Kailua-Kona: Night Manta Snorkel or Dive
Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
Dive and snorkel with Kona’s majestic Manta Rays for an unforgettable vacation highlight. Encounter these gentle giants in their natural habitat in Kailua-Kona.
Overview
Experience diving or snorkeling with manta rays in Kailua-Kona, suitable for both beginners and experienced underwater explorers.
Highlights
- Dive or snorkel with manta rays in a calm, sheltered bay ideal for underwater viewing
- Snorkelers float above divers to watch manta rays feeding
- Observe manta rays performing continuous flips while feeding on plankton
- Witness manta rays up close in their natural Hawaiian habitat
Description
This dive and snorkel adventure in Kailua-Kona offers close encounters with majestic manta rays, ranking among the top dives worldwide. The protected bay features calm waters and sandy bottoms descending to about 30 feet deep, providing ideal conditions for exploration.
Boats anchor nearby as divers settle on the sandy bottom and snorkelers float effortlessly above. The area’s plankton concentration is attracted by underwater lights, drawing manta rays that feed on this nightly buffet. These graceful giants, with wingspans up to 15 feet and weights over 1,000 pounds, glide among participants, creating a unique underwater spectacle.
Whether observing from the bottom as a diver or from the surface as a snorkeler, this experience offers close proximity to manta rays in their natural environment.
Includes
- Snorkeling gear
- Light snacks
- Non-alcoholic drinks
Excludes
- Gratuities
- Towels
- Pickup service
- Diving gear (available to rent on-site for $40 if choosing the dive option)
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking Tips
Best visited after dark for optimal manta ray viewing. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, and a waterproof camera if you want to capture the encounter.
