moderate
2.5 hours
Participants should be comfortable swimming and diving in open water and able to handle moderate physical activity.
Experience the world-renowned Manta Ray Night Dive off Kailua-Kona's Makako Bay, where glowing plankton lure gentle manta rays into a graceful nighttime feeding dance. Discover why this unforgettable two-tank dive is a highlight for divers and snorkelers visiting Hawaii.
Partake in the #1 night dive in the world!
Experience the breathtaking Manta Ray Night Dive, a must for every diver! Watch gentle manta rays glide gracefully through the water as they feed on plankton attracted by bright lights. With expert guides and small group sizes, this unforgettable adventure at Makako Bay promises to be a highlight of your Hawaiian journey.
Water temperatures can dip during evening hours; a wetsuit ensures comfort throughout your dives.
The guides provide important information about manta behavior and dive safety before sunset.
Protect Hawaii’s delicate marine ecosystems by avoiding harmful chemicals found in some sunscreens.
Nighttime on the boat can be cool; a sweatshirt or light jacket helps you stay cozy after you exit the water.
Makako Bay has been a favored diving site since the Big Island’s resurgence in marine tourism during the 1970s.
Guides follow strict lighting and encounter protocols to minimize disruption to manta rays and preserve reef health.
Required for all divers to participate safely in the two-tank night dives.
Optional rental available; helps retain body heat during cooler nighttime water temperatures.
summer specific
Recommended for tracking dive profiles and ensuring safe dive practices.
Provided by the charter, these lights attract plankton to bring in manta rays for viewing.