Sunset Manta Ray Tour in Kailua-Kona
Recommended by 99% 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 10 guests. 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 250 lbs or with certain medical conditions.
- See wild manta rays feed on plankton off the coast of Kailua-Kona
- Custom-made LED light boards increase odds of seeing manta rays
- Includes snorkeling equipment, snacks, and bottled water
- Enjoy a more intimate experience with a small group of just 10 people
What's Included
- Bottled water
- Use of Snorkeling equipmentUse of Snorkelling equipment
- wetsuit
- SnacksPotato chips and cookies
- Hot Cocoa
- Hot Tea
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
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Not recomended for anyone over 250 lbs
- All guests must confirm they do not have any pre-existing medical conditions, including neck or back injuries, that could be aggravated by this activity. Guests must be able to climb a vertical boat ladder without assistance. Expecting mothers are not permitted to participate.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
I would give this a 10 star review if I could!! This was an absolutely incredible experience. The captain took us down to the southern viewing location and we were blessed with a spectacular show. There was somewhere between 6-10 mantas barrel rolling under us for the entire time we were in the water. I could’ve stayed in for another hour. Our in-water crew member, Sky, did a great job checking in with us throughout and she took amazing underwater video footage that was sent to us. The expertise and hospitality of the crew was an added delight. We will definitely do this again.
Reviews
5.0
based on 259 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Amazing experience. Bobby lead us around as we hung onto the board with lights until we found a great spot. Loved the small group with our guides and the personal touches. They videotaped and shared clips of our experience as well as had a snack and hot coco when we got back on the boat. They do everything possible to find you the mantas for a great experience. Some of the bigger tours left even if they did see much. Everyday is different but these guys will do the best they can to get you to have a great show, we had a boat of 10 and daughter who was ten didn’t have any issues of course she is very comfortable in the water. Definitely recommend Hawaii Marinelife Charters for this experience. It was amazing!
This was such an incredible experience. Mitch and Riley were very kind and knowledgeable. We loved that it was a small group. The mantas were incredible. Riley did a great job of pointing out all of them as they were approaching us and making sure everyone was safe and comfortable on the board. This was the highlight of our time on the Big Island!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Aloha, and mahalo for the beautiful review! We’re so happy to hear your manta ray snorkel was the highlight of your time on the Big Island.
Mitch and Riley will love hearing that their kindness, knowledge, and attention on the board helped everyone feel safe and comfortable. Riley does a great job keeping guests in the moment and pointing out the mantas as they approach, which makes those close encounters even more exciting.
Mahalo for choosing our small-group experience. We’re grateful to have shared such an incredible night with you!
This was one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had! I was a little nervous, but Riley and Dusty were great. It was so beautiful and amazing to see! We saw so many and they did barrel rolls all around us-getting so close. And bonus, we had 4 bottlenose dolphins swim under us too. I highly recommend this tour!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Aloha, and mahalo for the wonderful review! We’re so happy you pushed through those nerves and had such an incredible experience with Riley and Dusty.
There’s nothing quite like watching manta rays barrel roll all around you and glide so close beneath the lights. And having bottlenose dolphins swim under the group too is an extra-special bonus that makes the night even more unforgettable.
Mahalo for recommending our tour and for choosing Hawaii Marine Life Charters. We’re grateful we could be part of one of the coolest experiences you’ve ever had!
Mitch and Bobby exceeded my expectations! The Manta Rays swam within inches of my mask and I've already viewed the shared video a hundred times. Definitely a highlight of the trip!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Aloha, and mahalo for the awesome review! We’re so glad Mitch and Bobby exceeded your expectations and helped make your manta ray snorkel such a memorable highlight of your trip.
There’s nothing quite like having manta rays glide within inches of your mask, and we love hearing that you’ve already shared the videos a hundred times! Those are the memories we hope our guests get to relive long after the tour.
Mahalo again for choosing Hawaii Marine Life Charters. Please feel free to tag us in any social media posts—we’d love to see and share your manta ray memories!
Very small crew and boat which made it feel like a more personal experience. We got very up close with the manta rays and it was a great adventure.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Thank you for the great review! Watching manta rays up close is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we’re so happy you got to share that moment with us.
Such a unique experience! We liked this tour option because it was a smaller group and they offered wet suits, which you will appreciate. We were in the water about 40 minutes. The crew were outstanding and super knowledgeable let alone are dive masters. You are in great hands.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Mahalo nui loa for the 5-star review! We’re so glad you had an unforgettable Kona manta ray night snorkel with us. Thank you for choosing Hawaii Marine Life Charters!
This was unbelievable. Jack and Chad made sure we had an Incredible experience, and we will never forget it.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Thank you so much for the 5-star review! Our crew is 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.
Outstanding! Just 6 of us on this truly unforgettable experience. Capt Mitch and Riley laid out what to expect, shared their knowledge on the manta rays, and assisted each of us along the way. Soooo many manta rays! A little terrifying at first to have these huge creatures swimming within inches, but just breathtaking. Spent about 45 minutes in the water. Then helped back on the boat and treated to hot cocoa and snacks. Sunset manta Ray is definitely the company to pick!
Response from Host, May 2026
Mahalo for the 5 stars! It was a pleasure having you on board. Mitch and Riley take great pride in creating memorable experiences, and we’re glad that came through. We’re also happy you enjoyed the hot cocoa, chips, and cookies afterward.
Amazing experience, giant manta rays, swimming underneath you, awesome staff. They were very professional. We did the 8:15 PM ride, and saw at least five manta rays. Highly recommend if you are going to be in Kona for any amount of time.
Response from Host, May 2026
Thank you for the 5 stars! Creating unforgettable, small-group ocean experiences is what we’re all about, and we’re happy you had such a great night on the water.
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
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.
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!!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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$103.57
per personWas $109.03(-5%)
up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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Sunset Manta Ray Tour in Kailua-Kona
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