Page 11) Things to Do in Big Island in 2025 – Tours & Activities

Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour Adventure on a Hawaiian Sailing Canoe

Within inches of manta rays!

Reviewed by: Nancy

Pros: You will get as close as possible to many Manta rays, completely safe, even for kids, very informative guides.

Cons: They don't yet have an option to buy underwater photos or GoPro video of your experience, so bring your own.

Overall a great experience, highly recommend!

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2022/03/28
Activity Date:	2022/03/24

Kona Luxury Snorkel Sail - No Wiki Sailing Catamaran Private & Shared Charters

Amazing experience!

Reviewed by: The Desmond’s

Captain Cindy and Crew John were awesome! They made this the trip of a lifetime! They were informative, so very helpful, personable, and professional. We had a great time from the beginning to the end!

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Rating:
Packages:	Private Charter: Kealakekua Bay Snorkel (5 to 8 hours)
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2022/03/24
Activity Date:	2022/03/22

Hawaii Manta Ray Sunset & Night Time Snorkel Experience from Kona - Iruka

Better than I ever expected

Reviewed by: Teresa

I’ve never been snorkeling before so this was a first experience for me. This company offers great services. They have an option for you to pay $30 more per person for them to come pick you up at local hotel (within their distance). Great option because we didn’t rent a car for our trip to Hawaii. They offer wet suit for rental $10 per person. We didn’t rent any because it was warm enough but it’s a great option. The boat ride was about 30 minutes each way and they included sodas/a cup of hot chocolate and chips for you. The manta-rays we saw were huge and there were so many of them!! They came super close as well. The best part was that they even recorded the manta-rays and air dropped the videos to us!!! I don’t have an underwater camera so it was a great surprise when she (the owner?) offered to airdrop us videos.

Reply from activity provider

Aloha! Thank you so much for joining our tour and for sharing about your experience. We are so glad that you enjoyed your time with us. Please come back soon! Mahalo

Manta-ray !!!

Helpful

Rating:
Packages:	Manta Ray Snorkel with Transportation
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2022/03/22
Activity Date:	2022/03/20

Sea Quest Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tour & Rafting Sea Cave Expedition

The perfect adventure

Reviewed by: Ren

For a family coming from the snow, we didn’t know what to expect. We didn’t even know if we could snorkel! The crew was super helpful and fun. All of our fears were for not. We had the time of our lives! We were treated to historic stories to go along with our boat ride, the snorkel equipment was clean and high quality, the sights were incredible! The perfect adventure for beginners! Highly recommended!

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Rating:
Packages:	3-hour Captain Cook Cruise (1 Snorkel Stop)
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2022/03/20
Activity Date:	2022/02/22

Ocean Encounters Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Sunset & Moonlight Cruise from Kona

Awesome!

Reviewed by: Alberto

Everything was on point. Staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. The day was gorgeous and the sunset was incredible too. Manta-rays we’re a real show!!! They looked so beautiful and out of this word, like dancing in the water and playing with us. Definitely a must at the Big Island.

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2022/03/12
Activity Date:	2022/02/19

Sea Quest Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tour & Rafting Sea Cave Expedition

Fantastic day of snorkel and lava cave exploring

Reviewed by: Wendy

Bethany could not have been more accommodating and welcoming when we first arrived followed by a tremendous day at sea with Jill ! She gave an amazing tour of the coastline sharing history, " fun facts" and plentiful opportunity to see lava caves , blowholes, and awesome snorkeling! We saw a baby whale with her mama thanks to Jill's sharp eye followed by a diving turtle and then some dolphin at our final stop. Couldn't have asked for a better day that Jill and Sea Quest gave!

Rooster Crown

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Rating:
Packages:	5-hour South Kona Expedition with Lunch (3 Snorkel Stops)
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2022/03/08
Activity Date:	2022/03/07

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Third time is a charm

Reviewed by: Dennis and Linda

We had attempted two times previously 9 years ago to see the Mantas and were unsuccessful. We warned our group this time that we may be bad luck. Our experience was over the top, well over 10 Mantas and Justin and Connor were great at sharing their knowledge of these fascinating creatures. We would definitely recommend to anyone wondering about this novel opportunity.

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Rating:
Packages:	Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2022/02/16
Activity Date:	2022/02/13

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Lots of Mantas

Reviewed by: Awesome day!

We had a great trip! We had non stop manta ray action! Apparently we were very lucky. I left my phone on the boat because the current was a little rough. It was an awesome experience, would do again!! They were literally belly to belly with me. It was a really cool experience!

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Rating:
Packages:	Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2022/02/11
Activity Date:	2022/02/09

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Truly Majestic

Reviewed by: Susan

It was awesome! As soon as we got in the water we had Manta rays doing barrel rolls around us. Captain Kai, Justin and Jaz made the experience alot of fun. They know their Manta rays. An experience I recommend. Lady's I did this solo, don't hesitate. The night I went was well worth the money. Aloha!

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Rating:
Packages:	Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as:	Solo Travelers
Posted on:	2022/02/10
Activity Date:	2022/02/08

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Great experience!

Reviewed by: Patricia

Justin was so knowledgeable about the manta rays - we learned many interesting things. The equipment provided was very good quality and most comfortable. The most unforgettable part of the experience was seeing so many beautiful manta rays! And they came so close that we were touched by them as they swam.

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Rating:
Packages:	Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2022/02/07
Activity Date:	2022/02/04

Sea Paradise 3-Hour Afternoon Kealakekua Bay & Captain Cook Snorkel Tour

Fantastic crew and trip!

Reviewed by: Laurie

The sailboat was new and beautiful. The crew were knowledgeable and very helpful. They let us do some whale watching and fish chasing and we had a fantastic time! We will definitely take this trip again but next tome we will do the 5 hour.

Reply from activity provider

Aloha Laurie, Mahalo Nui Loa for joining us. We are so happy to hear you had a wonderful time. We look forward to your next visit!

Just plain fun!
Pure joy.

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Rating:
Packages:	Afternoon Snorkel Cruise
Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2022/02/06
Activity Date:	2022/02/04

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Coolest experience of my life!

Reviewed by: Coolest experience

This was the coolest experience of my life, and that is not an exaggeration at all. Plus that is saying a lot as we are world wide travelers and have done epic things. Every person living on the Big Island or traveling to the Big Island should do this! If you are considering it and wondering if it will be kinda cool or maybe sorta lame (like I thought it might be) let me assure you it is beyond cool!
We literally had to have close to a dozen manta rays swimming around us, most would swim within inches of us. Some VERY large ones also! No need to fear they have no teeth or stingers and are harmless (unless you are plankton). These creatures are truly magnificent!
The crew onboard was wonderful and knowledgeable. When we were done there was hot tea and a snack which was an added bonus.

Helpful

Rating:
Packages:	Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2022/02/04
Activity Date:	2022/02/02

4.5-Hour Sea Quest Premium Rafting Snorkel Tour at Honaunau & Kealakekua Bay

Great day!

Reviewed by: Colleen

Captain Steve made our experience very special. We stopped in two snorkel spots, saw some caves close up, had a nice snack and lunch. Were told neat things about the island and the locations we snorkeled at.
The waters were a little choppy. We felt very safe with Steves driving. The tour states it is not good for someone with any physical issues. There was some bouncing around on the boat, so we would agree with that.
Professional Company. They offered a few different types of snorkeling tours. Pick one-- you won't be disappointed.

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package
Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2022/02/01
Activity Date:	2022/01/25

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Great manta ray viewing with awesome crew!

Reviewed by: Matt D

Super competent captain and crew who were helpful with gear, getting on/off the boat, assisting those who were uncomfortable once in the water. The manta viewing was amazing, close up and continuous. Our guide provided background information on the mantas. Several other species of smaller fish were present also. Definitely recommend this activity!

Helpful

Rating:
Packages:	Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2022/01/22
Activity Date:	2021/12/31

Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour Adventure on a Hawaiian Sailing Canoe

Unforgettable Experience

Reviewed by: Alex

The manta rays were inches from us, and all four in our group had an exceptional time. The guides were knowledgeable and really added to the experience. Highly recommend.

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2022/01/19
Activity Date:	2022/01/17

Sea Quest Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tour & Rafting Sea Cave Expedition

Great day snorkeling in the sun!

Reviewed by: Jane

Such a welcoming crew and staff at Sea Quest. They worked through changes easily and made sure everyone was comfortable. Not only was the snorkeling great with tons of fish and coral but you also get several stops along the ride to look at lava tubes, caves, and larger wildlife. Very knowledgable crew and great spot to visit for both beginner and advanced swimmers/snorkelers.

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Rating:
Packages:	4-hour Deluxe Morning Adventure (2 Snorkel Stops)
Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2022/01/18
Activity Date:	2022/01/15

4.5-Hour Sea Paradise Premium Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tour with Breakfast & Lunch

Must Do in Kona!!

Reviewed by: SusanB

Wonderful, cheerful, professional staff. Lovely, clean NEW boat. This trip was a thumbs up. We were greeted by Joshua who was happy and briefed us well. On board were Asia, Jesse and Capt. Mike Morgan. This team worked well together to keep us entertained, fed, schooled on area history and safe. All of the gear was in good condition, the food was healthy and served efficiently using pandemic protocols. We were clearly informed of where to snorkel and attended by one or two employees while in the water. We were able to make part of the trip back under sail which was a silent treat. This is a top snorkel area on the island and the Sea Paradise trip is top notch! Top this off with seeing spinner dolphins and five different whales ….. a wonderful way to spend the morning.

Reply from activity provider

Aloha Susan, Mahalo Nui Loa for taking the time to share your beautiful photos. We hope to see you for more adventures soon!

Under sail
Whale!

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Rating:
Packages:	Deluxe Morning Snorkel Cruise with 2 Snorkel Stops, Breakfast & Lunch [4.5 hrs]
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2022/01/13
Activity Date:	2022/01/11

Sea Quest Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tour & Rafting Sea Cave Expedition

Great snorkeling and sea cave tour experience

Reviewed by: Tanya L.

The captain and the assistant are very nice and knowledgeable. We saw a few amazing sea caves and lava tubes on the way to the snorkeling stops. Saw beautiful fishes at both stops and the 2nd stop (Captain Cook's Monument) is best and our GoPro caught awesome videos of those beautiful fishes.

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Rating:
Packages:	4-hour Deluxe Morning Adventure (2 Snorkel Stops)
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2022/01/10
Activity Date:	2022/01/07

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Life Changing with The Best Crew Ever!

Reviewed by: Marlene209c

It's true, discovering the Manta's is a must do on Kona and the best place is Keauhou Bay with the "Dolphin Discovery" crew. I chose this company based on their reviews and it was the best decision I made! Our family numbered 6 among an intimate group of 12, plus the crew. Everyone of the crew from the "in-water" guides (Justin & Chaz) to the Capt. and shore staff were AMAZING. Super helpful, patient, approachable, knowledgeable and everything a group could ask for and more! Equipment is top notch and the hot, lavender/chamomile tea & cookies after the swim/snorkeling is the perfect touch!! Thank you very, very much for making this one of the most memorable experiences we had in Kona!!

We LOVE Dolphin Discoveries 'Manta Adventure"!

Helpful

Rating:
Packages:	Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2022/01/06
Activity Date:	2022/01/03

Keauhou Bay Manta Ray Night Dive Tour & Snorkel Adventure from Kona - Sea Quest

Manta rays

Reviewed by: Boele

Crew, equipment, boat, customers and experience were all AWESOME

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Rating:
Packages:	Swim with Mantas
Attended as:	Families with Young Children
Posted on:	2022/01/01
Activity Date:	2021/12/30

Ocean Encounters Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Sunset & Moonlight Cruise from Kona

Great experience with awesome crew

Reviewed by: big island lover

We took the cruise last Thursday. The cruise time from the harbor to the site was a little long but worthful. The sunset view was beautiful. And we were so lucky to see a group of dolphins. The two girls were super nice and very helpful. Also, they offer a different price for people with ride-only. It was a great experience. I regret for not giving tips because my wallet was left in the car. I hope they could accept Zelle/Apple pay of tips later.

Helpful

Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/12/29
Activity Date:	2021/12/23

Ocean Encounters Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Sunset & Moonlight Cruise from Kona

Phenomenal experience!

Reviewed by: Suzie

The manta ray night snorkel was AMAZING! Our guides were so friendly and knowledgeable. They took the time to meet each one of us individually. Being in the dark ocean with these amazing creatures is a breathtaking experience that can’t be put into words or explained with videos. You just have to do it. We have 5-6 rays that barrel rolled under us continuously for about 20 minutes.

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package: Moonlight Manta Snorkel (Seasonal)
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/12/29
Activity Date:	2021/12/27

Hawaii Manta Ray Sunset & Night Time Snorkel Experience from Kona - Iruka

One Word: Disappointed

Reviewed by: Chris

I paid for and experienced the sunset Manta Ray Night Time Snorkelling on Dec. 23, 2021. I completely understand that these are wild animals and that it's extremely unpredictable whether or not you'll get a good chance to see them up close and personal. That said, that is what this company is selling and what we are paying extremely good money for. if you are going to charge for it, then every effort should be made to deliver on that experience.

The crew overall did a decent job, but once we arrived at the area where the Manta Rays were supposed to be, I was surprised to see a huge number of boats of various sizes and setups. I then realized that perhaps our setup was not ideal. I noticed that some arrange the snorkelers in a circle or square formation, making it more likely for everyone to get a good view of the Manta Ray if it shows up. Our setup was just some floating paddle boards, and our particular location was not ideal. I would say all of us on our particular paddle board barely caught a glimpse of a Manta Ray, whereas others I believe based on what they said got a much better view. This was extremely disappointing. I'm sure those who did catch a good shot will talk about a different experience, but all of us who were on the boat paid good money, not just those who got a good view of the Manta Rays.

This makes it hard to recommend this particular outfit to others

Reply from activity provider

Aloha Chris, thank you for taking the time to share your feedback as we are always looking for ways to improve our tours. We are deeply sorry that your encounter with the Manta Rays fell short of expectations on our tour. Our captain and crew went to great lengths to provide a memorable experience, but the unpredictability of wildlife and ocean conditions can sometimes pose challenges. We hope you can join us again in the future to restore your impression of our tour and see more Mantas up close. Mahalo

Helpful

Rating:
Packages:	Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/12/28
Activity Date:	2021/12/23

Ocean Encounters Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Sunset & Moonlight Cruise from Kona

Met Expectations and then some

Reviewed by: Greg

Was thrilling and informative. The crew were friendly and helpful and made every effort to make sure the experience was enjoyable. The mantas were so close and very impressive. Also saw dolphins as a bonus.

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2021/12/25
Activity Date:	2021/12/23

3-Hour Spirit of Aloha Kohala Coast Morning Snorkel Tour with Lunch & Drinks - Hawaii Nautical

Delightful Snorkel Cruise

Reviewed by: Grandma Tess

Despite a windy day, Captain Cindy was able to find a great place to snorkel. The briefing provided by the captain described the best ways to snorkel. I learned something new! I felt safe as the crew had a member who went on a surfboard to watch over the participants.

I can’t believe the hospitality of the crew— serving drinks, food and snacks with ease.

This was one of the highlights of our trip.

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Rating:
Packages:	Snorkel Sail
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/12/22
Activity Date:	2021/12/20

Ocean Encounters Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Sunset & Moonlight Cruise from Kona

Manta Ray night snorkeling

Reviewed by: Awale Farah

The experience was amazing. A big ray came so close touched my elbow.

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel
Attended as:	Solo Travelers
Posted on:	2021/12/16
Activity Date:	2021/12/14

4.5-Hour Deluxe Kona Snorkel Tour & Dolphin Watch with Lunch - Body Glove Cruise

Living your best life

Reviewed by: Randi

We had an amaZing time! We saw whales. The crew was incredible. No dolphins tho which was a bummer but that’s ok!

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Rating:
Packages:	Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Cruise
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2021/12/12
Activity Date:	2021/12/10

Hawaii Manta Ray Sunset & Night Time Snorkel Experience from Kona - Iruka

Amazing Manta Ray Excursion

Reviewed by: Susie

Our entire family had an amazing evening swimming with the Manta Rays, it was magical. The crew, with Captain Bryce were fantastic, knowledgeable, and fun. Highly recommend this trip!

Reply from activity provider

Aloha!
Thank you for sharing your great experience!
We are very happy to hear that.
Yes!! Guests will experience a magical night with Manta Ray and our crews;)

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Rating:
Packages:	Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/12/03
Activity Date:	2021/11/30

Hawaii Manta Ray Sunset & Night Time Snorkel Experience from Kona - Iruka

The crew really went out of the way to make it a great experience

Reviewed by: JCarter

Pirate Wednesdays - Would highly recommend. You get a comedy show as well as the manta rays

Reply from activity provider

Aloha! Thank you for joining with us.
We are glad you enjoyed our tour!

A Hui Hou:)

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Rating:
Packages:	Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2021/11/26
Activity Date:	2021/11/24

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Manta Adventures

Reviewed by: Kevin&Lorrie

Tour was professionally done, we saw to many Mantas to count...was such a beautiful experience:). Hot tea and good discussion afterwards was great! Thank you so much!!

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Rating:
Packages:	Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as:	Solo Travelers
Posted on:	2021/11/23
Activity Date:	2021/11/20

Things to Do in Big Island in 2025 – Tours & Activities | HawaiiActivities.com

All Reviews for Snorkeling Cruises & Tours in Big Island

Overall Rating

Reviews

Within inches of manta rays!

Amazing experience!

Better than I ever expected

The perfect adventure

Awesome!

Fantastic day of snorkel and lava cave exploring

Third time is a charm

Lots of Mantas

Truly Majestic

Great experience!

Fantastic crew and trip!

Coolest experience of my life!

Great day!

Great manta ray viewing with awesome crew!

Unforgettable Experience

Great day snorkeling in the sun!

Must Do in Kona!!

Great snorkeling and sea cave tour experience

Life Changing with The Best Crew Ever!

Manta rays

Great experience with awesome crew

Phenomenal experience!

One Word: Disappointed

Met Expectations and then some

Delightful Snorkel Cruise

Manta Ray night snorkeling

Living your best life

Amazing Manta Ray Excursion

The crew really went out of the way to make it a great experience

Manta Adventures

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