Flat-bodied sharks that look like rays. Bury in sand and ambush prey — and three of 23 species are functionally extinct.
Angel sharks are extreme bottom specialists — flattened bodies that look more like skates or rays than typical sharks, with broad pectoral fins they hold against the substrate while buried. Eyes on top of the head, ambush-feeding strategy similar to flounder but with much bigger jaws and venom-free.
23 species worldwide. Most are Critically Endangered after a century of bycatch in trawl fisheries — the common Atlantic angel shark is functionally extinct across most of its range, surviving only at the Canary Islands. The Lanzarote and Fuerteventura coasts now host the most reliable diver encounters.
Not in any FF destination — aspirational specialty trip to the Canary Islands (Atlantic), Mediterranean (rare), or California (Pacific angel shark).
Tap a month to highlight it across destinations, or hover any cell for details.
This species hasn't been logged at any of our partner sites yet — destination + season data will appear here once we've confirmed a reliable spot.
We're still curating destinations where this species can be reliably encountered. Check back soon, or chat with us for a custom itinerary.
Real, curated expeditions — or a custom trip built around the best season and destination to encounter angel sharks.
Browse our curated, small-group dive trips — fixed dates, vetted partner operators, zero agency fee. Or tell us your dates and we'll build a custom trip around the best season and destinations to encounter angel sharks.
Tell us when you can travel and your certification level — we'll match the right destination, the right season, and the right trip for diving with angel sharks.
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