another aspect appreciated is the value for money. For around $70, you get gear, guidance, and a rare chance to see a mesmerizing natural spectacle. Many reviews emphasize that the experience exceeds their expectations, especially given its affordability compared to other adventure activities.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While the tour is generally rated highly, a few reviewers note logistical challenges, such as finding the meeting point and parking. Arriving early is strongly recommended. Since the activity involves swimming in open water at night, you should be comfortable in the water, know how to tread water, and be a good swimmer.

The physical demands include climbing a metal ladder to reboard the boat after the snorkel, which can be tiring for some. The maximum weight limit is 285 pounds, and minors must be supervised by an adult. Those with neck or back or medical issues should assess their suitability carefully.

A noteworthy tip is to bring a towel for after snorkeling and consider renting or bringing a GoPro to capture the moment—many guests regret not recording this awe-inspiring experience. The guides are attentive to safety and provide wetsuits to keep you warm, but be prepared for the possibility of cold water, especially if you tend to get chilly easily.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour caters best to adventurous, water-loving travelers who are comfortable swimming in the dark and eager to see wild marine life up close. Animal lovers will find it especially rewarding, given the chance to observe the majestic manta rays feeding.

Families with children over six who are confident swimmers will enjoy this as a unique family activity. However, those with medical issues or who prefer dry adventures might want to consider riding along on the boat instead.

If you’re someone who appreciates guides with knowledge and enthusiasm, and you’re willing to invest a little effort to meet the logistics, this tour will likely leave you with memories that last forever.

This night snorkel is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic and intimate wildlife encounter. It’s ideal if you’re looking for an activity that combines adventure, natural beauty, and educational value—all at a reasonable price.

Those who don’t mind a bit of logistical planning—like arriving early and managing night swimming—will find their efforts rewarded. It’s a top choice for animal lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting to see the gentle giants of the sea in their natural habitat.

In sum, if you’re comfortable in water, curious about marine life, and ready for a unique experience, this tour provides a captivating glimpse into the nighttime life of Kona’s feeding manta rays—a truly unforgettable moment in the Big Island.

Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, snorkeling participants must know how to swim and be comfortable in open water. If you’re not a strong swimmer, you can opt to be a ride-along on the boat.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Minors must be at least six years old and be good swimmers. Children should be comfortable swimming and obeying safety instructions.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including check-in, gearing up, safety briefing, and about 30 minutes in the water.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel for after snorkeling. Wetsuits and snorkeling gear are provided, but bringing your own waterproof camera or GoPro is recommended if you’d like photos.

What is the best time to join?
Check-in is usually an hour before the departure time. The tour begins at night, after dark, when manta rays are actively feeding.

Are there any physical concerns I should know about?
Guests should be in moderate physical condition, able to climb a metal ladder, and understand safety instructions. The tour isn’t suitable for those with neck, back, or major medical conditions.

What about weather cancellations?
Tours require good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I join as a ride-along?
Yes, ride-alongs are welcome and are a paid ticket, reserved for those who prefer to stay on the boat rather than swim.

Is tipping expected?
While not mandatory, gratuity for guides and crew is always appreciated, especially given their hard work ensuring safety and an unforgettable experience.

To sum it up, the Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona is a well-loved, highly rated tour that offers a rare chance to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. It’s best suited for confident swimmers, animal enthusiasts, and those seeking a memorable adventure that combines nature, education, and a bit of night-time thrill. For the price and the experience, it delivers exceptional value and memories that will stay with you long after the trip ends.