Sharks & Rays

Monterey Bay’s waters host a variety of fascinating elasmobranchs, including rays and sharks, offering a captivating experience for divers. Rays, such as the graceful bat ray and the distinctive thornback ray, are commonly seen gliding over sandy bottoms and rocky reefs. Though sharks like the leopard shark are present, they are rarely encountered and pose no danger when encountered. Rays play essential roles in the bay’s ecosystem, contributing to the balance and health of the marine environment through their feeding and behaviors.