THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Explore the stunning waters of Kailua-Kona at night and swim alongside graceful manta rays in a glowing underwater spectacle. Discover what makes this private night snorkel so unforgettable!
Explore the stunning waters of Kailua-Kona at night and swim alongside graceful manta rays in a glowing underwater spectacle. Discover what makes this private night snorkel so unforgettable!
Book with Ocean Encounters
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Ocean Encounters · Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Join Ocean Encounters for the Manta Ray Night Snorkel OE3, a magical evening experience off the coast of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. As the sun dips below the horizon, the ocean lights up with a glowing electric green, attracted by underwater lights that draw majestic manta rays close. These gentle giants perform elegant flips and twirls, creating a breathtaking underwater ballet you'll never forget. The warm Hawaiian waters and included snorkel gear make this adventure accessible and comfortable for most participants. Alongside these remarkable creatures, you’ll enjoy light refreshments and expert guidance, ensuring a safe and memorable outing. This private tour allows for an intimate experience with nature in one of the world’s premier locations for night snorkeling. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or trying this for the first time, the magic of encountering manta rays up close in their natural habitat is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Prepare for a night under the stars that’s equal parts thrilling and serene, perfect for anyone seeking a unique ocean adventure in Hawaii.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Participants should have basic swimming skills and be comfortable in the water, but the activity is suitable for most fitness levels.
No prior experience is necessary, but you should be comfortable in the water and able to snorkel with provided gear.
Tours typically begin just before sunset to ensure you are in the water as the manta rays arrive.
Wetsuits are not usually required due to Hawaii’s warm water, but can be rented if desired for extra warmth.
Children above a certain age and who are competent swimmers may participate; check with Ocean Encounters for age restrictions.
The tour includes a professional guide, safety briefing, life vests, and constant monitoring to ensure participant safety.
Sometimes you might spot other marine life like reef fish, turtles, and occasionally small sharks in the area.
Manta rays have long been revered in Hawaiian culture as guardians of the ocean, symbolizing grace and strength.
Ocean Encounters practices eco-friendly tours that minimize disturbance to manta rays and promote marine conservation awareness.
Ocean Encounters is a Kailua-Kona, Hawaii boat operator offering a range of snorkeling, manta ray night snorkel, whale watch, and private charter experiences. Operating from Honokohau Harbor and Kona waters, the company runs boats sized and equipped for comfort, stability, and guest safety. Trips include Private Charter OE1 and OE2 on spacious vessels, Morning Reef Snorkel to Makalawena Bay, multiple Manta Ray Night Snorkel departures with a guaranteed-sighting offer on select trips, Whale Watch excursions timed with humpback migration, and guided Ultimate Ocean Encounter snorkeling along the Kona Coast. Most excursions include snorkeling gear, refreshments or light snacks, and knowledgeable captains and crew who provide guidance, historical context, and safety instruction. Specific trip durations vary: Morning Reef Snorkel runs approximately four hours, Ultimate Ocean Encounter is a three-hour snorkeling adventure, and several whale watch and manta night snorkel departures are approximately two and a half hours. Private charters offer customizable snorkeling and fishing options on comfortable vessels with modern gear. Ocean Encounters serves families, first-time snorkelers, and experienced ocean-goers. The company emphasizes guest experience through stable boats, included equipment, and opportunities to see spinner dolphins, sea turtles, colorful reef fish, manta rays, and migrating humpback whales. The manta ray night snorkel includes a guarantee of sightings on some departures or a free return. With local knowledge of Kona waters and curated itineraries, Ocean Encounters delivers reliable, memorable marine adventures in Hawaii. Booking options and schedules are listed on The Adventure Collective and the operator's reservation listings for Kona departures regularly.
Book with Ocean Encounters