Snorkel With Giant Manta Rays In Kailua Kona
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A New Listing for an experienced company and crew. Snorkel Big Island has been operating Manta Ray Snorkel Excursions for over 12 years. Attention to detail, safety, and our expert crew, set this excursion apart. During this tour we can visit either the northern manta site near the Kona airport, or venture further south to Keauhou depending on where the best manta sightings have been. Our licensed captains and dedicated guides pull out all the stops to make sure you get the best viewing possible.
Prior swimming & snorkeling experience is required to book this activity. Guest's must be able to independently climb up a side boat ladder. Not recommended for guest's who have undergone surgery or have mobility/physical restrictions. Not recommended for pregnant women. Contact tour operator for exceptions.
This family run business takes pride in sharing the importance of taking care or our land, ocean, animals, and each other.
Please arrive on time for the start of your scheduled tour.
Available options
Snorkel With Giant Manta Rays In Kailua Kona
What's included
Red Cross Licensed In-Water Guide/ Lifeguard
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Wetsuit
What's not included
Private transportation
Gratuity
Prescription Snorkel Mask
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
99 reviews
5★
82
4★
4
3★
5
2★
0
1★
8
Tripadvisor
4.6
25 reviews
5★
20
4★
2
3★
1
2★
1
1★
1
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Your safety is our priority! If you or anyone in your group would like a lifejacket please contact our reservation line.
Our Manta Policy: Manta Rays are wild animals and Snorkel Big Island cannot guarantee their presence. If a manta ray is not seen on your night out with us you may try again on a different night for a rebooking fee. Please keep in mind that seats may be extremely limited during certain times of the year. We usually are very successful in finding mantas for you; however if they decide to take the night off the costs involved with setting up the charter will not allow us to offer you a refund. We appreciate your business and understanding of this policy.
Please confirm your check in time directly with tour provider. Check in time may be up to 40 minutes prior to tour time.
Basic swimming skills are required
Previous snorkeling experience is required
Guests must be able to independently climb up a boat ladder
Guest must be able to converse in English to understand verbal instructions and safety briefings
Meeting point
We depart on the north side of Honokohau small boat harbor. The address is 74 Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA (GOOGLE MAPS SEARCH: "Snorkel Big Island" and it will lead you to the correct side of the harbor.)
About Big Island of Hawaii
The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands, known for its diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, active volcanoes, and lush rainforests. It offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Top Attractions
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
This national park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. It offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Moderate ($30 per vehicle)
Mauna Kea Summit
Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
Free (but requires acclimatization)
Waipio Valley
Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.
Nature/Cultural
Half day
Free (but parking fee applies)
Hapuna Beach State Park
Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.
Beach
Half day
Free (but parking fee applies)
Akaka Falls State Park
Akaka Falls is a stunning 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The park offers a scenic loop trail leading to the falls.
Nature
1-2 hours
Moderate ($5 per person)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poke
A raw fish salad marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions, often served with rice.
Appetizer
Contains fish, can be made with various types of seafood
Loco Moco
A hearty dish consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
Main Course
Contains beef, eggs, and gluten (from the gravy)
Shave Ice
Finely shaved ice flavored with syrups and often topped with sweetened condensed milk or ice cream.
Dessert
Vegetarian, can be made with various toppings
Kona Coffee
A premium coffee grown in the Kona region, known for its rich and smooth flavor.
Drink
Caffeinated, can be decaffeinated
Popular Activities
Hiking
Volcano exploration
Water sports
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Scenic drives
Traditional Hawaiian luaus
Local markets
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
This is the best time to visit the Big Island, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The ocean is warm, and the weather is generally dry and sunny.
21-30°C
70-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST, GMT-10:00)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
The Big Island is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of natural hazards such as volcanic activity and ocean conditions.
Important Precautions:
- • Rent a car with full insurance coverage
- • Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs and tours, and research options in advance
- • Be aware of ocean conditions and currents when swimming and snorkeling
Getting there
By air
- Kona International Airport • 20 km from Kona
- Hilo International Airport • 10 km from Hilo
By bus
Hilo, Kona
Getting around
Public transport
The Hele-On Bus is the public bus system on the Big Island. It is affordable but has limited routes and schedules.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kona
Hilo
Waimea
Day trips
Mauna Kea Summit
30 km from Waimea • Half day to full day
Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.
Waipio Valley
60 km from Hilo • Half day
Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.
Hapuna Beach State Park
30 km from Waimea • Half day
Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.
Festivals
Merrie Monarch Festival • April
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival • November
Ironman World Championship • October
Pro tips
- Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace and access remote areas
- Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park early in the day to avoid crowds and see the best views
- Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly depending on the elevation and location
- Try local dishes like poke, loco moco, and shave ice for an authentic taste of the Big Island
- Respect the environment and local culture, and follow guidelines for visiting protected areas and sacred sites
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
