What to Bring on a Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Planning your manta ray night snorkel in Kona? Knowing what to pack makes the difference between a smooth, magical experience and a night spent wishing you’d thought ahead. Here’s exactly what to bring — and what to leave behind.
Your Manta Ray Night Snorkel Packing List
1. Swimsuit & Wetsuit (or Rash Guard)
The ocean water in Kona averages around 75–78°F at night. A full wetsuit is ideal for staying warm during the 45–60 minute snorkel. If you run warm, a 3mm shorty or a rash guard with board shorts works too. We provide wetsuits on our tours, so check with us before packing yours.
2. Towel
Bring a full-size towel — preferably a quick-dry microfiber one. You’ll want it immediately after you board the boat. A second smaller towel for your hair is a bonus.
3. Motion Sickness Medication (If Needed)
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication at least 30–60 minutes before departure. Dramamine, Bonine, or prescription patches all work well. Once you’re in the water, most guests feel completely fine — it’s the boat ride that can be tricky for sensitive stomachs.
4. Light Jacket or Hoodie
Evenings on the water in Kona can be breezy, especially on the boat ride out and back. A light layer you don’t mind getting a little damp is perfect.
5. Closed-Toe Water Shoes or Sandals
You’ll be walking on a dock and boarding a boat. Water shoes or sturdy sandals with a back strap are ideal. Flip flops are fine but can be slippery — just be careful.
6. Small Dry Bag
Leave your valuables safe. A dry bag or a small waterproof pouch is perfect for your phone, wallet, and keys. Most boats have a storage area, but a dry bag gives you extra peace of mind.
7. Snacks & Water
Tours typically run 2–3 hours total including travel time. Eat a light meal 1–2 hours before departure — not too heavy, not on an empty stomach. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
8. Camera (Waterproof)
If you have a waterproof camera or GoPro, bring it! The manta rays come incredibly close — you’ll want to capture it. Don’t worry if you don’t have one — our tours include a free GoPro photo and video package, so your memories are covered.
9. Prescription Goggles (If Needed)
If you wear glasses or contacts, consider prescription snorkel masks. We provide snorkel gear on our tours, but prescription masks are typically bring-your-own. Ask us in advance and we’ll do our best to help.
10. A Positive Attitude!
Manta ray sightings are wildlife encounters — not guaranteed performances. That said, our Kona manta ray tours have an exceptionally high sighting rate, and we offer our Manta Guarantee: if mantas don’t show, you rebook for free. Come with an open mind and you’ll have an incredible night either way.
What to Leave Behind
- ❌ Sunscreen with oxybenzone or octinoxate (reef-toxic — use reef-safe only)
- ❌ Heavy jewelry or watches in the water
- ❌ Large cameras without proper underwater housing
- ❌ A full stomach — eat light before you go
Quick Reference Packing Checklist
✅ Swimsuit / wetsuit or rash guard
✅ Towel (quick-dry recommended)
✅ Motion sickness medication (if needed)
✅ Light jacket or hoodie
✅ Water shoes or sandals
✅ Small dry bag for valuables
✅ Light snack + water bottle
✅ Waterproof camera or GoPro (optional — we provide one!)
✅ Prescription snorkel mask (if needed)
✅ Reef-safe sunscreen
Ready to Book Your Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel?
Our small-group tours (max 10 guests) depart from Kailua-Kona and include wetsuits, snorkel gear, and a free GoPro media package. Book your manta ray night snorkel tour here and we’ll handle the rest — you just show up and enjoy the magic.