RELEASE NUMBER 45 | 25
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An all-day, family-friendly event celebrating the manta rays of Keauhou Bay
KONA, HAWAI‘I – OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa, together with the Manta Pacific Research Foundation, proudly presents the free World Manta Day Festival on Saturday, September 6, 2025. Open to both kamaʻāina and visiting guests, this annual gathering celebrates the graceful manta rays of Keauhou Bay through science, culture and shared connection to the sea.
Set against the resort’s dramatic oceanfront, renowned for its nightly manta ray encounters, the festival blends expert presentations, hands-on learning and interactive family activities. Guests and residents are invited to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of these gentle giants while discovering the vital role manta rays play in Hawai‘i’s marine ecosystem.
Through its global OUTRIGGER Zone conservation initiative, OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa continues to champion ocean stewardship. Since 2019, the resort has hosted the World Manta Day Festival as a free event, bringing together scientists, cultural practitioners and the community to deepen understanding and inspire protection of Hawai‘i’s marine life. This year, the program runs from 12 P.M. to 7 P.M., with distinguished local and international marine experts sharing insights on manta cognition, ecology and marine eco-tourism, followed by a community celebration in the Keauhou Ballroom.
“Every evening, manta rays can be seen just off our shores at OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa,” said Geoff Pearson, General Manager. “Through our partnership with the Manta Pacific Research Foundation, the World Manta Day Festival allows us to share this unique experience with the community while supporting education and conservation efforts that protect manta rays for generations to come.”
Founded in 2002, the Manta Pacific Research Foundation has long been at the forefront of manta ray conservation in Hawai‘i. Led by President and Founder Keller Laros, the organization advocates for manta protection through research, legislation and education.
“Our partnership with OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa helps us reach more people with the important message of manta ray conservation,” said Keller Laros, President and Founder of the Manta Pacific Research Foundation. “Together, we’re raising awareness and encouraging responsible actions that directly benefit manta rays and their marine habitat.”
Festival participants can extend their experience by staying at OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa with the Never-Ending Summer package, starting at $299 + taxes per night. This offer includes waived resort fees, complimentary parking and a daily dining credit redeemable at any on-property restaurant, including the spectacular Feast & Fire Lū‘au. Booking details are available at www.outrigger.com.
As part of Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), OUTRIGGER guests also enjoy rewards through the award-winning GHA DISCOVERY loyalty program, which offers exclusive rates, upgrades and DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) redeemable at more than 850 hotels worldwide. Currently, members can enjoy the Double D$ Promotion through September 30, 2025 – earning up to 14% back for Titanium members on eligible stays when booking direct.
World Manta Day at OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa Schedule:
- 12 P.M.: Welcome reception featuring light refreshments and networking
- 1-6 P.M.: Expert-led marine education sessions covering diverse topics:
- Manta ray life cycles and behavioral patterns
- Hawaiian monk seal conservation success stories
- Protected marine species in Hawaiian waters
- Eco-friendly tourism development
- Manta ray intelligence and adaptive coloration
- Grassroots marine stewardship programs
- 6-7 P.M.: Community celebration at the Keauhou Ballroom, including appetizers, cash bar service, premier manta ray screening, children’s craft activities and conservation exhibit displays
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