Everything You Need to Know Before Your Kona Night Manta Ray Snorkel
Everything You Need to Know Before Your Kona Night Manta Ray Snorkel
Swimming with manta rays is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Hawaii—and if you’re visiting the Big Island, it’s probably already on your bucket list.
Every evening off the Kona Coast, giant reef manta rays gather beneath the surface to feed on tiny plankton attracted by lights in the water. As they glide, barrel roll, and swoop just inches below you, it’s easy to see why the Kona Night Manta Ray Snorkel is consistently ranked among the world’s best wildlife experiences.
If you’re joining Ocean Eco Tours, here’s everything you need to know before your adventure.
Why Is Kona Famous for Night Manta Ray Snorkeling?
The Kona Coast is one of the only places in the world where manta rays can be seen so reliably at night.
Specialized lights placed in the water attract plankton, the manta rays’ primary food source. As the plankton gathers, the mantas arrive to feed, often performing graceful loops and barrel rolls just below the surface.
Unlike many wildlife experiences, manta rays visit these feeding sites throughout the year, making this an incredible activity no matter when you visit Hawaii.
What Happens on the Tour?
Your adventure begins with a boat ride along the beautiful Kona coastline after sunset.
Depending on where the manta rays have been feeding, we’ll head to one of Kona’s well-known manta viewing sites. Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the coastline as daylight fades and the stars begin to appear.
Once we arrive, our crew will help everyone get fitted with snorkeling gear, wetsuit tops, and flotation belts before entering the water.
Guests hold onto our custom floating light board while floating comfortably on the surface. Powerful lights shine into the water, attracting plankton—and before long, the manta rays often begin their incredible underwater ballet just below you.
You’ll spend approximately 30–40 minutes in the water, giving you plenty of time to watch these gentle giants feed.
Who Can Participate in a Kona Night Manta Ray Snorkel?
The Kona Night Manta Ray Snorkel is an incredible experience, but it is important that guests are comfortable and confident in the water before joining us.
To participate, guests must be comfortable using a mask and snorkel, as this is the primary way you will view the manta rays during the experience. You do not need to be an expert swimmer, but you should feel comfortable being in the ocean at night.
Guests must also be able to:
- Float comfortably on the surface with the assistance of a provided flotation belt
- Use a mask and snorkel independently
- Enter the water from the side of the boat without assistance
- Exit the water using a boat ladder without assistance
- Remain calm and comfortable in open ocean conditions
During the snorkel, guests will hold onto a floating light board while floating on the surface and watching the manta rays feed below. The flotation belt provides additional support, but it does not replace the ability to be comfortable in the water.
If you are nervous in the ocean, unable to swim, uncomfortable putting your face in the water, or unsure about using a mask and snorkel, this experience may not be the right fit.
Our goal is for every guest to feel safe, confident, and able to fully enjoy this unforgettable encounter with Kona’s manta rays.
Are Manta Rays Dangerous?
No.
Despite their impressive size—some have wingspans exceeding 12 feet—manta rays are completely harmless to people.
They have:
- No stingers
- No barbs
- No teeth that can bite people
Manta rays feed exclusively on microscopic plankton and are known for being gentle, curious animals.
Our goal is to observe them respectfully without disturbing their natural behavior.
What Should I Bring?
For the most comfortable experience, we recommend bringing:
- Swimsuit (wear it before arriving)
- Perscription snorkel mask if needed
- Towel
- Warm change of clothes for after the tour
- Reusable water bottle
We provide:
- Snorkel gear
- Flotation belts
- Wetsuit tops for warmth
- Go Pro video packages of the manta rays for $50 per group
What If We Don’t See Manta Rays?
Manta ray sightings in Kona are incredibly consistent, but these are wild animals, and no encounter can ever be guaranteed.
On the rare occasion that no manta rays appear during your tour, Ocean Eco Tours provides a free return voucher, giving you another opportunity to experience this unforgettable adventure.
Why Choose a Small-Group Manta Tour?
One of the biggest differences you’ll notice with Ocean Eco Tours is our commitment to small-group experiences.
With fewer guests onboard, you’ll enjoy:
- A more personalized experience
- More interaction with our knowledgeable crew
- Plenty of room onboard
- Individual assistance with snorkeling equipment
- A relaxed atmosphere without large crowds
We believe unforgettable wildlife experiences are even better when they feel personal.
How Can I Help Protect the Manta Rays?
Manta rays are protected wildlife, and responsible tourism helps keep these incredible encounters possible for future generations.
During your snorkel, remember to:
- Never touch the manta rays.
- Keep your hands and feet close to your body.
- Hold onto the float at all times.
- Allow the mantas to approach naturally.
- Listen to your crew’s instructions.
Simply floating quietly allows the manta rays to continue feeding naturally while giving you an amazing view.
An Experience You’ll Never Forget
There’s something truly magical about floating beneath a sky full of stars while giant manta rays glide effortlessly below you.
Whether it’s your first visit to Hawaii or your tenth, the Kona Night Manta Ray Snorkel is an experience that stays with you long after your vacation ends.
At Ocean Eco Tours, we’re passionate about creating safe, personal, and unforgettable adventures on the water. With small groups, experienced guides, and a love for Hawaii’s marine life, we’re here to help you experience one of the most incredible wildlife encounters on Earth.
We can’t wait to share the magic of Kona’s manta rays with you.