Manta viewing from the shore?

Question

We'll be on the Big Island in about 6 weeks - our fourth time there, and bringing a couple of newbies. Those newbies are hesitant to get in the ocean at night, so I'm wondering if there is somewhere we can see the mantas from the shore. I've seen reference to the Mauna Kea Beach Resort - could we do drinks and/or dinner and see them there? We'll be staying at the Marriott on A'bay.

Thanks in advance!

~TxTravler

Answer

You're in luck! There are indeed a few spots on the Big Island where you can view manta rays from the shore, and the Mauna Kea Beach Resort is one of the most popular locations. The mantas typically come close to shore in the evenings, feeding on plankton attracted to the lights. While some people prefer to get into the water for a more up-close experience, you can definitely spot them from the beach or nearby areas without having to go in the water yourself.

Here’s what you need to know:

Mauna Kea Beach Resort: Yes, you can enjoy dinner or drinks at the resort’s beachside restaurants and still have a chance to see the manta rays. The manta viewing is best at night, so a dinner reservation around sunset would be ideal. You might want to try the Manta Restaurant, which offers ocean views and might give you a good opportunity to spot the mantas while enjoying a meal. However, keep in mind that the manta sightings from the shore are not always guaranteed, and the best viewing is usually in the water.
Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay: This is another popular spot for shore-based manta viewing. There are several tours here that offer the chance to see the mantas from the shore or nearby dock, and while it is a little farther from the Marriott, it’s worth considering if you're looking for more organized viewing spots.
Kailua-Kona: While there aren't many opportunities to see mantas directly from the shore in Kailua-Kona, there are several boat tours that can take you out to view the mantas. You can try the night manta snorkel trips offered in the area if your group is open to that adventure.

Since you're staying at the Marriott on A'bay (Anaehoomalu Bay), you’ll be very close to a few other great spots and can take advantage of your proximity to the ocean for other activities. If the shore-based manta viewing isn’t as accessible as you’d like, consider booking a tour from one of the local resorts or operators in the area.

In summary, the Mauna Kea Beach Resort is a great option for dinner and drinks while possibly spotting mantas from the shore, though it’s not guaranteed. If your group is hesitant about going in the water, sticking to shore-based viewing and enjoying the beautiful surroundings is a solid plan. Enjoy your trip!