Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate in Big Island of Hawaii, United States
Big Island of Hawaii, United States

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate

Outty Ranking 76 4.8 · 761 traveler reviews1.5 hoursFrom $141
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Outty Ranking

76/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 761 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate worth booking?

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate is a 1.5-hour experience in Big Island of Hawaii, United States, from $141 per person. It scores 76 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 761 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
76 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (761)
Duration
1.5 hours
From
$141 per person

• 85–95% manta ray sighting rate at Manta Village, Kona • Return free within 7 days if no mantas seen — space available • Owner Richard Kersten pioneered the large-vessel manta ray snorkel format • Named resident manta rays: Lefty (1979), Big Bertha (1991), Obama Ray, Koie Ray & more • 450+ individually identified manta rays on the Kona Coast — MPRF partner

What you get

    About this experience

    • 85–95% manta ray sighting rate at Manta Village, Kona • Return free within 7 days if no mantas seen — space available • Owner Richard Kersten pioneered the large-vessel manta ray snorkel format • Named resident manta rays: Lefty (1979), Big Bertha (1991), Obama Ray, Koie Ray & more • 450+ individually identified manta rays on the Kona Coast — MPRF partner

    What's included

    Included

    • Wetsuits, Masks, and Snorkels Provided (fins not needed)
    • Filtered Water
    • Carbonated beverages
    • Use of snorkeling equipment

    Not included

    • Gratuities are not included but greatly appreciated
    • Due to safety concerns we do not allow full face masks on our tours
    • Hotel pick-up and drop off

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Big Island of Hawaii

    Sea Paradise guests check in 15 minutes prior to departure at the Sea Paradise Van located at Keauhou Bay at the end of 78-7130 Kaleiopapa Street continuing past the boat ramps. You may find parking along Kaleiopapa Street and it will be approximately a 5 minute walk to the pier.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Sea Paradise guests check in 15 minutes prior to departure at the Sea Paradise Van located at Keauhou Bay at the end of 78-7130 Kaleiopapa Street continuing past the boat ramps. You may find parking along Kaleiopapa Street and it will be approximately a 5 minute walk to the pier.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 30 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Sea Paradise

    Know before you go

    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Snorkeling Ages: 6yrs and up with experienced swimming/snorkeling skills
    • Ride Along Ages: 4 yrs and up — underaged must be supervised by an adult at all times
    • Non-swimmers may not enter the water
    • Neck lanyards for phones not allowed
    • Shark bands not allowed
    • Flash must be turned off on cameras

    Photos

    Manta Ray Snorkel, Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate in Big Island of HawaiiKona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 3Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 4Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 5Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 6

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 761 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    3 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Value for money

    3 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Traveler reviews

    761 verified traveler reviews for Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    674
    4 star
    45
    3 star
    19
    2 star
    11
    1 star
    12
    Sort
    Karen_P · October 2026

    Must Do

    Experience was amazing. If you get motion sickness I would recommend some dramamine before hand. Water was pretty rough. May not be the norm tho. I wouldn't have missed this experience for anything.

    Response from the operator: Aloha Karen, thank you for taking the time to leave us an awesome review! Please join us again for a future tour! Mahalo for choosing Sea Paradise!

    via Viator

    hj260898 · September 2026

    10/10 manta day experience

    We were visiting from England and researched the most ethical and value for money tour, sea paradise came to the top of our searches. We received plenty of information prior to arriving, parking was located along Kaleiopapa road. We were greeted by an enthusiastic crew who made everyone feel comfortable. The manta ray experience was incredible! We were very lucky and saw dolphins as well as tuna during our snorkelling time. On the way back to the pier we were provided with drinks and an amazing view of the milkway. I would do this tour all over again if I had time. I would recommend this tour to anyone visiting Kailua Kona , it is a must do.

    Response from the operator: Aloha the manta ray tour is certainly a manta-stic experience ,we agree.The rays are definitely special and having the bonus of the extra wild life is always a plus.Being on the boat at night under the Hawaii starlight is also an experience in itself, thanks for taking the time to share your memories from the tour with us. We hope to have another opportunity to take you on the boat for another adventure next trip to Kona. Aloha

    via Tripadvisor

    lhs25 · August 2026

    Cool experience, rough conditions

    The catamaran used for the manta ray snorkeling is beautiful and we saw several manta rays. That said, we went on a very choppy evening which I would not recommend. I feel the guides could have done a better job explaining the conditions and also sharing more facts and information about the Manta Rays and other fish we were seeing. I ended up listening to the guide for the boat next to ours to learn about Mantas. All in all, it was fun but some of the other companies were more knowledgeable and better prepared for the conditions.

    Response from the operator: Aloha, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We're glad to hear you enjoyed the catamaran and had the opportunity to see several manta rays! We're sorry to hear that the conditions made your experience more challenging than expected. We appreciate your feedback regarding communication about conditions and information provided by our crew. Our goal is always to provide a safe, enjoyable, and educational experience, and we'll be sharing your comments with our team as an opportunity to improve.

    via Tripadvisor

    Q4085LIsonjak · August 2026

    Worth of experience!!!

    Very touching experience! Everything from the reception, guidance, guides and at the end the dance of a large group of beautiful mantas! Go for it, you won’t be sorry.

    Response from the operator: Aloha, Thank you so much for the 5 stars! So happy you enjoyed your time with us aboard the Hoku Nui! We hope to see you again on your next Hawaiian adventure!

    via Tripadvisor

    jlassalle31 · July 2026

    I will keep it short

    Trash from beginning to end. 10/10 do not recommend.

    Response from the operator: Aloha, Please email us info@seaparadise.com to share your input as it is our highest priority to provide all guests with a safe and fun experience aboard the Hoku Nui. Mahalo.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    1.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    266
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Sea Paradise, who run 5 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 82.5.

    See everything Sea Paradise runs

    Why this scores 76

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)86
    Review evidence (18% weight)85
    Booking momentum (14% weight)83
    Value for money (12% weight)38
    Listing quality (10% weight)68
    Local standing (8% weight)56
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Big Island of Hawaii.

    How much does Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate cost?

    +

    Prices start at $141 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Big Island of Hawaii usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate take?

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    Plan for about 1.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Big Island of Hawaii is not rushed.

    Is Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 76 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 761 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Big Island of Hawaii, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate?

    +

    Around 266 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Big Island of Hawaii can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Big Island of Hawaii and add a light layer if any part of the 1.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Big Island of Hawaii within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Big Island of Hawaii?

    +

    The Big Island is volcano country: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours, Mauna Kea summit stargazing, night manta ray snorkels off Kona, Waipio Valley lookouts and coffee farm visits. Summit tours have real altitude rules, so we weight safety detail. On Outty we rank every Big Island of Hawaii experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch, KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel - FREE re-ride if no Sightings, Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Big Island of Hawaii?

    +

    April to October, though the island runs year round. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Big Island of Hawaii?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate?

    +

    Included: Wetsuits, Masks, and Snorkels Provided (fins not needed); Filtered Water; Carbonated beverages; and Use of snorkeling equipment. Not included: Gratuities are not included but greatly appreciated; Due to safety concerns we do not allow full face masks on our tours; and Hotel pick-up and drop off. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate?

    +

    Sea Paradise guests check in 15 minutes prior to departure at the Sea Paradise Van located at Keauhou Bay at the end of 78-7130 Kaleiopapa Street continuing past the boat ramps. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    What happens to Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate?

    +

    Across 761 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, value for money. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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