KAILUA-KONA BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Under the Kona Night: Snorkeling with Mantas by Starlight
A 2-hour, 15-minute late-night snorkel from Kailua‑Kona that pairs guided manta encounters with the lights of town and post‑snorkel hot beverages—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Under the Kona Night: Snorkeling with Mantas by Starlight.
Launched from Kailua‑Kona after dusk, this seasonal late‑night manta ray excursion visits “Manta Ray Village” where small numbers of guests slip into the ocean to watch hahalua (manta rays) feed in the glow of the boat lights before returning under the town’s incandescent skyline.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Up close with the manta rays
Approximately 30 minutes of guided snorkeling in the water with majestic manta rays at the designated Manta Ray Village makes this a focused, surreal wildlife encounter away from crowded daytime tours.
Thoughtful onboard amenities
The cruise includes unlimited non‑alcoholic beverages, post‑snorkel hot cocoa and hot tea (and cocktails), and an easy water entry and exit via a “grand staircase” instead of ladders.
Night sky and Kona lights
Because the tour departs late, there are fewer boats at the site and passengers return to the pier beneath a clear night sky and the luminous outline of Kona town.
What the day feels like
How the night unfolds
You depart after dusk, watching the lights of Kona recede as the vessel moves to Manta Ray Village. On arrival you receive a full safety briefing, then join guides in the water to snorkel with manta rays. After the encounter you regroup on the boat for hot beverages or cocktails while returning to the pier under the night sky—an intimate, late‑hour version of Kona’s classic manta experience.
THE ENCOUNTER
Up close with the manta rays
Approximately 30 minutes of guided snorkeling in the water with majestic manta rays at the designated Manta Ray Village makes this a focused, surreal wildlife encounter away from crowded daytime tours.
THE COMFORTS
Thoughtful onboard amenities
The cruise includes unlimited non‑alcoholic beverages, post‑snorkel hot cocoa and hot tea (and cocktails), and an easy water entry and exit via a “grand staircase” instead of ladders.
THE SETTING
Night sky and Kona lights
Because the tour departs late, there are fewer boats at the site and passengers return to the pier beneath a clear night sky and the luminous outline of Kona town.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing lasts roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes total; check your booking for the specific late‑night departure time.
Bring swimwear, towel, camera, sunglasses, and a light jacket or sweater. If you own snorkel equipment you may bring it, otherwise gear is available on board.
Check‑in is at the KONASTYLE retail store; arrive 30 minutes prior to departure. Validated parking is available at the Courtyard Marriott King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel (parking fee applies) and a free municipal lot is located on Kuakini Hwy—follow signs to Alii Drive to reach the operator adjacent to the hotel pool and fitness center.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What Is Parking Like?
Parking in Kona town can be challenging. The operator offers validated parking at the Courtyard Marriott King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel for a $13 fee; bring your parking ticket and pay the validation fee at the store during check‑in. There is also a free municipal parking lot on Kuakini Hwy—head to Alii Drive and turn right to reach the operator adjacent to the hotel pool and fitness center.
Where Do I Check‑In for My Kona Tour?
Check‑in is at the KONASTYLE retail store.
What Time Should I Check In for the Kona Snorkel Tour?
Please check‑in 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
What Do I Bring With Me?
Guests should bring swimsuits, towels, reef‑safe sunscreen, hat and sunglasses. There is space on the catamaran for bags; bring your own snorkel equipment if preferred, or use the operator’s sets.
Can I Bring My Camera?
Yes. Cameras are recommended—there are regular sightings of whales (seasonal) and dolphins—and waterproof cell phone cases are available for purchase at check‑in.
Will I Have Cell Phone Service?
For most tours there is cell service, but in and around Kealakekua Bay guests should expect limited to no cell phone service.