Join a magical night snorkel with manta rays off Kailua-Kona and witness these gentle ocean giants perform their stunning feeding displays. An experience perfect for aquatic enthusiasts seeking close encounters with Hawaii’s vibrant marine life.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires comfortable swimming ability
Wildlife
History
Kona has a long history of manta ray tourism, beginning in the 1960s, which helped raise awareness about marine conservation.
Conservation
Most tours emphasize eco-friendly practices to protect Hawaii’s fragile marine ecosystems and promote manta ray conservation.
Snorkeling in Kona
Join a magical night snorkel with manta rays off Kailua-Kona and witness these gentle ocean giants perform their stunning feeding displays. An experience perfect for aquatic enthusiasts seeking close encounters with Hawaii’s vibrant marine life.
Snorkeling in Kona operates out of Kailua‑Kona on Hawai‘i Island and offers a selection of guided snorkeling, sportfishing, and wildlife‑watching charters. The business runs multiple trip formats, including vessel‑based sportfishing aboard Ms Conduct, combined snorkel‑fishing charters, family snorkel and fish private charters aboard the Maheli Heli, dedicated manta ray night snorkels, and seasonal whale watching from January through April.
Trips visit iconic locations along the Kona Coast such as Kealakekua Bay and Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau, and the fleet provides standard fishing tackle, snorkeling gear options, and audio equipment for select wildlife tours. Captains and crews guide guests to marine habitats known for reef fish, dolphins, manta rays, and game fish like marlin, ahi (tuna), and mahi mahi.
Snorkeling in Kona emphasizes safety and comfort aboard its charters, offering private and open‑charter formats to accommodate families and small groups. The manta night snorkel is structured around respectful viewing of feeding manta rays, and whale watching trips include equipment to enhance the viewing and listening experience. All descriptions and offerings are presented factually to help visitors select the right Kona ocean experience for their interests and season.
Location
Kailua‑Kona
Operating from Kona on Hawai‘i Island
Vessels
Maheli Heli, Ms Conduct
Named charter vessels in use
Whale Season
Jan–Apr
Seasonal humpback whale tours
Tours Offered
6 Tours
Snorkel, fishing, manta, whale watching
Select a snorkeling, fishing, manta night, or whale watching charter from Kailua‑Kona and secure the date that fits the season and the family's interests.
Use waterproof flashlights
Underwater lights attract plankton and manta rays, enhancing your viewing experience.
Bring a reef-safe sunscreen
Protect Hawaii’s delicate coral ecosystems with eco-friendly sun protection.
Wear appropriate snorkeling gear
Ensure your mask, snorkel, and fins fit well for comfort and safety during the tour.
Arrive early
Arriving at least 15 minutes before departure helps you get comfortable and prepared.
Snorkel mask and fins
Provides clear, comfortable views and easy propulsion during snorkeling.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin without harming marine life or coral reefs.
summer
Waterproof flashlight or dive light
Illuminates plankton attracting manta rays and enhances visibility at night.
Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
Stay comfortable before and after the snorkeling excursion.