The Manta Rays that can be seen during night snorkeling tours in Kona are most likely the Hawaiian Manta Ray, also known as the Pacific Manta Ray (Manta alfredi). The ride is usually about 20-30 minutes, depending on the conditions of the water. The tour operators are typically located in a booth or office near the harbor.įrom there, you'll take a short boat ride out to the Manta Ray snorkeling site. They will provide you with all the necessary information and equipment for the tour, including wetsuits, snorkels, fins, and floatation devices.

Once you arrive at the marina, you'll need to check in with your tour operator. The marina is easy to find and there is plenty of parking available. To access the departure point for night snorkeling with Manta Rays in Kona, you'll need to make your way to the Honokohau Marina, which is located just a few miles north of Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. How to Access the Departure Point for Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays These include keeping a safe distance, not touching the Manta Rays, and avoiding the use of flash photography. While the experience is undoubtedly incredible, it's important to remember to follow the rules when snorkeling with Manta Rays. This can happen when a divemaster fans a barrel coral with his fin, creating a beautiful and magical display of light. It's an experience that will leave you feeling breathless and amazed'.Īdditionally, night snorkeling with Manta Rays in Kona often includes the chance to witness bioluminescence, which is when certain marine organisms emit light. As you snorkel, they will glide so close to you that you can feel the breeze they create as they pass just above your head. The Manta Rays themselves are truly awe-inspiring creatures with an impressive 'wingspan of around 17 feet. As one diver notes, 'the underwater environment is not pitch black, so you can always see shapes in the water.' Moreover, 'the dive boat hangs strobes over each side, creating a sci-fi spaceship-like atmosphere that will make you feel like you're in a different world.' Many people are hesitant about night snorkeling, but it can actually be one of the most amazing experiences you'll ever have. What People are Saying About Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays If you'd like to dive more on the best places to snorkel in Hawaii, check out our 10 Best Snorkeling Places In Hawaii. The Mantas will swim around you and the board, sometimes coming within inches of your face! It's an incredible feeling to be so close to these gentle giants of the sea. The lights attract the plankton, which in turn attracts the Manta Rays.

Once you get into the water, you will hold onto a floating board with lights attached to it. They will also provide you with all the necessary snorkeling gear, including wetsuits, snorkels, fins, and floatation devices. The tour guides will give you a short briefing on the behavior of Manta Rays and how to behave while snorkeling with them. Most of the tours start around sunset, so you can enjoy the beautiful sunset and then snorkel with the Mantas as soon as it gets dark. You will need to book a tour with a reputable company that specializes in Manta Ray snorkeling trips. The best time to go night snorkeling with Manta Rays in Kona is during the summer months from May to October when the water is calmer and clearer. This means that you can swim with them without any fear of being attacked or harmed in any way. They feed on plankton, so they are not interested in humans as prey. Night snorkeling with Manta Rays in Kona, Hawaii is an absolutely amazing experience that you won't forget for a long time! Kona is one of the few places in the world where you can easily see these majestic creatures up close and personal.įirst of all, let me tell you that Manta Rays are completely harmless and are actually quite curious and friendly towards humans.

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