Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Manta Rays at the Sheraton

The simplest way to view reef manta rays is to visit the Sheraton Resort Kona in Kailua-Kona at night. Off the back deck of the restaurant Rays on the Bay you will see the mantas glide through the waters right at the edge of the surf. It's not every night, but when they are there, it amazing to see the size of these animals. They skim the surface of the water feeding on the plankton attracted by the resort's bright lights. The area is where two ocean currents merge. It is common for a local volunteer to give a brief education on the life of the mantas.

Although it is not required to eat at the restaurant, I recommend it. It makes a nice evening of good food and entertainment. Every time we've been there the food, service, and live music have been excellent.

Rays on the Bay
Pictured the guacamame, vegetable egg rolls, and Veggie and Goat Cheese Pizza.
Rays' veggie pizza is my favorite on the island, and worth the trip.
Guacamame is a guacamole type dip made from edamame.  For more info on Rays on the Bay and see their menu you can visit their website at: http://www.raysonthebay.com/

We also did the manta glass bottom boat and the manta ray night snorkel.