Manta Rays in Hawaii: A Big Island Adventure

Located just south of Kona International Airport on the southern side of Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, manta rays in Hawaii offer an unforgettable experience for families and adventure-seekers alike. This 3-hour charter takes a little extra time to get to the swim site, allowing you to enjoy a pleasurable evening cruise before the snorkel tour.

There are numerous charters to choose from for a Big Island manta ray snorkel tour, with options ranging from minutes to half an hour away from Manta Village. Rather than choosing based on location, it's better to select a charter based on the duration of the boat ride you prefer.

However, no matter which charter you choose, they will likely take you to Manta Village as it is the most popular spot. There are two other snorkel locations called Manta Heaven and Manta Point along the west coast, with charter companies concentrated around them as well.

The story of how manta rays came to be associated with floodlights at Manta Village is an interesting one. The Kona Surf Hotel (now Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa) opened in the 1970s and installed floodlights to create a beautiful, illuminated view of the ocean for its guests. Unbeknownst to them, these lights unexpectedly attracted large concentrations of plankton, which in turn attracted the manta rays that feed on the plankton.

As you relax into the experience and watch in wonder as the manta rays perform a silent, beautiful dance just beneath you, you fully understand why The Travel Channel has hailed this experience as one of the top ten things to do in your life. And despite their massive size, it's reassuring to know that manta rays are completely harmless and gentle animals.

The night snorkel tour is an unforgettable experience, with dim blue lights dotting the area and only the sound of your breath flowing through your snorkel breaking the silence. As the first manta ray gracefully emerges from the darkness, your anticipation builds into an unforgettable mix of exhilaration and a bit of fear.

In conclusion, a Hawaii manta ray snorkel tour is an adventure not to be missed. With numerous charters to choose from along the west coast of the Big Island, you're sure to find one that suits your preferences. So come and experience the undeniable fun of swimming alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

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