Manta Ray Snorkel in Kailua-Kona with Hot Cocoa

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour from Honokohau Harbor, Kailua-Kona

This family-friendly guided snorkel tour suits all ages and experience levels, offering safe manta ray viewing in the waters off Kailua-Kona on the Big Island.

Description

Departing from Honokohau Harbor just before sunset, the tour begins aboard the speedboat KIBOU with a safety briefing and cultural insights about manta rays and the local ocean ecology. After sunset, guests don snorkel masks for a short ride to a boat-access-only site known as 'Manta Ray Heaven.'

At this location, submerged lights attract plankton, the manta rays' food source, drawing these large filter feeders close. Guests float on a lighted platform guided by lifeguard-certified staff, observing manta rays with wingspans up to 14 feet performing graceful barrel rolls underwater. The snorkeling is gentle and suitable for beginners, with staff providing tips to help newcomers feel comfortable in the water.

Following up to 45 minutes of snorkeling, the group returns to the boat to enjoy hot cocoa, tea, light snacks, and warm conversation under the stars. Alcohol consumption is allowed only after snorkeling. Guests may bring their own food and non-glass beverages on board.

This tour welcomes families, first-time snorkelers, and multi-generational groups. For those prone to motion sickness, taking medication about an hour before departure is advised for comfort. The boat is equipped with onboard bathrooms, and all guests must complete a waiver before boarding.

Highlights

• Family-friendly and suitable for all snorkel experience levels
• Lifeguard-certified guides ensure safety and personal attention
• Small group tours from Honokohau Harbor, Kona
• Hot cocoa, tea, and snacks served after snorkeling
• Unique opportunity to snorkel with manta rays in their natural habitat

Includes

• Guided manta ray night snorkel tour from Honokohau Harbor
• Use of snorkel gear
• Lifeguard-certified in-water guides
• Floating light raft for manta ray viewing
• Hot cocoa, tea, light snacks, and bottled water
• Educational briefing on manta rays and ocean ecology
• Safety orientation before entering the water
• Bathroom facilities on board
• Small group setting for personalized attention

Excludes

• Wetsuit rental: $10 for adults, $5 for children
• Sea sickness medication (recommended but not provided)
• Additional food or drinks brought onboard
• Transportation to and from the harbor for sunset tour (additional fee)
• Gratuity for crew (optional but appreciated)

Important Information

• Manta rays are wild animals; sightings cannot be guaranteed. If no manta rays are seen, a free spot on the next available tour will be offered.
• The boat is equipped with bathrooms for guest convenience.
• Select an early departure for the sunset tour and contact the operator for transportation details, or choose the later departure for the moonlight tour.
• A waiver form must be completed by all guests before boarding.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring a towel, wear reef-safe sunscreen, and consider sea sickness medication if prone to motion sickness. Book early to secure your preferred departure time.