Scuba Diving with Manta Rays in Kona, Hawaii

Why Kona Is the World’s Top Manta Ray Destination

Every night off the Kona coast, manta rays gather to feed on plankton attracted by underwater lights. This unique phenomenon happens when plankton concentrate beneath the lights, drawing manta rays to the same locations almost every evening. These gentle giants, some measuring more than 10 feet across, glide just inches above divers in what feels like a slow, graceful ballet beneath the surface.

What to Expect on a Manta Dive

A manta ray outing usually begins with an evening reef dive or sunset cruise before heading to the designated manta site. Divers descend to about 35 to 40 feet, settle near lights placed on the ocean floor, and wait as the show begins. The manta rays swoop and circle above, performing barrel rolls and gliding within arm’s reach, creating unforgettable moments.

Guides will brief divers on how to remain still on the sandy bottom, how to use dive lights carefully, and why it is important to give the mantas plenty of space. The dive itself lasts about 45 to 60 minutes. Most operators, such as Kona Ocean Adventures and Kona Honu Divers, even guarantee manta sightings or offer a free second dive if mantas are not seen.

Marine Life, Conservation, and Etiquette

Beyond manta rays, divers often see Hawaii’s colorful reef fish, garden eels, and occasionally sea turtles or spinner dolphins. Conservation is a major focus on these dives. Touching a manta ray is harmful and illegal in Hawaii because it damages their protective skin layer. Many operators work with the Manta Pacific Research Foundation, which identifies individual mantas by their unique markings and educates divers about responsible interaction.

Choosing the Right Operator

Kona has several highly regarded dive companies, including Jack’s Diving Locker, Kona Honu Divers, and Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii. All follow voluntary guidelines for manta interactions, which include minimizing lighting disturbance and maintaining safe distances. Booking early is essential because trips fill up quickly and weather cancellations are possible. Choosing a licensed operator ensures you support those who prioritize the health of the mantas and the safety of divers.

Happy and safe diving,
The ScubaBlast Team

Kona Manta Ray Diving Tours & Excursions | Big Island, HI. Retrieved July 27, 2025, from https://konaoceanadventures.com/manta-ray-diving/

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona, HI | Kona Diving Eco Adventures. Retrieved July 27, 2025, from https://konadivingecoadventures.com/dive-tours-whale-watching/manta-ray-snorkel/

Manta Ray Night Dive. (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved July 27, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manta_ray_night_dive

Manta Pacific Research Foundation. (n.d.). Retrieved July 27, 2025, from https://www.mantapacific.org/

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