Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Adventure in Kailua-Kona

Imagine witnessing the mesmerizing ballet of manta rays gliding through the moonlit waters of Kailua-Kona. This unique night snorkeling adventure offers visitors a chance to observe these majestic creatures up close, as they gracefully feed on the plankton-rich currents. With comprehensive gear, professional guides, and a starry return journey, the experience promises to captivate both seasoned snorkelers and newcomers alike. Discover the wonders that await beneath the surface and witness a sight that few have the privilege to behold.

This experience made our list of the 12 Best Snorkeling Experiences In Big Island of Hawaii.

Key Points

• This unique night snorkeling adventure offers the opportunity to witness the graceful movements of manta rays in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
• The tour includes a professional guide, snorkeling gear, a wetsuit jacket, and a floatation device, as well as light refreshments.
• Stargazing on the return boat ride is a captivating highlight of the experience, with a lack of light pollution on the open water.
• The tour is suitable for both seasoned snorkelers and first-timers, with a maximum group size of 26 for a personalized experience.
• While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and located near public transportation, making it accessible for many visitors.

Overview of the Adventure

This Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Adventure offers a unique opportunity to witness the graceful movements of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

With 108 glowing reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour has been praised for its professional guidance, live commentary, and top-notch amenities.

Included in the experience are snorkeling gear, a wetsuit jacket, and a floatation device, ensuring your comfort and safety as you explore the waters.

After the snorkeling session, you’ll have the chance to stargaze on the return boat ride, capping off an unforgettable evening of adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, this tour promises an enchanting encounter with the majestic manta rays.

Inclusions and Meeting Point

The tour includes a professional guide who provides live commentary throughout the adventure, along with light refreshments such as snacks and bottled water. Snorkeling gear, a jacket-style wetsuit top, and a floatation device are also provided for the snorkeling portion of the experience. Gratuities and hotel pickup/drop-off are covered as part of the package.

The meeting point for the adventure is the Honokohau Harbor public restrooms (south harbor). Visitors should follow the road for 1/4 mile until they see a small public bathroom with a red roof building to the right.

Location: MX9H+827, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA
Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible, but stroller accessible and near public transportation
Age restrictions: Infants must sit on laps

Additional Important Information

While most travelers can participate, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical concerns.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible. Travelers should note that infants must sit on laps during the experience.

Plus, the tour is located near public transportation, making it easily accessible. Confirmations are provided at the time of booking, and the tour has a maximum capacity of 26 travelers.

Manta Ray and Dolphin Sightings

On this nighttime excursion, guests can expect to witness the majestic movements of manta rays as they glide through the water, often accompanied by playful pods of dolphins. The manta rays, with their wing-like fins, can reach up to 16 feet in width and are known for their graceful acrobatics as they feed on plankton near the water’s surface.

Guests may also spot:

• Curious bottlenose dolphins surfing the bow waves of the boat.
• Sea turtles basking on the surface.
• Vibrant schools of fish illuminated by the boat’s underwater lights.
• A spectacular display of stars in the night sky on the return trip.

This unique opportunity to observe these incredible marine creatures in their natural habitat is truly an unforgettable experience.

Stargazing on the Return Ride

As the boat returns to the harbor, guests can expect a captivating display of stars in the night sky, offering a chance to unwind and savor the tranquility of the open ocean.

The lack of light pollution on the open water creates an ideal environment for stargazing, allowing participants to marvel at the vast, twinkling expanse above.

With the manta ray encounter now behind them, guests can sit back, relax, and ponder the mysteries of the universe as the vessel glides smoothly across the calm waters.

This serene moment serves as the perfect culmination to an already unforgettable adventure, leaving lasting memories of both the marine life and the celestial wonders observed throughout the evening.

Professional Guide and Commentary

The professional guide leads the way, providing live commentary throughout the adventure to enhance the participants’ understanding and appreciation of the manta ray encounter.

The guide’s expertise shines through as they:

1. Explain the unique biology and behavior of the manta rays, captivating the group with fascinating insights.
2. Point out key landmarks and natural features, helping everyone orient themselves and fully immerse in the stunning Hawaiian environment.
3. Share local knowledge and cultural traditions, adding depth and context to the experience.
4. Offer guidance and support, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and safe throughout the excursion.

With the guide’s knowledgeable narration, the manta ray adventure becomes an educational and enriching journey, leaving a lasting impression on the participants.

Light Refreshments and Gear

Participants can refuel with the light refreshments included in the tour, such as snacks and bottled water, keeping them energized throughout the adventure.

For the snorkeling portion, the tour provides all the necessary gear, including a jacket-style wetsuit top and a floatation device, ensuring the participants’ comfort and safety in the water. These thoughtful inclusions allow guests to fully enjoy the experience without worrying about bringing their own equipment.

With everything taken care of, the focus can remain on the breathtaking sights of the manta rays and the opportunity to stargaze on the return boat ride, creating a truly memorable and carefree night on the Big Island.

Gratuities and Accessibility

Gratuities are included in the tour price, ensuring a hassle-free experience for guests.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and located near public transportation, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Infants must sit on laps, and the activity isn’t recommended for those with:

1. Back problems
2. Pregnancy
3. Heart conditions or other serious medical issues

However, most travelers can comfortably participate in the adventure.

With detailed confirmation provided at the time of booking and a maximum group size of 26, guests can expect a personalized and well-organized experience as they embark on their Manta Ray Night Snorkeling journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Duration of the Tour?

The tour typically lasts 2-3 hours, providing ample time for participants to enjoy the manta ray and dolphin viewing as well as stargazing on the return boat ride.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

You can’t bring your own snorkeling gear on this tour. The package includes all the necessary snorkeling equipment, like a wetsuit top and floatation device. This ensures all participants have properly fitted and high-quality gear for the experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has an age requirement – infants must sit on laps. However, most travelers can participate, with no specific age restrictions for children. The tour is not recommended for certain medical conditions or travelers.

Can I Request a Specific Pick-Up Location?

Customers can’t request a specific pick-up location for this tour. The provided meeting point at Honokohau Harbor is the designated pick-up location. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, but guests must meet at the specified public restrooms to begin the adventure.

Is There a Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

There’s typically a cancellation policy for tours like this. Customers should check the provider’s website or contact them directly to learn the specifics, as policies may vary. Cancellations made in advance are often eligible for a refund or credit.

Recap

The Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Adventure in Kailua-Kona is a must-try experience.

Participants can enjoy the ethereal world of these majestic creatures and enjoy the breathtaking display of the night sky on the return trip.

With professional guides, quality gear, and delightful refreshments, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to connect with the wonders of the underwater realm.