Choosing the right manta ray night snorkel matters. Conditions at sea, the quality of the crew, and the way your experience is guided all play a major role in how magical – and how safe – your night in the water will be. This tour stands out for its exceptional reputation, highly trained crew, and a long history of delivering reliable manta encounters in Kona. Here’s why thousands of travelers choose this experience year after year.
A Top-Rated Manta Ray Experience in Kona
With a 4.8-star rating, 5,486+ reviews, and 96% traveler recommendation, this tour consistently ranks among the best night snorkel experiences on the Big Island. Guests repeatedly highlight the crew’s professionalism, the smooth organization, and the incredible closeness of the manta rays.
See Manta Rays or Come Back Free
Manta sightings in Kona are remarkably reliable, but nature always has surprises. In the rare event that manta rays don’t appear, you’ll receive a complimentary return trip. This guarantee is one of the strongest in Hawaii and ensures you get the full experience you came for.
Expert Local Crew That Puts Safety First
Hang Loose crew specialize in nighttime manta snorkeling and understand the local ocean environment better than anyone. They know how mantas behave, when and where mantas gather, they manage lighting and positioning for optimal viewing.
Their experience ensures that even guests who are new to nighttime snorkeling feel confident the entire time.
High-Quality Equipment for Maximum Comfort
Everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable night in the water is provided. Expect clean, well-fitted snorkel gear, warm jacket-style wetsuit tops, stable flotation devices, and specialized light boards that draw in plankton , and the manta rays that feed on them. The setup keeps you comfortably afloat so you can relax and focus on watching the mantas glide beneath you without worrying about staying in position.
Small Groups for a Better Experience
This tour keeps groups intentionally small to provide better visibility, clearer guidance, and more space around each snorkeler. With fewer people in the water, there’s less distraction and no competition for a good view. Everyone gets a true front-row experience.
Sunset + Nighttime Magic in One Trip
Before you ever slip into the water, the evening begins with a stunning Kona sunset viewed right from the boat. The coastline glows in warm golden light, the ocean turns calm and reflective, and the sky slowly shifts into deep shades of blue and purple. It sets the mood for what comes next – an effortless transition from daylight to darkness that makes the night snorkel feel even more special.
This combination of sunset scenery and nighttime adventure adds an extra layer of awe to the entire trip, turning the outing into a complete, unforgettable experience.
Beginner-Friendly Structure
Even though basic swimming and snorkeling skills are required, the experience is designed to feel comfortable and approachable. You remain floating on the surface the entire time, supported by steady light boards, with crew members close by to help as needed. Visibility is excellent, and the water is typically calm, making the encounter accessible even for guests who have never snorkeled at night before.
A Rare, World-Class Wildlife Encounter
Kona is one of the only places on Earth where manta rays gather reliably after sunset. Floating above these enormous, gentle animals as they glide just inches below you is unlike any other wildlife encounter. It’s peaceful, surreal, and often becomes a highlight of an entire Hawaii trip.
A Tour That Respects the Ocean
Operators follow strict, eco-friendly guidelines to protect manta rays and ensure the experience remains sustainable. Guests maintain safe distances, never touch or chase the animals, and use lighting and equipment responsibly. You’ll also learn about manta conservation efforts, making this more than a tour, you’re actively supporting the protection of these remarkable creatures.