Top 10: The Best Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Tours (2025)

Imagine floating in the warm Pacific waters off the Kona coast as majestic manta rays, with wingspans stretching up to 16 feet, glide effortlessly below you. The manta ray night snorkel is one of the Big Island's most iconic and breathtaking experiences. With a variety of tour operators to choose from, picking the perfect one can feel overwhelming. This guide is here to help. We've compiled the top 10 options for the best manta ray night snorkel in Kona, detailing what makes each one unique, so you can book with confidence and prepare for a magical encounter you'll never forget.

At Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii, we are committed to providing an exceptional experience, as our reviews show:

For an exceptional tour experience, whether it's with mantas or exploring Kealakekua Bay, we highly recommend our friends at Kona Snorkel Trips for both Manta Ray night snorkel tours and Captain Cook snorkeling tours. They offer incredible adventures tailored to create lasting memories.

1. Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours

Best For: An All-Around Premier Experience

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours, found at mantaraynightsnorkelhawaii.com, stands out as a premier choice, delivering one of the most reliable and well-rounded manta ray night snorkel experiences in Kona. This operator has fine-tuned every aspect of the tour, from safety to guest comfort, making it a top contender for both first-time snorkelers and seasoned marine adventurers. Their commitment to small group sizes ensures a more intimate and less crowded encounter with these gentle giants.

Their website clearly outlines what makes their tours exceptional. A key differentiator is their remarkable 90% manta sighting success rate, a figure that significantly surpasses many competitors and provides peace of mind for visitors hoping to witness this natural wonder. This success is supported by experienced, lifeguard-certified guides who provide personalized attention and a comprehensive educational briefing on manta biology and conservation.

Key Features & Benefits

• High Success Rate: With a 90% chance of seeing manta rays, your investment is more likely to result in a breathtaking encounter.

• Small, Intimate Groups: The focus on smaller tour groups prevents overcrowding in the water, allowing for better views and a more personal, respectful interaction with the wildlife.

• Flexible Tour Times: Choose between a sunset departure that includes stunning coastal views and potential whale or dolphin sightings, or a later after-dark tour for a serene, starlit snorkeling adventure.

• All-Inclusive Gear: The tour provides all necessary equipment, including high-quality wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and flotation devices, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

• Private Charter Options: For families, special occasions, or groups seeking an exclusive trip, private charters are available for a fully customized and intimate adventure.

Pricing and Accessibility

Standard tour prices range from $129 to $139 per person, with private charters available for up to $1,999. It's crucial to note that strong swimming ability is a firm requirement, and the vessel design is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. For those seeking an alternative for a Manta Ray night snorkel or a day trip to Kealakekua Bay, Kona Snorkel Trips is an exceptional operator offering a Captain Cook snorkeling tour and other adventures.

2. Big Island Divers

Big Island Divers is a cornerstone of the Kona diving and snorkeling community, boasting a long-standing reputation for professionalism and safety. Their website serves as a comprehensive portal for booking one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona experiences, particularly for groups with varied certifications. It uniquely allows you to book both snorkelers and certified scuba divers onto the same charter, making it an ideal choice for families or friends with different skill levels who want to share the adventure.

The platform clearly outlines its manta sighting guarantee, providing peace of mind with options for a free standby re-ride or a discounted guaranteed spot if no mantas appear. For those who value transparency and a proven track record, Big Island Divers delivers. You can find more in-depth information and discover some top tips by exploring this guide about Big Island Divers.

Key Features & Requirements

• Mixed Group Charters: Allows snorkelers and certified divers on the same boat, a significant logistical advantage.

• Pricing: Manta night snorkel tours start from $129 per person, not including taxes or certain gear rentals.

• Manta Guarantee: A clear and fair re-ride policy is detailed on their site.

• Experience Level: They require a minimum age of 10 and mandate that all participants have prior snorkeling experience and are comfortable in the water, making it unsuitable for absolute beginners.

Pros:

• Reputable operator with decades of experience.

• Transparent safety and environmental guidelines.

• Flexible booking for mixed groups.

Cons:

• Not beginner-friendly; requires prior snorkeling proficiency.

• Base price does not include all gear rentals or taxes.

3. Sea Paradise

As one of the original operators in Kona, Sea Paradise has been crafting memorable manta ray encounters since 1985. Their website showcases a commitment to comfort and family-friendly adventures aboard a spacious 50-foot catamaran, departing from the convenient Keauhou Bay. This vessel's stability and size make it a standout choice for those who may be nervous about smaller boats or are traveling with children, solidifying its reputation as a provider of one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona tours for mixed groups.

The platform clearly lays out what's included, such as snorkel gear and wetsuits, simplifying the booking process. They also feature a manta sighting guarantee, offering a second trip if no mantas are seen. This assurance, combined with their long-standing presence, provides a high level of trust for prospective snorkelers. For a deeper dive into what makes their catamaran experience unique, you can read this dedicated guide about the Sea Paradise Big Island Snorkel Experience.

Key Features & Requirements

• Vessel Type: A large, stable 50-ft catamaran designed for comfort, ideal for families and larger groups.

• Pricing: Tours are priced from $130 per adult and $115 per child, plus taxes and fees. A "ride-along" option is also available for $65.

• Manta Guarantee: A straightforward policy ensures guests can re-book if they don't see manta rays on their tour.

• Inclusions: Snorkel gear, wetsuits, and flotation devices are included in the ticket price.

• Rules: For the safety of the animals and your devices, phone lanyards are not permitted during the tour.

Pros:

• Over 35 years of experience in manta ray tours.

• Comfortable and spacious catamaran is great for all ages.

• Gear and wetsuits are included, adding value.

Cons:

• Strict "no phone lanyard" rule may be inconvenient for some.

• Variable sunset tour times require flexible planning for parking and arrival.

4. Sea Quest Hawaii

Sea Quest Hawaii offers a distinct and intimate approach to the manta ray night snorkel, utilizing fast and agile zodiac-style rafts. Their website highlights this small-group focus, which is ideal for adventurers seeking a more personal and guided in-water experience. Departing from Keauhou Bay, Sea Quest provides one of the shortest boat rides to the manta site, "Manta Village," maximizing your time in the water with these gentle giants. This makes it a great choice for those who want efficient access and hands-on crew support.

The platform details a comprehensive tour that includes wetsuits, prescription masks, and a custom-built underwater light board designed for stability and excellent viewing. After your snorkel, the crew provides hot chocolate and cookies, a welcome touch after a nighttime swim. For those interested in a more in-depth look at their specific tour style and what to expect on their unique rafts, you can discover more about the snorkel adventures with Sea Quest Hawaii.

Key Features & Requirements

• Small-Group Zodiacs: Offers a more intimate tour with a maximum of 14-16 guests, ensuring personalized attention.

• Pricing: The Night Manta Experience is priced from $135 per person for ages 7 and up.

• Efficient Access: The short boat ride from Keauhou Bay means less travel time and more snorkeling.

• Experience Level: All participants must have prior snorkeling experience and be competent swimmers. This tour is not suitable for beginners.

Pros:

• Intimate, small-group setting with high crew-to-guest ratio.

• Quick access to the prime manta viewing location.

• Post-snorkel hot chocolate and cookies are included.

Cons:

• Zodiac rides can be bumpy and are not recommended for those with back problems or who are pregnant.

• Strict experience requirements exclude first-time snorkelers.

5. Hang Loose Boat Tours

Hang Loose Boat Tours offers a streamlined and accessible option for those looking to book one of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona experiences. Operating from the convenient Honokohau Harbor, their platform is especially useful for travelers who prefer booking through major Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), often unlocking flexible dates and promotional discounts. This broad distribution makes it easy to find and secure a spot, even during peak season, providing a significant advantage for last-minute planners.

The company provides clear details on its offerings, including sunset and later evening tours, ensuring all necessary gear like wetsuit tops and flotation devices are included. For those wanting to learn more about their specific tour structure and what to expect on the water, you can get a detailed overview and insider tips in this guide to Hang Loose Boat Tours.

Key Features & Requirements

• Booking Flexibility: Widely available on OTAs like Viator and GetYourGuide, often with more flexible cancellation policies and potential discounts.

• Pricing: Tour prices are competitive, generally ranging from $94 to $138 per person, depending on the booking platform, time of day, and active promotions.

• Inclusions: Snorkel gear, flotation devices, wetsuit tops, snacks, and beverages are all included in the tour price.

• Experience Level: Participants must have prior swimming and basic snorkeling ability. A ride-along option is available for those who prefer not to enter the water.

Pros:

• High availability due to frequent departures and multiple tour times.

• Competitive and often discounted pricing through third-party sites.

• Convenient booking process across various platforms.

Cons:

• Live pricing may not be visible on the direct operator site, redirecting users to OTAs.

• Requires prior swimming/snorkeling skills for in-water participation.

6. Viator

Viator serves as a massive online marketplace for tours and activities, making it an excellent starting point for comparing multiple Kona manta ray night snorkel operators side-by-side. Instead of being a direct tour provider, the platform aggregates listings from various companies, including well-known operators like Hang Loose and smaller, more intimate charters. This allows you to easily filter options based on price, user reviews, availability, and tour duration, all in one place.

The platform’s key strength is its flexibility, offering features like instant booking confirmation and generous free cancellation windows. For travelers still finalizing their plans, the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option provides a convenient way to secure a spot without immediate payment. You can find out more about navigating the options by reading these Viator manta ray snorkel tour reviews.

Key Features & Requirements

• Operator Comparison: A one-stop shop to compare prices, inclusions, and real user reviews for different manta tour providers.

• Pricing: Wide range from budget-friendly options around $65 to premium experiences over $160 per person.

• Flexible Booking: Features instant availability calendars, free cancellation (typically up to 24 hours), and a “Reserve Now & Pay Later” option.

• Varying Policies: Manta sighting guarantees, group sizes, and cancellation terms are specific to each individual operator listed, so it's crucial to read the fine print.

Pros:

• Excellent for comparing a wide variety of tours and finding deals.

• User ratings and reviews provide valuable social proof.

• Flexible booking and cancellation policies are a major advantage.

Cons:

• "No manta" policies vary greatly and must be checked for each listing.

• The lowest-priced tours often mean larger, more crowded boats.

• You are booking through a third party, which can sometimes complicate direct communication with the tour operator.

7. GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide serves as a global marketplace for tours and activities, and it’s a highly effective platform for finding and comparing some of the best manta ray night snorkel Kona options. Its primary strength lies in its user-friendly, mobile-first interface, which simplifies the booking process with features like “Reserve now & pay later.” This allows travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment, adding valuable flexibility to trip planning.

The platform aggregates various local operators, presenting their offerings in a standardized format that makes comparison easy. You can filter tours by group size, see clear inclusions like gear and snacks, and review detailed suitability notes. While policies like manta guarantees vary by the individual operator listing, GetYourGuide provides a centralized and transparent way to weigh your choices, all backed by consistent customer support and mobile vouchers.

Key Features & Requirements

• Tour Aggregation: Compiles multiple Kona-based operators, allowing for easy comparison of prices, inclusions, and policies.

• Pricing: Tour prices range from approximately $95 to $122+ per person, with variations based on the specific operator and what's included.

• Manta Guarantee: Varies by tour; some listings offer a re-ride guarantee, but you must check the specifics of each operator’s policy.

• Booking Flexibility: Many tours feature a "Reserve now & pay later" option and offer mobile vouchers for convenience.

Pros:

• Excellent for comparing multiple tour operators in one place.

• Straightforward, mobile-friendly booking process.

• Clear breakdowns of what is included and what to bring.

Cons:

• Inconsistent policies (like manta guarantees or wetsuit inclusion) across different listings.

• Some operators require an off-site check-in before heading to the harbor.

8. My Kona Adventures

My Kona Adventures offers personalized and adventurous manta ray tours on their smaller, rigid-hull inflatable boats. They focus on providing a more intimate experience, getting guests closer to the action quickly. This is an excellent choice for thrill-seekers who prefer a faster boat ride and a less crowded environment in the water.

9. Kona Ocean Adventures

Known for their eco-conscious approach, Kona Ocean Adventures provides educational and respectful manta ray encounters. Their guides are often marine biologists who share fascinating insights into the manta rays' behavior and the local marine ecosystem. Their tours are ideal for travelers who want a deeper, more informative experience.

10. Fair Wind Cruises

Fair Wind Cruises is a family-owned and operated company that has been running tours on the Kona coast for decades. While widely known for their daytime snorkel cruises to Kealakekua Bay, they also offer a highly-rated manta ray night snorkel on a large, stable catamaran equipped with a slide and other family-friendly amenities, making it a comfortable choice for all ages.

Making Your Manta Ray Dream a Reality

You are now equipped with all the essential information to choose your ideal adventure and witness one of nature’s most spectacular ballets. We've explored the top tour operators, from the comprehensive offerings of Big Island Divers and Sea Paradise to the unique boat styles of Sea Quest Hawaii and Hang Loose Boat Tours. We've also seen how booking platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide can provide a broad overview of available options. The key takeaway is that the best manta ray night snorkel in Kona is the one that aligns perfectly with your personal travel style, comfort level, and sense of adventure.

When making your final decision, remember the crucial factors we discussed:

• Group Size: Do you prefer an intimate, small-group setting or the social atmosphere of a larger vessel?

• Boat Type: Is the swift agility of a Zodiac-style raft or the spacious stability of a catamaran more your speed?

• Check-in Location: Consider the convenience of departing from Keauhou Bay versus Honokohau Harbor.

• Tour Inclusions: Look for operators that provide high-quality gear, knowledgeable guides, and thoughtful extras like snacks and warm drinks.

For many adventurers, the ultimate experience combines personalized attention, expert guidance, and a deep respect for marine life. If you're seeking an exceptional alternative for your Hawaiian adventure, consider [Kona Snorkel Trips](https://konasnorkeltrips.com/snorkel-tours/). They are renowned for their outstanding service not only on manta ray night snorkel tours but also on their popular Captain Cook snorkeling tours.

Ultimately, this isn't just a tour; it's a chance to connect with the ocean in a profound and unforgettable way. Floating in the dark, watching these gentle giants glide effortlessly beneath you, is a truly magical experience that will stay with you long after you've returned to shore. Don't let this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity pass you by.

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Ready to book the adventure of a lifetime? For an experience that consistently ranks as the best manta ray night snorkel in Kona, look no further than Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours. We are dedicated to providing an unparalleled, safe, and awe-inspiring encounter. Visit our website at Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours to learn more and secure your spot today.