Manta rays in Hawaii are the second-largest species anywhere with a wingspan of up to 18 feet.
36 thoughts on “Manta Rays in Hawaii: History, Viewing and Recent Kauai Sighting”
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Home » Blog » Culture and Events » Manta Rays in Hawaii: History, Viewing and Recent Kauai Sighting
I grew up on Oahu. One summer when I was about 7 there was a big storm. I think it was winter time. My dad took me and my brothers to the north shore to see the big waves. To my child’s eyes the waves were enormous, but the most fascinating part for me was the equally enormous black diamonds in the water when the face of the waves rose up from the ocean. Those big black rays were terrifying to me at the time. I dreamed about it for weeks after. But it’s a memory I’ll have forever.
We have done the night snorkeling on the Big Island with the Manta Ray’s and it is indeed magical. About 4 years ago we were hiking along Maha’ulepu and got past the cliffs, down to a bay, and I swear we saw some Mantas out there.
The one guy had places to go and seem in a hurry to get there.
We got the opportunity to snorkel with manta rays just off the Kona coast, by the airport (probably where you did).
It was one of the scariest, coolest things I have ever experienced. To be in the presence of these huge graceful creatures is absolutely amazing. I’d definitely recommend it!
We are actually planning a trip to Kona later this year. We will be swimming with mantas! Let’s hope the travel restrictions loosen a little!
Three years ago we were “swimming with dolphins” along the Kona coast when we spotted a Manta Ray cruising along the sandy bottom. With our snorkel gear, we were able to hang back and watch it for quite awhile! Thrilling!! Amazing!!
We have had the rare opportunity to see these beautiful creatures while participating in a night snorkel near the Sheraton. Kona resort Keauhou bay. These graceful Rays glide through the water feeding on plankton, and if you are lucky enough their fins will softly you as they pass by. An amazing experience.
A few years ago my husband and I took a night snorkel excursion with the manta rays off Kona on the Big Island. It was an event we will never forget. We were told not to touch them, but one accidentally came so close to me it brushed against my leg….it was as soft as velvet…and I will never forget that encounter. I took a 20 minute video that evening and it remains breathtakingly beautiful every time we watch it!! An experience of a lifetime. Nothing but the utmost respect for such a larger than life creature! I would highly recommend it…. can’t wait to go back for a repeat!!!
We loved our night manta ray experience on the Big Island. Unforgettable!
This is soooo cool. Had no idea. Thanks!!
We manta rays in Bora Bora. We had taken a “feed the sharks” tour and on our way back to the hotel, we saw 3 manta rays on the surface of the ocean. That was very cool! I love them!