Culdaff Bay sits on the north coast of Ireland's Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal, positioned roughly midway between Malin Head and Inishowen Head. The bay is wide and described as free from outlying dangers, offering straightforward access at all states of the tide. The primary access point for water-based activities is Bunagee Pier, which serves as the base for kayaking operations run by Adventure Summer Camp, located at Bunagee, Culdaff.

A notable hazard in the area is Bunnagee Point, which is described as foul ground requiring a berth of at least 300 metres all around. Strong tidal streams pass outside the bay, which has the effect of keeping swell down inside. The bay affords shelter from winds ranging from south-southeast through south to north-northwest.

Kayaking is an established activity in the area, with guided sessions available through local operators. The coastline along Culdaff, Glengad, and toward Malin Head is navigable by small craft, and the area offers opportunities to observe marine wildlife including seals, dolphins, basking sharks, and seabirds. On clear days, Inishtrahull Island and Glashedy Island are visible offshore.

The Culdaff River flows into the bay and includes a picnic site upstream, though the river channel is described as narrow and shallow, making it impractical to reach by small boat. The preferred access to that area is via a car park behind a gap in the sand dunes on the beach rather than by water.

Boat-based sightseeing operations run from Bunagee Pier between April and October, weather permitting, which gives some indication of the practical paddling season along this exposed north coast. The dramatic cliff scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way forms the backdrop to paddling in this area.