12 Best Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Tours (2025 Guide)

Kona, Hawaii, offers one of the planet's most breathtaking wildlife encounters: swimming with giant manta rays under a star-lit sky. These gentle giants, with wingspans reaching over 15 feet, gather nightly to feed on plankton, creating an ethereal underwater ballet. But with so many tour options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide is your complete resource for finding the best manta ray night snorkel Kona has to offer. We'll dive deep into 12 top-rated options, breaking down everything from boat types and group sizes to safety protocols and what makes each experience unique.

This listicle cuts through the noise to help you find the perfect tour for your needs, whether you're an adventurer seeking a once-in-a-lifetime thrill, a family wanting a safe and magical outing, or a marine life enthusiast eager to get up close with these majestic creatures. We provide a comprehensive overview of the top tour providers, including direct links and screenshots to streamline your booking process. For more information, you can visit the Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii homepage. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, this list will help you book the adventure of a lifetime.

Below, see what fellow travelers are saying about the premier tour operator, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii, before we explore all your options.

For those ready to experience this incredible tour, you can secure your spot now.

If you're looking for an exceptional alternative for a Manta Ray night snorkel tour or a Captain Cook snorkeling tour, we highly recommend checking out Kona Snorkel Trips. Their commitment to small groups and personalized experiences makes them a fantastic choice for any daytime or nighttime ocean adventure.

1. Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours

Best For: Overall Experience & Small Group Intimacy

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours stands out as a premier choice, meticulously balancing safety, education, and an awe-inspiring encounter. Their operation is engineered to deliver one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona experiences by focusing on small group sizes, which ensures personalized attention from lifeguard-certified guides and an unobstructed view of the majestic mantas. This approach transforms a great activity into an intimate and unforgettable natural spectacle.

The company’s high 90% success rate in manta sightings is a direct result of their expert knowledge and effective, high-powered lighting systems that attract plankton, the mantas' primary food source. For those planning their trip, you can learn more about what makes this a truly unforgettable adventure on their blog.

Key Features & Offerings

This operator provides a comprehensive package that covers all essentials, allowing guests to focus solely on the experience.

• Tour Options: Guests can choose between a stunning sunset tour, which often includes dramatic coastal views and potential whale sightings in season, or a later, more serene starlit tour.

• Expert Guidance: Every tour is led by highly trained, lifeguard-certified guides who provide an engaging and educational briefing on manta ray biology and conservation.

• Complete Gear: All necessary equipment is included, such as wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and custom flotation devices that allow you to comfortably float on the surface.

• Private Charters: For families or groups seeking a truly exclusive outing, private charters are available to create a personalized, crowd-free memory.

For those exploring a variety of tour operators, comparing options is key. For a comprehensive list of highly-rated operators, you might also find Kona's Top 10 Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tours a valuable resource.

Tours begin at $129, with booking available directly through their website, and swimming proficiency is required for all participants. If you're also considering other world-class snorkeling excursions, Kona Snorkel Trips offers an exceptional alternative for both manta ray tours and daytime trips to Captain Cook.

2. Sea Paradise

Sea Paradise stands out as one of the original and most reputable operators for the best manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website provides a straightforward booking experience for their tours, which depart from Keauhou Bay, a prime location for consistent manta ray sightings. Their signature vessel, the Hoku Nui, is a spacious 50-foot sailing catamaran, making it an excellent choice for those concerned about seasickness or looking for a more stable, comfortable ride.

The platform is particularly well-suited for families and mixed groups. A unique feature highlighted on their site is the ‘ride-along’ option, allowing non-snorkelers to enjoy the sunset and watch the mantas from the comfort of the boat. They also offer a sighting guarantee on their Sunset Manta Ray Snorkel tour, providing a voucher for another trip if mantas aren't seen, which adds significant peace of mind when booking.

Key Offerings and User Experience

• Tour Options: The website clearly presents two nightly departures: a sunset tour and a later moonlight tour.

• Vessel Type: The large catamaran provides a stable platform with ample space, restrooms, and a freshwater shower.

• Inclusions: Pricing is transparent, with all gear, wetsuits, and light refreshments included.

• Booking Process: Users can easily select their tour, date, and number of guests directly on the site, with clear pricing and availability.

• Limitations: Due to the catamaran's size, group sizes can be larger than those on smaller zodiac-style boats. Additionally, parking at the Keauhou Bay pier is limited, so arriving early is crucial.

Website: https://www.seaparadise.com/manta-ray-night-snorkel/

3. Big Island Divers

Big Island Divers’ website caters to those seeking a highly professional and safety-centric manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their platform clearly communicates that they are a premium dive and snorkel operator, with detailed information on their charter, crew qualifications, and safety protocols. Booking through their site is straightforward, but it emphasizes prerequisites, such as strong swimming skills, ensuring all participants are well-prepared for an open-ocean experience without flotation aids. This focus makes them a top choice for confident snorkelers and scuba divers.

The site highlights their commitment to small group sizes, which translates to a more personal and less crowded encounter with the mantas. A key feature is their manta sighting policy; if no mantas appear, guests are offered a standby seat on a future trip or a partial discount, providing a layer of assurance. Their detailed pre-trip briefing and attentive, lifeguard-certified crew appeal to those who prioritize a well-managed and secure tour. For another exceptional tour option, especially for a Manta Ray night snorkel tour or a Captain Cook snorkeling tour, consider checking out Kona Snorkel Trips.

Key Offerings and User Experience

• Tour Options: The website offers both manta night snorkel and scuba dive options, catering to different certification levels.

• Vessel Type: They operate purpose-built dive boats designed for efficiency and easy water access.

• Inclusions: All necessary gear, wetsuits, and light snacks are included in the transparently listed price.

• Booking Process: The online booking system is easy to navigate, showing real-time availability and clear pricing, though it can fluctuate during peak season.

• Limitations: The tour has a minimum age of 10 and strict requirements for swimming ability, as no flotation devices are permitted in the water. Due to their reputation and smaller group sizes, tours can fill up quickly.

Website: https://bigislanddivers.com/charters/snorkeling/kona-manta-ray-night- snorkel/

4. Sea Quest Hawaii

Sea Quest Hawaii offers a distinct alternative for the best manta ray night snorkel in Kona, focusing on smaller, more intimate tours. Their website highlights tours aboard rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RIBs), which provide quick and nimble access to the manta viewing sites. This approach is ideal for adventurers who prefer a more streamlined and faster-paced experience compared to larger, slower catamarans.

The platform emphasizes an educational and family-friendly atmosphere. A key feature detailed on their site is the engaging naturalist briefing provided by expert guides, which enhances the tour by offering context on manta ray biology and conservation. This educational focus makes it a great choice for families and first-time snorkelers who want to learn more about the marine life they are about to encounter. The small-group format ensures a more personal and guided experience in the water.

Key Offerings and User Experience

• Tour Options: The website presents a single, focused Manta Ray Night Snorkel tour, simplifying the booking decision.

• Vessel Type: Small, fast RIBs get you to the location efficiently, offering a more adventurous ride.

• Inclusions: Snorkel gear and a wetsuit top are included. Their website clearly outlines what to bring and expect.

• Booking Process: Users can select dates and guest numbers easily, but final pricing is typically revealed during the booking steps rather than on the main tour page.

• Limitations: The RIBs offer limited shade and seating compared to catamarans, and there are no onboard restrooms, which is a key consideration for some travelers.

Website: https://www.seaquesthawaii.com/

5. Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii

Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii is a longstanding, pioneering operator providing one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona experiences. Their website details their eco-adventure tours that depart from Honokohau Harbor, a convenient location for those staying north of Kailua-Kona. A key feature is their flexible approach to site selection; they choose the best location nightly based on conditions and recent manta activity, aiming to maximize sighting potential at spots like Garden Eel Cove.

The platform is particularly helpful for specific groups, as it prominently features published discounts for military, educators, first responders, and kamaʻāina (Hawaii residents). Their extensive FAQ section provides excellent guidance for planning and preparation, making the booking process feel well-supported. For those also interested in scuba diving options, you can find a comprehensive breakdown of diving with Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii for a deeper look into their offerings.

Key Offerings and User Experience

• Tour Options: The website focuses on a single, high-quality manta ray snorkel trip, simplifying the choice for visitors.

• Vessel Type: They operate purpose-built boats designed for easy water entry and exit, with direct dockside check-in.

• Inclusions: All necessary snorkel gear and wetsuits are provided for a comfortable experience.

• Booking Process: Users can book directly online, but pricing is only shown after selecting a date. Discount verification requires uploading an ID during the process.

• Limitations: The exact snorkel location is not guaranteed in advance, which may be a drawback for those wanting to visit a specific site. Upfront pricing transparency could be improved, as you must enter the booking flow to see the final cost.

Website: https://www.mantaraydiveshawaii.com/tours/manta-ray-snorkel/

6. Anelakai Adventures

Anelakai Adventures offers a starkly different and deeply traditional approach to the manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website showcases a unique, eco-friendly experience aboard a double-hull Hawaiian canoe, entirely paddle-powered. This motorless journey, featured by National Geographic, emphasizes a quiet and respectful connection to the ocean, making it ideal for those seeking an intimate, low-impact encounter with the mantas.

The platform is perfectly designed for very small groups, with a maximum capacity of just six guests per tour. This ensures an unparalleled, non-crowded experience. The website clearly explains the option for participants to snorkel or simply observe from the canoe, making it a fantastic choice for mixed groups with non-swimmers. The short, 10-minute paddle from Keauhou Bay makes the site easily accessible without the noise and fumes of a motorboat.

Key Offerings and User Experience

• Tour Options: The website focuses on one primary offering: the small-group, paddle-powered manta ray snorkel, with clear departure times.

• Vessel Type: A traditional, human-powered double-hull canoe provides an exceptionally quiet and eco-conscious platform.

• Inclusions: Pricing includes all necessary gear, but the experience itself is the main highlight.

• Booking Process: The site features a simple booking interface where users can see limited availability and reserve their spot. Due to the tiny group size, booking far in advance is essential.

• Limitations: Capacity is extremely limited and tours sell out quickly. The experience requires some physical mobility for paddling (though not strenuous) and getting in and out of the canoe.

Website: https://www.anelakaiadventures.com/adventures/manta-ray-snorkel-kona

7. The Manta & Snorkel Co.

The Manta & Snorkel Co. offers one of the most intimate and personalized encounters available for the best manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website focuses on a very specific niche: small-group tours capped at just six guests. This approach ensures an uncrowded experience and a fantastic guide-to-guest ratio. The tours depart from Keauhou Bay, and with a quick 3-minute powerboat ride to the manta site, they maximize your time in the water with these majestic animals.

The platform is ideal for those who dislike large crowds, such as serious photographers or families seeking a private-feeling excursion. A key feature highlighted on their site is the use of custom light boards, designed to attract more plankton and, consequently, more mantas directly to the group. The entire experience is focused on quality over quantity, providing a close-up and personal viewing opportunity. For answers to common questions about this unique activity, you can find helpful information by exploring this manta ray FAQ.

Key Offerings and User Experience

• Tour Options: The website presents a single, focused manta ray night snorkel tour, simplifying the booking decision.

• Vessel Type: A fast powerboat gets you to the site quickly, minimizing transit and potential seasickness.

• Inclusions: Pricing is transparent, starting around $150, and includes all necessary snorkel gear and wetsuits.

• Booking Process: The site features a straightforward booking system, though due to the tiny group size, availability is very limited and requires advance planning.

• Limitations: The primary drawbacks are the higher per-person cost compared to larger tour boats and the extremely limited availability. This tour is not suitable for those looking for a last-minute booking.

Website: https://www.themantasnorkelco.com/manta-ray-night-snorkel

8. Dolphin Discoveries

Dolphin Discoveries offers a streamlined and budget-conscious approach to the manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website focuses on a straightforward booking process for their tour, which departs from the convenient Keauhou Bay. The platform is ideal for travelers looking for a shorter, more direct experience, as their tour is a concise 2 hours, making it one of the more time-efficient options available. This makes them a strong contender for families or those with a packed itinerary.

The website's key differentiator is its transparent, two-tiered pricing structure. Users can choose a standard, lower-priced ticket or opt to pay a bit more for a Manta Sighting Guarantee. This a la carte approach gives snorkelers flexibility based on their budget and risk tolerance. While they operate with a slightly larger group capacity than some boutique tours, their competitive pricing and inclusion of essential gear make them an excellent value proposition.

Key Offerings and User Experience

• Tour Options: The website presents one primary manta ray night snorkel tour with clear departure times.

• Vessel Type: They operate mid-size boats designed for efficiency, accommodating groups of up to 16-28 passengers.

• Inclusions: Pricing clearly includes snorkel gear and essential wetsuit tops to keep you comfortable in the cool water.

• Booking Process: The site allows for easy booking, with a clear distinction between the standard fare and the guaranteed sighting option.

• Limitations: The manta guarantee is an add-on cost rather than being included standard. The group size may be larger than that of smaller, more intimate charters.

Website: https://www.dolphindiscoveries.com/snorkel-adventures-charters/kona-manta-ray-night-snorkel/

9. Manta Adventures

Manta Adventures offers a unique, extended experience that combines a beautiful sunset coastal cruise with the main event, making it more than just a quick trip out to see the rays. Their website clearly outlines this 3.5-hour tour, which is ideal for visitors who want to soak in the Kona coastline before their snorkel. The tour is conducted on their newer vessel, the Maheli-Heli, which provides a comfortable and modern platform for the evening's adventure.

The platform is particularly well-suited for groups with varying comfort levels in the water. A key feature highlighted on their website is the availability of "Observer" seats, allowing non-swimmers to join the excursion, enjoy the sunset, and watch the manta rays from the boat. This makes it a fantastic option for families or groups with mixed interests, ensuring no one is left out. The site's booking process is transparent, showing clear pricing tiers for adults, children, and observers.

Key Offerings and User Experience

• Tour Options: The website focuses on a single, comprehensive 3.5-hour sunset and manta snorkel tour.

• Vessel Type: The modern Maheli-Heli vessel accommodates up to 24 guests, offering a stable ride.

• Inclusions: All sanitized gear, wetsuits, and refreshments are included in the price.

• Booking Process: Users can easily book directly online, selecting participant types (adult, child, observer) for accurate pricing.

• Limitations: The extended 3.5-hour duration may be longer than desired for those seeking a quicker snorkel-focused trip. With a capacity of 24, the group size is larger than more intimate, small-boat tours.

Website: https://mantaadventures.com/tours/manta-night-snorkel/

10. Kona Ocean Adventures

Kona Ocean Adventures positions itself as a provider of intimate, small-group manta snorkel and scuba tours. Their website focuses heavily on the educational aspect, offering practical guidance on everything from what to bring to the influence of moon phases on manta ray behavior. This pre-trip information is invaluable for first-timers and helps set realistic expectations, making it a great resource for planning the best manta ray night snorkel in Kona.

The platform is ideal for those who prefer a less crowded experience or want to customize their adventure. With a clear emphasis on private charters, it caters to families or groups seeking a more personal and flexible tour. Their year-round operation ensures availability, though they transparently state that peak visibility is generally from May to October. You can learn more about Kona Ocean Adventures and their approach to these incredible encounters.

Key Offerings and User Experience

• Tour Options: The website presents a combined Manta Snorkel & Scuba Adventure, with prominent options for private charters.

• Group Size: Specializes in a small-group format to provide a more intimate and less intrusive experience with the mantas.

• Educational Content: The site offers excellent pre-trip information, including water temperatures and what to expect during different seasons.

• Booking Process: Users select a date to begin the booking process; however, pricing is not immediately visible on the main page and is only revealed within the booking portal.

• Limitations: The emphasis on private charters can mean that availability for standard, single-booking spots may be more limited. Upfront pricing transparency could be improved.

Website: https://konaoceanadventures.com/snorkeling/manta-snorkel-scuba-adventure/

11. Viator

Viator serves as a massive online marketplace for tours and activities, making it a valuable resource for finding a wide range of Kona manta ray night snorkel options in one place. Instead of representing a single operator, the platform aggregates listings from various local companies, allowing users to compare prices, schedules, and tour styles side-by-side. This is particularly useful for travelers booking last-minute or those wanting to see a broad spectrum of what's available on a specific date.

The platform’s strength lies in its user-generated content. Each listing features verified customer reviews, ratings, and photos, providing authentic insights that help in decision-making. Features like instant booking confirmation, mobile tickets, and flexible cancellation policies add a layer of convenience and security to the booking process. The ability to filter results based on price, duration, and rating makes it easy to narrow down the perfect tour for the best manta ray night snorkel in Kona.

Key Offerings and User Experience

• Tour Options: The website lists numerous tours from different operators, ranging from large catamarans to smaller, more intimate zodiac-style boats.

• Vessel Type: Varies significantly by listing, so it is crucial to read the details of each specific tour to understand the boat type and group size.

• Inclusions: Inclusions are specific to each tour operator but are generally clearly listed, covering gear, snacks, and wetsuits.

• Booking Process: A streamlined interface allows for easy comparison and booking, with clear availability calendars and secure payment options.

• Limitations: Prices may include embedded service fees, potentially making direct booking with an operator like Kona Snorkel Trips a more cost-effective choice. The sheer number of options can also be overwhelming, and tour quality can vary between providers on the platform.

Website: https://www.viator.com/

12. GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide serves as a curated online travel marketplace, offering a variety of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona tours from different local operators. Its platform is distinguished by user-friendly features like the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, which allows travelers to secure their spot well in advance without an immediate financial commitment. This is particularly useful for planning trips during peak season when availability is limited.

The website excels at providing clear, upfront information for each listing. Users will find transparent details on meeting points, what to bring, and any specific fitness requirements, which simplifies the decision-making process. The manta guarantee policy for each tour is also prominently displayed, ensuring snorkelers know what to expect if the mantas are a no-show. The consistent, mobile-first booking flow makes reserving a tour on the go simple and efficient.

Key Offerings and User Experience

• Tour Options: The platform aggregates tours from multiple Kona operators, providing a range of vessel types and departure times.

• Booking Flexibility: The "Reserve Now & Pay Later" feature is a major advantage for locking in availability without immediate payment.

• Transparency: Listings clearly outline inclusions, meeting instructions, and operator-specific manta sighting guarantee policies.

• Booking Process: A streamlined, mobile-friendly interface allows for easy comparison and booking, with instant confirmation.

• Limitations: While a great resource, some listed tours have strict no-refund policies for no-sighting nights, offering a re-ride credit instead. The selection of Kona-specific manta tours may also be less extensive compared to larger aggregators like Viator.

Website: https://www.getyourguide.com/

Top 12 Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tours in Kona Comparison

Choosing Your Perfect Manta Encounter

You've explored the comprehensive list of operators, each offering a unique portal into one of the most mesmerizing underwater ballets on the planet. From the large, feature-rich vessels of Sea Paradise to the culturally immersive canoe paddles of Anelakai Adventures, the sheer variety ensures there is a perfect experience waiting for every type of traveler. The key to finding the best manta ray night snorkel in Kona for you is to align your personal preferences with what each company excels at.

We've broken down the factors that matter most: boat size, group capacity, tour duration, and those extra amenities that can elevate a great trip into an unforgettable one. For families with young children or less confident swimmers, a larger, more stable catamaran with onboard restrooms might be the ideal choice. Conversely, seasoned adventurers seeking a more intimate and direct connection with the ocean might gravitate towards the smaller, faster raft-style boats or even the eco-conscious outrigger canoes.

Key Takeaways for Your Decision

Before you make your final selection, let’s distill the most critical points from this guide. Reflect on these factors to clarify your priorities and confidently choose your tour.

• Group Size is Paramount: The difference between a 12-person raft and a 49-passenger catamaran is significant. A smaller group often means more personalized attention from the crew and a less crowded experience at the manta viewing site.

• Location Matters: While most tours depart from Keauhou Bay, some operators use Honokohau Harbor. Check the departure point and ensure it’s convenient for your accommodation, factoring in Kona's evening traffic.

• Check Inclusions: Does the tour include wetsuits, snorkel gear, snacks, and drinks? Knowing what's provided helps you pack appropriately and avoid unexpected rental fees.

• Conservation is Key: The best operators are deeply committed to the well-being of the manta rays. Look for companies that follow Manta Ray Green List guidelines and educate their guests on responsible interaction.

As you prepare for your magical night snorkel, remember the importance of ocean conservation by choosing environmentally friendly products. Protecting the delicate coral ecosystems these mantas inhabit is a shared responsibility, and simple choices can make a big impact. A great first step is understanding reef safe sunscreen and applying it well before you enter the water.

Finalizing Your Manta Ray Adventure

Ultimately, every tour on this list offers a chance to witness something truly spectacular. The feeling of a 15-foot manta ray gracefully gliding inches beneath you is a core memory in the making. Your task is simply to choose the vessel and crew that will best facilitate that moment. For those seeking a fantastic alternative that consistently delivers exceptional small-group experiences for both manta ray night snorkels and daytime Captain Cook adventures, consider Kona Snorkel Trips as a top-tier option.

This experience is more than just an activity; it's a profound connection with nature that will leave you with a renewed sense of awe and a deeper appreciation for the marine world. You are now equipped with all the information needed to select the tour that best fits your budget, comfort level, and adventure style. The gentle giants of Kona are waiting.

Ready to book an unforgettable encounter with Kona's majestic manta rays? For a premier experience that expertly balances small-group intimacy with professional, safety-conscious guiding, look no further than Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours. They are dedicated to providing one of the best manta ray night snorkel experiences in Kona, ensuring your adventure is both magical and memorable.