The Manta Ray Night Snorkel That Changed Everything

Sybil Hacking
Jun 16
2 min read

Posted by Big Island Joe – June 14, 2025 Dolphin Discoveries | Manta Ray Night Snorkel in

Kona

We signed up for the Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Dolphin Discoveries thinking it would be a cool check off the list. Something fun to do after sunset. Maybe we’d see a few rays, maybe not.

What we didn’t expect was to be absolutely leveled—in the best way possible—by awe, joy, and a kind of peace we didn’t know we were missing.

his wasn’t just an activity. It was a reset. And we left the water changed.

It Starts With a Short Ride. Then the Ocean Opens Up.

You check in a couple minutes up the road to gear up—super easy, welcoming process. After that, it’s a short drive to Keauhou Bay where the boat launches. Whole thing takes about five minutes, and from the jump, you’re taken care of.

The Dolphin Discoveries crew is not just friendly—they’re genuinely excited to share what they know. These aren’t just boat captains—they’re manta ray experts. They know the names, the behaviors, the little quirks of each ray you might meet that night. That passion is contagious.

The First Manta Took My Breath Away

When that first manta ray came up—gliding straight toward us, enormous and calm—it nearly took my breath away.

I felt this giddy, childlike joy, seeing something I thought only existed in dreams. I wasn’t afraid. I felt completely safe, deeply calm, and incredibly alive.

It hit me then: This was the bucket list item I always knew I wanted—but I didn’t know how much I needed it.

Afterward, I Was Still Floating

Even back on the boat, I could still feel it in my chest—that lightness, that buzz. Not adrenaline… something softer. Awe. Joy. That giddy feeling that makes you smile without even realizing it.

Everyone processed it in their own way. Some were talking, laughing. Others were quiet. But for me, I just kept thinking:“ Did that really just happen?”

It stayed with me long after we left the water. Still does.

These Aren’t Just Guides. They’re Hosts of a Sacred Experience.

Dolphin Discoveries is led by the incredible team of Captain Shelly and Jenn—two people who care deeply about the ocean, the manta rays, and the experience they give every guest.

They entire crew talks about the mantas like old friends, sharing names, stories, feeding patterns, even personalities. And they’re just as excited to see them each night as you are.

Know Before You Go

Check-in is up the road—simple, smooth, and efficient.
5‑minute boat ride to Manta Village.
30 minutes in the glowing water, with lights, gear, and expert guides included.
Bring a wind or rain jacket for the ride back—it can get brisk after sunset.
Ages 6+ welcome—no fins needed, swimming basics only.
No touching the mantas—they’ll come right up to you on their own.