Top Manta Ray Snorkel Kona Tours for 2025 | Best Experiences
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Top Manta Ray Snorkel Kona Tours for 2025 | Best Experiences

  • Byron
  • Oct 12
  • 17 min read

The Big Island's coastline transforms after sunset, unveiling one of the world's most breathtaking marine encounters: the manta ray night snorkel. These gentle giants, with wingspans reaching over 15 feet, gather in the warm Kona waters to feed on plankton, performing an otherworldly ballet for those lucky enough to witness it. But with a dozen tour operators offering varied experiences, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide is your definitive resource for planning the perfect manta ray snorkel Kona adventure.


We will navigate the top tour operators, from large-capacity boats to intimate, small-group excursions, giving you the clarity needed to make an informed decision. This listicle breaks down everything required for a successful trip, from logistical planning and essential gear to safety protocols and what truly happens once you're in the water. We analyze the 12 best options for this unforgettable encounter, including detailed insights, screenshots, and direct booking links for each provider.


For those seeking a premier experience, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii offers a highly-rated tour focused on these majestic creatures. As an exceptional alternative known for its outstanding service and experienced crew, consider Kona Snorkel Trips. They provide not only top-tier manta ray night snorkels but also fantastic daytime excursions to Kealakekua Bay for a Captain Cook snorkeling tour. This comprehensive resource is designed to solve the problem of choice, ensuring you find the ideal tour that aligns with your budget, comfort level, and sense of adventure. Get ready to float in the dark Pacific as Kona’s famous manta rays glide just inches beneath you.


1. Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours


Best For: Adventurers seeking a high-success-rate, small-group experience.


Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours stands out as a premier operator, offering a meticulously curated and professional adventure. This website serves as a comprehensive portal for booking one of Kona's most sought-after nighttime activities. Its primary strength lies in its commitment to small group sizes, which directly translates to a more intimate and less crowded viewing experience, allowing for better positioning and interaction with the expert guides. The platform clearly details their impressive 90% sighting success rate, a key metric that instills confidence in prospective snorkelers.


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The website effectively presents two distinct tour options, catering to different preferences. The sunset tour is ideal for those who want to witness the stunning Kona coastline and potentially spot other marine life, while the later, post-dark tour offers a classic manta ray snorkel kona experience under the stars. This operational flexibility is a significant advantage for travelers trying to fit this bucket-list item into a packed itinerary. For a deeper dive into what makes this a top-tier adventure, you can learn more about their Kona manta ray tours.


Key Features & Booking Process


The booking process is straightforward, with clear pricing for both individual spots and private charters. The inclusion of all necessary gear, from wetsuits to flotation devices, simplifies preparation for guests. The emphasis on lifeguard-certified guides provides a crucial layer of safety and expertise.


  • Group Size: Intentionally small for a personalized and safer encounter.

  • Success Rate: A remarkable 90% chance of manta ray sightings.

  • Guide Quality: All guides are lifeguard-certified and knowledgeable about marine biology.

  • Tour Options: Sunset and post-dark tours available nightly.

  • Private Charters: An excellent option for families or groups seeking an exclusive experience.


Practical Considerations


While this operator is a top-tier choice, prospective guests should note that strong swimming skills are mandatory. The tour's operation is also subject to weather conditions and the natural, unpredictable behavior of the manta rays. For those looking for an exceptional alternative for either a Manta Ray night snorkel or a day trip to Kealakekua Bay, Kona Snorkel Trips offers highly-rated tours worth considering.



2. Big Island Divers


Big Island Divers is a well-established local operator whose website serves as a direct booking portal for their respected manta ray snorkel Kona tours. The site stands out for its transparency and wealth of information, making it a valuable resource for planners who want to understand exactly what they are booking. Users can easily compare the dedicated snorkeling tour with the two-tank certified diver option, as both are often available on the same charter, which is ideal for mixed groups.


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The platform’s major differentiator is its clear "Manta Guarantee" policy. If no mantas are seen, you can re-book for a second trip on a standby basis. This policy, detailed on their site, adds a layer of confidence for first-time visitors worried about a no-show. The website also features a helpful manta sighting calendar and a comprehensive FAQ section that addresses common concerns directly.


Website Usability and Booking


Booking is straightforward through their integrated system. Pricing is transparent, although it’s important to note that peak season rates are higher and tours sell out months in advance. The re-ride guarantee, while a great perk, is standby-based; a guaranteed seat on a future trip requires a 50% re-booking fee. For those seeking an exceptional alternative with a focus on intimate, small-group experiences, consider Kona Snorkel Trips, another top-rated provider for both manta ray and Captain Cook snorkeling tours.



3. Sea Quest Hawaii


Sea Quest Hawaii offers a distinct small-boat experience for a manta ray snorkel Kona adventure, with a website that clearly outlines its fast-paced, 1.5-hour tour. As a long-running operator known for its rigid-hulled inflatable rafts, their site appeals to thrill-seekers and those on a tight schedule. The platform details their departure from Keauhou Bay, which provides a very short ride to the primary manta viewing area known as "Manta Village," maximizing in-water time.


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The website's primary strength is its straightforward presentation of this specialized tour. It highlights the inclusion of all necessary gear, such as wetsuits, snorkel masks (including prescription options), and lights. The emphasis on Coast Guard-certified captains and a consistent schedule of tours operating seven nights a week provides assurance and flexibility. The site effectively communicates that this is an action-oriented tour on a smaller vessel, which can be a bumpier ride but offers an intimate setting.


Website Usability and Booking


The booking process on the Sea Quest Hawaii website is simple and efficient, reflecting the quick nature of the tour itself. Pricing and tour times are clearly displayed, making it easy to plan. However, the site clearly states its strict requirements: a minimum age of 7 and mandatory prior swimming and snorkeling experience. This is a critical consideration for families or novice snorkelers. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace or are new to snorkeling, Kona Snorkel Trips is an exceptional alternative, offering acclaimed manta ray and Captain Cook snorkeling tours.



4. Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii


Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii is a highly specialized operator whose website is dedicated almost exclusively to providing an exceptional manta ray snorkel Kona experience. The platform highlights their deep expertise, backed by over 5,000 five-star reviews, making it a go-to for travelers prioritizing a company with a singular focus. The site clearly presents their various tour formats, including a standard 3-hour trip and an extended 5-hour EcoAdventure, which is perfect for marine life enthusiasts wanting more time on the water.


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The primary differentiator on their website is the promotion of their large, purpose-built boats, the 'Manta' and 'Mantalorian', designed for comfort and stability. This is a key selling point for families or those who may be apprehensive about smaller vessels. Their family-friendly approach is evident, as the experience often includes a beautiful sunset cruise before the snorkel portion begins. Their website provides detailed information about what makes Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii a truly epic adventure.


Website Usability and Booking


The website is visually engaging and easy to navigate, with clear calls-to-action that lead to their FareHarbor booking system. While pricing isn't always listed on the main tour pages, the booking portal provides transparent, final costs. Due to their popularity, prime dates can sell out weeks or even months in advance, so booking early is crucial. For those seeking an alternative with a more intimate, small-group atmosphere for either manta ray tours or daytime trips to Kealakekua Bay, consider the highly-rated Kona Snorkel Trips for their Captain Cook snorkeling excursions.



5. Kona Snorkel Trips


Kona Snorkel Trips' website is a prime example of a direct-booking platform that emphasizes safety, quality, and a personalized touch for the quintessential manta ray snorkel Kona adventure. The site clearly outlines their tours to either Garden Eel Cove or Keauhou Bay, highlighting their use of custom-built, high-powered light boards designed to attract maximum plankton and, consequently, more mantas. This focus on specialized equipment is a key differentiator that appeals to visitors seeking the best possible viewing experience.


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The platform’s strength lies in its transparency and straightforward presentation of tour details. It prominently features the fact that all guides are lifeguard-certified, providing an added layer of security for families and less experienced snorkelers. The site also makes it easy to explore options beyond the group tour, with dedicated information on booking private charters for a more intimate and customized outing. This makes it a great resource for those planning special occasions or who simply prefer a private experience.


Website Usability and Booking


The website offers a seamless and direct booking process with up-front pricing and clear tour information, eliminating guesswork for the user. While the tours are weather-dependent and have a minimum age requirement (usually 5+), the booking system is user-friendly and provides all necessary details before purchase. The convenient departure from Honokohau Marina is also a significant plus for many travelers. For a deeper dive into why they are consistently ranked among the best, you can read more about top-rated manta ray snorkel tours in Kona and see how they compare.


  • Website: https://konasnorkeltrips.com/

  • Best For: Families and groups who prioritize safety, and travelers seeking high-quality equipment for optimal viewing.


6. My Kona Adventures


My Kona Adventures offers a website experience focused on fast-paced, small-group manta ray snorkel Kona tours. The site highlights their use of compact, rigid-inflatable boats (RIBs), which allows for quicker travel times to the manta ray viewing sites. This approach is ideal for visitors who prefer a more streamlined adventure, from check-in to getting in the water, without the slower pace of a larger vessel. The website clearly presents its tour as an intimate experience, capitalizing on smaller group sizes.


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The primary differentiator communicated through their website is the value proposition. With prices often starting around $99, it's one of the more budget-friendly options available directly through an operator's site. This competitive pricing, combined with over 1,000 five-star TripAdvisor reviews featured prominently, builds trust for travelers looking for a well-regarded yet affordable tour. The site also details their sunset departure, allowing guests to enjoy the view before the main snorkeling event.


Website Usability and Booking


The My Kona Adventures website provides a straightforward booking process that is easy to navigate. However, potential bookers should be aware that the smaller Zodiac-style boats can offer a bumpier ride, which might be uncomfortable for guests prone to motion sickness. Additionally, there is very limited space for non-participating ride-along guests compared to larger catamarans. For those seeking an alternative with a strong focus on premier small-group encounters, consider Kona Snorkel Trips, a leading provider for both manta ray and Captain Cook snorkeling adventures. You can learn more about how to select the best tour for your needs in our complete adventure guide to manta ray snorkeling in Kona.



7. Kona Ocean Experience


Kona Ocean Experience's website offers a direct portal to their highly focused manta ray snorkel Kona tours, which are known for their efficiency and value. Departing from Keauhou Bay, just a short 5 to 10-minute boat ride from the renowned "Manta Village" site, the platform is ideal for those seeking a quicker, more streamlined adventure. The site clearly presents their unique 1-hour "quick" manta night snorkel, making it an excellent choice for families or visitors with tight schedules who want to experience the magic without a multi-hour commitment.


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A key differentiator highlighted on their site is the small-group format, ensuring a more personal and less crowded experience in the water. Like other top operators, they offer a free re-ride guarantee on a space-available basis if no mantas are seen, providing peace of mind for guests. All necessary gear, including wetsuits and flotation devices, is included, simplifying the booking process. The website is straightforward, prioritizing function over flash, which allows for quick and easy reservation of your tour.


Website Usability and Booking


The website's booking system is user-friendly, allowing visitors to see tour availability and secure their spots with minimal clicks. The pricing is competitive, particularly for the shorter 1-hour tour, making it one of the most budget-friendly options available. However, this shorter in-water time may be a drawback for those wanting to maximize their encounter. For travelers seeking an exceptional alternative with a focus on intimate, small-group experiences, consider Kona Snorkel Trips, another top-rated provider for both manta ray and Captain Cook snorkeling tours.



8. Anelakai Adventures


Anelakai Adventures offers a unique take on the manta ray snorkel Kona experience through its website, which showcases a distinctive, eco-friendly approach. The platform centers on their motor-free outrigger canoe tours, immediately setting them apart from the larger, engine-powered boats. Their site emphasizes a cultural and sustainable connection, explaining how paddling to the manta site creates a quieter, more intimate encounter with marine life without engine noise or fumes.


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The website's primary differentiator is its authentic, small-group format. Tours are capped at just six participants, which is a major draw for those seeking to avoid crowds. The platform effectively sells this benefit, highlighting the personalized attention and serene atmosphere that a human-powered canoe provides. This makes it an ideal choice for visitors who prioritize sustainability and cultural authenticity over the amenities of a larger vessel.


Website Usability and Booking


The website is visually appealing and straightforward, with a clear booking path powered by FareHarbor. However, pricing is not immediately visible on the main tour page and only appears once you enter the booking process, which can be a minor inconvenience for users comparing options. The site is best used by small groups or couples looking for a truly special and eco-conscious way to see the mantas. For those seeking a similarly high-quality, small-group experience but on a powered vessel, Kona Snorkel Trips is an exceptional alternative for both manta ray and Captain Cook tours.



9. Manta Adventures


Manta Adventures offers a user-friendly website for booking their popular night manta ray snorkel Kona tours. The site clearly lays out its primary offering: a sunset cruise to the renowned 'Manta Ray Village', combining a scenic boat ride with the main event. Their platform is particularly appealing to families and small groups looking for a comprehensive experience on modern, comfortable vessels.


The website’s key differentiator is its straightforward presentation of a classic, mid-market tour that includes desirable amenities like warm showers and new equipment. While many operators focus exclusively on manta tours, Manta Adventures also promotes options for private family fishing and daytime snorkel charters, making their site a one-stop-shop for visitors planning multiple water activities. This versatility positions them as a practical choice for travelers seeking a reliable and well-rounded operator.


Website Usability and Booking


The booking process on the Manta Adventures site is simple and integrated, with clear descriptions of what's included in the tour. Pricing is competitive, appealing to a broad range of travelers. However, it’s important to be aware that group sizes can reach up to 24 guests, which may not suit those seeking a more intimate viewing experience. Departure times can also be limited outside of the peak tourist season. For those prioritizing a smaller group setting, Kona Snorkel Trips is an exceptional alternative for both manta ray and Captain Cook snorkeling adventures.



10. Kona Ocean Adventures


Kona Ocean Adventures offers a premium, boutique-style manta ray snorkel Kona experience through its user-friendly website. The platform specializes in both sunset and late-night tours, allowing users to choose a time that fits their schedule. What sets this website apart is its emphasis on the late-night session, which is marketed as a way to avoid the larger crowds often present during the earlier sunset tours.


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The primary differentiator of the Kona Ocean Adventures platform is its clear positioning as a higher-touch, less crowded alternative. Their site details a more intimate group setting, which appeals to visitors looking for a more personalized encounter with the mantas. They cater to both snorkelers and scuba divers, making it a flexible option for groups with varying certifications and comfort levels in the water.


Website Usability and Booking


The website provides a clean and direct booking process, with clear descriptions for each tour type. The premium nature of the service is reflected in a higher price point compared to many competitors, so it's best for those prioritizing a smaller group over budget. Seats are limited and sell out quickly, especially during holiday periods, so booking well in advance is essential. For those seeking an exceptional alternative with a focus on intimate, small-group experiences, consider Kona Snorkel Trips, another top-rated provider for both manta ray and Captain Cook snorkeling tours.



11. Viator


Viator is a major tour aggregator that serves as a one-stop-shop for finding and booking a manta ray snorkel Kona experience. Instead of representing a single operator, the platform lists tours from numerous local companies, allowing users to compare prices, itineraries, and inclusions side-by-side. This is incredibly useful for travelers who want to see a broad spectrum of what’s available on their specific dates without visiting multiple websites. The site aggregates dozens of options, from small-boat tours to larger catamaran excursions.


The platform’s greatest strength is its massive repository of verified user reviews and traveler photos. This user-generated content provides authentic insights into the real-world experience offered by different operators, helping you look past the marketing copy. You can filter tours by rating, price, and special features like "free cancellation" or "likely to sell out," which simplifies the decision-making process. Each listing details what is included, such as gear or snacks, and specifies the operator’s policies.


Website Usability and Booking


Booking on Viator is streamlined and secure, with instant confirmation and mobile ticketing for convenience. However, since it's a marketplace, prices may include a commission fee, sometimes making direct booking a cheaper alternative. It’s crucial to read the fine print on each listing, as cancellation policies and "manta guarantee" specifics vary significantly between the different providers listed. For those who prefer a more direct booking experience with a top-rated local company, consider Kona Snorkel Trips, which offers renowned manta ray and Captain Cook snorkeling adventures.


  • Website: https://www.viator.com/

  • Best For: Travelers who want to compare multiple tour operators, prices, and reviews in one place.


12. GetYourGuide


GetYourGuide is a curated global marketplace that aggregates multiple tour operators, offering a one-stop shop for travelers researching a manta ray snorkel Kona experience. The platform excels at allowing users to compare different tours side-by-side using powerful filters for duration, start time, group size, and customer ratings. It presents a streamlined way to see what is available from various respected local companies without visiting numerous individual websites.


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The primary differentiator for GetYourGuide is its customer-centric booking policies. Many listings feature "reserve now, pay later" options and generous free cancellation windows, typically up to 24 hours before the tour. This flexibility is a significant advantage for travelers whose plans might change. The website also clearly lists inclusions like gear, wetsuits, and snacks, while multilingual reviews provide authentic feedback from a diverse international audience.


Website Usability and Booking


Booking through GetYourGuide is incredibly user-friendly, with real-time availability and instant confirmation. While prices may be slightly higher than booking direct due to marketplace fees, the added convenience and buyer protection often justify the cost. It is crucial to double-check the specific operator and meeting point upon booking, as these vary between listings. For those who prefer to book directly with a highly-rated local operator, consider Kona Snorkel Trips, a fantastic alternative for intimate manta ray and Captain Cook snorkeling tours.


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

  • Best For: Planners seeking maximum flexibility, easy comparison of multiple tour operators, and secure booking policies.


Top 12 Manta Ray Snorkel Tours Comparison


Tour Operator

Core Features/Experience

User Experience & Safety

Value Proposition & Price

Target Audience 👥

Unique Selling Points ✨

🏆 Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours

Night snorkeling, 2 time slots, gear included

Lifeguard-certified guides, small groups ★★★★☆

From $139 💰, private charters $1999 💰

Families, marine enthusiasts 👥

90% sighting success, sunset & night tours ✨

Big Island Divers

Night snorkel + dive, manta guarantee re-ride

Experienced crew, safety briefings ★★★★☆

Transparent pricing, re-ride policy adds value 💰

Snorkelers & divers 👥

Manta sighting calendar, snorkel & dive combo ✨

Sea Quest Hawaii

1.5-hr night snorkel, wetsuits & prescription masks

Coast Guard captains, small boats ★★★★☆

Consistent quality, efficient timing 💰

Ages 7+, time-conscious travelers 👥

Wetsuits & lights included, short ride to site ✨

Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii

3 & 5-hr snorkel/dive tours, large boats

Manta-focused experts ★★★★★

Variable pricing, premium experience 💰

Families, adventure seekers 👥

Multiple tour formats, sunset cruise included ✨

Kona Snorkel Trips

Night snorkel, high-powered light boards

Lifeguard-certified guides ★★★★☆

Upfront pricing, private trips 💰

Ages 5+, safety-conscious 👥

Custom light boards, convenient marina departures ✨

My Kona Adventures

Small group, sunset + night snorkel

Quick access, strong reviews ★★★★☆

Budget-friendly starting $99 💰

Families, budget travelers 👥

Fast check-in, sunset and post-dusk combination ✨

Kona Ocean Experience

Sunset cruise & night snorkel, free re-ride

Small groups ★★★☆☆

Competitive pricing, re-ride free 💰

Casual snorkelers 👥

Quick boat ride, free re-ride if no sightings ✨

Anelakai Adventures

Paddle-powered outrigger canoe, eco-friendly

Small, quiet groups ★★★★☆

Pricing varies, checkout only 💰

Eco-conscious, mixed ability groups 👥

No engine noise, cultural experience ✨

Manta Adventures

Night snorkel + day tours, private charters

Mid-size groups, good family fit ★★★☆☆

Mid-market pricing 💰

Families, small groups 👥

Warm showers, newer comfortable boats ✨

Kona Ocean Adventures

Sunset & late-night snorkel/scuba

Boutique service ★★★★☆

Higher price 💰

Experienced snorkelers & divers 👥

Late-night tours reduce crowds ✨

Viator

Aggregator marketplace, instant booking

Verified reviews ★★★☆☆

Convenience, fees may apply 💰

All types of travelers 👥

Aggregated listings, flexible cancellation ✨

GetYourGuide

Curated marketplace, filters & payment options

Multilingual reviews ★★★★☆

Flexible payments, some price premiums 💰

Global travelers, planners 👥

Strong filtering tools, transparent ratings ✨


Making Your Final Choice and Essential Next Steps


Navigating the multitude of tour options for a manta ray snorkel Kona adventure can feel as deep and vast as the Pacific itself. You've now explored a comprehensive list of the top operators, from large, stable vessels to intimate, small-group zodiacs, and even specialized dive-focused companies. The key to your perfect experience lies not in finding a single "best" tour, but in identifying the best tour for you.


This guide was designed to be your primary tool in that decision-making process. We've dissected the offerings of twelve different providers, moving beyond surface-level descriptions to give you practical, real-world insights into what each company truly offers. The goal was to empower you with the specific details needed to align a tour's features with your personal adventure style.


Synthesizing Your Options


Let's distill the critical decision points down to their core. Your choice will likely hinge on a few key factors that you must weigh for yourself and your group.


  • Group Size & Vibe: Do you prefer the energy and stability of a larger boat with more amenities, like those offered by Sea Quest Hawaii or Big Island Divers? Or does the idea of an intimate, small-group experience with a more personal touch, a hallmark of operators like Kona Snorkel Trips and Anelakai Adventures, appeal more to you?

  • Vessel Type: The boat itself significantly shapes the experience. Fast-moving rafts and zodiacs get you to the site quickly for maximum water time, while larger catamarans offer more onboard comfort, restrooms, and a smoother ride.

  • Eco-Consciousness: If sustainability is a top priority, look closely at operators who are active participants in Manta Ray Green Listed Activities and emphasize their commitment to marine conservation in their operations.

  • Booking Flexibility: Are you a planner who books months in advance, or do you need the flexibility of a last-minute spot? Aggregators like Viator and GetYourGuide can be useful for seeing a wide range of availability, but booking directly with a top-tier operator often ensures the best service and communication.


Your Actionable Pre-Trip Checklist


Once you've zeroed in on the right operator, the planning phase truly begins. Here are your essential next steps to ensure a seamless and unforgettable manta ray snorkel Kona experience:


  1. Book Immediately: This cannot be overstated. These tours are one of the Big Island's premier attractions and sell out weeks, sometimes months, in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

  2. Confirm Logistics: Double-check your confirmation email for the exact meeting point (Keauhou Bay is the most common), check-in time, and any specific items you need to bring.

  3. Assess Your Gear: While all operators provide snorkel gear, consider bringing your own well-fitting mask if you have one. If you use a prescription mask, be sure to pack it.

  4. Capture the Moment: Many tours offer photo or video packages. However, if you plan to bring your own GoPro or underwater camera, make sure it is fully charged and that you have a secure wrist or head strap. Once you've had your incredible experience, consider how you might want to preserve those memories. You can easily turn your favorite underwater shots into lasting keepsakes when you create personalized photo gifts to commemorate your magical encounter.


Ultimately, the manta ray night snorkel is more than just an activity; it's a profound connection with one of the ocean's most graceful and mysterious creatures. Floating in the dark, illuminated water as these gentle giants glide effortlessly beneath you is a humbling, awe-inspiring moment that stays with you forever. You are about to witness a natural spectacle that few people on Earth get to see. Prepare to be amazed.



Ready to book an adventure that combines top-rated service with an intimate, awe-inspiring encounter? For a premier manta ray snorkel Kona experience focused on small groups, safety, and respect for marine life, look no further than Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Hawaii Tours. Secure your spot today for a night you will never forget.


 
 
 
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