Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona in Big Island of Hawaii, United States
Big Island of Hawaii, United States

Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona

Outty Ranking 77 4.8 · 1,184 traveler reviews1 hoursFrom $145
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Outty Ranking

77/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 1,184 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona worth booking?

Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona is a 1-hour experience in Big Island of Hawaii, United States, from $145 per person. It scores 77 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 1,184 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
77 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (1,184)
Duration
1 hours
From
$145 per person

Avoid the crowds of the other "cattle boats" in Kona, and enjoy a small-group manta ray snorkeling experience with a maximum of 12 passengers. This tour departs from Keahou Harbor in South Kona and enjoys a short 5-minute boat ride to our snorkeling site, Manta Village. Your Captain and snorkel guide will educate you on Kona's famous manta rays and will discuss our safe and humane approach to engaging with the gentle giants. After entering the water, you'll hold onto our lightboard, with your feet propped up by floatation devices, as the manta rays perform a graceful ballet beneath you. The manta rays filter feed on plankton that naturally gathers at the surface just before sunset, then accumulates underneath our lights. This is an opportunity to enjoy an evening on the water and watch in amazement as the manta rays glide around and dance for you. We are proud to be a Green Listed company, and we take an environmentally cautious approach to our interactions with the manta rays.

What you get

    About this experience

    Avoid the crowds of the other "cattle boats" in Kona, and enjoy a small-group manta ray snorkeling experience with a maximum of 12 passengers. This tour departs from Keahou Harbor in South Kona and enjoys a short 5-minute boat ride to our snorkeling site, Manta Village. Your Captain and snorkel guide will educate you on Kona's famous manta rays and will discuss our safe and humane approach to engaging with the gentle giants. After entering the water, you'll hold onto our lightboard, with your feet propped up by floatation devices, as the manta rays perform a graceful ballet beneath you. The manta rays filter feed on plankton that naturally gathers at the surface just before sunset, then accumulates underneath our lights. This is an opportunity to enjoy an evening on the water and watch in amazement as the manta rays glide around and dance for you. We are proud to be a Green Listed company, and we take an environmentally cautious approach to our interactions with the manta rays.

    What's included

    Included

    • Professional guide
    • Use of snorkeling equipment
    • Wetsuit (optional)
    • Local taxes
    • Beverages

    Not included

    • Gratuities
    • Transportation to/from attractions
    • Towel

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Big Island of Hawaii

    Please meet us at Keauhou Harbor, 30 minutes prior to your time of departure. When you arrive at the harbor, we'll be parked near the boat dock. Look for a white van with lights on top. It can be difficult to find us in the dark, so please call if you don't immediately see us.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Please meet us at Keauhou Harbor, 30 minutes prior to your time of departure. When you arrive at the harbor, we'll be parked near the boat dock. Look for a white van with lights on top. It can be difficult to find us in the dark, so please call if you don't immediately see us.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 11 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Hawaii Oceanic

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Must be able to swim without the assistance of a floatation device.
    • A ticket is required for all passengers, regardless of age or whether they are entering the water.
    • Maximum weight of 280 pounds per traveler.
    • For safety purposes, if you can not comfortably swim 25 yards in the ocean, we ask that you purchase a ticket to ride along on the boat, but not enter the water.
    • Children 7 and older are welcome on the tour if they can comfortably swim 25 yards in the ocean.
    • Our boat is certified by the US Coast Guard for 12 passengers, and we can not exceed this limit.
    • Not recommended for travelers with neck problems.

    Photos

    Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 2Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 3Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 4Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 5Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 6Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 1,182 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    2 mentions

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

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Traveler reviews

    1,182 verified traveler reviews for Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    1,096
    4 star
    36
    3 star
    15
    2 star
    11
    1 star
    24
    Sort
    lindarA1207XB · October 2026

    Epic

    I am visiting with friends on Kona but .I went by myself, got lost, couldn’t find the van at first. But the actual moment I felt this incredible looking “thing” a manta ray come up from the depths and skim under me … it was epic!

    via Tripadvisor

    Allison_L · September 2026

    Incredible!

    We had an absolutely incredible experience with Hawaii Oceanic for the manta ray night snorkel! 🐋🌺 From start to finish, the entire crew made us feel welcome, comfortable, and excited for the experience. The manta rays were absolutely amazing to see up close, and it was one of those experiences we’ll be talking about for a long time. A special thank-you to Eliza for making everything so easy and welcoming, Captain Alexis for getting us out there safely, Carmelle for being such a wonderful guide and helping us get the most out of the experience, and Maianna for taking such great care of us. You could tell that the whole crew genuinely cared about making sure everyone had a fantastic experience. If you’re visiting the Big Island, I highly recommend putting a manta ray night snorkel with Hawaii Oceanic on your list. It was absolutely worth it, and we would do it again in a heartbeat! Mahalo, Eliza, Alexis, Carmelle, and Maianna, for such a memorable night! 🌺🐋🤙

    via Viator

    craiga81 · September 2026

    Four Manta Rays, 30 Amazing Minutes — An Unforgettable Kona Experience

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Four Manta Rays, 30 Amazing Minutes — An Unforgettable Kona Experience Of all the things Tiffany and I have done on the Big Island, this will definitely be one of the experiences we remember most. From the moment we arrived, the entire crew was fantastic. Maianna handled check-in, Captain Mitch was at the helm, Carmelle was our guide, and Eliza rounded out an excellent crew. Everyone was friendly, professional and, most importantly for an excursion that involves jumping into the Pacific Ocean after dark, extremely calm and reassuring. Before we entered the water, they walked us through exactly what we would be doing, how the experience would work, and what to expect once the manta rays arrived. They also gave us a quick overview of manta rays and their behavior, which made seeing them in the water even more interesting. And then the show started. We were incredibly lucky to have four manta rays “flying” around us for essentially our entire 30 minutes in the water. They glided underneath us, rolled and turned in front of us, and came unbelievably close as they fed around the lights. Watching something that large move through the water with such grace is difficult to describe until you’ve experienced it yourself. At times it felt less like snorkeling and more like having front-row seats to an underwater ballet. A couple of suggestions for anyone considering the trip: Practice with a mask and snorkel beforehand if you’re inexperienced. Snorkeling isn’t difficult, but putting your face into the ocean at night can be a little intimidating at first. Being comfortable breathing through a snorkel before you arrive will let you relax and enjoy the experience much faster. The crew was excellent about making sure everyone was properly outfitted and comfortable before getting started. Also, if you have trouble floating—like I do—ask whether they can give you some extra flotation around your legs. You need to stay in a prone, almost “Superman” position with your legs near the surface so you don’t accidentally contact the manta rays swimming underneath you. I managed, but a little additional flotation would have made maintaining that position easier. Those are minor considerations, though, compared with what an incredible experience this was. Once we settled in and realized we had four mantas circling underneath us, the initial nervousness of being in the ocean at night disappeared. For anyone visiting Kona, I would put a manta ray night snorkel very high on the list of things you should experience, and we wouldn’t hesitate to go out with this crew again. Four manta rays. Thirty minutes of nonstop action. Absolutely unforgettable. Mahalo to Maianna, Captain Mitch, Carmelle and Eliza for giving us one of the highlights of our Big Island vacation! 🌺🤙

    via Tripadvisor

    Sunshine29794334570 · August 2026

    Best Experience on the island

    This experience was 100% worth every penny. 30 seconds in we had Mantas barrel rolling right in my face. They were almost too close to film. The all female crew was a dream team. Courtney, Alexis, Sara and Carmelle were amazing, attentive, fun and professional. We didn't have to do anything but enjoy!!

    via Tripadvisor

    Theresa_M · August 2026

    Magical experience with majestic rays

    Absolutely the highlight of our trip to the big island - the all female crew, the utmost care for our safely, and the gazillions of manta rays were amazing! Thank you!

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    1 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
    414
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Why this scores 77

    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)91
    Booking momentum (14% weight)89
    Value for money (12% weight)12
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)56
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona: questions travelers ask

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

    How much does Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona cost?

    +

    Prices start at $145 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 Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona take?

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    Plan for about 1 hour 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 Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 77 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 1,184 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Big Island of Hawaii, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona?

    +

    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 Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona?

    +

    Around 414 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-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona start and how do I get there?

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    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 Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona?

    +

    Included: Professional guide; Use of snorkeling equipment; Wetsuit (optional); Local taxes; and Beverages. Not included: Gratuities; Transportation to/from attractions; and Towel. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona?

    +

    Please meet us at Keauhou Harbor, 30 minutes prior to your time of departure. When you arrive at the harbor, we'll be parked near the boat dock. Look for a white van with lights on top. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona?

    +

    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.

    Is Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona 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 Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona?

    +

    Across 1,184 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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