The Manta Ray Awareness Program aims to protect manta ray populations in Hawaii, to help preserve the beauty and diversity of Hawaii’s coastlines, while educating the public and thus benefiting the people, visitors and economy of Hawaii.
Manta rays are an integral part of Hawaii’s marine ecosystem and are essential in promoting and sustaining Hawaii’s growing marine tourism industry, one of the states primary sources of revenue. Manta ray night dive operations off Kona, Hawaii, produce over 2.5 million dollars in revenue annually for this small community. However, sustainability is the key to long-term prosperity for both the manta rays and the community.