where to see manta ray? (rent, rating, companies)

[blue_water]

would like to catch a glimpse of some manta rays while we're on the Big Island (Kona side), I read that we can do a boat tour or kayak tour or just rent kayaks and go on our own, haven't decided what to do yet. Or some people simply swim out there to keauhou bay.

Just wanna see what you guys think of the options.

PS, My teenage kids are avid snorkelers, I'm a scuba diver.

Also is keauhou bay the only place to go see manta ray?

thanks

[Futuremauian]

There are a number of companies operating out of Keauhou Bay (and other places) on the Big Island. The boats go out in the evening and deploy floats that look similar to surfboards in the water. They have LED lights on the bottom which attract plankton. The mantas come up to feed near the lights while you hang on to the float in the water. They brush up against you as they pass.
I did this in December and it was really cool. Highly recommended! Check Trip Advisor for the name of the companies. It you don't want to get in the water, the mantas are often visible from the Sheraton Kona. There is a bar where people gather to watch them.