From Keauhou Bay: Manta Ray Night Tour

Exploring the ocean after sunset in search of the gentle giants known as manta rays is an experience few forget. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect—an extraordinary night-time adventure in Kailua-Kona with plenty of awe-inspiring moments.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see manta rays performing their underwater somersaults up close—a mesmerizing ballet of grace. Second, the knowledgeable guides, like Sarah and Matt, receive praise for making the experience both educational and engaging. Third, the surreal sight of these creatures in their natural environment at night offers a rare, almost otherworldly encounter.

One possible consideration is that this activity demands a certain level of physical ability since swimming skills are necessary, and participants need to be able to climb a boat ladder unaided. It’s also limited by weight, with a maximum of 275 lbs, and is not suitable for wheelchair users.

This tour appeals most to those seeking a unique, close-up experience with marine wildlife, particularly if you’re comfortable in the water and eager for a nighttime adventure.

Good To Know

• Close Encounters: You’ll get remarkably close to manta rays, witnessing their elegant underwater ballet.
• Educational Guides: Guides like Sarah and Matt are highly praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Natural Habitat: The tour offers a surreal view of mantas in their night-time environment, creating unforgettable visuals.
• Equipment & Safety: Good quality masks, snorkels, wetsuits, and flotation devices are provided; swimming ability is required.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Book now, pay later with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Limited Group Size & Duration: The tour lasts about one hour, making it a manageable evening activity.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Is the Keauhou Bay Manta Ray Night Tour?

This tour offers an incredible chance to observe manta rays performing their underwater dance in the calm, dark waters off Kailua-Kona. It’s a one-hour adventure that occurs after sunset, making it perfect for those wanting an evening activity that combines wildlife viewing with a touch of magic.

You meet at the Keauhou Boat Harbor, just past the boat trailer parking, at a designated public restroom area. The inclusion of bright lights to attract mantas, along with in-water guides and instructions, ensures that guests can navigate the experience confidently and safely.

Why Is This Tour Special?

What sets this experience apart is the chance to see these giants in their natural environment, performing slow, graceful flips just beneath your snorkeling mask. Manta rays are enormous, measuring between 12 to 16 feet across, and their paddle-shaped fins and large mouths make them look like extraterrestrial creatures gliding through the water.

The real magic happens when they approach close enough to see inside their mouths—a view that most people only get in the wild here. Their calm, slow movements combined with the darkness of the ocean create a surreal, almost dreamlike atmosphere.

The Guides and Their Role

Based on reviews, the guides—particularly Sarah and Matt—are outstanding. They’re described as knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share insights about manta behavior and ocean life. Their enthusiasm enhances the experience, making even nervous swimmers feel comfortable and informed.

Having an in-water guide and clear instructions helps ensure safety and maximizes your chances of a close encounter. Plus, the guides’ local expertise means they often share interesting tidbits about the area and the mantas’ habits.

Equipment and Safety

Guests are provided with good quality masks and snorkels, along with wetsuits and flotation devices. These are crucial for comfort during the roughly one-hour snorkel session, especially since the water can be cooler at night.

While the activity is generally accessible, swimming ability is required, and you must be comfortable climbing a boat ladder unaided. The maximum participant weight is 275 lbs, which is worth noting for larger guests. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, but for anyone in decent health and able to swim, it’s a straightforward yet exhilarating activity.

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What To Expect During the Tour

The tour begins with a brief safety orientation and instructions from the guides. Once on the boat, you’ll cruise to the designated manta viewing site, where bright lights are used to attract the rays. As the lights go on, you might already start to see shadows beneath the water’s surface.

After donning your snorkeling gear, you’ll slip into the water, where a guide will lead you. What follows is a silent, awe-inspiring display—manta rays gliding towards you, performing slow flips, and sometimes coming within a few feet. The experience lasts around 45 minutes to an hour, with most of the magic happening in the first half.

Guests often describe the moment of seeing a manta for the first time as breathtaking—it’s like witnessing a creature from another planet. As one reviewer put it, “One of a kind experience with dancing mantas,” which truly captures the essence of this activity.

The Value for Money

At $130 per person, this tour is a solid investment for those interested in marine wildlife and night snorkeling. When you consider the quality of guides, equipment, and the exclusivity of seeing mantas in the wild, it offers good value for a memorable experience.

That said, because the activity is short and involves specialized equipment, it’s best suited for travelers who prioritize unique, close-up wildlife encounters over long tours or multi-day excursions.

Practical Tips for Booking

• Reserve early, as this tour is popular due to high praise and limited spots.
• Dress in comfortable swimwear and bring a towel.
• Arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early to prepare and listen to safety instructions.
• Be prepared for a night-time swim—think about your comfort in the dark and in the water.

This experience is ideal for travelers who love marine wildlife and are comfortable in water. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a bucket-list moment—seeing manta rays perform their elegant dance beneath the stars.

It’s suited for those who value guided expertise—the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm are often highlighted as a key part of the tour’s appeal. However, if you’re not a confident swimmer or have mobility issues, this activity might not be suitable.

In addition, this tour is best for adventurers seeking a short, impactful activity to add to an evening in Kona, providing a rare glimpse into the deep-sea world that few have the chance to witness firsthand.

The Keauhou Bay Manta Ray Night Tour offers a captivating close-up view of some of the ocean’s most graceful creatures. With expert guides, high-quality equipment, and a surreal setting, it promises a memorable night that combines education, adventure, and awe.

While it requires comfortable swimming skills and a bit of physical agility, the emotional payoff is significant—being within a few feet of a giant manta gliding silently through the water is genuinely unforgettable.

For travelers with a sense of curiosity and adventure, particularly those craving an authentic encounter with Hawaii’s marine life, this tour delivers. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty, expert storytelling, and just enough thrill to leave you inspired long after the night is over.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, including time for safety instructions, transportation to the site, and snorkeling.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at Keauhou Boat Harbor, specifically at the public restrooms just past the boat trailer parking area.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, good quality masks and snorkels are included, along with wetsuits and flotation devices.

Can anyone join the tour?
Most adults aged 7-73 who can swim and climb a boat ladder unaided can participate. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera if you want photos. Dress warmly for the boat ride, as evenings can get cooler.

Is there an age limit?
Yes, children as young as 7 are welcome, provided they meet the swimming and mobility requirements.

How heavy can participants be?
The maximum weight limit is 275 lbs (125 kg), so check if you’re within this range.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in planning your trip.

To sum it up, this tour offers a rare, intimate experience with manta rays that few other activities provide. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided expertise, stunning nights under the stars, and a deep connection with marine wildlife—making it a highlight for any Kona visit.

You can check if your dates are available here: