Review: Is Swimming with Manta Rays Worth it in Hawaii!

Swimming with Manta Rays in Hawaii is an experience many travellers search for when planning a bucket-list trip to the islands. And while you might find them all over the world, there are a few places that are more common or better than others.

But this experience often comes with a lot of questions. Is it really worth it and what actually happens on the tour? With so many tour operators, different rules around night swims, and concerns about safety, and animal ethics, it can feel overwhelming to know which experience is right.

Having booked 3 nights Manta Ray swimming myself from Kona, I’ve created this review for first-time visitors in mind. Whether you’re nervous about swimming at night, or simply want to know if it lives up to the hype, this post will walk you through everything you need to know before you go.

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My Review on Swimming with Manta Rays in Kona!

Well, was it worth it? What more can I say, than swimming with Manta Rays near Kona in Hawaii was absolutely unbelievable. And if given the opportunity, Matt and I would do it over and over again.

This had been on my bucket list for years, and we chose to do it not once, but THREE times. Just to make sure we made the most of the experience!

➡  Check for Manta Ray tours HERE with Viator, Or HERE with GYG

This particular tour was near a town called Kona, located on the western side of The Big Island in Hawaii (the island with the Volcanos).

The guided tours are very organised, and while there are many people on board, you’re explained everything in detail. Along with information about the Kona area and Hawaii. 

Note: If you’re fortunate, you could also see the spinner dolphins on your way to the Manta Sites. 

How much do the Tours Cost?

If you’re interested in Booking the tours, the estimated prices are typically around $150US to $200US per trip. These are comparable to many other tours on the Big Island and near Kona. 

➡  Find Manta Ray tours HERE with Viator, Or HERE with GYG.

Some of the sites they travel to include:

• Manta Point (Kohala)
• Manta Heaven (North Kona)
• Manta Village (South Kona)

Note: Manta rays have the largest brain-to-body ratio of any fish, making them highly intelligent and capable of complex behaviours, including self-recognition.

Best time to see them?

Although you can see Manta Rays around Hawaii year-round, they are most commonly seen on the west coast of the Big Island during the summer months. This is because they prefer warm weather and still waters.

Know that we visited Kona and the Big Island in April and saw at least 15 to 20 different Mantas each night. This means Summer is not your only time and can be flexible depending on the conditions at that time of year. 

TIP – If you able to book within a few days before and after the full moon, I’ve heard activity can be at it’s peak.

Choosing to Snorkel or Dive?

I would Snorkel or Dive with the Mantas Rays, depending on the situation and who I was with. Although, if you have your diving certificate, then I would always opt for diving. 

In both cases, you will see the creatures up close and get entertained by their grace in the water. However, I will explain both sides so you can decide what’s best for you.

Snorkelling

Snorkelling is a more popular choice for families and big groups. Large floating devices are placed on top of the water with strong lighting pointing into the depths. These devices have been specially fitted with poly pipe handrails, holding roughly 10 people around them. 

This is where you’ll sit for the next hour with your snorkel and wait for the gentle giants to visit you. The whole time Mantas will glide by, barrel roll, and swim very close to you.

Their mouth will be open while filtering the plankton food through their system. 

Snorkelling is an excellent choice if you have apprehensions about swimming at night or with such enormous creatures. It’s also your only choice for small children or those without a diving certificate. 

Note: There is absolutely NO freediving from the Snorkel tour! Snorkelers stay close to the surface to ensure your safety and protection of the Mantas. Freediving with these large animals is NOT ALLOWED as it can interrupt their feeding and be harmful to them.

➡  Find Manta Ray tours HERE with Viator, Or HERE with GYG.

Diving

On the other hand, those with a diving Certificate will break into smaller groups and be taken to roughly 10 to 15 metres (about 35 feet) below the surface.

All the diving gear is supplied, extra weights and the regular safety checks are performed. Then, you’re given a torch to attract the Mantas and basically sit in the one spot the entire time. 

On my first experience, it seemed like a disco party with milk crates positioned with lights pointing upwards (Watch it HERE). This, in turn, attracts the plankton and, once again, encourages the Mantas to swim around.

Note: If you have trouble balancing while sitting on the seabed, you can rest rocks on your legs to help. 

You’re at the mercy of your air supply and are asked by the guide, how you’re going throughout the dive. This means you could have a shorter experience than others snorkelling or be restricted by the other divers.

On average, you will be down on the bottom for about 40 to 50 minutes. 

What to Expect & Common Questions!

How big are they?

What surprised me was the size of the Manta Rays. I have seen plenty of them in Australia, Bali, and even the Maldives. But, some of these Manta Rays were huge and somewhat intimidating.

Seems the ones that live in the Hawaiian waters are one of the largest species in the world and belong to the Mobula alfredi. They generally grow up to a wingspan of 18 feet (5.5m)! However, on average, 12 feet and can live to be 50 years old. 

I know they can hurt you, and we weren’t afraid. We were both just in disbelief, to be in the water with something so AMAZING!

Can you hire an underwater camera?

This is obviously dependent on the tour company you go with, which will also vary in prices and the situation. As underwater photographers, we already had our own cameras.

However, you could rent an underwater camera with two bright lights attached for photos and videos. 

The bright lights illuminate the plankton food source that the Manta Rays are feeding on.

If you are lucky, the lights will lure a Manta Ray your way, and it will swim straight at your camera. After the camera hire, you will be given the SD card to keep and enable you to share your experience with your family and friends back home. 

Alternatively, some of our video footage and photo’s were taken by an onsite photographer and purchased after the tour. On our boat, this was supplied and emailed to us within 24 hours.

How do you get to the boat?

While some tour operators might provide hotel pickup on their tours, you’ll likely have to find your way to the Marina or where the boats leave from.

While this is 10 minute’s drive from the town of Kona, it will be too far to walk and a bit inconvenient for public transport. 

➡Find your favourite brand & compare prices for your Rental Car HERE

I would definitely recommend hiring a rental car for your visit on the Big Island.

This gives you flexibility and access to all the places you want to, including swimming with Manta Rays. All the major rental companies are found on the Big Island of Hawaii, and agencies are located at the Kona and Hilo International Airports. 

My next best recommendation for transport would be to grab a Taxi or Uber. Although you get back to the Marina late at night (about 9pm), and it could take some time to pick you up. 

Note: The Hawaiian name for manta rays, “hāhālua,” means “two breaths” or “two mouths.”

Is it safe to swim with them at night?

Manta Rays are definitely safe to swim with at night, especially in a controlled environment with organised tours. Not only are these creatures harmless, but the feeling of swimming alongside one of the largest fish species in the sea is thrilling. 

Although Manta Rays are related to stingrays, they DON’T have a stinger. They’re harmless to both divers and swimmers.

All they eat are plankton, which are microscopic sea organisms and the only interest Mantas take in humans is out of curiosity.

Does touching Manta Rays, hurt them?

This answer can depend on a few factors.

First, it can be harmless to Manta Rays as long as no sharp objects are involved. But, too much contact can interfere with their immune system and expose them to potential infections and other risks. 

➡  See Manta Ray tours HERE with Viator, Or HERE with GYG

From an ethical standpoint, these are wild creatures, and you should NEVER try to touch or pat them. They will, however, get close to you and even brush past and inadvertently touch you. 

So, it’s best to admire these majestic animals from a distance and help preserve their habitat to protect them from harm.

Fun Fact: Manta rays are mentioned in the Hawaiian creation chant, the Kumulipo, highlighting their importance in Hawaiian culture.

What happens if you don’t see any?

It’s always sad, but these are wild creatures and sometimes they don’t show up. If that’s the case, please read the tour guidelines before booking to ensure there is some guarantee that you might see one or an alternative to book another night! 

Unfortunately, it can’t be guaranteed unless otherwise stated, as Manta Rays may not be at a particular spot for several reasons. This would make the tour slightly underwhelming, but they just might give you the opportunity to try another night. 

My Best Tip – Plan your visit at the start of your trip, so it’s possible to reschedule.

What to pack for your tour

I’d recommend packing the following for your tour:

• Dramamine or sick sickness tablets: the boat getting to and from the site can be a little rocky! This can affect some more than others, but know the boat ride is short.
• Towel to dry off after the swim. I prefer the Tesalate towels that take up less room in your bag and quickly dry.
• GoPro or Camera: If you intend to capture some pictures or video of the Manta Rays barrel rolling and gliding through the waters.
• Drybag: Comes in handy to keep everything together and dry. Especially once everyone gets out of the water, it can get jam-packed, and wet gear is thrown all over the place. It will keep your towel and clothes dry. 
• Snorkeling gear: The tours will provide you will all the gear you need. However, if you’re like me, then you like your own gear that fits properly, as well as not being used by a hundred different people.
• Light Jacket or extra shirt: While it’s not freezing, it will get a little cool on the boat ride back to the Marina. A light jacket or an extra long sleeve shirt will come in handy. 

Is it Ethical to Swim with Manta Rays?

You should always be wary of any tour that includes some sort of animal interaction. 

• Are the animals being held in captivity? 
• Is more harm coming out of the activity than good?

If so, you should NOT be supporting it with either your time or your money.

Animal activities in the wild, such as these Manta Ray tours, have both positive and negative impacts on the animals. For example, many people are unaware that the Manta Ray tourism industry is valued at $140 million per year.

On the contrary, tours put these animals at risk of more human contact than they would otherwise have. This can lead to injury for the Mantas (particularly with careless tour operators) and develop unhealthy feeding habits.

I would always advise that you should research the topic to form your own conclusions and book your tour with a reputable and ethical company. 

Average Water Temperatures?

When it comes to beautiful beach days, Hawaii stands out for its stunning shorelines and perfect water weather. The average water temperature in Hawaii ranges from 75 degrees Fahrenheit in the summertime to about 70 degrees during the winter season. 

With such comfortable temperatures, you can enjoy a day at the beach all year round! Keep in mind that while the water temperatures are very reasonable. After the Snorkelling or Diving tours, you might need a light jacket for the boat ride home. 

Where else can you see Manta’s?

• Socorro Island, Mexico.
• Costa Rica. Cocos Island. Las Catalinas.
• Isla de la Plata, Ecuador.
• Thailand. Similan Islands. Koh Bon.
• Indonesia. Komodo & Flores Island. Bali. Raja Ampat.
• Lady Elliot Island in Australia. This is located in the Southern Great Barrier Reef.
• Maldives
• Ishigaki Island, Japan.

Where to Stay?

There are many places to stay in Kona, with varying budgets in mind. However, I prefer something that’s convenient and within walking distance of great breakfast or dinner locations.

Don’t want to choose, here are some options for you:

• Kona Seaside Resort – 75-5652 Likana Ln. (This is where we stayed)
• Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort – 75-5961 Ali‘i Dr.
• Aston Kona by the Sea – 75-6106 Ali‘i Dr.
• Kona Reef Resort – 75-5888 Ali‘i Dr.
• Royal Kona Resort – 75-5852 Ali‘i Dr.

Other Things to do nearby?

The Big Island is worth visiting for a lot of reasons (along with the Mantas). Check out some of these options:

• Mauna Kea Summitt – An incredible 4-wheel drive or tour, either in the day or at sunset.
• Go searching for waterfalls around Hilo.
• Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay) – White powered sand, crystal blue waves, and if you are lucky, you can watch the sea turtles.
• Tour through the Volcanoes National Park and see active volcanoes light up the night sky.
• Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park ~ wander along the historic site and see the old lava flows. This 1160-acre park lets you explore early heiau (temples), fishponds, and petroglyphs.
• Visit the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
• Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park – A historic and well-restored “place of refuge” for Hawaiians, situated south of Kealakekua
• Find Papakolea Green Sand Beach
• See the painted St Benedict Roman Catholic Church.
• Jump off the cliffs at South Point, or just check out the views. 

Wrap up & Read More!

Thanks for reading this blog post on my review of swimming with Manta Rays in Hawaii, and I hope you found the information you were looking for. However, if you’re still researching please find the rest of my USA blogs HERE for planning and inspiration.

• 5 Day Kona Itinerary on the Big Island
• Is Honolulu worth visiting in Hawaii & the best things to do?
• How to Get to the Diamond Head Summit Trail in Oahu (Le’ahi), Hawaii
• Review of My Oahu/Honolulu Helicopter Flight Tour
• 5 day Waikiki Itinerary, Honolulu in Hawaii