Swim with gentle manta rays under the stars on this unique nighttime snorkeling adventure in Kailua-Kona. Experience marine magic like never before with Hawaii Oceanic’s Manta Magic.
Swim with gentle manta rays under the stars on this unique nighttime snorkeling adventure in Kailua-Kona. Experience marine magic like never before with Hawaii Oceanic’s Manta Magic.
Book with Hawaii Oceanic
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Hawaii Oceanic · Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Discover a truly unforgettable night adventure with Manta Magic in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. This private boat tour by Hawaii Oceanic offers an extraordinary snorkeling experience where you get to swim alongside majestic manta rays under the starry Hawaiian sky. As the sun sets and darkness embraces the ocean, these gentle giants feed on plankton attracted by underwater lights, creating a wonderous natural spectacle. The thrill of floating quietly among these graceful creatures is unlike any other marine encounter. This experience combines the thrill of water activities, the serenity of night snorkeling, and the magic of Hawaii’s marine wildlife, making it ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and families alike. The expert guides ensure safety and environmental care, helping you feel comfortable and knowledgeable throughout. Whether you're a first-time snorkeler or an ocean enthusiast, Manta Magic promises lasting memories. After your dive, enjoy the stunning coastal views during the boat ride back. This bucket list adventure offers more than just a night swim — it’s a deep connection with one of the ocean’s most captivating species in one of the world’s most beautiful locations.
moderate.
2–3 hours.
Participants should be comfortable swimming and snorkeling in open water with moderate exertion and able to handle night conditions.
No, beginners are welcome. Guides provide thorough instructions and support to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Tours generally start around sunset to take advantage of night conditions when manta rays feed.
Hawaii Oceanic provides wetsuits, but you are welcome to bring your own if preferred.
Children over 8 years old who are comfortable swimming can participate, but it’s best to check with the company beforehand.
Yes, waterproof cameras are allowed; however, professional lighting is limited, so night photography can be challenging.
Tours may be rescheduled or canceled for safety reasons. The company will notify you promptly and help with rescheduling or refunds.
Kailua-Kona has deep cultural ties to the ocean, historically serving as a fishing hub for native Hawaiians.
Hawaii Oceanic prioritizes eco-friendly practices, using low-impact lighting and educating guests on marine protection.
Hawaii Oceanic is a marine tour operator based in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, specializing in wildlife-focused boat excursions and guided snorkeling tours along the Kona coastline. The operator runs a range of signature trips including a two-hour Humpback Whale Watching cruise (noted for a 99% sighting rate), three-hour Dolphin Dreaming outings that combine dolphin watching and reef snorkeling, nighttime Manta Magic snorkel experiences using a light board to attract manta rays, and several Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument) snorkel tours with roughly an hour and a half of snorkeling time in the marine sanctuary. Tours depart from the Kona/Keauhou area and stay close to the historically rich South Kona coastline while searching for spinner dolphins, humpback whales, and reef life. Hawaii Oceanic emphasizes small-group departures to keep encounters intimate and reduce crowding on the water. Crew members provide safety briefings, local narration about coastal history and marine life, and assistance with snorkeling gear as appropriate for each trip. The Humpback Whale Watching cruise includes snacks, beverages, and complimentary photos to document sightings. All activities follow local regulations for responsible wildlife viewing and protected-area access. Schedules are seasonal and vary by tour; guests are advised to confirm departure details and meeting locations when booking. Hawaii Oceanic’s location in Kailua-Kona provides direct access to popular snorkeling sites, manta ray viewing locations, and the clear waters of Kealakekua Bay, making it a practical choice for visitors seeking marine wildlife experiences on Hawai‘i Island.
Book with Hawaii Oceanic