Dive into an electrifying night snorkel in Kona to watch majestic manta rays up close. Experience Hawaii’s unique glowing waters and create unforgettable memories.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic swimming skills are recommended but not required.
Wildlife
History
The Kona coast has long been a fishing hub for native Hawaiians, who revered manta rays as part of their ocean traditions.
Conservation
Ocean Encounters actively supports manta ray research and pursues sustainable tour practices to minimize human impact on the delicate marine ecosystem.
Ocean Encounters
Dive into an electrifying night snorkel in Kona to watch majestic manta rays up close. Experience Hawaii’s unique glowing waters and create unforgettable memories.
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.
Departure
Kailua-Kona
Departs from Kailua-Kona, Honokohau Harbor
Vessels
46 ft 'Ocean Encounter'
Upper deck and stable platform for viewing
Tours Offered
10 tours
Snorkel, manta night, whale watch, private charters
Trip Lengths
2.5–4 hrs
2.5 to 4 hour tour durations
Check available departures on The Adventure Collective and secure gear-included, crew-guided tours from Kailua-Kona today.
Arrive Early for Orientation
Getting there 30 minutes before departure ensures you have time for gear fitting and a safety briefing.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect marine life by applying biodegradable sunscreen before the snorkel.
Hold Still Near Manta Rays
Stay calm and avoid sudden movements to enjoy the manta rays’ graceful approach.
Bring a Waterproof Camera
Capture the magical glow and manta ray interactions underwater with waterproof photography gear.
Snorkel Mask and Fins
Essential for clear underwater viewing and comfortable swimming during the snorkel.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin while preserving the delicate marine environment.
summer
Waterproof Camera or GoPro
Capture stunning underwater photos and videos of the manta rays and glowing waters.
Light Jacket or Rash Guard
Keeps you warm during the cooler evenings before and after the snorkel.
winter