Kona Coast Manta Ray Night Snorkel

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Kona Coast Manta Ray Night Snorkel

Kona Coast Manta Ray Night Snorkel

Discover why Kona’s coastline is considered the world’s premier destination for manta ray encounters. These protected waters host the largest population of reef manta rays in Hawaii, offering consistent year-round viewing opportunities in a spectacular marine sanctuary where conservation meets adventure in perfect harmony.

Activity Price

68 USD

Duration

2 Hours

Age

Ages 5+

Location

Kaiminani

Amenities

Multiple Site Access – Visit several premier manta viewing locations

Year-Round Conditions – Calm, clear waters in protected Kona coastline

Special Instruction

Kona Coast Marine Sanctuary Magic

Pristine Kona Coast Marine Sanctuary

Explore the protected waters of the Kona Coast, designated as a critical habitat for Hawaii’s reef manta ray population and recognized globally for its exceptional marine biodiversity. These pristine waters benefit from unique oceanographic conditions including upwelling currents, volcanic nutrients, and protected coves that create ideal manta ray habitat. The combination of clear visibility, calm conditions, and abundant plankton makes this coastline unmatched for manta ray encounters, with some areas featuring regular aggregations of 20+ individuals during peak feeding times.

Multiple Premier Viewing Locations

Access exclusive manta ray viewing sites along the Kona Coast including the world-famous Manta Heaven, Garden Eel Cove, and lesser-known secret spots known only to local guides. Each location offers unique characteristics from different depths, coral formations, and manta ray behaviors. Our experienced captains select the optimal sites based on daily conditions, wind patterns, and recent manta activity reports, often visiting multiple locations during a single tour to maximize your encounter opportunities and provide diverse underwater experiences.

Year-Round Optimal Conditions

Take advantage of Kona’s unique microclimate and leeward position that provides calm, protected waters and excellent visibility year-round. The coast’s volcanic topography shields these waters from trade winds, creating consistently smooth surface conditions ideal for snorkeling. Water temperatures remain comfortable throughout the year, while the absence of rivers and runoff ensures exceptional underwater visibility often exceeding 100 feet, allowing for spectacular photography and unobstructed manta ray viewing in crystalline Pacific waters.

Kona Coast Adventure Package

About

Pricing

Experience the Beauty of the Ocean at Night on a Manta Ray Night Snorkel!

Times and Duration:

Meeting: 7:00 PM daily
Duration: 2 hours

About the Experience:
Our night snorkel excursion takes you off the coast, where you’ll use lights to view the majestic Manta Rays as they feed in the darkness. Swim with these gentle giants and make unforgettable memories while experiencing the beauty of the night ocean.

What’s Included:

Snorkel, mask, and optional safety jacket
Snacks (chips, granola bars, juice, and water)
Wetsuit top included
Option to purchase an underwater disposable camera onboard
GoPro rental (subject to availability)

Join us for a magical evening in the waters of Hawaii, where you’ll get to witness these incredible creatures up close!

Pricing:

US$68 – Ride Along (Ages 4+)
US$99.36 – Adults (Ages 12+)
US$73 – Children (Ages 5-11)
US$45 – Infants (Ages 4 and under)

Kona Coast Tour Information

What makes Kona Coast special for manta rays?
Kona Coast’s unique combination of volcanic nutrients, upwelling currents, protected coves, and minimal light pollution creates optimal habitat for Hawaii’s largest manta ray population. The leeward location provides calm waters year-round, while the absence of rivers maintains exceptional water clarity for viewing.
How far offshore do we travel?
Most manta ray viewing sites are located 1-3 miles offshore, typically requiring 15-30 minutes boat travel time. The close proximity to shore allows for quick access to viewing areas and ensures comfortable boat rides even for those prone to seasickness.
Are there different types of manta rays here?
Kona Coast is home to reef manta rays (Mobula alfredi), which are smaller than oceanic mantas but still reach impressive wingspans of 10-18 feet. These residents stay close to shore and are more commonly encountered than their oceanic cousins, making for reliable viewing opportunities.
What conservation efforts protect these waters?
The Kona Coast benefits from state marine protected area designations, federal marine sanctuary protections, and local conservation initiatives. Tour operators follow strict guidelines for manta interactions, and research programs monitor population health and behavior to ensure long-term protection of this critical habitat.
Can I snorkel during the day to see manta rays?
While manta rays occasionally appear during daytime hours, night tours offer significantly better viewing opportunities when mantas come to shallow feeding areas. Daytime encounters are rare and unpredictable, making night snorkeling tours the recommended option for reliable manta ray experiences.

What Our Guests Say

Author 7

March 15, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana 7

We did the Road to Hana tour in Maui and it was amazing. We took so many beautiful pictures. Our tour guides name was Kalei, he made the tour great, he was very informative and made sure we knew when to have our camera ready. I would definitely request Kalei from Hawaiian tours to be our guide if we ever make it back to Maui 7.

Author 6

March 15, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana 6

Author 5

March 15, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana 5

Author 4

March 15, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana 4

Author 3

March 15, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana 3

Author 2

March 15, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana 2

Author 1

March 14, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana

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Kona Coast Manta Ray Night Snorkel