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Top 10 Best Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tours in Kona (2025 Guide)

  • Byron
  • Aug 18
  • 13 min read

The Big Island of Hawaii offers a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience: swimming alongside gentle giant manta rays as they feed under the stars. This magical encounter is consistently ranked as one of the world's top night dives, but choosing the right operator can make all the difference. This guide breaks down the top 10 options for the best manta ray night snorkel Kona has to offer, helping you select the perfect tour based on group size, boat comfort, and overall experience. At Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii, we pride ourselves on providing an exceptional and safe adventure, as our reviews show:


We'll cover everything from intimate small-group tours to comfortable catamaran cruises, ensuring you have the information needed to book your unforgettable adventure. Let's explore the best companies to guide you into the dark, plankton-rich waters for a breathtaking ballet you'll never forget.


1. Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii


Topping our list, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii delivers an unparalleled and intimate adventure, solidifying its position as the best manta ray night snorkel in Kona. This operator distinguishes itself with a steadfast commitment to small group sizes, ensuring a personalized and respectful encounter with the majestic manta rays. Each tour is led by lifeguard-certified guides who prioritize safety and provide rich educational insights, making it an ideal choice for both first-time snorkelers and seasoned marine enthusiasts.


This company excels by offering a boutique experience that larger operators often miss. The focus is on quality over quantity, which translates to more space in the water and direct interaction with knowledgeable guides. They offer two nightly departures: a sunset tour that captures the stunning coastal views and a later after-dark trip for a dramatic experience under the stars. For those seeking an exclusive adventure, private charter options are available, perfect for families and groups.


Key Strengths and Features


This operator provides a comprehensive, high-quality experience from start to finish.


  • Small-Group Focus: Unlike many larger boats, they limit participant numbers. This approach minimizes crowding at the viewing site and maximizes your personal interaction with the guides and marine life.

  • Expert, Certified Guides: Safety is paramount, with all guides being lifeguard-certified. Their expertise not only ensures a secure environment but also enriches the tour with fascinating facts about manta ray behavior and conservation.

  • Flexible Tour Times: The choice between a sunset and a later after-dark tour allows you to customize the experience to your preference, whether you want to enjoy a beautiful Hawaiian sunset on the water or dive straight into the nocturnal ocean world.

  • All-Inclusive Gear: High-quality snorkeling gear and wetsuits are provided, ensuring you are comfortable and properly equipped for the water temperature after dark.


This tour is the definitive choice for those who value safety, personalized attention, and an educational component in their adventure. It is especially well-suited for families (ages 5+) and anyone who wants a more meaningful and less crowded encounter with Kona’s gentle giants. To dive deeper into what makes this an unforgettable adventure, you can learn more on their blog.

Practical Considerations


While this tour stands out, there are a few things to keep in mind. Participants must have basic swimming skills, as this is an in-water activity. Pricing information is not listed directly on the website, so you will need to inquire or proceed to their booking platform to view current rates and availability for your desired date. For those exploring different high-quality options, Kona Snorkel Trips offers an exceptional alternative for both Manta Ray night snorkel tours and Captain Cook snorkeling tours.


2. Big Island Divers


Big Island Divers’ website serves as a comprehensive booking and information portal for one of Kona’s most established operators. It stands out by providing transparent operational details, including a clear ‘no manta’ re-ride policy and a unique online manta sighting calendar. This feature allows potential snorkelers to track recent activity at their two primary sites, Keauhou Bay and Garden Eel Cove, helping manage expectations. Their site is ideal for mixed groups, as they cater to both snorkelers and divers on the same USCG-inspected vessels.


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The user experience is straightforward, focusing on safety and clear pre-trip guidance. While pricing is standard for the industry, their value comes from a strong safety record and crew credentials, all detailed online. A key limitation noted is that full-face snorkel masks are not permitted, and a solid comprehension of English is required for the safety briefing. Booking directly through their site is recommended, as their popularity means prime dates fill up quickly, a testament to their reputation as one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona tours. You can discover more about Big Island Divers in detailed reviews.


  • Best For: Mixed groups of snorkelers and certified divers who prioritize a long-standing operator with a proven safety culture.

  • Website: https://bigislanddivers.com/


3. Sea Paradise (Hoku Nui catamaran)


Sea Paradise’s website highlights its premium catamaran experience, departing directly from Keauhou Bay for a swift journey to the renowned "Manta Ray Village" site. The platform is transparent, clearly outlining its two nightly tour options designed to manage crowd sizes and its "manta guarantee" re-booking policy. A significant advantage detailed on the site is the stability and comfort of their 50-foot Hoku Nui sailing catamaran, which features an onboard restroom and ample space, making it a great choice for families and those prone to motion sickness.


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The user experience focuses on ease of booking and showcases the all-inclusive nature of the tour, with wet suits and snorkel gear provided. Pricing is stable and clearly presented, eliminating surprises. A noted limitation is the minimum age requirement of 7, and guests are expected to be comfortable swimmers. While the catamaran offers more amenities, it can feel busier than smaller raft tours. Booking online is straightforward, making it one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona options for those seeking comfort and a short travel time to the site.



4. Sea Quest Hawaii


Sea Quest Hawaii’s website is designed for adventurers seeking a quick and intimate encounter. Specializing in tours departing from Keauhou Bay, the closest harbor to the Manta Ray Village site, their platform highlights a fast, 1.5-hour experience on rigid inflatable rafts. This small-group approach is ideal for confident swimmers, a prerequisite clearly stated online to manage expectations. The site provides a straightforward booking process for their guided, in-water tours, emphasizing the efficiency of their operation.


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While the nimble rafts offer unparalleled speed to the site, the website honestly reflects that they lack the amenities of larger vessels, such as restrooms. This focus on a swift, no-frills snorkel trip makes Sea Quest a top choice for those staying south of Kailua-Kona or anyone wanting to maximize their evening. Booking is simple, but the strict swimming and snorkeling experience requirement means this is not the best manta ray night snorkel Kona option for beginners.



5. Fair Wind Cruises (Hula Kai)


Fair Wind’s website offers a premium booking experience for their Hula Kai catamaran, focusing on comfort and high-end amenities. The platform clearly details their tour from Keauhou Bay, which boasts a very short, five-minute boat ride to the Manta Village site, making it an excellent choice for those prone to seasickness. Their site highlights the comfort-forward aspects like post-snorkel hot cocoa and vegan soup, and includes necessary gear like wetsuits and prescription masks in the price. The online booking process is transparent, showing seasonally variable pricing and providing a comprehensive FAQ section.


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The user experience is geared toward snorkelers who value service and vessel quality. A key highlight on the site is their prominent eco-pledge, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers. Limitations are also clearly stated: the tour has a minimum age of seven and is better suited for those with some snorkeling experience. While their prices can be higher than smaller boat operators, the consistent five-star reviews and premium service make it one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona tours for those seeking a more luxurious outing.



6. Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii


Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii’s website is geared toward the enthusiast who prioritizes deep expertise and education. The site clearly outlines options for both snorkelers and certified divers, including one and two-tank dive choices, all departing from Honokōhau Harbor. Its value lies in its specialized focus; this is an operator dedicated almost exclusively to manta encounters. The site provides live booking calendars and very specific prerequisites, ensuring guests are well-prepared for the experience.


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The user experience is direct, emphasizing safety protocols and the educational component of their tours. Special discounts for residents, educators, and the military are a notable feature detailed on the site. A key consideration is that it’s a small-boat operation, which means limited capacity for non-participating ride-alongs and a more intimate group setting. For those seeking one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona experiences with a strong educational backbone, this is a top-tier choice. You can learn more about their dive-focused tours in this guide.



7. Manta Adventures


Manta Adventures' website presents a compelling option for those seeking an all-in-one evening experience. Their platform clearly markets a 3.5-hour tour that combines a sunset cruise with the manta snorkel, departing from Honokōhau Harbor. A standout feature easily found on their site is the “Observer” ticket, allowing non-swimmers to join the boat trip at a reduced price, making it an excellent choice for groups with mixed interests. The site emphasizes their use of newer boats and sterilized gear for comfort and hygiene.


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The user experience is simple, focused on a direct booking process for their daily tours. While the total trip duration is longer than some competitors, the value is in the combined sunset cruise element. A potential drawback is the larger group size, which can reach up to 24 guests, offering a less intimate setting. However, for families and those prioritizing a full evening on the water, Manta Adventures provides one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona packages available directly through their site.



8. Dolphin Discoveries


Dolphin Discoveries’ website offers a straightforward booking platform for their 2-hour manta ray night snorkel, departing conveniently from Keauhou Bay. The site clearly presents two fare types: a standard rate and a premium 'Manta Guarantee' option, providing a safety net for those concerned about sightings. This makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers who still want some assurance. All necessary information, including what’s provided (wetsuit tops, gear) and clear check-in details, is easily accessible, simplifying the planning process.


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The user experience is simple, focusing on getting you booked quickly without unnecessary frills. While their pricing is competitive, potential guests should note the minimum age of 6 and the requirement to be comfortable swimming. The main limitation presented on the site is the potential for larger group sizes, with vessels accommodating 16-28 passengers. For those seeking one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona experiences with a reliable operator and flexible booking options, Dolphin Discoveries is a strong contender.



9. The Manta & Snorkel Co – Kona


The Manta & Snorkel Co’s website is built for snorkelers seeking a highly personalized and intimate encounter. It clearly markets its main advantage: micro-group tours limited to about six guests. This focus on small numbers translates to a less crowded experience in the water. The site details their fast-boat approach from Keauhou Bay, which gets you to the Manta Ray Village viewing site in just three minutes, maximizing your in-water time. Booking is straightforward, with options to add a GoPro rental directly online.


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The platform is ideal for photographers or small private parties who value personalized attention from the guides. While the per-person cost is higher than that of larger vessel tours, the value lies in the quality of the encounter. A key consideration noted on the site is their strict requirement for competent swimming abilities, ensuring guest safety. Due to the very limited capacity, tours sell out quickly, making advanced online booking essential for those wanting one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona experiences. You can learn more about snorkeling with manta rays in Kona and what to expect on these tours.



10. Hawaiian Adventures Kona


Hawaiian Adventures Kona’s website focuses on a premium, small-group experience, distinguishing itself by running only one tour per night. This approach minimizes crowding and enhances the quality of the encounter, a key selling point highlighted on their booking page. The site details their modern vessel, the Artemis, which features a rare and welcome amenity: onboard hot showers. This small luxury significantly improves post-snorkel comfort on cooler nights, making it a standout feature for those who dread the chilly boat ride back.


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The user experience is clean, emphasizing value-added features like early booking discounts and the quality of their gear. A key limitation is the single departure time, which offers less flexibility than operators running multiple nightly trips. Additionally, their departure from Honokōhau Harbor can mean a longer boat ride depending on the chosen snorkel site. This operator provides one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona experiences for those prioritizing comfort and a less crowded atmosphere. You can learn more about their manta ray tour in dedicated reviews.



Bonus: Booking Marketplaces


Viator (marketplace aggregator)


Viator serves as a comprehensive marketplace, aggregating numerous Kona manta ray night snorkel operators into a single, searchable platform. It excels at allowing users to compare different tours, prices, and time slots side-by-side, which is ideal for last-minute planning or finding availability during peak season. The site’s strength lies in its extensive user reviews and photos, providing unfiltered feedback that helps manage expectations. Features like "Reserve Now & Pay Later" and generous free cancellation policies offer booking flexibility not always available when dealing directly with smaller operators.


While convenient, it’s important to note that customer service inquiries are handled by Viator, not the tour provider, which can create an extra layer of communication if issues arise. Embedded service fees may also slightly inflate the final price. However, for travelers prioritizing a wide selection and robust booking protection, Viator is a powerful tool for securing a spot on one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona tours available, often with the bonus of app-based e-vouchers and reminders.



GetYourGuide (marketplace aggregator)


GetYourGuide serves as a major marketplace aggregator where travelers can find and book multiple Kona manta ray night snorkel tours from various operators on a single platform. It stands out for its user-friendly interface, powerful filtering tools, and often competitive pricing with periodic discounts. The platform is ideal for last-minute planners or those who prefer managing all their vacation activities through one app, offering features like instant confirmation and flexible payment options on many listings.


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The booking experience is streamlined, with clear inclusions like gear and guides listed for each tour. A key advantage is the ability to compare different departure times, including late-night options that are less crowded. However, a notable limitation is that not all top-tier local operators are listed, and the terms of the "manta guarantee" can vary significantly between providers. This makes it a great tool for comparing options, but booking directly is sometimes better.



Top Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tours Comparison


Tour Operator

Core Features/Experience ✨

User Experience/Quality ★

Value & Pricing 💰

Target Audience 👥

Unique Selling Points 🏆

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii 🏆

Night snorkel with manta rays, 2 tour times, private charters

Lifeguard-certified guides, small groups, gear provided

Contact for pricing 💰

Ages 5+, ocean lovers, families

Personalized safety, sunset & night tours ✨

Big Island Divers

Mixed snorkel/dive boats, manta sighting calendar

Strong safety culture, clear policies

Not publicly listed 💰

Snorkelers & divers, safety-focused

No manta re-ride policy, online sighting ✨

Sea Paradise (Hoku Nui catamaran)

Catamaran tours, wetsuits & gear included, 2 departure nights

Family-friendly, smooth boat ride

Transparent pricing online 💰

Families 7+, motion sensitive guests

Spacious vessel, crowd management ✨

Sea Quest Hawaii

Fast access, small groups, guided in-water experience

USCG-certified captains, intimate

Not listed 💰

Experienced swimmers, smaller groups

Quick harbor access, private charters

Fair Wind Cruises (Hula Kai)

Powered catamaran, wetsuits & masks included, hot drinks/snacks

High and consistent reviews

Seasonal pricing varies 💰

Experienced snorkelers 7+

Comfort & eco-friendly approach ✨

Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii

Snorkel & dive options, live calendars, discounts

Deep manta expertise, strong safety focus

Not listed 💰

Snorkelers & certified divers

Educational focus, resident discounts ✨

Manta Adventures

3.5-hr sunset + snorkel, observer options

Newer boats, sterilized gear, family-friendly timing

Competitive pricing 💰

Families, non-swimmers welcome

Observer tickets, sunset cruise included✨

Dolphin Discoveries

2-hr tours, wetsuit tops & gear included, manta guarantee

Budget-friendly, clear booking

Budget-friendly 💰

Ages 6+, larger groups

Manta Guarantee, transparent process

The Manta & Snorkel Co – Kona

Micro groups (~6), fast 3-min boat ride, GoPro rental

Intimate experience, detailed prep

Higher price per person 💰

Photographers, small groups

More in-water time, GoPro rentals ✨

Hawaiian Adventures Kona

Modern boat with warm showers, 1 trip/night

Quality focused, early booking discounts

Value-added amenities 💰

Ages 11+, quality seekers

Onboard showers, dynamic site selection ✨

Viator (marketplace aggregator)

Multi-operator listings, free cancellation, reviews

User reviews & ratings, app support

Fees may apply 💰

Last-minute bookers, variety seekers

Price guarantees, extensive options

GetYourGuide (marketplace aggregator)

Multiple departure times, gear & guide included

User-friendly app & website

Competitive pricing 💰

Travelers seeking convenience

Pay-later, late tours, filtering tools


Making Your Final Choice for an Unforgettable Night


You’ve explored the top-rated operators, compared vessel types, and learned the crucial tips for a successful adventure. Now, you have all the tools needed to select the best manta ray night snorkel in Kona for your specific travel style. The final decision truly hinges on what you value most in a tour. Are you seeking the stability and amenities of a large catamaran like those offered by Sea Paradise or Fair Wind, or does the intimate, up-close feel of a smaller group with a dedicated guide appeal more to you?


Remember the key takeaways from our guide: book well in advance, especially during peak season; consider the sunset versus after-dark tours based on your desire for a scenic cruise; and always prioritize operators with a strong commitment to marine conservation and safety. Each company on our list provides a safe and awe-inspiring gateway to this natural wonder, but the experience can differ significantly based on group size and the crew's approach. We believe a smaller, guide-focused tour provides the most memorable and personal connection to this incredible marine life.


For an exceptional alternative that offers both world-class manta ray night snorkels and amazing daytime adventures like the Captain Cook snorkeling tour, we highly recommend checking out Kona Snorkel Trips. Their commitment to quality and customer experience is second to none. Ultimately, no matter which vessel you board, you are preparing for an evening of pure magic. Floating under the stars while these gentle giants glide effortlessly below you is an encounter that will become a cherished highlight of your trip to the Big Island.



Ready to experience the magic for yourself? For a tour that consistently tops the list for its small-group focus and expert guides, look no further than Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours. They specialize in creating intimate and unforgettable encounters, ensuring you have the best possible view of the manta ballet. Visit Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours to secure your spot for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.


 
 
 

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