The Bay of Greifswald is limited by the island of Rügen, the Vorpommern mainland and the opening for the Baltic Sea with the islands of Ruden and Greifswalder Oie. The island of Usedom lies in the South East. The bay coast is an ideal habitat for breeding birds such as great blue heron, swans and seagulls. In spring and autumn so-called "migrant and winter guests" such as cranes encounter the bay and its surrounding area. The area of Strelasund and the Bay of Greifswald are recognized as the European bird sanctuary. The salinity of the bay of 0.8%, rapidly rising temperatures in spring and rapidly falling temperatures in autumn have a favorable effect on the growth of its fish population. Perch, pike and eels find much food and pike to 1.30 meters are not uncommon. Thus, the Bay of Greifswald is an attractive fishing spot. Special experiences are the herring fishing in the spring and the garfish fishing in May.

The many sandy beaches along the bay guarantee rest and relaxation. Shallow water entrances ensure safe bathing for the whole family – especially children can splash around here and discover the refreshing water for themselves. For surfers in the Bay of Greifswald is an ideal shallow.