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

Imagine floating in the calm, dark waters off the Kona coast as gentle giants, some with wingspans over 15 feet, glide gracefully beneath you. The manta ray night snorkel is one of Hawaii's most magical and sought-after experiences, a true bucket-list adventure that connects you with the ocean's mystique. These majestic creatures gather nightly to feed on plankton attracted by underwater lights, creating a mesmerizing ballet you have to see to believe. But with so many tour options available, choosing the best manta ray night snorkel Kona tour can feel overwhelming.

This guide simplifies your decision. We’ve meticulously reviewed the top tour operators, detailing their unique offerings, vessel types, group sizes, and what makes each one stand out. You'll find a clear, actionable comparison to help you select the perfect adventure for your family, group, or solo trip. Each entry includes direct links to their websites, ensuring you can book with confidence. See what fellow ocean lovers say about their experience with us at Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii:

For those seeking a premier small-group experience, our partners at Kona Snorkel Trips offer an exceptional manta ray night snorkel and are also a top choice for a Captain Cook snorkeling tour. Dive into our comprehensive list to find the perfect tour for your unforgettable Hawaiian vacation.

1. Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours stands out as a premier operator, offering one of the most well-rounded and professionally managed experiences for encountering Kona’s gentle giants. Their commitment to small group sizes, safety, and a high-quality guest experience makes them a top contender for the best manta ray night snorkel in Kona. The company’s focus on personalized attention ensures that every participant, from seasoned snorkelers to excited first-timers, feels comfortable and gets an incredible view of the manta rays.

Their operation is distinguished by its meticulous planning and execution. Guests receive a thorough briefing on manta ray biology and safe interaction protocols, fostering an atmosphere of respect for the marine environment. This educational component enriches the adventure, turning a thrilling swim into a deeper appreciation for these magnificent creatures.

Key Features and Tour Options

What truly sets this tour apart is its flexibility and attention to detail. They offer two distinct departure times, each providing a unique ambiance for your adventure.

• Sunset Tour: This earlier trip allows you to witness a spectacular Hawaiian sunset from the water, a breathtaking experience in itself. During whale season (December to March), you might also catch sight of humpback whales.

• Later Night Tour: For those who prefer a more serene setting, the later departure offers a chance to swim under a brilliant canopy of stars, with the glow of the underwater lights creating a dramatic contrast against the dark ocean.

Safety is paramount, with all guides being lifeguard-certified. They lead small, intimate groups, which is a significant advantage over larger, more crowded tours. This ensures that guides can provide immediate assistance and that every guest has an unobstructed, front-row seat to the manta feeding frenzy. With a remarkable 90% success rate for sightings, your chances of a memorable encounter are exceptionally high.

For those planning their trip, you can delve deeper into what makes this adventure so special by checking out their guide on snorkeling with manta rays in Kona.

Pricing and Booking

The tour is competitively priced, starting from $139 per person for a group excursion. For those seeking a more exclusive experience for families or special events, private charters are available starting at $1999. All necessary equipment, including wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and flotation devices, is provided.

For those considering other high-quality marine adventures, Kona Snorkel Trips offers an exceptional alternative, with both manta ray tours and popular trips to Kealakekua Bay for a Captain Cook snorkeling tour.

Given its popularity as one of Kona's #1 nighttime activities, booking well in advance through their website, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii, is highly recommended to secure your spot.

2. Big Island Divers

For those prioritizing a professional, dive-centric experience, Big Island Divers stands out as a top-tier operator. Their website reflects their long-standing reputation in Kona, offering a streamlined booking process for their highly regarded manta ray night snorkel. The platform is transparent about prerequisites, making it clear this tour is best suited for confident swimmers.

What sets Big Island Divers apart is their Manta Sighting Guarantee. If your tour doesn't encounter any mantas, they allow you to rebook for free on a space-available basis. This traveler-friendly policy, detailed clearly on their site, provides peace of mind and demonstrates their confidence in delivering an exceptional wildlife encounter. This commitment makes them one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona tour providers.

Key Features and Booking Information

The Big Island Divers website is comprehensive, featuring a detailed FAQ section and clear safety requirements. This ensures every participant is prepared for the adventure. You can easily find information on what to bring, what's included (like snacks and non-alcoholic drinks), and the physical requirements for the tour.

• Pricing: Starts around $129 per person, but be aware of potential surcharges for fuel and peak dates.

• Group Size: They focus on smaller groups, enhancing the personal feel of the experience.

• Requirements: A minimum age of 10 and strong swimming abilities are mandatory, which may exclude families with very young children.

• Departure Times: The site offers multiple tour times, including a popular sunset departure and a later "Manta II" trip, giving you flexibility in planning your evening.

For more details on what to expect, check out this in-depth guide to the Big Island Divers experience at Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii.

Pros:

• Excellent local reputation and professional crew.

• Manta Sighting Guarantee with a free re-ride policy.

• Smaller group sizes for a more intimate experience.

Cons:

• Strict swimming requirements and age limits.

• Final price can be higher than the base rate due to extras.

Website: https://bigislanddivers.com/

3. Sea Quest Hawai‘i

For those seeking a streamlined and accessible manta ray experience, Sea Quest Hawai‘i offers a popular tour departing directly from Keauhou Bay, the world-famous "Manta Village." Their website presents a clear, family-friendly approach, focusing on a shorter, high-impact tour that gets you in the water quickly and efficiently. It’s an excellent choice for visitors who want the full spectacle without committing an entire evening.

What makes Sea Quest stand out is its convenience and focus. With a tour duration of approximately 1.5 hours, it's one of the easiest excursions to fit into a packed vacation schedule. The website clearly outlines the prerequisites, recommending prior snorkeling experience and noting that participants should be comfortable in the ocean. This directness helps manage expectations and ensures a safer, more enjoyable trip for everyone, cementing its place as one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona tours available.

Key Features and Booking Information

The Sea Quest Hawai‘i website simplifies the booking process with upfront details on what to expect. You’ll find clear safety guidelines, age requirements, and notes on what makes their location prime for manta sightings. This straightforward presentation makes it easy for families and small groups to plan their adventure with confidence.

• Pricing: Tours start around $119 per person, offering competitive value for the experience.

• Group Size: Offers both standard group tours and options for private charters, perfect for families or those wanting a more exclusive trip.

• Requirements: Minimum age of 7, and while not mandatory, previous snorkeling experience is highly recommended for comfort and safety.

• Departure Times: Nightly departures are scheduled to maximize the chances of manta encounters, with times clearly listed on their booking platform.

You can learn more details about what to expect on this adventure in this in-depth guide to Kona Manta Ray Snorkeling.

Pros:

• Convenient departure from Keauhou Bay, a prime manta viewing location.

• Short tour duration is easy to fit into any schedule.

• Private charter options are available for a personalized experience.

Cons:

• Not suitable for non-swimmers or those with no prior snorkeling experience.

• No "dry" observer option for those who don't want to get in the water.

Website: https://www.seaquesthawaii.com/reservations-2/night-manta-experience/

4. Sea Paradise

For those seeking a comfortable and family-friendly option, Sea Paradise offers an experience rooted in history and stability. Operating since 1985, their website highlights their signature tour aboard a large, spacious sailing catamaran. This makes it an ideal choice for first-time snorkelers, families with varied age groups, or anyone prone to seasickness, as the larger vessel provides a smoother ride.

What truly distinguishes Sea Paradise is their accessibility. Their website prominently features a "Ride-Along" ticket, allowing non-swimmers to join the adventure and watch the majestic mantas from the boat's comfort. This inclusive approach, combined with their Manta Guarantee (a free re-ride if no mantas are seen), ensures everyone in the group can participate, solidifying their spot as one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona tours for mixed groups.

Key Features and Booking Information

The Sea Paradise website is user-friendly, with clear booking options for snorkelers and ride-along guests. Departing directly from Keauhou Bay, the tour has a short travel time to the manta site. The site details what is included, such as hot drinks and snacks, and provides clear instructions on what to bring for the 1.5 to 2-hour excursion.

• Pricing: Snorkelers are around $130 per adult and $115 per child, while ride-along tickets are about $65, plus taxes and fees.

• Group Size: The catamaran accommodates larger groups, which is great for bigger families but offers a less intimate feel than smaller boats.

• Requirements: Open to a wide range of ages; non-swimmers are welcome to book ride-along tickets.

• Departure Times: Offers multiple evening departures, allowing you to choose a time that best fits your vacation schedule.

To understand how their catamaran experience compares to others, check out this guide on Kona manta ray tours.

Pros:

• Large, stable catamaran is comfortable and ideal for families.

• "Ride-Along" option allows non-swimmers to participate.

• Manta Guarantee provides a free second trip if no mantas are sighted.

Cons:

• Larger group sizes can feel less personal.

• Restriction on phone lanyards means you need a dedicated waterproof camera.

Website: https://www.seaparadise.com/1st-2nd-manta-ray-night-snorkel/

5. Anelakai Adventures

For those seeking a truly unique, intimate, and eco-conscious encounter, Anelakai Adventures offers a departure from the typical motorized boat tour. Their website showcases a culturally-grounded experience aboard a traditional Hawaiian-style double-hull canoe. This paddle-powered approach provides an exceptionally quiet and low-impact way to enjoy one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona tours available.

What truly sets Anelakai Adventures apart is its non-motorized, small-group philosophy. With a maximum of around six guests, the experience feels personal and uncrowded, allowing for a serene connection with the ocean. This distinctive approach, featured by National Geographic, is perfect for those who are anxious about large boats or simply prefer a more sustainable form of wildlife tourism. Their website also highlights a non-swimmer option, allowing guests to view the mantas from the stability of the canoe.

Key Features and Booking Information

The Anelakai Adventures website clearly communicates its unique value proposition, focusing on culture, sustainability, and intimacy. Booking directly is recommended, as the site provides the most accurate availability for their limited tour spots. You can find details about the physical requirements of paddling and what makes their canoe experience special.

• Pricing: Pricing is not always prominently listed on the main pages; you may need to proceed to the booking calendar for the most current rates.

• Group Size: Extremely small groups (typically 6 guests), making it one of the most personal tours in Kona.

• Requirements: While there is a viewing-only option, participants who snorkel should be comfortable in the water. The paddle out requires moderate physical effort.

• Departure Times: The tour departs from Keauhou Bay, with timing centered around sunset to maximize manta viewing opportunities.

For a comprehensive look at all your manta ray tour options, visit the Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii homepage. If you're looking for another top-rated experience, consider Kona Snorkel Trips, an exceptional alternative for both manta ray night snorkel tours and Captain Cook snorkeling tours.

Pros:

• Incredibly intimate and uncrowded with very small groups.

• Eco-friendly, paddle-powered canoe is quiet and sustainable.

• Offers a unique cultural experience and a non-swimmer viewing option.

Cons:

• Sells out very quickly due to extremely limited capacity.

• Requires some physical effort to paddle to the site.

• The experience differs significantly from a traditional motorized boat tour.

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

6. Kona Ocean Experience

For adventurous travelers seeking an efficient and intimate encounter, Kona Ocean Experience offers a distinct alternative with its zodiac-style boat tours. Their website clearly presents a streamlined, no-frills approach, focusing on getting you to the manta ray site quickly and affordably. This tour is ideal for those who prefer a faster, more exhilarating boat ride over a larger, slower vessel.

What sets Kona Ocean Experience apart is its small-group, high-speed model. Departing from Keauhou Harbor on a rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RIB), the journey is part of the adventure. The website details their strategy of using later departure times to arrive at the snorkel site when it's less crowded, providing a more personal viewing experience. This focus on efficiency and intimacy makes them a top contender for the best manta ray night snorkel Kona offers.

Key Features and Booking Information

The Kona Ocean Experience website is straightforward, allowing for easy booking and clear understanding of the tour. They offer two main options: a standard night snorkel and a sunset-plus-manta combo, giving visitors flexibility. All necessary gear, including wetsuits and flotation aids, is included in the transparent pricing.

• Pricing: The night manta snorkel is around $115 per adult, while the sunset and manta combo tour is about $125 per person.

• Group Size: Tours are kept small to fit the zodiac boat, ensuring an uncrowded and personal experience on the water.

• Requirements: Minimum age and adequate swimming skills are required. The bouncy nature of the RIB ride may be challenging for those prone to motion sickness.

• Departure Times: The site lists later departure times, strategically planned to minimize time spent with larger tour groups.

To see how this tour compares to others, check out this guide to the top 2025 manta ray snorkel tours in Kona.

Pros:

• Clear, competitive pricing with all-inclusive gear.

• Small group sizes for a more intimate viewing experience.

• Later departure options can lead to less crowded conditions at the site.

Cons:

• Zodiac rides can be bouncy, which isn't suitable for everyone.

• Basic amenities with a focus on the snorkel experience itself.

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

7. Viator

For travelers who value comparison and variety, Viator serves as a comprehensive marketplace for booking your Kona adventure. Instead of featuring just one operator, the platform aggregates numerous manta ray night snorkel tours, allowing you to compare prices, schedules, and vessel types all in one place. Its powerful filtering tools and extensive user reviews make it an essential resource for finding the tour that best fits your budget and preferences.

What makes Viator stand out is its flexibility and user-driven feedback. You can read unfiltered reviews from recent snorkelers, giving you authentic insight into the experience provided by different local companies. The platform's "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option and 24-hour free cancellation policy on many listings provide unparalleled booking freedom, reducing the risk of changing travel plans. This makes it a strong contender for the best manta ray night snorkel Kona booking platform.

Key Features and Booking Information

Viator’s interface simplifies the booking process by standardizing information across different tour providers. You can easily see what’s included, the meeting point, and specific tour requirements without having to navigate multiple websites. This centralized approach saves time and helps you make a well-informed decision.

• Pricing: Varies significantly by operator, from budget-friendly options around $115 to premium small-group tours over $180.

• Group Size: Options range from large boats accommodating 40+ guests to intimate six-passenger vessels.

• Requirements: Each listing specifies its own age and swimming ability requirements, so be sure to read the details carefully.

• Departure Times: Offers a wide selection of departure times, including early evening, sunset, and late-night options to fit any itinerary.

When looking for an exceptional alternative, consider a Manta Ray night snorkel tour with a top-rated local operator like Kona Snorkel Trips.

Pros:

• Easy comparison shopping across dozens of operators and tour types.

• Robust customer support and a massive base of traveler reviews.

• Flexible booking with free cancellation and "pay later" options.

Cons:

• Marketplace fees can sometimes increase the total cost compared to booking direct.

• Re-ride guarantees and other policies vary by the individual supplier listed.

Website: https://www.viator.com/tours/Big-Island-of-Hawaii/Manta-Ray-Night-Snorkel-from-Kona/d669-3226MANTA

Top 7 Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tours Comparison

Making Your Choice and Planning Your Kona Adventure

You've explored the top contenders for the best manta ray night snorkel in Kona, from large, stable catamarans to swift, intimate Zodiac-style boats. Each operator, including Big Island Divers, Sea Quest Hawai‘i, and Anelakai Adventures, offers a unique window into the mesmerizing underwater ballet of these gentle giants. The key to an unforgettable experience lies in matching the tour’s characteristics to your personal travel style.

This guide has equipped you with the details needed to make an informed decision. We’ve broken down everything from boat types and group sizes to check-in locations and eco-friendly practices, ensuring you can choose with confidence. Remember that no matter which tour you select, you are participating in a globally unique and truly magical wildlife encounter.

Key Takeaways for Selecting Your Tour

To finalize your decision, consider these critical factors one last time. Your ideal tour is a balance between comfort, adventure, and your specific needs as a traveler.

• Group Size & Vibe: Do you prefer the energy of a larger group or the personalized attention of a small-boat charter? Operators like Sea Paradise often cater to bigger crowds, while companies such as Kona Ocean Experience focus on intimate, small-group dynamics.

• Boat Comfort vs. Speed: A larger vessel like those used by some major operators provides more stability and amenities, which is great for families or those prone to seasickness. In contrast, smaller, faster rafts offer a thrilling ride and quicker travel to the snorkel site.

• Eco-Consciousness: Many operators are Manta Ray Green Certified. If supporting sustainable tourism is important to you, look for this certification when booking your best manta ray night snorkel Kona experience.

• Your Group's Needs: Are you traveling with young children, non-swimmers, or someone with mobility concerns? Be sure to confirm age restrictions and accessibility with your chosen operator before you book.

Finalizing Your Plans

Once you've narrowed down your options, the most crucial next step is to book in advance. The manta ray night snorkel is one of the Big Island’s most popular activities, and tours fill up weeks, sometimes months, ahead of time, especially during peak season.

We believe that for an unparalleled, small-group experience focused on safety and deep respect for marine life, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii stands out. As a top-rated local operator, we are dedicated to providing a memorable and educational adventure.

For those looking for an exceptional alternative or hoping to add another premier snorkeling excursion to their itinerary, consider Kona Snorkel Trips. They provide outstanding manta ray night snorkel tours and are also highly regarded for their daytime trips to the pristine Kealakekua Bay, home of the Captain Cook monument.

No matter which path you choose, you are preparing for an evening of pure wonder that will undoubtedly become a core memory of your Hawaiian vacation.

Ready to witness Kona's world-famous manta rays up close? At Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours, we offer an intimate, top-rated experience that connects you with this incredible natural wonder. Book your unforgettable adventure with us today at Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours and create memories that will last a lifetime.