Discover one of the few places worldwide to snorkel with manta rays at night in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. This guided tour offers an intimate, thrilling encounter with these majestic creatures beneath the stars.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape with strong swimming skills and comfort in open water.
Wildlife
History
Kailua-Kona’s waters have long been known to Native Hawaiians for manta ray sightings, tied to ancient ocean navigation and local legends.
Conservation
Tour operators strictly follow local guidelines to minimize disturbance and preserve manta feeding habitats.
Hawaii Island & Ocean Tours
Hawaii Island & Ocean Tours is a Kailua‑Kona based ocean adventure operator offering guided snorkel trips, manta ray night snorkels, dolphin and sea cave excursions, private charters, and equipment rentals.
The company runs small-group experiences along the Kona Coast, emphasizing marine encounters at Kealakekua Bay, the Captain Cook Monument, Keauhou Harbor, and nearby sea caves and lava tubes.
Trips use fast, stable vessels such as Zodiac RIB speed boats—built like Navy SEAL craft—and a speedy power catamaran for private charters. The daytime Captain Cook / Kealakekua Bay snorkel adventures include snorkel gear, fresh pineapple, and bottled water; wetsuits, lifejackets, and GoPros are available for rent at the BIO storefront during check‑in. Private charters add secluded beach swims, food and drinks, and a personalized itinerary.
Night manta snorkels in Keauhou offer intimate encounters under powerful custom light boards using over 150,000 lumens of blue dive light. Manta trips feature a Manta Guarantee policy: if a manta is not seen, guests may return for a free repeat trip based on availability. Tours advertise smaller group sizes—often limited to 17 or fewer or a maximum of 13 on select departures—and a shorter boat ride to the manta site (about three minutes), improving access and time on the water.
Safety is a priority: tours include a licensed captain, swim guide, and certified lifeguard. Hawaii Island & Ocean Tours focuses on authentic wildlife viewing, guided snorkeling, and locally informed experiences for visitors seeking active, marine-based adventures in Kona and memorable ocean excursions for every visitor.
Small Groups
≤17 guests
Intimate tours reduce crowding
Prime Locations
Kailua‑Kona
Kealakekua Bay & Keauhou
Fast Access
3-minute manta ride
More time at the manta site
Manta Guarantee
Free return*
Based on availability; see policy
Book small-group Kealakekua Bay snorkels, dolphin and sea cave combos, late-night manta snorkels, or private charters from Kailua‑Kona — limited availability.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Ensure you check in at least one hour before the scheduled tour to get fitted and receive a safety briefing.
Be Comfortable Swimming
This tour requires strong swimming ability and confidence in open ocean waters.
Consider Wetsuit Rental
Wetsuits are recommended for warmth during cooler night waters and available at check-in.
Minimize Personal Items
Only bring essential items; bags and towels are not permitted on the boat and must be stored securely.
Mask and Snorkel
Provided free of charge to ensure you experience clear underwater views while snorkeling.
Wetsuit
Optional rental to keep warm during cool nights in the ocean.
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Flotation Belt
Helps maintain a horizontal position on the water surface for better viewing and energy conservation.
Underwater Camera
Optional rental to capture your manta ray encounter without hassle.