Sunset Manta Ray Tour in Kailua-Kona
Recommended by 98% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Big Island of Hawaii, USA
- 2 to 3 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Seeing manta rays in their natural environment is a magical experience. Avoid the big boats and crowds with this small-group snorkeling tour limited to six passengers. After a safety briefing, don your snorkel gear and float with a custom-made LED light board as wild manta rays feed on plankton attracted by the lights. Note: this tour is not recommended for travelers over 275 lbs or with certain medical conditions.
- See wild manta rays feed on plankton off the coast of Kailua-Kona
- Custom-made LED light boards increases odds of seeing manta rays
- Includes snorkeling equipment, snacks, and bottled water
- Enjoy a more intimate experience with a small group of just six people
What's Included
- Bottled water
- Use of Snorkeling equipmentUse of Snorkelling equipment
- wetsuit
- SnacksPotato chips and cookies
- Hot Cocoa
- Hot Tea
- GoPro13 Videos and Photos
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- Hawaii Marine Life ChartersHonokohau Marina Slip #G-8, Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA
CHECK-IN: Honokohau Harbor Slip, G-8 under the HAWAII MARINE LIFE CHARTERS sign. After exiting Queen Kaahumanu Highway (Hwy 19) at Kealakehe Pkwy, take the 3rd RIGHT(at brown restrooms/red roof). Find our white van and orange tour sign on the right. Please arrive 15 mins early. Mahalo!
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Itinerary
1
Garden Eel Cove / Manta Heaven
3 hours • Admission Ticket Included
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travelers can participate
- Not recomended for anyone over 275 lbs
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Rogelio_T
An amazing experience everyone who visits the Big Island must do! My wife and I despite having anxiety of snorkeling in deep water knew we had to do it. I've researched the experience and seen many of all ages from elderly to kids do this excursion with no issues. I booked the 8:00pm tour. When we arrived we got lost and couldn't find the dock. I called Brian and he calmed me down and told me we are very close and not to panic. I found the dock and saw the early tour just pulling up to the dock. We met Mitch and Bobby and both were very friendly. Mitch gave us our wetsuits and snorkel masks and Bobby gave us a very informative speech on history of the manta rays. Our group was only 7 people and we arrived at our destination in the ocean after about 20 minutes. We all jumped in the water and swam only a very short distance to the platform. There were other tour groups in the water also. We saw so many manta rays that night. Bobby estimated 11 manta rays swam around us. The manta rays come really close to the light and some may brush against you but its against the rules to go and touch them The swim in loops scooping hundreds of tiny plankton into their mouths. The actual time in the water was around 35-40 mins. Some say that is too short but for us it was just right. We were satisfied with the number of manta rays we saw. Afterwards we swam back to the boat where we were provided some nice hot chocolate drinks and chips / cookies for snacks. The boat ride back was awesome being able to feel the wind on your face and seeing the stars in the dark sky.
If we ever re-visit the big island we will definitely book with Hawaiian Marine Life Charters again!
Reviews
4.9
based on 191 reviews
John_M, Apr 2026
They take care of everything. Show up ready to swim and they give you a wet suit and snorkeling kit. The boat ride was fun and the manta rays awesome.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Aloha John many mahalos for joining us we are so happy you had a fun boat ride, and an awesome manta ray viewing. mahalos-Brian
Lori_G, Apr 2026
Oh.My.Lord! Do not hesitate a second to book with Hawaii Marine Life charters. Mitch and Bob were amazing. This was an experience of a lifetime. A must do while in Kona, Hawaii. We absolutely loved it. They provide GoPro videos and wetsuits which were game changers for us.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Mahalo for your kind words and 5-star rating! Mitch and Bobby work hard to make sure every guest feels safe and taken care of. We’re so glad you enjoyed your manta ray snorkel and the incredible Kona marine life.
Christine_L, Apr 2026
We had a critical issue that we needed to cancel at the last minute, and they were kind and accommodating. I look forward to booking with them on our next trip here.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Many mahalos for your review, Please let us know next time you are on the Big Island!!
MaryCarmody, Apr 2026
Highlight of our Big Island trip! 10/10 experience with Hawaiian Marine Life Charters. Mitch and Bobbi were the best—fun, safe, and super informative. We saw tons of manta rays up close! The gear (wetsuits) kept us warm, and the snacks were a lovely touch. Even our teens were impressed. Book this tour.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
“Mahalo for snorkeling with us and for the 5 stars! Watching manta rays glide through the water is truly unforgettable, and we’re glad Mitch and Bobby helped make your tour safe, smooth, and memorable.
Jennifer_M, Mar 2026
I've been on 2 manta tours, and I'd say this one was much better than the first, for my personal tastes. Loved the small boat with no more than 12 passengers, and the seating was comfortable but the boat speedy for a much quicker ride in and back than the larger boats. Our guides were very knowledgeable and Riley did such an amazing job dragging the 10 of us who were on the tour around on the surfboard to try and get us in optimal position to see as much action as possible! We got up close with not sure how many mantas, but definitely a good showing, even though the mantas seemed to be behaving a little differently than usual from what I heard the guides saying. They are wild sea creatures so there are never any guarantees, but I am confident this group gives you as good of a chance as any of having a great experience! The cherry on top was the GoPro video they AirDrop to you immediately following the tour so you can share your experience with family and friends and have a really amazing video to remember!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for your kind words and 5-star review. We’re honored you chose Hawaii Marine Life Charters for your manta ray experience. Our goal is to provide a safe, memorable, and personal evening on the water. We’re glad you enjoyed the experience, along with the complimentary GoPro 13 photos and videos, and of course the hot cocoa, chips, and cookies to finish the night.
Brian_S, Mar 2026
So much fun and what an experience! Mitch and Riley took care of us and made sure we saw a lot of manta rays.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the kind words and 5 stars. Our crew works hard to make every tour safe, smooth, and unforgettable—we’re glad it showed.
Lisa_B, Mar 2026
Best experience in the entire Hawaiian islands. Wonderful captain and crew. Saw a whale right outside of the harbor, an amazing sunset, and so many mantas counted 5 at one time. Once in a lifetime experience.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the 5-star review! We’re honored you chose Hawaii Marine Life Charters and thrilled you enjoyed your manta ray experience. Small-group encounters like yours are exactly what we strive for.
Rogelio_T, Feb 2026
An amazing experience everyone who visits the Big Island must do! My wife and I despite having anxiety of snorkeling in deep water knew we had to do it. I've researched the experience and seen many of all ages from elderly to kids do this excursion with no issues. I booked the 8:00pm tour. When we arrived we got lost and couldn't find the dock. I called Brian and he calmed me down and told me we are very close and not to panic. I found the dock and saw the early tour just pulling up to the dock. We met Mitch and Bobby and both were very friendly. Mitch gave us our wetsuits and snorkel masks and Bobby gave us a very informative speech on history of the manta rays. Our group was only 7 people and we arrived at our destination in the ocean after about 20 minutes. We all jumped in the water and swam only a very short distance to the platform. There were other tour groups in the water also. We saw so many manta rays that night. Bobby estimated 11 manta rays swam around us. The manta rays come really close to the light and some may brush against you but its against the rules to go and touch them The swim in loops scooping hundreds of tiny plankton into their mouths. The actual time in the water was around 35-40 mins. Some say that is too short but for us it was just right. We were satisfied with the number of manta rays we saw. Afterwards we swam back to the boat where we were provided some nice hot chocolate drinks and chips / cookies for snacks. The boat ride back was awesome being able to feel the wind on your face and seeing the stars in the dark sky.
If we ever re-visit the big island we will definitely book with Hawaiian Marine Life Charters again!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for the 5-star review! We’re so glad you chose Hawaii Marine Life Charters for your Kona snorkel adventure and enjoyed your time on the water.
Rosemary_L, Feb 2026
This was a must do activity if you are on the Big Island.
Dave the Captain and Bobby the guide were awesome.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
“Mahalo nui loa for the 5 stars! We’re thrilled you had a great snorkel experience and truly appreciate you taking the time to share.
Richard_K, Feb 2026
Getting closer to sea life. Being that close to Manta Rays is just an awesome experience. The Flounder and Sea Urchins just added to the total experience.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Aloha Jan and Richard, Thank you for the wonderful review! Our crew works hard to create safe, relaxed, and memorable snorkel tours, and we’re happy that came through.
Cassie_D, Feb 2026
We had an amazing time on the sunset manta snorkel Feb 1st with Mitch & Bobby! Very hospitable and a truly spectacular experience! So fun, the dad jokes were a nice touch! 10/10 would recommend!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for snorkeling with us! Kona’s waters are special, and we’re grateful we could help you experience them up close.
Jodie_B, Jan 2026
I’ve traveled the world, and this was one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever participated in. I especially loved this boat because it was small and there were only 10 people plus the two boaters. We jumped in a zodiac and the pitch black and under the stars drove down to the area where the manta rays are. Despite some bigger boats being in the area, we were able to get in and see a large number of manta rays, bottlenose dolphins, and spinner dolphins along with lots of fish and the obvious plankton that attracts the manta rays.
Upon exit we were greeted with a hot cup of tea or hot chocolate for the drive back to dock. I’m so glad I took advantage of my extra night in Kona and did this tour.
One note— it is bumpy at times, and if you get seasick, you should probably take something for that in advance. Also consider bringing a towel or a cover-up onto the boat so when you take the wetsuit off on the return, you’re not freezing in the breeze.
A must do experience!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for the 5 stars! We loved having you on board and are so glad you enjoyed the manta ray snorkel. Thank you for sharing your experience—we’d be honored to welcome you back on a future visit to Kona.
SUSAN_l, Jan 2026
This was our first time on the big island and everyone kept telling us we had to do the MantaRays. I was lucky enough to get one of the last bookings. The guys were absolutely amazing. They’re so patient calm and makes the trip is relaxing. They took videos with their GoPro which made it great for us, bc we didn’t have to worry about it. Instead we could just enjoy the rays. We saw about 25 and it was the most life changing experience. My son said it was the highlight of his life. Must do, esp with this company. They’re amazing.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Mahalo for the kind words and 5 stars. Our crew works hard to make every tour safe, smooth, and unforgettable—we’re glad it showed.
Nicole_M, Jan 2026
Mitch and Riley were great! Just the best guides for getting fantastic views of the mantas! Would highly recommend 👌
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Mahalo for taking the time to leave a 5-star review. Our crew loves what they do, and it means a lot to hear that their passion made your tour memorable.
Misty_U, Dec 2025
This was hands down one of the most incredible experiences of our Hawaii trip. Mitch and Riley made it absolutely perfect from start to finish. From the moment we arrived, they made sure our wetsuits and equipment fit properly and that everything was clean and well-maintained.
We were one of two family groups on our boat. Mitch and Riley were incredibly patient and supportive with the group that included some not-so-strong swimmers. They took extra time to explain everything and provided everyone with clear instruction and attentive support throughout the swim. That level of professionalism truly set them apart.
The little details made a big difference too; snacks and drinks were provided. When one of our members started feeling sick, they even had ginger ale ready, which was such a thoughtful touch.
We also loved that this was a smaller boat, which made the experience feel more intimate and personalized rather than crowded or rushed. On top of that, they took amazing photos and videos of our experience and AirDropped everything to us afterward, so we could just focus on enjoying the magic of swimming with the mantas without worrying about capturing it ourselves.
If you’re considering a manta ray night swim, do not hesitate to book with this team. Mitch and Riley went above and beyond, and we’ll remember this experience forever. 🌊🖤
Response from Host, Dec 2025
“Thank you so much for the 5-star review! Mitch and Riley are passionate about creating safe, memorable manta encounters, and we’re happy that came through on your tour. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share.”
YUKA_T, Dec 2025
I got to experience a manta ray tour, which isn’t something you can do very often.
It was rainy and cold, but it became a great memory from Kona.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Mahalo nui loa for your kind review. Providing safe, respectful, and up-close marine life experiences is our passion, and we’re grateful you shared yours.
Joan_F, Dec 2025
Mitch and Bobby were great! They were fun, knowledgeable, and incredibly helpful. Our favorite experience in Kona.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Mahalo for the kind words and 5 stars. Bobby and Mitch work hard to make every tour safe, smooth, and unforgettable—we’re glad it showed.
Danielle_W, Dec 2025
This was a fun and memorable family activity. Our guides, Mitch and Bobby, were laid-back and did a great job clearly explaining what to expect. Getting out on the water and seeing manta rays, sharks, and other fish up close was an incredibly cool experience.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
We appreciate your 5-star rating! The manta ray experience is truly one-of-a-kind, and we’re thrilled you were able to enjoy it with our team.
rosalynnpr, Dec 2025
They were very nice, informative, and professional. We were able to have see the manta rays and enjoy hot cocoa and chips on the the way back
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Mahalo for the wonderful review. From check-in to the final moments in the water, we’re glad everything exceeded your expectations.
Eleanor_D, Dec 2025
What an amazing experience snorkeling with the manta rays. Brian and Bobby took great care of us. We saw a beautiful sunset on the way to the manta site. Watching the mantas swimming by and doing their barrel rows over and over was such a great experience. It's surreal. They gave us extra time so we could enjoy the mantas longer. Their instructions were clear. They provided hot beverages and snacks and wetsuit, all included in the price. They air dropped the videos to us for free. Thank you both.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Aloha Eleanor we are so happy that you had an amazing experience with Brian and Bobby. Hawaii Marine Life Charters always strives for an experience that far surpasses our guests expectations.
Sandra_D, Dec 2025
It was the best tour we did on the big island and we've been here a week. I was nervous because I'm not a good swimmer. No problem. Just let them know.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Aloha Sandra many mahalos for joining us. You did great in the water!
steve_l, Nov 2025
One of the most unique and cool experiences anywhere. Our guide team was spectacular. Perfectly executed adventure.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Aloha Steve, mahalos for your review and joining us. we are so happy that your experience was spectacular.
zhao_l, Nov 2025
It is an awesome tour! We saw manta rays very up close and Riley was terrific guiding us. Recommend this tour for everyone coming to big island!
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Riley is great we agree. We are stoked that you had an awesome tour with us. Many mahalos for joining us.
Jonnie_L, Nov 2025
Mitch and Riley were amazing. Ride was smooth and gear was in good shape. We had the best time. Highly recommend!
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Aloha Jonnie, We are very happy that you had the best time with Mitch, and Riley. They are amazing crew members. Many mahalos for joining us.
Michelle_W, Nov 2025
It incredible, they were so great with us. I loved that it was a small group and we stayed for a good amount of time.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Aloha MIchelle, Thankyou so much for joining us.
William_M, Oct 2025
This was an incredible experience! Captains Mitch and Riley were a lot of fun, they went over details about the manta’s, what to expect, and the rules we had to follow while in the water. We were in a small group of eight, and the boat was very comfortable. The tour started right on time, we were given wet suits to put, which I’m glad we did, the water would likely have been a little cool in the dark, but we were very comfortable. The mask was great, with no leakage or fogging. Being in the water when the manta rays show up is incredible, we’ve done lots of snorkelling tours, but nothing compares to this! It was a wonderful experience!
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Aloha William, We are so happy that you had an incredible experience with Captain Mitch, and Riley.
Please share your experience with your friends, and family.
many mahalos
JoAnn_C, Sep 2025
Captain Mitch and Riley take an already amazing trip to the next level. From their first Aloha till the end of the 2.5 hr trip, these two make sure you have an unforgettable experience. They do everything from fitting wetsuits (not fun for anybody) and snorkel gear to taking underwater videos (not an extra fee!!!) We lucked out and saw a stunning sunset, a rainbow, a bunch of dolphins and more manta rays than we could count on our tour. It was surreal and one of our top 10 experiences EVER. However, even if we had only seen one manta ray, I would still count it among the highlights of my life. There really are no words to describe these magical creatures. This is an absolute must-do for everyone's bucket list!
PS-We brought our adult special needs daughter on this adventure. Mitch and Riley responded to her anxiety and 5 million questions with patience, smiles and encouragement. Well done gentlemen!
Two very exhausted parents appreciate you both🥰
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Aloha Joann,
Thankyou so much for your informative, wonderful review. Mitch, and Riley are definetley all stars. We are super happy that your whole family had an amazing tour with the boys.
Your review really helps other travelers choose informatively for their next snorkel adventure.
Nicole_N, Sep 2025
Top notch! Small boat, max 12-14 participants, so nice & intimate. Brian & Mitch were informative & attentive. They provided snacks & hot chocolate for the ride back to the harbour. As for the experience of the rays….out of this world fabulous! We saw about half a dozen, and Kamala actually brushed the belly of one in our group, she was so close! Highly recommend, and would do again in a heartbeat!
*we brought a dry bag to hold our personals - the dry bag wasn’t really necessary. No shoes on the boat, so no need to worry about your footwear. Ride back was warm-ish, so being wet wasn’t an issue. Towel and/or change of clothes at the car was perfect for us.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Aloha Nicole, many mahalos for joining us on our 10 passenger maximum Manta Ray tour. Your review is awesome, and really helps future travelers choose informatively.
Desiree_J, Aug 2025
Don’t waste time thinking about it, book it. This is an unreal once in a lifetime experience ; an unforgettable experience.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Aloha Desiree, Many mahalos for joining us on our Manta Ray tour. We are so happy that you had an unforgettable experience.
Marci_S, Aug 2025
We got to enjoy a fun boat ride while watching the sunset. We were fitted with wetsuits which I think are a must. The manta rays were amazing to see!! We were welcomed back onto the boat with warm hot coco and cookies or chips. It was a great experience overall
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Aloha Marci, many mahalos for joining us. I agree that the mantas are amazing. We are so happy that you had a great experience.
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Sunset Manta Ray Tour in Kailua-Kona
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