Swim with Giants: Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona

Wow… just wow! From the moment you enter the water on the Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona, you’re in the presence of graceful giants. Swimming alongside these manta rays as they effortlessly glide through the ocean, filtering plankton, is nothing short of mesmerizing.

Manta Ray Night Snorkeling is a truly unique adventure exclusive to Kona. Nowhere else in the world offers this remarkable experience, making it exceptionally special.

Why at night? Manta ray night snorkels are held after sunset to take advantage of a fascinating phenomenon. In the 1970s, bright construction lights at a resort on the Kona coast began attracting plankton, which drew manta rays to feed.

These lights created an ideal environment for night feeding. Today, snorkelers can observe these graceful creatures up close as they perform somersaults while feeding on the abundant plankton.

While several providers on the island provide the opportunity to swim with these majestic creatures, we chose Hang Loose Boat Tours for our unforgettable journey. We selected the 7:30 pm tour.

Our tour started at the Honokohau Marina North Boat Ramp, where we met the captain and completed some paperwork.

There is a pavilion with benches and a handy restroom.

We boarded the double-decker boat after removing our shoes and getting our snorkel gear (supplied by Hang Loose).

The dark ride to the snorkel site took around 20 minutes.

Upon arrival, the crew moored the boat and deployed the snorkel boards. These rectangular boards had lights underneath, designed to attract plankton, drawing the manta rays. The boards also included rails along the edges, allowing snorkelers to comfortably hold on and observe the rays as they gracefully swam and fed below.

Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona: What to Expect

When it was time to jump in, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. Plunging into the dark ocean at night is undeniably a bit daunting. We swam around the back of the boat, covering about 10 yards to reach the glowing snorkel boards. Once there, we took our place along the rails. The crew placed pool noodles between our feet to keep our legs afloat. Next, adjust the snorkel gear and get ready for the captivating experience that awaits just below the surface!

You’re instructed not to touch the manta rays, but the manta rays don’t always play by the rules! Despite our best efforts, these gentle giants often got so close that they brushed against our arms and legs.

The manta rays aren’t the only marine life you’ll encounter—small fish are everywhere in a swarm all around you. They’re so active that some might even jump onto your hand or make their way into your swimsuit. One ended up getting stuck in my hair!

Our manta ray night snorkel experience lasted about an hour, but guests could exit the water at any time. The crew was nearby in the water to offer assistance and ensure everyone felt comfortable throughout the adventure.

I waited until the very last minute to leave the water. Watching the manta rays glide effortlessly beneath me was so fascinating that I couldn’t tear myself away.

While most of the fun in Hawaii happens under the sun, the Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona offers a unique adventure that comes to life after dark. Being in the water with so many graceful giants (at one point, I counted six at once) as they glide beneath is nothing short of extraordinary. This experience is a MUST on a Kona vacation!