Great Bay encompasses nearly 25,000 acres of tidal waters and offers numerous bird watching opportunities. The estuary is part of the North Atlantic flyway and 20 species of waterfowl, 27 species of shorebirds, and 13 species of wading birds use the bay as a wintering area or migratory stopover. Winter waterfowl counts at Great Bay average 5,000 birds annually, 2,000 of these being black ducks. Over 80% of all waterfowl that winter in New Hampshire's coastal areas are found in Great Bay. Home to several endangered and threatened bird species, the Bay supports a large winter population of bald eagles. Some of the best bird watching areas are:

Adams Point (map)
Located in Durham at the mouth of Great Bay, Adams Point is one of the best bird watching locations and is ideal for viewing bald eagles. Trails lead around the point and offer excellent views of the Bay. An universally accessible platform is located near the main parking area.

Sandy Point (map)
Located at the south end of Great Bay, Sandy Point offers mixed habitats and views of the Bay. This site is well known for views of neotropical migrant birds as they pass through to their wintering or nesting areas.

Chapman's Landing (map)
This site offers access to extensive salt marsh. It has plenty of parking and provides excellent views of an osprey nesting platform.