The manta rays of Kona are one of those unique experiences that are only available on the Big Island of Hawaii. No where else in the world can you see manta rays feeding at night like you can here in Kona, Hawaii. The best place to view mantas from Waikoloa is undoubtedly with Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel, which departs from nearby Honokohau Harbor.
1. Kona Snorkel Trips
Looking for the best manta ray experience near Waikoloa Village HI? Look no further as Kona Snorkel Trips is Hawaii’s highest rated and most reviewed snorkel tour company. Offering the manta ray night snorkel twice nightly, they specialize in delivering the highest quality experience on the Big Island. This is because their expert lifeguard certified guides will take you to one of the two best sites in the world to view manta rays. They will also ensure you get the best seat in the sea, maneuvering your small group into place so you get the best view of the manta rays.
2. Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Runner up to the top spot is Manta Ray Night Snorkel. With a perfect 5 star rating and promising to deliver one of the best manta ray snorkeling experiences in the world. Operating out of Honokohau Harbor Manta Ray night snorkel offers a more intimate experience than some of the larger boat tours provide. Focusing on safety and fun you’ll be sure to love your night on the water with this amazing tour company.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the top Manta Ray Experience near Waikoloa Village HI?
Kona Snorkel Trips provides the top rated and most reviews of any snorkel company in the State of Hawaii and it’s only about 30 minutes from Waikoloa Village. It is undoubtedly the top Manta Ray Experience near Waikoloa Village HI.
What ages can swim with manta rays?
These tours are suitable for ages 5+ and require that all participants are strong swimmers.
Where is the best place to snorkel with manta rays in Kona?
Manta Ray Heaven gets the largest amount of manta rays as well as dolphins and seals, while manta village more consistently gets manta rays. Though manta village gets extremely crowded and can become unsafe depending on the situation.
How do I get the best price on a manta ray snorkel tour?
Kona Snorkel Trips offers early bird pricing so you’ll receive the best rates when you book ahead. You can also book a Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour to receive 15% off a manta ray snorkel.
Where is the best place to see manta rays?
Kona, Hawaii is the best because it consistently gets manta rays feeding almost nightly at one of it’s three popular viewing sites.
Can you swim with manta rays during the day?
If you can find them! Manta rays will come to the reef for cleaning during the day but this is not consistent behavior. If you really want to see them in top form nighttime is the best.
What is the best time to see manta rays in Kona?
Nighttime is when the manta rays come up to feed. They come close to bright lights that the zooplankton is attracted to.
Is the manta ray snorkel worth it?
It’s one of the Big Island’s most popular tours. People come out of the water crying, smiling, and yelling with joy at the magnificence of the manta experience. Guests often say this was their top experience in Hawaii after seeing the mantas.
Is swimming with manta rays in Hawaii safe?
It’s best to have practice swimming and snorkeling before attempting to swim with manta rays. Though you are provided with floatation having comfort with the water and your gear is important.
There are also many boats in the water so it’s important to be with a well-lit group so they can see you as they are motoring around.
The mantas themselves are gentle giants so they don’t have stingers or teeth. We do out best to keep out of their way so they can feed without interruption.
Why isn’t there manta snorkeling near Waikoloa Village?
The manta rays come from the deep water to the bright lights near shore to feed. Waikoloa is shallow and sandy. This makes for poor visibility and often rough conditions. So even if you could see the manta rays you would be jostled about.
The best place to see manta snorkeling near Waikoloa Village is undoubtedly Kona Snorkel Trips which runs manta ray night snorkel tours out of nearby Honokohau Harbor, a short 30 minute drive located just south of the airport.