Manta ray swimming in the ocean feeding on plankton on a tour on The Big Island of Hawaii.

5 Best Manta Ray Night Snorkel or Dive Tours on the Big Island

Are you going to the Big Island of Hawaii and need help finding the best manta ray snorkeling or diving tour? Look no further! We have done the research for you and are here to share our experiences. 

Manta ray night snorkeling and diving is one of the most incredible experiences in Hawaii. 

The Big Island is home to some of the most diverse marine life in the world, and swimming alongside these majestic creatures during nighttime hours offers a unique opportunity. 

Choosing the right place for your manta ray experience is key. Several companies offer snorkeling and diving packages around Kona, but not all are created equal. Continue reading to find out which companies offer the best manta ray experience on the island.

Don’t have time to read about all the tours on this list? No worries—we have shortlisted the best manta snorkel tours below to make things easy for you.

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Our Top Picks

1
Manta ray swimming in the ocean on the Big Island of Hawaii seen during a tour.

Snorkel with Manta Rays

✅ Listed as a preferred tour company on the Hawaii Ocean Watch Green List
✅ Reputable and experienced tour provider since 1985
✅Spacious luxury catamaran, Hoku Nui, for a comfortable experience

2
Manta Rays swimming in the ocean seen during a tour on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Manta Snorkel/2-Tank Scuba Adventure

✅ Listed as a preferred tour company on the Hawaii Ocean Watch Green List
✅ Offers both a snorkeling and scuba diving experience on the same tour
✅Option to choose between a sunset and moonlight tour

3
Manta ray swimming in the ocean on the Big Island of Hawaii seen during a tour.

Manta Magic – Night Manta Ray Snorkel 

✅ Listed as a preferred tour company on the Hawaii Ocean Watch Green List
✅ Only a 5-minute ride to the manta snorkel location
✅ Reputable and experienced tour provider

How Did We Decide Which Manta Ray Snorkeling or Diving Tours Were the Best?

It took many hours of research and our personal experience to decide which tours offered the best manta ray experience. We took into account several factors, such as:

  • Ecological standards: When snorkeling in Hawaii, choosing providers on the Green List from the Hawaii Ocean Watch is important. These companies have agreed to follow guidelines to ensure that they protect marine life, the environment, and guests. Manta rays are a protected species, so it is important to find companies that take extra steps to ensure their safety and well-being.
  • Overall customer satisfaction ratings from previous tourists: We looked at dozens of reviews from people who had taken the manta ray tours and chose the ones with the highest overall ratings.
  • Best value for your money: We wanted to ensure that we were recommending tours that were not only enjoyable but also affordable.

Note: Manta ray snorkeling tours are not your typical snorkeling experience where you are swimming around underwater. Instead, you will be floating on the water’s surface, holding on to a float with your face underwater as you watch the manta rays feed on plankton below. This protects you and the manta rays from any potential harm. Manta rays are sensitive to human touch, so it is vital that we do not disturb them and follow proper protocols.

Note: Manta rays are wild animals, so it is not always guaranteed that you will see them. However, most tour companies have a policy that allows you to come back and try again at no extra cost if you do not spot any manta rays on your first tour (based on availability).

While most tour companies report a 92% chance of spotting mantas at Manta Village, always have an open mind just in case. As a tip, we always book our tours at the start of the trip so that we have multiple chances to come back and try again if needed.

Best Manta Ray Snorkeling Tours on The Big Island

Without further ado, here are the best manta ray snorkeling tours on The Big Island:

(1) Snorkel with Manta Rays

Departure: Keauhou Bay, Kahaluu-Keauhou, HI 96740

Site: Kaukalaelae Point (Manta Village) (South of Kona)

The Snorkel With Manta Rays Tour offers an exciting manta ray snorkeling experience on a luxurious 50-foot catamaran called the Hoku Nui. The tour takes you to the renowned Manta Ray Village off the Kona Coast, where you can witness these gentle giants up close.

Sea Paradise has been providing this unforgettable adventure since 1985, and they are considered experts in manta ray tours. They always make sure that guests have an incredible and personal encounter as they snorkel with these gentle giants.

Sea Paradise offers an early evening and a moonlight tour for a unique manta ray adventure. The journey begins on the Hoku Nui, where you cruise to the Manta Ray Village.

The tour includes an informative briefing about manta rays. Snorkelers are then guided to their state-of-the-art “manta floatation device”, where you can witness the manta rays gliding and looping as they feed on plankton attracted to the light sources on the float.

If you prefer not to snorkel, you can still have a fantastic experience as a ride-along guest on the catamaran, observing the majestic manta rays from the boat’s comfort.

Manta ray swimming in the ocean on The Big Island of Hawaii seen during a snorkeling tour.
Seeing manta rays swimming in the ocean was surreal!
Gorgeous sunset seen on a boat tour to snorkel with manta rays on The Big Island of Hawaii.
The sunset we saw on our way to the manta ray snorkeling location

Side note: We wrote a detailed review about what to expect when snorkeling with manta rays in Kona. If you have additional questions, feel free to review the post.

(2) Manta Snorkel/2-Tank Scuba Adventure

Departure: Honokohau Small Boat Harbor

Site: Garden Eel Cove (Manta Heaven) (North of Kona) or Kaukalaelae Point (Manta Village), depending on manta ray sightings

Kona Ocean Adventures provides an extraordinary Manta Snorkel/2-Tank Scuba Adventure, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience of snorkeling or diving with manta rays. If you have scuba divers and snorkelers in your group, this is the perfect tour. 

During the tour, snorkelers will float on the surface on a custom-built board with spotlights pointing down, allowing you to observe the majestic mantas swimming below. As they glide beneath you, you’ll witness their graceful movements, including somersaults and spins.

Certified scuba divers will have a unique experience as they kneel on the sand bed below, watching the manta rays from an underwater perspective.

Kona Ocean Adventures offers two options for the manta snorkel experience. The sunset manta snorkel departs just before the sun sets, providing a beautiful view of the glowing horizon. The Manta Moonlight Snorkel is a late-night adventure where the boat takes you over the dark water while the moon rises over the Hualalai mountain range, illuminating the path to the manta site.

We prefer the early tour mainly because the sunsets are spectacular if the weather permits. Also, the water is much calmer in the early evening, allowing for a more comfortable experience. However, the late tour will be a better option if you prefer smaller crowds.

Two manta rays swimming in the ocean on The Big Island of Hawaii seen during a snorkeling tour.
We got so lucky seeing these gentle giants up close and personal
Man and a couple on a boat tour to snorkel with manta rays on the Big Island of Hawaii with the sun setting in the background.

Side note: Going to The Big Island and need recommendations on what to do? Check out our review of the top-rated luaus on the Big Island and the best black sand beaches in Hawaii.

(3) Manta Magic – Night Manta Ray Snorkel At Manta Village 

Departure: Keauhou Harbor, 78-7130 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Site: Kaukalaelae Point (Manta Village) (South of Kona)

Hawaii Oceanic is another company on the Green List, and they offer an unforgettable Manta Ray Snorkeling Experience at Manta Village.

After a 5-minute ride to Manta Village, guests will be coached on proper snorkeling techniques and given an educational briefing about the manta rays. 

The earliest tour goes out before the sun sets, as guests enjoy a front-row seat to one of Kona’s spectacular sunsets. If there is one thing we love about Kona, it’s the stunning sunsets!

Like all snorkeling tours in this article, you will float on the surface while holding onto a floatation device and watching the manta rays below. Overall, the team is dedicated to providing guests with an unforgettable experience and thrilling adventure.

A group of snorkelers taking videos of a manta ray snorkeling in the ocean on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Boats docked at the harbor with a gorgeous sunset in the background on the Big Island of Hawaii.

(4) 2-Tank Night Manta Dive Charter

Departure: Honokohau Marina in Kona

Site: Garden Eel Cove (Manta Heaven) (North of Kona)

Kona Honu Divers offers an exciting 2-Tank Night Manta Dive Charter, one of the best experiences on the Kona Coast. If you are looking for a dive-only option with one of the best operators in the area, this is the one for you.

As one of Hawaii’s top-rated and most-reviewed dive companies, they provide a premium and unforgettable adventure both above and below the surface.

The journey begins by boarding the Honu One, Kona’s spacious and well-appointed dive boat, at the Honokohau Harbor. From there, you’ll cruise along the coast to Garden Eel Cove.

Kona Honu Divers reports manta ray sightings over 60% of the time, providing a high chance of encountering these magnificent creatures. In the rare event that manta rays are not present, they offer the option to enjoy an epic night reef dive instead.

Manta ray swimming in the ocean in Kona seen during a snorkeling tour.
Boats docked at a harbor with the sun setting in the background.
A group of people snorkeling with manta rays in Kona during a tour.

(5) Manta Ray Night Snorkel and Dive

Departure: Honokohau Small Boat Harbor

Site: Garden Eel Cove (Manta Heaven) (North of Kona)

Torpedo Tours offers another excellent Manta Ray Tour option for snorkelers and divers. This option is also best for families or mixed-interest groups, as it offers something for everyone.

The dive boats gather around a sandy area approximately thirty feet deep. Divers sit on the bottom while snorkelers float above.

Torpedo Tours offers two Manta trip options. The Night Manta Snorkel or Dive takes place from 5:30 pm to 7:45 pm, with a check-in time of 5:30 pm. They also have a late-night option from 8:00 pm to 10:30 pm. The latter is perfect for those that love smaller crowds and are more comfortable in the dark.

All participants go out on the same boat. While watching the sunset, the guides provide a briefing about these incredible animals. Once the sun is down, you will enter the water for a 45-minute snorkeling or diving experience.

Side note: Going to The Big Island and need recommendations on where to snorkel and where to see waterfalls? Check out our review of snorkeling two-step beach and the best waterfalls in Hawaii.

A group of people snorkeling with manta rays in Kona during a tour.
Boats docked at the harbor with a gorgeous sunset in the background on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Check Prices for the Manta Ray Night Snorkel and Dive

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Season for Manta Rays?

Unlike whale season in Hawaii, which typically runs from December to March, manta ray season is year-round. However, the best time of year to view them is during summer when the weather is much warmer. That said, we have seen manta rays while snorkeling in the winter.

 Is Manta Ray Snorkeling Worth It?

Absolutely! Swimming with mantas is one of the top things to do on the Big Island. There is nothing quite like being close to these majestic creatures. Watching them somersault and spin beneath you in the water is an incredible experience that will stay with you forever.

Plus, manta rays are harmless to humans, making it a fun and safe activity. By far, this is one of our top five must-do activities worldwide.

Where Is the Best Place to See Manta Rays?

The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the best places to view manta rays up close. Manta Village on the south of Kona is the best site on the island to spot these majestic creatures.

The North Kona Coast near Garden Eel Cove, often called Manta Heaven, is also a great spot to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat; however, more sightings have been reported at Manta Village.

Can You Snorkel With Manta Rays Without a Tour?

Technically yes, but it’s not recommended due to safety concerns, conservation considerations, and the unpredictability of manta ray sightings.

Tour operators provide essential safety measures, promote responsible interactions, and have extensive knowledge of manta ray behavior and preferred feeding areas, increasing the chances of a successful and enjoyable experience.

Joining a reputable tour ensures a safer, more educational, and more reliable opportunity to snorkel with manta rays while supporting their conservation efforts.

What Is the Best Time to See Manta Rays?

The best time to see manta rays on the Big Island of Hawaii is during the evening hours, specifically after sunset. Manta rays are known to come closer to the surface to feed on plankton attracted by lights.

What Should I Bring on a Manta Ray Snorkel Tour?

When going on a manta ray snorkel tour, it’s recommended to dress comfortably and bring the following items:

  • Motion sickness medication (if you are prone to motion sickness)
  • Swimwear
  • Towel
  • Cover-up or a change of warm clothes
  • Light jacket or sweater
  • Underwater camera (make sure flash is turned off)

Most tour companies will provide the necessary snorkeling gear and a wet suit.

What Is the Difference Between the Earlier and Later Tours?

The main difference between the tours is light. The earliest tour takes place before sunset, allowing you to enter the water while it’s still somewhat light out. The later tours occur in the dark, providing a thrilling experience of boarding a boat and entering the water when pitch black.

If you’re not a strong swimmer, opting for the earliest tour is recommended. Otherwise, you may find adapting to snorkeling in the dark challenging, as it introduces a new element to overcome. The late-night tour may be your best option if you prefer smaller crowds.

Regardless of which tour you opt for, each adventure will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

The Big Island is one of the best places in the world to have a manta ray night snorkel and dive experience. With its perfect blue waters, gorgeous sunsets, and year-round sightings, it’s no wonder why this activity is a top choice for visitors and locals alike!