When I travel to Hawaii, I always put seeing manta rays on my list. These gentle giants swim gracefully and are easy to spot in the clear Hawaiian waters.
Watching them is a special experience that anyone can enjoy.
I’ve found that the Big Island offers some of the best places in Hawaii to see manta rays up close. Whether from the shore or out on a boat at night, I always get excited about the chance to observe these amazing animals.
Manta Ray Night Snorkel
I joined the Manta Ray Night Snorkel tour in Kona, and it was unlike anything I’d done before. The tour leaves from Honokohau boat harbor, where the crew gives a simple briefing about manta rays and how to enjoy the experience safely.
After I put on a wetsuit and snorkeling gear, we boarded their fast boat and headed out as the sun set. When we arrived at the site, the crew shined bright lights into the water to attract plankton.
Manta rays soon showed up to feed, swooping and gliding just below where I floated. I could see their wide mouths and graceful movements up close.
Sometimes, I spotted fish and, if lucky, eels or dolphins, too. The small group size made the experience even better.
The guides were friendly and patient. They made sure everyone was comfortable in the water.
They moved us to spots with the best views and pointed out the mantas as they appeared. The crew also shared cool facts about the rays.
Tours run every night year-round, except when the weather gets rough. There are two tours each night: one at sunset and one after dark.
I liked that the groups stayed small, which made it feel more personal.
Rating: 5 (2,194 reviews)
Location: 74-5583 Luhia St A20, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 315-7114
Website: Visit Website
Manta Ray Dives of Hawai‘i
I tried Manta Ray Dives of Hawai‘i, and it quickly became one of my favorite ways to see manta rays along the Kona coast. The guides welcomed me and helped from the moment I checked in at Honokohau Harbor.
Before each tour, they gave a clear safety rundown and explained how the trip helps protect the manta habitat. The night manta ray snorkel and dive were the highlights for me.
I saw several manta rays up close, moving gently through the water. The guides made sure we felt comfortable and answered any questions.
There are options for both certified divers and snorkelers, so anyone can join. I also saw families with kids enjoying the manta experience together.
Private charters and morning reef dives are available if you want something more personal. They also offer whale watching and other snorkel tours.
Every trip felt relaxed, safe, and well organized.
Rating: 4.9 (3,154 reviews)
Location: 74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy slip c-01, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 325-1687
Website: Visit Website
Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tours
I joined Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tours for a night snorkel, and it was a great experience. The process was smooth from the moment I checked in.
The staff were friendly and quickly explained what to bring and how to get ready. They made sure I felt comfortable about the trip.
The boat ride was short—just about three minutes out to the site. This gave us more time in the water.
The group size was small, so it felt personal and not crowded like the bigger boats nearby. When I got in the water, I felt nervous since I’m not an expert snorkeler.
But the guides were patient and answered every question. Being in the ocean with manta rays swimming so close, some nearly 15 feet wide, was unforgettable.
The guides shared interesting facts about the manta rays, and I never felt rushed. If you want a tour that’s affordable, low-key, and focused on the experience instead of big crowds, I recommend this one.
Rating: 4.9 (1645 reviews)
Location: 78-7138 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 313-1116
Website: Visit Website
Sea Paradise
I booked a manta ray snorkel tour with Sea Paradise and loved how easy everything was. The friendly crew welcomed me aboard their catamaran, “Hoku Nui,” which was comfortable and had plenty of space.
There were great views of the Kona coast as we sailed out. The highlight was getting in the water at “Manta Ray Village” right after sunset.
The guides explained how to safely watch the manta rays and helped everyone feel relaxed. Floating in the water and seeing giant manta rays glide so close felt surreal and safe, since the staff stayed nearby.
Sea Paradise offers more than just the manta ray tour. They also have morning and afternoon snorkel trips to places like Kealakekua Bay, with meals or snacks included.
I liked that these tours were well-organized and not rushed, giving me plenty of time in the water. During the winter, you might spot dolphins or whales from the boat.
From start to finish, everything felt organized and welcoming. The crew made sure everyone had a good time.
Rating: 4.8 (747 reviews)
Location: 78-7130 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 322-2500
Website: Visit Website
Kona Snorkel Trips
I recently joined a Kona Snorkel Trips tour, and it was a highlight of my time on the Big Island. Their manta ray night snorkel is one of the most popular things to do here.
The guides are lifeguard-certified and friendly. They made me feel safe and comfortable in the water.
The tour took us to Garden Eel Cove, one of the top spots for seeing manta rays. After sunset, we floated around a custom snorkel board with bright lights shining into the water.
Manta rays came gliding by, attracted by the plankton drawn to the lights. Everything was set up for an easy, fun experience.
The staff explained what to expect and helped everyone, no matter their skill level. They also offer other tours like whale watching and private boat charters if you want to explore more.
I left with amazing memories and some great photos.
Rating: 5 (7683 reviews)
Location: 74-381 Kealakehe Pkwy E, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 326-4774
Website: Visit Website
Kona Honu Divers
I joined a manta ray dive with Kona Honu Divers, and it was an experience I won’t forget. The crew greeted me at the dock and made it clear from the start that safety was a top priority.
The dive boat was organized and clean, with plenty of space. My rental gear was already set up when I arrived on board, so I didn’t have to worry about missing equipment.
During the manta ray night dive, our guide pointed out several giant mantas gliding in and out of the lights. I also saw turtles and plenty of reef fish before the sun went down.
After diving, I enjoyed a quick rinse in the hot shower and some snacks. What stood out most was how prepared and friendly the staff were.
They knew where the mantas liked to gather and worked hard to find unique sea life to show us under the water.
Rating: 5 (5869 reviews)
Location: 74-5583 Luhia St A12, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 324-4668
Website: Visit Website
Garden Eel Cove / Manta Ray Heaven
When I visited Garden Eel Cove, I noticed right away how calm and clear the water felt. The area is well-known for nighttime manta ray dives.
I joined a group at sunset, and everyone seemed excited and friendly. It did not take long to spot the manta rays.
Seeing them glide and loop so close was amazing. The guides were helpful and made sure we all felt safe in the water.
During the day, the cove is quiet and peaceful. I liked watching the garden eels poke out from the sand.
The site is easy to reach by boat from Kailua-Kona, which made the trip smooth.
Rating: 4.8 (174 reviews)
Location: Ha’uke’uke Way, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 324-4668
Manta Adventures Inc.
I had a great time with Manta Adventures Inc. on my recent trip to Kailua-Kona.
Their boat, the Maheli-Heli, felt new, clean, and safe, which made me comfortable right away.
The staff gave a helpful briefing and answered all my questions before we left the harbor.
We started with a relaxing cruise along the Kona coast at sunset.
When we arrived at Manta Ray Village, the water stayed calm, and the guides stayed nearby, showing us where to look for manta rays.
I saw manta rays glide right below me, which felt amazing and a little surreal.
The tour included new snorkel gear and warm showers on the boat after swimming.
I enjoyed seeing dolphins and other fish too.
They also offer private charters for families or groups.
The crew made sure everyone felt included, whether it was someone’s first time snorkeling or they had done it before.
The tour was fun and always felt very safe.
Rating: 4.7 (277 reviews)
Location: 74-429 Kealakehe Pkwy Slip G-2, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 345-0323
Website: Visit Website
Kona Ocean Adventures
I joined Kona Ocean Adventures for a manta ray snorkel tour, and the whole experience felt very personal.
The group was small, so I never felt crowded.
The captain and guides were friendly and enjoyed sharing their knowledge about the ocean and the Kona coast.
Our boat was clean and comfortable, with enough shade to take a break from the sun.
There was a bathroom and a hot handheld shower onboard, which made a difference after swimming.
The staff made sure we felt safe before we got in the water and gave clear instructions for first-timers like me.
The manta ray tour happened in the evening, right when the gentle giants come out to feed.
Floating above the manta rays was beautiful and peaceful.
They also offered snacks like local fruit, chips, and homemade salsa, which was a nice treat.
Booking was easy, and the team took care of us the whole time.
They clearly have a lot of experience and know the best spots to see marine life up close.
Rating: 4.8 (347 reviews)
Location: Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 930-9861
Website: Visit Website
Big Island Divers
I really enjoyed my trip with Big Island Divers.
Their team made everything simple, from booking to getting all the gear ready before we went out.
The shop has a big selection of equipment, so I rented exactly what I needed for the dive.
My favorite part was joining their famous manta ray night dive off the Kona coast.
Lying on the ocean floor and seeing the manta rays glide overhead was something I had never experienced before.
The crew supported me and made me feel comfortable and safe the whole time.
They also offer different dive options, like morning boat dives and private charters.
Many people were excited about their advanced blackwater night dives too.
The staff stayed friendly and helpful, which made the day relaxing and fun.
Rating: 4.8 (1858 reviews)
Location: 74-5467 Kaiwi St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 329-6068
Website: Visit Website
Manta Ray Behavior and Seasonal Patterns
Manta rays gather near the Big Island because the area has plenty of food and ideal ocean conditions.
Warm, calm waters make the area a favorite home for these gentle giants.
Why Manta Rays Visit the Big Island
Manta rays come to the Big Island mostly to feed.
Plankton, their main food source, grows in large numbers near Kona and along the west coast.
At night, lights from boats and resorts attract plankton, making it easy for manta rays to find meals.
These gathering spots help the rays eat and give them a safe space to glide and do barrel rolls.
I enjoy watching their feeding dances in places like Manta Village or Manta Heaven, two of the most popular sites for close encounters.
Many manta rays stay year-round because the conditions stay steady and the food supply lasts.
That’s why I often see them at these well-known locations.
Best Times of Year for Sightings
Manta rays live around the Big Island in every season.
There is no specific manta ray “season” because they stay here all year, but some times are better for viewing.
Summer months like June through August offer the calmest seas and best water clarity.
This means better visibility for me and other snorkelers.
Rainy periods in winter may reduce visibility, but manta rays still come to feed.
I plan my night snorkels for summer or early fall when the water is warm and the ocean is most peaceful.
The west coast, especially the Kona area, almost always gives a chance to see these amazing creatures feeding all year long.
Responsible and Safe Manta Ray Viewing
When I watch manta rays, I follow good practices that protect both the animals and myself.
Respecting their environment helps keep them safe and lets everyone enjoy the experience for years to come.
Guidelines for Snorkelers and Divers
I always keep a safe distance from manta rays.
This helps prevent stress for the animals and keeps me away from accidental bumps.
Touching manta rays is never allowed, as human contact can harm their delicate skin.
At night, I use only red lights or low-intensity flashlights because bright lights can disturb them.
If I wear fins, I move carefully and avoid stirring up sand, as this can reduce visibility and upset other sea life.
When I’m in the water, I float flat and avoid making loud noises.
This reduces my impact and lets rays swim naturally.
I also follow the guide’s instructions at all times.
Below is a quick reference list for safe viewing:
- Never chase or touch rays
- Stay horizontal in the water
- Avoid shining lights directly at the rays
- Listen closely to safety briefings
Supporting Manta Ray Conservation
I help protect manta rays by choosing operators who support responsible tourism and follow local guidelines.
Some businesses report sightings to research groups or assist with conservation projects.
Before I book a tour, I look for companies that limit group sizes. I also choose operators who educate guests about ocean life.
These actions reduce pressure on manta ray populations.
I avoid buying souvenirs made from manta rays or other marine animals.
When I share what I learn with friends and family, I spread the message about protecting these animals.
I support causes that promote clean oceans, such as joining a beach cleanup.
If I want more details, I visit guides on manta ray viewing sites.
