Overview
Duration: 2.5 Hours before sunset (times vary based on seasonal changes)
Meeting Point: Kona Diving Company Huaka’i Boat
Age Requirement: 8+
Group Size: 5 divers per PADI Professional; 8 snorkelers per guide
Activity Details
Ranked as one of the best dives in the world, the Manta Ray Night Dive is a must-do for divers. Manta rays are gentle giants with no stingers, barbs, or teeth, making them one of the safest and most awe-inspiring marine creatures to observe. Watching them glide gracefully through the water is an unforgettable experience.
As darkness falls, divers use bright lights to attract plankton, the main food source for manta rays. The plankton congregates around the lights, allowing manta rays to easily feed in large mouthfuls.
Both dives take place at Makako Bay (Garden Eel Cove), starting with a late afternoon dive where guides highlight unique marine life such as the Hawaiian Garden Eels and set up bright lights in preparation for the night dive. Occasionally, manta rays may appear early, giving divers a chance to see them during both dives.
During the surface interval, as the sun sets, our knowledgeable guides share insights into manta ray behavior and give a detailed briefing to prepare divers for the night dive.
When it’s dark, divers re-enter the water to witness the manta rays’ breathtaking feeding ballet—sometimes swimming just inches above their heads! Many guests call this dive one of the highlights of their trip to Hawaii—and even their entire lives.
We limit our group sizes to no more than 5 divers per divemaster, ensuring personalized attention that enhances safety and fun.
What’s Included:
Air tanks
Dive weights
Dive lights
Defog solution
Complimentary use of masks, snorkels, and full-foot fins
Snacks served between dives, including our famous homemade brownies
A variety of hot and cold beverages
The boat features a mix of sun and shade, a protective cabin, and a hot freshwater shower for rinsing off after the dive
What’s Not Included:
Rental gear, including:
Weight-integrated BCD with trim pockets
3mm or 5mm full wetsuits
Nitrox-compatible dive computer
Regulator (regulator rental includes a console dive computer)
Enriched Air Nitrox (optional but recommended)
If you’re not Nitrox certified, we offer Nitrox certification on board.
Private Guide:
For those who want a more tailored experience, consider booking a private guide. This allows you to set your own pace and ensures more intimate and engaging interactions with the animals. A private guide is an excellent option for photographers looking to capture the perfect shot without distractions.
