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Manta Ray Night Snorkel

Guided

Duration: 2 hours

Features

Kid Friendly
Locally Owned
Wildlife
Free Cancellation
Instant Book
$125 Person ($125)
(Ages 7 to 70. All minors must be accompanied by a paying adult supervisor. Must weigh less than 270 pounds.)
$1,499 Private Charter ($1499)
(Max 12 people. Ages 7 to 70. All minors must be accompanied by a paying adult supervisor. Must weight less than 270 pounds.)
$50 GoPro Hero 9 Black - Camera Rental

Description

Night Snorkel with Manta Rays – Kailua-Kona, Big Island

Experience one of Hawaii’s most magical marine encounters on this guided night snorkel off the Kona coast. As the sun sets, you’ll board a boat to a manta ray feeding zone and slip into the ocean with your group, floating on a special light board that attracts plankton and the majestic manta rays that feed on them. With wingspans up to 16 feet, these gentle giants glide and barrel roll just inches away in a mesmerizing underwater ballet.

This tour is designed to be both beginner-friendly and experienced snorkelers. With professional swim guides by your side and an impressive manta sighting rate, it’s no wonder this experience is rated one of the top things to do on the Big Island.

Duration of Adventure

  1. Snorkel Time: Up to 45 minutes
  2. Boat Ride: 25 minutes each way
  3. Total Duration: 1.5–2 hours
  4. Early tours begin at sunset and are ideal for families or first-time snorkelers.
  5. Late tours are best for experienced snorkelers seeking a quieter, more immersive experience

Location / Where to Meet

  1. Address: Kailua-Kona Harbor, Big Island, Hawaii
  2. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in, equipment fitting, and a safety briefing with your guide.

 Age & Requirement

  1. Maximum Capacity: 12 guests + guide
  2. Beginner-friendly: No prior snorkeling experience, but basic swimming ability
  3. Minimum age: 7 years old (with adult supervision)
  4. Maximum Weight: 270 lbs. Guests with sizing concerns are encouraged to contact the outfitter in advance to ensure a comfortable experience.

What’s Included

  1. Professional swim guide (in the water with you)
  2. Quality snorkel, mask, fins, and wetsuit
  3. Light board to attract plankton and manta rays and foam noodles for the group
  4. Non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, and a special treat
  5. Boat ride to the site

Not Included

  1. Towel and dry cover-up for the return ride
  2. Gratuities for crew
  3. Reef-safe sunscreen (must be applied at least 30 minutes before tour)
  4. Camera Rental (with extra fee) - GoPro HERO9 Rental with SD card to capture your snorkel adventure in 4K and easily transfer footage to your device after the charter.

What to Bring / Wear

  1. Swimsuit (wear under clothing)
  2. Towel and coverup/jacket for boat ride
  3. Reef-safe sunscreen
  4. Camera (we can assist you to take picture or videos during the tour)

Check Out Our Tour Here!

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Coral Reef Snorkel Adventures

FAQs

Am I guaranteed to see manta rays on this tour?

While we see manta rays about 92% of the time and expect sightings nightly, they are wild animals and encounters can’t be guaranteed. In the rare event we don’t see any manta rays, we offer you a free return trip on any available tour. Our manta ray snorkel tours often sell out days in advance, so we recommend booking early in your stay on the Big Island to allow flexibility for a possible second trip.

Are manta rays dangerous?

Manta rays are gentle giants and pose no threat to humans. Unlike stingrays, they don’t have barbs or stingers, making them completely safe to observe and swim alongside.

How close do the manta rays get?

Manta rays frequently glide just inches beneath you as they feed, but touching them is strictly prohibited to protect the animals and ensure a respectful interaction.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, children over 7 can join with adult supervision.

Do I need to know how to swim?

Yes! Everyone who enters the water needs to be able to comfortably swim a minimum of 25 yards in the ocean without a life jacket.

Is previous snorkeling experience required?

No previous snorkeling experience is necessary, our crew provides a full briefing and stays with you throughout the experience. However, basic swimming ability is required, as you'll be floating in open ocean water while holding onto a light board. Flotation support is provided to help make the experience comfortable and accessible.

Can I bring my camera?

Yes, but use at your own risk. The crew may help with photos, but professional photography is not included.

What safety measures are in place?

All captains are USCG-certified; crew trained in CPR/First Aid. Life vests on board.

Is flotation provided during the snorkel?

Yes. You'll hold onto our custom light board, a floating surfboard with built-in lights that attract manta rays. It has handles for stability, and we also provide foam noodles to support your lower body and make floating easy and comfortable.

Is there a restroom on board?

No, the boat does not have a restroom.

What if the weather is bad?

If sea conditions are unsafe, the tour will be rescheduled. Please ensure we have your mobile number to notify you of any changes.

Are there any participant size or weight restrictions?

The tour provides standard gear and wetsuit sizes. While there is a suggested maximum participant of 12, a weight of 270 lbs for safety and equipment fit, guests with sizing concerns are encouraged to contact the outfitter in advance to ensure a comfortable experience.

Cancellation Policy

Customers may cancel for a full refund or credit with at least 24 hours’ notice. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance or no-shows will be charged the full price. Tours may also be rescheduled or fully refunded in the event of operator cancellation due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. For cancellations or questions, please contact the outfitter directly by phone.
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Availability

July 2025

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Location

Address

Kailua-Kona, HI,

US

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