Findhorn Bay forms part of the Culbin Sands, Culbin Forest and Findhorn Bay Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
It is made up of extensive sand flats and marshes. The marshy areas are at the head of the Findhorn River estuary to the South and also on the Eastern side of the Bay, bordering the B9011.
Many Amber List and several Red List birds dwell in or visit Findhorn Bay throughout the year, and so it is a prime location for bird-watching.
Over the centuries, the Bay has been subject to fluvial infilling from the Findhorn River. At one point, tall ships could enter the Bay and moor by Findhorn village, and it was consequently an important harbour and trading point. The Findhorn Heritage Centre and Icehouse contains much interesting information and photographs, showing Findhorn Bay at its heyday of commercial activity.
Today Findhorn Bay is a tranquil spot, mostly frequented for recreational purposes.