KONA, HAWAIʻI – OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa, in partnership with the Manta Pacific Research Foundation, presents the 5th annual World Manta Day Celebration on Saturday, September 12, 2026. This free, family-friendly event invites kamaʻāina and visitors alike for a day dedicated to the incredible world of manta rays through marine science, education, conservation and community engagement.
Set against the resort’s dramatic oceanfront overlooking Keauhou Bay – home to one of the world’s most celebrated manta ray viewing locations – the celebration features presentations from leading manta researchers and the world premiere of a new educational manta ray segment produced by Polu Kai Media. Complimentary self-parking will be available for all attendees.
Through its global OUTRIGGER Zone conservation initiative, OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa continues its commitment to protecting Hawaiʻi’s marine ecosystems and inspiring responsible stewardship. Since OUTRIGGER acquired the resort in 2022, it has partnered with the Manta Pacific Research Foundation to bring together researchers, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, cultural leaders and community members to deepen public understanding of manta rays and the importance of protecting our oceans.
“Every evening, manta rays grace the waters just offshore from OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa, creating one of Hawaiʻi’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences,” said Geoff Pearson, General Manager of OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa. “World Manta Day allows us to bring together our community, our guests and conservation leaders to celebrate these magnificent animals while inspiring meaningful action to protect them for generations to come.”
Since 2002, the Manta Pacific Research Foundation has been Hawaiʻi’s leading organization dedicated to manta ray research, education and conservation. Under the leadership of Chair and Co-Founder Keller Laros, the foundation achieved legal protection for manta rays in 2009 with the passage of Act 29(09), making it illegal to capture or kill manta rays in Hawaii. Manta Pacific has advanced scientific understanding of manta rays, educated and advocated for safe and sustainable human and manta rays’ tours, while inspiring thousands of residents and visitors to become ocean advocates.
“World Manta Day is about creating connections – between people, science, culture and the ocean,” said Laros. “When people experience the wonder of manta rays and understand the challenges they face, they become inspired to help protect not only these incredible animals, but the entire marine environment that sustains them.”
Throughout the afternoon, guests will enjoy presentations from respected local, national and international experts sharing the latest discoveries in manta ray research and marine conservation. The Marine Conservation Exposition will feature interactive exhibits from nonprofit organizations, researchers, government agencies and community partners dedicated to protecting Hawaiʻi’s marine environment.
The celebration concludes with the world-premiere screening of a new educational manta ray feature produced by Polu Kai Media, followed by an evening reception where attendees can connect with conservation leaders while enjoying pupus and refreshments.
Guests can make World Manta Day part of a memorable Kona getaway with a special room offer at OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa. Visitors traveling during September can book using promotional code MANTA26 to enjoy a manta ray-inspired escape while attending the celebration. Additional details and reservations are available at outrigger.com.
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