Night Manta Ray Tour | Departs from Keauhou Bay

If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming alongside some of the most graceful and awe-inspiring creatures in the ocean, the Night Manta Ray Tour on Hawaii’s Big Island might just be your best chance. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and expert handling promise an experience that’s as memorable as it is unique.

What excites us most? The idea of close-up encounters with gentle manta rays, the chance to witness their stunning underwater “ballet,” and the small group setting that keeps the experience intimate. Plus, the convenience of a near-perfect location and well-equipped gear makes this tour stand out.

One thing to consider is that this activity requires good swimming ability and a fair level of physical fitness—so it’s not suited for everyone. But if you’re comfortable in the water, love wildlife, and seek a night adventure under the stars, this tour could be right up your alley.

Who is this tour perfect for?

Families with strong swimmers, adventure seekers, and anyone curious about Hawaii’s marine life will find this experience rewarding. Keep in mind, it’s capped at 11 travelers for a more personalized vibe, which means plenty of space to enjoy the show without crowds.

Good To Know

• Close encounters with manta rays in their natural environment.
• Small group size ensures a more personal and less crowded experience.
• Expert guides and crew who are knowledgeable about marine life.
• Comfortable gear provided, including wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and floatation belts.
• Nighttime adventure in warm, 80-degree water.
• Non-refundable policy, so plan accordingly for weather conditions.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Meeting Point and Departure

The tour begins at 78-7156 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona. The start time is 7:00 pm, aligning perfectly with sunset and the onset of night. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the crew and fitted with all your gear—wetsuits, snorkel masks, floatation belts, and waist floats. The small size of the group (max 11) means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and everyone will receive personalized attention.

Short Boat Ride to the Manta Site

After a quick 10-minute ride on a cozy boat, you’ll reach the manta viewing location. Unlike some larger tours that might take longer or involve more boat time, this short ride helps maximize your time in the water and keeps the experience relaxed and manageable.

Entering the Water

Once at the site, you’ll hold onto a light board guided by your crew. This is where the magic begins. The light attracts microscopic plankton, which in turn draws the manta rays close to you. The experience is designed to be both accessible and exhilarating—no diving skills required, just comfortable swimming ability.

Watching the Mantas

The manta rays are the true stars here. Reviewers describe their movements as “a ballet of grace,” with flips, twists, and somersaults as they glide effortlessly through the water. One reviewer called it “the best experience ever,” emphasizing how close and often the rays come to the snorkelers. The rays’ size and gentle nature make them less intimidating and more fascinating.

Return to the Boat

After observing the mantas, your guide will gently pull you and your lightboard back to the boat. Depending on the night, you might get a chance to see dolphins, flying fish, or even an octopus, as some reviewers did, adding extra magic to the trip.

The Return and End of Tour

Back at the dock, you’ll be able to reflect on the mesmerizing underwater ballet, and perhaps share photos or stories of the close-up encounters. The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a perfect evening activity after a day of exploring the Big Island.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Included in the Price ($125)

• Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, wetsuits)
• Floatation devices and waist floats
• Guidance from experienced crew members who are familiar with the manta rays’ habits

What to Remember

• Tip for captain and crew (not included in the price) – good service deserves appreciation
• Participants should be strong swimmers, as swimming instruction isn’t provided
• Weather conditions influence whether the tour runs, so be prepared for possible cancellations or rescheduling

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $125, you’re paying for more than just an activity—you’re investing in a rare chance to observe one of nature’s most elegant displays in a controlled, safe environment. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, and the provided gear guarantees comfort without extra costs. Compared to larger boat rides, this tour’s shorter boat trip and focus on quality over quantity make it feel more intimate and exclusive.

The expert guides and crew are a real asset—reviewers have highlighted their knowledge and friendliness, which enhances safety and overall enjoyment. The fact that many guests describe the experience as “better than imagined” speaks to the high quality of the outing.

Authentic Encounters and Unique Insights

From the reviews, it’s clear that this tour isn’t just about swimming with manta rays—it’s about witnessing a mesmerizing underwater performance. The rays often come surprisingly close, sometimes just feet away, allowing snorkelers to marvel at their size and grace.

Many reviewers found that the visibility and water temperature (around 80°F) made the experience comfortable and fun. The crew’s quick setup, combined with gentle guidance and the small group size, reduces stress and maximizes the chance of up-close viewing.

One guest shared that they saw dolphins, flying fish, and an octopus during their trip, indicating that the surrounding marine environment is vibrant, even if the main stars are the mantas. Their glowing reviews repeatedly mention the excellent gear quality and the personalized attention from guides, which are crucial for such an experience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a night owl, or someone looking for an unforgettable adventure, this tour fits the bill. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy snorkeling and feel comfortable in the water, as well as those who appreciate small-group intimacy and expert guidance.

Families with strong swimmers will find this activity accessible and safe, especially since the crew is attentive and the gear is provided. But note that it’s not for travelers over 75 or those weighing more than 280 pounds, as safety protocols are in place.

Final Thoughts

The Night Manta Ray Tour offers a rare, close-up look at these gentle giants in their natural environment—something that many travelers find profoundly moving. The combination of expert guides, comfortable gear, and a small group ensures a personal, safe, and awe-inspiring experience.

This outing is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting a memorable Hawaii story to bring home. Its value lies not just in the chance to see manta rays but in the quality of the experience—well-organized, intimate, and genuinely thrilling.

If you’re after a night adventure that’s both beautiful and educational, this tour is an excellent choice. Just be sure you’re comfortable swimming at night and prepared for a bit of a physical activity. The memories you’ll create will stay with you long after you leave the Big Island.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, participants need to be good swimmers since swimming instruction isn’t provided. Comfort in the water is essential.

What should I wear?
Wetsuits are provided, along with masks and snorkels. You might want to bring a towel and possibly a waterproof camera.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the boat ride and snorkeling.

What are the start and end points?
The tour begins at 78-7156 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, and returns to the same location.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 11 travelers, creating a more intimate setting.

Is tipping expected?
Yes, tips for the captain and crew are appreciated but not included in the ticket price.

Can I cancel if the weather’s bad?
If weather conditions prevent the tour from running, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this experience physically demanding?
Yes, strong swimming skills are required; the tour is not suitable for those with limited physical fitness or mobility issues.

In summary, the Night Manta Ray Tour from Keauhou Bay offers an exceptional opportunity to witness Hawaii’s marine life up close in a safe, small-group setting. It’s a worthwhile adventure if you’re eager for a night-time encounter with these gentle, awe-inspiring creatures in their natural habitat.