Discover the enchanting manta ray night snorkel experience in Kailua-Kona. Join Hawaii Oceanic for a magical underwater adventure beneath the stars you won’t forget!
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable swimming in open water and able to handle gentle snorkeling conditions.
Wildlife
History
Kailua-Kona has long been a hub for traditional Hawaiian fishing practices and marine stewardship.
Conservation
Hawaii Oceanic emphasizes sustainable tourism by educating guests on reef-friendly practices and protecting manta ray habitats.
Hawaii Oceanic
Discover the enchanting manta ray night snorkel experience in Kailua-Kona. Join Hawaii Oceanic for a magical underwater adventure beneath the stars you won’t forget!
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.
Location
Kailua-Kona
Operates from West Hawai‘i
Humpback Sightings
99% Success
Very high sighting rate
Group Size
Small Groups
Intimate tour experience
Kealakekua Tours
Multiple Options
Captain Cook snorkel trips
Secure a spot on a small-group humpback, dolphin, manta, or Kealakekua Bay snorkel tour — confirm departure time and meeting location when booking.
Arrive Early to Check-In
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your booked departure to complete check-in and safety briefings comfortably.
Bring a Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and Hawaii’s ocean ecosystem with eco-friendly sunscreen applied before the tour.
Wear a Light Waterproof Jacket for the Ride
Evenings can get cool on the boat, so a light jacket keeps you comfortable during transit to snorkeling sites.
Use Motion Sickness Prevention if Needed
If you’re prone to seasickness, take remedies or wear acupressure bands before boarding for a smooth trip.
Waterproof Camera or GoPro
Capture stunning underwater footage of manta rays during your night snorkel adventure.
Long-Sleeve Rash Guard
Offers protection against cooler evening winds and minor jellyfish stings.
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Flip Flops or Water Shoes
Comfortable footwear for boarding and walking on the boat’s deck.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated before and after the tour, especially in warm Hawaiin climates.