Manta Rays and Volcano Hikes off the Beaten Path in Hawaii

 *A huge manta ray gliding gracefully under the snorkelers* Yesterday we had two wonderful adventures here on the Big Island of Hawaii. Both adventures were very private and intimate experiences, away from the crowds. Read on to find out how you two can do these amazing activities away from the crowds. Two, very popular activities on the Big Island of Hawaii are trekking through volcanic landscapes and going snorkeling at night with huge manta rays. Usually people go to Volcanos National Park to see the volcanic landscape, and while this is an amazing experience you may experience large crowds, especially when there is an active eruption to see. The manta ray snorkeling experience is no different, it is a once in a lifetime opportunity, but there can be dozens of boats, putting 20 snorkelers in all at the same place, and can feel quite crowded. However, there is a way to get off the beaten path and do both of these activities without the crowds. It can feel like being in Hawaii 50 years ago. Here is how I did it yesterday, and how you can plan it yourself! For the manta ray snorkel, the most popular, well-known spots are just north of Kona near the airport, and a little south of Kona near the old Sheraton. These two spots are where all of the boats go and 99% of the tourists. However, there is a little known secret manta spot, where only two small boats go, just North of Puako Harbor. It is near the big resorts of Waikaloa, so if you are staying there it could be even closer to your homebase. Imagine being in the water with these amazing creatures and being the only people around for miles. It feels like the mantas are there just for you. They are there to feed on plankton that congregates in the underwater lights that are shining down for the surfboard your group is holding onto. This means that if you are lucky, these giant animals will gracefully flip and roll right under you, trying to get very close to the lights and maximize their plankton intake. We had great conditions last night and several close encounters. You can plan this yourself by booking your manta snorkel with Blue Wilderness Adventures. They have pioneered this spot and have very knowledgeable guides. They provide wetsuits, snacks, and your best opportunity to have this experience away from the crowds.  Two other guests getting geared up for the manta night snorkel  Our snorkel team, excited for adventure  The manta rays show up after sunset, so we were able to enjoy this view as we drove to the snorkel spot.  Our guide Sam bringing over the lit up surfboards that we all hang onto  The first few snorkelers waiting for our first manta encounter  Our first manta! Gliding just below our feet  Manta Ray ballet  It is pretty amazing to be in the water with the […]