The local names Murar or Morar are suggested to derive from Muir, the Gaelic for sea,[2] whilst Murav and Morav are believed to be rooted in Celtic words Mur (sea) and Tav (side), condensed to Mur'av for sea-side.

The Moray Firth is visible for considerable distances, including a long range view from as far to the east as Longman Hill.

From Burghead, the white mass of Dunrobin Castle can just be made out in the distance on a very clear day; from Nairn, the two red bands on the Tarbat Ness Lighthouse around 30 km (20 mi) away, can be seen with binoculars.

The Channel went from the entrance of Munlochy Bay to the Meikle Mee Starboard Hand Mark, but was not maintained and filled in very quickly.

The popular wildlife viewing area located at Chanonry Point host some spectacular displays of dolphins within the inner Moray Firth.

The old jetty at the Fort George Point is the location of the Dolphin Research Centre, with leading marine biologist Prof. Greame Taylor working part-time studying hunting and breeding habits and part-time working with the Community Council giving tours and teaching the ways of the dolphin.

The Inner Moray Firth is designated as a special protection area for wildlife conservation purposes.