FAQs

General Information

  • What is the cost of the manta ray night snorkel tour?

    Please visit our Manta Ray Snorkel tour pages or call (808) 987-0377 for pricing. We do offer kama’aina and military discounts as well!

  • What is your cancellation policy?

    We ask that you give us at least 48 hours notice to cancel or change your reservation.

  • What happens if bad weather cancels the manta ray snorkel?

    We sometimes have to cancel due to high surf, bad weather, or rough ocean conditions, and when we make that call, you are fully refunded. If you need to cancel your reservation for any reason, we have a 48-hour cancellation policy and ask that changes or cancellations are made outside of that window.

  • Do you offer Kama’aina rates and military discounts?

    Yes, we do! Please call (808) 987-0377 for further details. 

Manta Ray Snorkeling

  • What is a manta ray snorkel adventure?

    A manta ray night snorkel adventure is an extraordinary experience offered in Kona, Hawai’i Island, known for its renowned Kona manta ray tours. Here in Kona, we are one of the few places in the world where manta rays can be viewed year round. Our night snorkeling with mantas provides an enchanting opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.


    As a popular destination for manta ray encounters, our Kona manta ray tours take place in the evening, creating an immersive setting after sunset. We have specifically designed lights that draw in plankton, which serves as the manta ray's natural food source. This unique approach to night snorkeling with mantas effectively attracts these captivating creatures, offering an up-close and personal experience like no other.


    What sets us apart is our utilization of a non-motorized Hawaiian Double Hull Canoe, making us the sole provider of this remarkable Kona manta ray tour. By incorporating eco-friendly practices, we ensure that our night snorkeling adventures with mantas are conducted in a sustainable and responsible manner.


    Learn more about our Manta Ray Night Snorkel Adventure. 

  • Where does the manta ray snorkel take place?

    We operate out of Keauhou Bay and paddle out to Kaukalaelae Point, which most people refer to as Manta Village. This site provides the shortest boat ride (which is why we don’t need and don’t want to use a motor) and offers the most consistency in seeing Manta Rays.


    For directions to Keauhou Harbor, click here. 

  • How long does manta ray snorkel last?

    The duration of our manta ray snorkel experience is approximately 1 hour. This includes a 5-7 minute paddle out to the site, around 45 minutes spent in the water with the mantas, and a 5-7 minute paddle back to the starting point. Please note that check-in is required half an hour before the tour's start time, so you can expect to be with us for about an hour and a half. The duration may vary slightly depending on how quickly the mantas appear during the tour.

  • When is the best time to go on a manta ray snorkel?

    The presence of manta rays remains consistent throughout the year, so there isn't a specific time of year that is better than others for sightings.


    When it comes to choosing a tour, both the earlier and later trips offer unique advantages. The nice thing about the earlier trip is that you are paddling out as the sun sets and it's a really beautiful time to be on the water. The nice thing about the later trip is that there tend to be less boats at the site so you have it a bit more to yourselves. It's really more of a question of what works better for your schedule.

  • How far is the paddle?

    It's only about a 5-7 minute paddle each way and is pretty easy. We do ask that everyone participate - you are our motors! You do have a Captain or steersman and a guide to help you.

  • How hard is the paddle - do we need to be in shape?

    We welcome guests of all abilities, but we do rely on paddle power to get to our destination. Please let us know if you have any mobility concerns, as there is a step down from the dock to get into the canoe that can be anywhere from 1-3 feet high, depending on the tide.

  • Is there a minimum age requirement for the manta ray night snorkel?

    Children as young as 2 years old can join us on our canoe tours, as they can stand in the canoe and enjoy the amazing view from the side. To ensure safety, we require an adequate number of adults to help paddle the canoe and supervise the kids. As we accommodate a maximum of 6 people per tour, larger families can have a private experience. We kindly request that children are capable of sitting in their own canoe seat without parental assistance.


    Our unique Hawaiian Double Hull Canoe setup offers a non-motorized experience that allows you to have an unparalleled view right from your seat. You have complete control over entering and exiting the water, making it ideal for younger kids who may be hesitant. Children should be able to sit in their own canoe seat without parental aid, and they can decide whether they want to get into the water once we reach the site.

  • Do we have to get in the water to see the mantas?

    No, you don't! We are the only company offering one of the best and safest viewing experiences from our canoe. Our lights are set up between the hulls so that you can see the manta rays from the safety of the canoe. We can help you stay safe between the hulls if you prefer to get in the water. And if you have small children, non-swimmers, or people with disabilities, they can stay in the canoe and close to everyone else in the water to have a shared experience! Check out our gallery to get a better visual of this!

  • Can I participate in the manta ray snorkel if I am not a strong swimmer?

    We ask that you can swim and have experience using a mask and snorkel, but you don't need to be a strong swimmer. Unlike other companies, Anelakai Adventures offers a unique experience where you can snorkel with the manta rays by slipping into the water, holding onto a handle connected between the hulls, and floating there as the manta rays come to our lights.


    We also welcome non-swimmers, small children, guests with special needs or limited mobility, and anyone who just doesn't want to get in the water. The view from the canoe is amazing!

  • Is there a weight limit?

    Yes, we have a weight limit of 250 pounds. This is to ensure that everyone can fit comfortably in the canoe (the canoe seat is about 19 inches wide) and can safely climb up the ladder to get back into the canoe.

  • Do you have a ladder to get back into the canoe?

    We do have a ladder - it's similar to a pool ladder, so you need to be able to pull your own body weight to climb back up it.

  • Is it safe to swim with manta rays?

    Manta Rays are ocean angels and gentle giants of the sea. They get pretty big - an average of 7-12 foot wingspan - but with all that size, they are entirely harmless. They have no stingers, teeth, or barbs, so no worries!!

  • Should we eat before the tour?

    If you do grab a bite to eat before coming out with us we always recommend to eat light. We also ask that you wait on having that Mai Tai until after the tour - safety is our number one priority!

  • How many manta rays will I see on the snorkel adventure?

    Manta Rays are wild animals, and observing them in their natural environment is part of what makes this experience so special. This also means we never know how many we will see on any given night. On average, we see anywhere from 2-5; however, there are nights that we see a lot more. We always recommend doing some ‘Manta-festing’ before your tour!!

  • Can I touch the manta rays during the snorkel?

    Absolutely not! Manta Rays in Hawai’i are Federally protected, and touching them is strictly prohibited. Their bodies are covered in a protective mucous coating, which helps shield them from bacteria and other oceanic hazards. Touching the mantas would compromise this protection. It is important to note that there are substantial fines associated with touching manta rays, so it is strictly enforced.

  • What should I do if I see a manta ray?

    Upon spotting a manta ray, you will probably want to scream with excitement (which we fully understand and embrace!). The main thing is to remain calm and avoid excessive kicking or unnecessary movements. Maintaining a calm demeanor prevents unintentional contact with the mantas and minimizes any potential of spooking them. It's crucial to remember that manta rays pose no threat to us and are truly angels of the sea.

  • Where can I learn more about manta ray night snorkel?

    You can learn more about our manta ray tour by visiting our Manta Ray Night Snokel Tour page. 

Safety and Equipment

  • What do I need to bring for the manta ray night snorkel?

    We provide all the necessary equipment, including masks, snorkels, wetsuit tops, and ankle floats. You only need to bring a towel, and if you have a GoPro or underwater camera, feel free to bring it along! For your convenience, we have a dry storage box on the canoe where you can safely store your valuables and towel. It's best to avoid bringing large backpacks or unnecessary items.

  • Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear?

    No need to bring your own snorkel gear! We provide wetsuits for adults and kids, as well as snorkel gear. We also have life vests on board, so please let us know if you would like to wear one. The only thing you need to bring is a towel.

  • Is the manta ray night snorkel safe?

    The manta ray night snorkel is a safe and enjoyable activity for people of all ages. The manta rays are gentle creatures and pose no threat to humans.

Accessibility and Special Needs

  • Can people with disabilities participate in your tours?

    Absolutely! We welcome people of all abilities to join our tours and experience the incredible adventure. The only factor we need to consider is our weight limit for safety reasons. If you have physical disabilities or unique abilities, don't hesitate to contact us directly so that we can make appropriate arrangements, ensuring your safety and enjoyment throughout the experience. Click here to read testimonials from amazing individuals who have enjoyed sharing this memorable adventure with us!

  • How can I make sure that my needs are met?

    We encourage you to contact us as soon as possible to discuss your needs. We will work with you to create a personalized tour plan that meets your individual needs.

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