Small-Group Manta Ray Moonlight Snorkel from Kona

This tour promises an experience that’s as magical as it sounds: snorkeling beneath the stars with gentle manta rays gliding gracefully in the dark waters off Kailua-Kona. For those who yearn for a close encounter with one of Hawaii’s most iconic marine creatures, this small-group adventure offers a blend of awe, education, and fun—all wrapped up in just a couple of hours. We’re here to help you decide if this is the right night out for your Big Island trip.

Two things stand out about this experience: first, the chance to swim with docile, seemingly otherworldly manta rays that can have wingspans of up to 20 feet, and second, the small-group setting that ensures a more personal, less crowded encounter. But it’s worth noting that the water can get chilly once the sun sets, so bringing warm clothes is recommended. If you’re someone who loves marine life, value knowledgeable guides, and appreciate authentic, memorable moments, this tour could well be a highlight of your Hawaii visit.

However, keep in mind that this experience is weather-dependent and isn’t suitable for pregnant women, children under 5, or anyone over 265 pounds. But for adventurous travelers who like a small, friendly group and a guaranteed sighting or a free repeat, it’s a highly recommended outing.

Key Points

• Small-group format enhances the experience with personalized attention
• Expert guides make the adventure informative and fun
• Guaranteed manta ray sightings or return free
• Nighttime snorkel offers a magical, less crowded environment
• Gear, wetsuits, snacks, and drinks included for convenience
• Water can be cool; dress accordingly for after-snorkel warmth

An Introduction to the Experience

If you’re looking for a truly unique way to spend an evening on the Big Island, this small-group manta ray snorkel from Kona offers a rare look at these gentle giants under the cover of darkness. The combination of sunset or moonlit waters, a smaller crowd, and the chance to see manta rays up close creates a laid-back yet exhilarating atmosphere.

What we love most is how the guides make everyone feel comfortable—whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or new to the water. From the moment you put on your wetsuit and snorkel gear, there’s a sense of anticipation. Watching these huge, peaceful creatures swim loops around you while clouds of plankton drift by is nothing short of mesmerizing. Plus, the snacks and refreshments afterward add a nice touch, helping you wind down after your aquatic adventure.

The only consideration? The water can feel a bit chilly, especially after sunset, so bringing warm clothes for the ride back is a smart move. This tour tends to suit travelers who enjoy intimate, guided encounters with nature, and who aren’t put off by the dark or the cold. It’s particularly perfect for those seeking a memorable trip highlight that’s both authentic and a little bit adventurous.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour starts at the Kailua-Kona meeting point, conveniently located at 74 Kealakehe Pkwy. After a brief safety briefing and fitting your gear, you’ll board a small boat that takes you out to the manta viewing site. The size limit of 16 travelers ensures a cozy, less chaotic environment—something many reviewers find makes all the difference.

Once in the water, your guides will help you adjust to the darkness and point out the manta rays as they glide around you, sometimes just feet away. The rays are surprisingly gentle, often swimming in circles or loops, seemingly unbothered by the small groups watching them. Several reviewers have mentioned that they had “seven manta rays around us the whole time,” and others have described the experience as “a WOW moment.”

The guides also share insights about these animals, helping you understand how they feed and behave, which enhances the awe. One reviewer called the guides “the best,” noting they made everyone comfortable while keeping the mood lively with jokes and good humor.

After about 1 to 1.5 hours in the water, you’ll climb back aboard the boat, where snacks and drinks await. You might find yourself sipping island juices or soda, recounting your favorite moments while the stars twinkle overhead. The entire experience lasts around two hours, with most of the time spent in the water.

What to Expect in Terms of Equipment and Comfort

All snorkel gear, flotation devices, and wetsuits are provided, so you don’t need to bring your own. Many reviews highlight how helpful the staff are in fitting everyone comfortably, which is essential for a smooth experience. The wetsuits help offset the chilly water, but since the air can also get cold once you’re out of the water, bringing a towel and warm clothes like a sweater or windbreaker is advised.

Most travelers find the gear adequate, but some mention that the water temperature hovers around 75.6°F—refreshing but not overly warm. If you tend to get cold easily, layering up after your snorkel makes a big difference. Also, bringing a swimsuit underneath your clothes not only speeds up the process but keeps you comfortable from start to finish.

For children over 5 and those up to 265 lbs, participation is allowed, though pregnant women are not permitted. The tour is best suited for independent swimmers able to handle a brief, dark-water snorkel. With a maximum of 16 participants, the group feels intimate and manageable, making it easier for guides to give personal attention.

The Value and Pricing

At $139 per person, the tour offers a lot for a small-group, guaranteed-sighting adventure. When you consider that gear, wetsuits, snacks, and drinks are included, the price reflects a well-rounded experience. Compared to larger, less personal tours, this one’s small size and high success rate at spotting mantas make it a solid value.

Plus, the guarantee of sightings or a free second trip adds peace of mind. Many travelers appreciate the transparency—if you don’t see a manta, you’re invited back again at no charge, which shows confidence in the experience’s quality.

Authentic Encounters That Stick

Based on countless reviews, one theme emerges: this tour is consistently praised for its guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Many mention how guides like Marc, Kris, Bryce, Mitch, Patrick, and Tamae made the experience extra special with their humor and expertise. As one traveler put it, “Going with a small group was well worth it. The mantas swimming right below you was a WOW experience!”

The stories shared of multiple rays swimming around, sometimes just inches from your face mask, highlight how close and personal this experience can be. Several reviewers call it “the experience of a lifetime,” emphasizing the genuine connection to nature that’s hard to find elsewhere.

While some mention the water can be chilly, the overall consensus is that the magic of the night and the chance to see such majestic creatures outweighs minor discomforts. Not every night guarantees mantas, but the tour’s high success rate and friendly guides make it a dependable highlight.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a small, personal experience. If you’re comfortable snorkeling in the dark and don’t mind a bit of chill, you’ll likely find this to be a memorable highlight. It’s especially suited for those who value knowledgeable guides and authentic wildlife encounters.

Families with children over 5 are welcome, though parents should note the water temperature. Those seeking a relaxed, intimate setting away from crowded tour boats will appreciate the small group size. It’s a fantastic choice for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for an unforgettable night with nature.

Final Thoughts

This small-group manta ray snorkel tour from Kona offers a rare chance to see these gentle giants swimming in their natural habitat as the sun sets or the moon rises. With expert guides, guaranteed sightings, and a cozy group size, it balances adventure and comfort beautifully.

While the water can be a bit cool, the experience’s intimacy, educational value, and the sheer awe of seeing manta rays up close make it worth packing a warm shirt or light jacket. It’s a tour that transforms a typical evening into a genuine, memorable encounter with Hawaii’s incredible marine life.

If you’re after an authentic, less crowded adventure with top-notch guides and a high probability of seeing manta rays, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s the kind of experience that leaves you remembering the Big Island long after you’ve returned home.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about two hours, including the boat ride, snorkeling, and post-snorkel refreshments.

What is included in the price?
Snorkel gear, flotation devices, wetsuits, snacks, island juices, soda, bottled water, and light snacks are provided.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, children under 5 are not allowed to participate. Most travelers can participate, but pregnant women are not permitted.

What should I wear?
Wear a swimsuit underneath your clothes, and bring a towel. Warm clothes like a sweater or windbreaker are recommended for after snorkeling, as it can get chilly.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or can be rescheduled. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour.

What happens if I don’t see manta rays?
The tour guarantees sightings or you can return for free on a second outing.

Is this suitable for non-swimmers?
The experience requires snorkeling ability, but guides are helpful and supportive. If you’re unsure, ask ahead.

How many people are in each group?
The tour caps at 16 travelers for a more personal experience, making it easier for guides to give individual attention.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, manta rays are generally seen year-round, with sightings guaranteed during this tour’s scheduled times.