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Experience the Thrill of Manta Ray Night Snorkeling off Kona Coast - Kailua-Kona

Experience the Thrill of Manta Ray Night Snorkeling off Kona Coast

Kailua-Konaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; basic swimming and snorkeling skills recommended

Overview

Dive beneath the starlit waters off Kona’s coast for a two-hour guided night snorkeling adventure among giant manta rays. Learn how Hawaii’s unique ocean conditions create a mesmerizing encounter with these gentle giants.

Experience the Thrill of Manta Ray Night Snorkeling off Kona Coast

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snorkeling

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As darkness descends upon the Kona Coast of Hawaii, the ocean transforms into a living stage where giant manta rays glide with effortless grace. This night snorkeling tour offers an up-close encounter with these extraordinary creatures, whose immense wingspans—sometimes exceeding 20 feet—cast shadowy silhouettes against the illuminated waters. Guided by expert hands, adventurers don wetsuits and snorkel gear before slipping into the steady Pacific current, holding fast to a buoyant bar anchored to a raft outfitted with powerful LED lights. These lights lure plankton, the manta rays’ primary food, which in turn draws the graceful predators into a mesmerizing feeding dance.

Adventure Photos

Experience the Thrill of Manta Ray Night Snorkeling off Kona Coast photo 1

Adventure Tips

Wear a wetsuit and bring warm clothes

Post-snorkel temperatures can get chilly—pack a towel and warm layers to stay comfortable on the boat ride back.

Arrive early for check-in

Check in at least 15 minutes before departure at Honokohau Harbor to ensure a smooth boarding process.

Use reef-safe sunscreen during the day

Protect the marine ecosystem by applying reef-safe sunscreen before your adventure, though avoid applying it right before entering the water at night.

Hold on to the flotation bar while snorkeling

Grip the raft bar to stay steady in the current and keep position under the LED lights to view the manta rays feeding.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Hawaiian green sea turtles
  • Spinner dolphins

History

The Kona coast has long been a fishing ground for native Hawaiians, with manta rays traditionally respected as important ocean inhabitants.

Conservation

Tours operate with minimal environmental impact, using non-invasive lighting and educating visitors to protect manta habitats.

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Adventure Hotspots in Kailua-Kona

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Wetsuit

Essential

Protects against cool ocean temperatures during night snorkeling.

year-round specific

Towel

Essential

For drying off and staying warm after the swim.

year-round specific

Waterproof flashlight or headlamp

Useful for navigating docks and boats in low light before and after snorkeling.

year-round specific

Reef-safe sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin and the marine environment during daytime hours.

summer specific