KAILUA-KONA GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Under the Lights at Makako Bay: Two Dives with the Gentle Giants of Kona
A guided, two-tank night charter in Kailua-Kona that stages a late-afternoon prep dive and a night mant a feeding dive at Makako Bay—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Under the Lights at Makako Bay: Two Dives with the Gentle Giants of Kona.
Adventure brief
Under the Lights at Makako Bay: Two Dives with the Gentle Giants of Kona
Off Kona’s shore at Makako Bay, divers gather for the internationally renowned Manta Ray Night Dive: a two-tank charter where bright lights concentrate plankton and draw inquisitive manta rays into a feeding ballet. Expert guides run small groups and prepare the site during an afternoon dive before returning after dark for the manta show.
Located just off the coast of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, the 2-tank Manta Ray Night Charter offers an unparalleled underwater encounter unlike any other. Makako Bay, also known as Garden Eel Cove, serves as the stage for this mesmerizing dive, where divers and snorkelers alike bear witness to the gentle giants of the ocean — the manta rays — as they glide gracefully through the water columns beneath the starlit Hawaiian sky.
This dive ranks consistently among the top experiences worldwide, and for good reason. Manta rays, with their impressive wingspans reaching up to 20 feet, have no stingers or teeth, allowing divers to safely observe their feeding behaviors as these giants filter plankton attracted to powerful underwater lights. The performance is hypnotic: manta rays swirl and pirouette in the illuminated water, feeding just inches above the divers’ heads.
Your evening begins with a late afternoon dive, where expert guides introduce you to the rich marine life of Garden Eel Cove, including the unique Hawaiian Garden Eels—thin, shy creatures whose heads peek out from the sand. During this dive, bright lights are strategically placed to attract plankton later in the night. The wait between dives is spent on the boat, savoring snacks and the spectacular Hawaiian sunset while our guides share fascinating insights into manta biology and local marine ecology.
Once darkness falls, the real magic happens. The night dive immerses you into a surreal ballet as mantas make their appearance, feeding in the glowing water. With groups capped at just five divers per dive master, the experience is intimate, educational, and safe, offering personalized attention to each guest. The boat itself is equipped for comfort and convenience, featuring shaded and sunny areas, a protective cabin, and a freshwater shower to rinse off after your dives.
Beyond the dive itself, this charter is a standout example of sustainable wildlife interaction. The guides practice responsible lighting and encounter techniques to minimize disturbance to the mantas and the reef ecosystem. Located in one of Hawaii's premier diving locales, the 2-tank Manta Ray Night Charter is a must-book for any diver visiting the Big Island, offering memories that resonate long after leaving the ocean.
Whether you’re a certified diver or snorkeler over the age of eight, this two-dive adventure combines the thrill of exploring a vibrant underwater world with the rare chance to witness one of the ocean’s most graceful creatures up close. For travelers staying in Kailua-Kona, it’s an accessible and unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Hawaii’s coastal wilderness.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Schematic
Key stops on the charter sequence from boarding through the night dive at Makako Bay.
Boarding at Kona Diving Company Huaka'i Boat
Guests meet and board the operator’s Huaka'i boat in Kailua-Kona as the launch point for the two-tank charter.
Late-Afternoon Dive — Makako Bay (Garden Eel Cove)
A late-afternoon first dive where guides point out marine life such as Hawaiian garden eels and place bright lights to prep the site for the night dive.
Surface Interval and Briefing at Sunset
During the surface interval guides explain manta behavior and prepare divers for the night dive as the sun sets.
Night Dive — Manta Feeding
Once dark, divers enter the water to watch manta rays feed on plankton concentrated by the lights, sometimes swimming very close to divers.
Operators keep small ratios for safety; dive site sequence and timing vary with conditions and seasonal sunset times—be prepared for schedule adjustments.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Mantas Feeding in the Beam of Lights
After dark, bright lights placed in the water attract plankton; mantas come to feed, often circling directly over divers in a slow, mesmerizing display.
Late-Afternoon Dive and Site Setup
The charter includes an initial late-afternoon dive when guides point out local life like Hawaiian garden eels and rig the lights that will concentrate plankton for the night dive; on occasion mantas arrive early and are seen on both dives.
Small Groups, Attentive Divemasters
Groups are kept small—with no more than five divers per divemaster—so guests receive close guidance and a more personalized experience in the water.
What the day feels like
What the Charter Feels Like
The charter moves from a late-afternoon reconnaissance dive—where guides introduce you to the cove and set the lights—to a surface interval at sunset with briefings on manta behavior, and then back into the ink-dark water to watch mantas feed in the light. The sequence emphasizes calm, deliberate diving and close, expert supervision.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this charter suits (and who should take precautions).
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The charter includes two dives and runs approximately 2.5 hours before sunset (timing varies seasonally to align with sunset).
Meet at the Kona Diving Company Huaka'i boat in Kailua-Kona for boarding and departure.
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, hat, refillable water bottle, hair ties, and warm, dry clothes to change into after the night dive (a sweatshirt or light jacket is often sufficient).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the 2-tank Manta Ray Night Charter?
The charter is approximately 2.5 hours before sunset, with timing adjusted seasonally to match sunset times.
Where do the dives take place?
Both dives take place at Makako Bay (Garden Eel Cove) off Kailua-Kona.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, hat, refillable water bottle, hair ties, and warm dry clothes to change into after the night dive (most guests find a sweatshirt or light jacket sufficient).
How large are the diving groups?
Groups are kept small, with no more than five divers per divemaster, for personalized attention and safety.
Why are bright lights used during the night dive?
Bright lights attract plankton, which concentrates around the lights and draws manta rays that feed on the plankton.
Do manta rays pose a danger — do they have stingers or teeth?
Manta rays are gentle giants without stingers, barbs, or teeth; they feed by gulping plankton around the lights.
Is there an educational component during the charter?
Yes—during the surface interval at sunset guides brief divers on manta behavior and safety to prepare for the night dive.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-08T19:50:56.262Z
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Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.