Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour in Kailua-Kona, Big Island
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to snorkel with Giant Oceanic Manta Rays in their natural habitat on the Big Island! Enjoy the breathtaking Big Island sunset as we cruise to the best Kona Manta Ray snorkeling spot. Once we’re done swimming with the manta rays, relax and enjoy hot cocoa on our way back to the harbor. Book your Kailua Kona manta ray tour today for an unforgettable manta ray sunset snorkeling experience!
We do offer pick-up from select hotels for the sunset tour only for a small additional fee. Please call our office to request transportation. If you drive yourself, please arrive 30 minutes prior to the tour time.
Hotel list:
Waikoloa Resort-Queens Marketplace, Kohala Suites/Bay Club Hilton Grand Vacations, Shops at Mauna Lani Shopping Center, Fairmont Orchid, Shops at Mauna Lani Shopping Center, Four Seasons Hualalai Resort, Hilton Waikoloa Village, Kings' Land by Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Hapuna Beach Resort
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Join Iruka Hawaii for a manta ray snorkel at sunset or under the stars. Departing from Honokohau Harbor, you’ll board our speedboat KIBOU and cruise the Kona coast! After sunset, gear up and head to Manta Ray Heaven, a site only accessible by boat. Submerged lights called “campfires” attract plankton, drawing in manta rays to feed. Float on a lighted platform and watch these gentle giants glide and roll below. This Big Island night snorkel is calm and beginner-friendly, with lifeguard-certified guides supporting all ages. First time snorkeling? We’ll offer simple tips to help you feel confident before entering the water. After 45 minutes in the water, enjoy hot cocoa, tea, and snacks as we cruise back under the stars. Named one of the “Top 10 Things to Do in Your Lifetime” by The Travel Channel, it’s the perfect end to an unforgettable night. Family-friendly and open to all ages. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication an hour before departure. You’re welcome to bring food and drinks. Alcohol is allowed after snorkeling (no glass bottles). Look for whales from November to March. Private manta ray charters available. Book your Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour today!
What‘s Included
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Air-conditioned vehicle
Free Go Pro photos from our crew!
Wet suits are available for rent $10/adult and $5/child.
Options
Snorkeling and Swim With Manta Rays in Kealakekua
Reviews
387 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
If their is only one...
Dan D,,Feb 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00If their is only one activity on the island that you have time for this would most definitely be the one! A once in a lifetime experience doesnt even begin to describe it! Absolutely breath taking! The entire crew was outstanding and extremely knowledgeable. I only wish that would have been able to stay in the water longer than 45 minutes.
Do it! Just do it!
Kelly G,,Feb 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was amazing. We saw numerous fish, dolphins and manta rays. The crew were so patient and gave clear explanations and expectations. The price was right. Get a wet suit. Only 10 bucks.
Would definitely recommend.
bennielsen1,,Feb 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Awesome experience. Manta Rays, reef fish, and Dolphins. A Trifecta of cool. The crew was great and the atmosphere was fun but safe and relaxed.
Easy and simple to get...
Patrick M,,Feb 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Easy and simple to get the the vehicle! We were running really late for pick up but it was not an issue at all!
We finally did the tour...
Cindy B,,Feb 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00We finally did the tour after 2 rebookings, due to strong ocean conditions. You have to be able to swim, as you’re jumping into the water from the boat and swimming out to the platforms. Definitely take anti nausea medicine and rent/bring a wetsuit. The Manta Rays are beautiful creatures are glad we experienced them!
Beautiful evening with great views of the rays!
joshg661,,Feb 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Awesome crew and awesome time! Met at docks, got suited up and they even had prescription scuba goggles. 30 min boat ride each way and then jumped in the water to watch the rays!
Pure Magic
Dawn K,,Jan 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Pure magic! Night snorkeling with the manta rays in Kona was unreal—graceful giants gliding right beneath us The best part? Lena, Eric, and Diego were an absolute blast and made the whole experience feel fun, easy, and unforgettable. A must-do Big Island adventure!
Boat was comfortable and...
James K,,Jan 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Boat was comfortable and crew was well experienced and made it a safe a fun trip. Saw plenty of manta rays. Highly recommend
No swimming experience needed
normadD7764BG,,Jan 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had the best time with captain Amy and nick. We told them from the beginning that we couldn’t swim and they were so amazing with taking care of us. Gave us details instructions about the whole process. Not only that but Nick was so helpful getting our group off and up on the boat when we were in the ocean. He was patient with us and our inability to do somethings.. i would definitely recommend them and will book again when i return.
Such an amazing experience!
sophie v,,Jan 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was an absolutley amazing experience! Highly recommend!! The captain and crew, Mitch, Madi, Diego and Tamae were so fun and attentive and educational. Super fun crew! They really made this trip what it was. Not to mention the fabulous set up they have to allow us to have an up close and very personal experience with these beautiful sentient beings, the Manta Rays. AMAZING!!! We had multiple encounters with them as they rotated from boat to boat to feed. My travel partner and her daughter who is 7 had such a great time too. If your kids are adventurous this is such a magical experience. I’ve wanted to do this for a very long time and I’m so glad it finally became a reality. Will definitely book another trip.
From US$125.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by Iruka Hawaii Dolphin