Scuba Diving at Night with Manta Rays in Kona, Hawaii: An Unforgettable Adventure at Manta Village

Few underwater experiences compare to the thrill and awe of scuba diving at night with manta rays on the Kona Coast of Hawaii. The first time I slipped beneath the waves at Manta Village, just offshore from the Royal Kona Resort, I knew I was in for something special—but nothing could have prepared me for the spectacle that unfolded. If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island and want to witness one of the ocean’s most mesmerizing encounters, here’s everything you need to know about the Kona manta ray night dive, from boat operations and safety to what you’ll see and how to interact responsibly with these gentle giants.

Why Kona’s Manta Ray Night Dive is World-Famous

Kona’s volcanic coastline drops off steeply, bringing deep, plankton-rich waters close to shore. For decades, powerful lights installed at the Royal Kona Resort and nearby properties have attracted swarms of plankton after dark. The local reef manta rays (Mobula alfredi)—some with wingspans up to 18 feet—have learned to associate these lights with easy feeding, returning night after night in a graceful ballet that has become legendary among divers.

Manta Village, the site just off the Royal Kona Resort, is the original and still one of the most reliable places in the world to see mantas up close. The combination of shallow depth, easy boat access, and a long history of manta activity make it a must-do for divers and snorkelers alike.

Dive Operators and Boat Diving Options

Most manta ray night dives are boat-based, departing from Honokohau Harbor, a short drive north of Kailua-Kona. The boat ride to Manta Village is typically 20–30 minutes, hugging the scenic coastline as anticipation builds. Several reputable dive operators run nightly trips to Manta Village and the nearby Manta Heaven (Garden Eel Cove), including:

• Kona Honu Divers: Known for small groups, excellent guides, and a strong focus on safety and education. Their two-tank trips include a twilight reef dive and the main manta night dive.

• Jack’s Diving Locker: A pioneer of the manta night dive, offering both scuba and snorkel options, as well as specialty courses and family-friendly trips.

• Big Island Divers: Long-established, with flexible options for divers and snorkelers, high-quality rental gear, and thorough pre-dive briefings.

• Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii: Specializing in manta encounters, with a strong emphasis on eco-friendly practices and conservation.

• Kona Snorkel Trips: Highly rated for snorkel-only tours, perfect for families and non-divers.

Each operator provides all necessary gear, including wetsuits (the water is a comfortable 75–80°F), and a detailed safety and manta behavior briefing before entering the water. Certification is required for scuba divers, and recent dive experience is recommended, especially for those new to night diving.

Manta Night Dive Experience

Check-In and Gear Setup

The adventure begins at the dive shop or harbor, where you meet your guides and group, get fitted for gear, and review the evening’s plan. Kona’s operators are meticulous about safety and comfort, ensuring everyone is prepared for night diving.

Boat Ride to the Manta Ray Night Dive Site

As the sun sets, the boat heads south along the coast. Guides share stories about the local manta population and point out landmarks. The excitement is palpable as you approach Manta Village, watching the last light fade over the Pacific.

Twilight Reef Dive

Many trips include a first dive on the nearby reef at dusk. This is a great way to get comfortable in the water, spot turtles, eels, and reef fish, and ease into the transition from daylight to darkness.

The Manta Briefing

After the reef dive, there’s time for a light snack and a comprehensive briefing. Guides explain the “campfire” setup: divers kneel or sit in a circle on the sandy bottom, while snorkelers float above, holding onto a light board. Powerful underwater lights attract plankton, which in turn attract the mantas.

The Main Event

Descending to about 30–35 feet, divers settle in around the lights, keeping hands and knees on the sand. Snorkelers float above, watching the scene unfold from the surface. The water comes alive with tiny plankton swirling in the beams, and then—out of the darkness—the mantas appear.

The first time a manta swoops overhead, it’s impossible not to gasp in amazement. With wingspans that can stretch to 18 feet, these gentle giants glide and somersault through the lights, mouths wide open as they feed on the dense clouds of plankton. Some nights, you might see a single manta; on others, a dozen or more. Each is individually identified by unique markings on its belly, and guides often introduce you to the regulars by name.

The experience is surreal. Mantas pass within inches, looping and spinning in a slow-motion dance. There’s a sense of connection and awe that’s hard to describe—a reminder of the ocean’s beauty and mystery.

Snorkeling with Mantas

For non-divers, snorkeling is just as magical. Floating on the surface, you watch the mantas feed below, illuminated by the lights. The view from above gives a unique perspective on the mantas’ acrobatics, and guides are always close by to ensure comfort and safety.

Returning to Shore

After about 45 minutes in the water, it’s time to say goodbye to the mantas. Back on the boat, everyone shares stories and excitement on the ride to the harbor. Most operators provide hot drinks and snacks to warm up after the dive.

What to Know About Manta Rays

Diving with mantas is a privilege, and a little knowledge goes a long way toward making the encounter safe and meaningful:

• Harmless and Gentle: Kona’s mantas are reef mantas (Mobula alfredi). They have no stinger, no teeth, and pose no threat to humans. They feed exclusively on plankton.

• Individually Identified: Each manta has unique markings on its belly. Local researchers have cataloged over 300 individuals in Kona, many of whom return night after night.

• Long-Lived and Intelligent: Mantas can live 40–50 years or more. They’re curious and often approach divers closely if left undisturbed.

• No Touching: Touching, chasing, or harassing mantas is strictly prohibited. It can remove the protective mucus on their skin and is against Hawaii state law and all operator guidelines.

• Conservation Status: Mantas are listed as “Vulnerable” by the IUCN. Kona’s population is well-studied and protected, thanks to collaboration between researchers and dive operators.

Safety and Regulations

Safety is always the top priority on a manta ray night dive. Here’s what to expect:

Diver and Snorkeler Requirements

• Certification: Only certified divers are allowed on manta night dives. Most operators require proof of recent dive experience.

• Experience: Night diving is different from daytime diving. If you’re new to it, consider a specialty course or a daytime refresher.

• Health: Be in good health and comfortable in the water.

Snorkelers should be comfortable swimming in open water, and guides provide floatation aids and wetsuits for buoyancy and warmth.

In-Water Protocols

• Stay Stationary: Divers kneel or sit on the bottom, keeping the water column clear for mantas. Snorkelers must remain flat on the surface, holding onto the light board.

• No Touching or Chasing: Let the mantas come to you. Avoid sudden movements and keep your lights pointed upward to attract plankton.

• No Freediving: Snorkelers must not dive down, as it disrupts the mantas’ feeding.

Environmental Regulations

Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is continually updating regulations to ensure sustainable manta tourism. As of 2025:

• Permitted Operators: Only permitted operators may run manta dives at designated sites.

• Boat and Guest Limits: There are limits on the number of boats and guests at each site to prevent overcrowding.

• Guide-to-Guest Ratios: Strict ratios are maintained for both divers and snorkelers.

• Designated Viewing Zones: All guests must remain within marked areas to protect both mantas and the reef.

• Mandatory Education: Every guest receives a briefing on manta behavior, safety, and responsible interaction.

These rules are in place to protect the mantas, the reef, and the quality of the experience for everyone.

Responsible Interaction: How to Be a Good Guest

Diving with mantas is a privilege. Here’s how to ensure your encounter is safe and respectful:

• Stay Calm and Still: The less you move, the more likely mantas are to approach. Remain stationary and enjoy the show.

• Let Mantas Come to You: Resist the urge to reach out, even if a manta glides close.

• Respect Others: Give fellow divers and snorkelers space to enjoy the experience.

• Leave No Trace: Don’t disturb the reef or leave trash behind.

Manta Science and Conservation

Kona’s manta ray night dive is unique not only for the spectacle, but for the close partnership between dive operators and researchers. Organizations like the Manta Pacific Research Foundation work to catalog and protect the local manta population, monitor their health, and educate the public.

Many operators support these efforts through donations, data sharing, and guest education. When you dive or snorkel with a responsible operator, you’re contributing to the long-term protection of these animals.

For those interested in learning more, the Manta Learning Center at the Sheraton Kona Resort offers interactive exhibits and educational talks, including the chance to “meet” some of the most famous mantas by name.

Frequently Asked Questions

How likely am I to see mantas?

Manta Village is one of the most reliable sites in the world. Most operators report a 90%+ success rate, and some nights see a dozen or more mantas.

Is it safe to dive with mantas at night?

With proper training, equipment, and guidance, night diving with mantas is safe and accessible for most certified divers. The sites are sheltered, the water is warm, and the guides are highly experienced.

What if I’m not a diver?

Snorkeling is a fantastic option and just as breathtaking. Many operators offer snorkel-only tours, and guides ensure a safe, comfortable experience.

Can I bring my own camera?

Absolutely! Just remember to keep your lights pointed upward and avoid chasing mantas for a photo.

Why the Kona Manta Ray Night Dive Belongs on Every Ocean Lover’s Bucket List

Scuba diving at night with Kona’s manta rays is an experience that blends adventure, awe, and a deep respect for the ocean’s wonders. Whether you’re kneeling on the bottom as a manta glides overhead, or floating on the surface watching the ballet unfold, you’ll feel a connection to the ocean that’s hard to describe.

If you’re headed to the Big Island, don’t miss the chance to dive or snorkel with the mantas at Manta Village. Choose a reputable operator, follow the guidelines, and prepare for a night you’ll never forget.

See you underwater!