Abstract Marine benthic habitat mapping is increasingly recognized as an essential tool in integrating available data to inform marine ecosystem-based management. This study presents the first comprehensive and detailed marine benthic habitat map of Bohai Bay, China, utilizing a classification scheme that incorporates both abiotic and biotic features. A total of 20 distinct marine benthic habitat types were identified, reflecting the spatial distribution of reef biota, semi-terrestrial plants, ecologically and economically important benthic communities, as well as areas impacted by anthropogenic activities. This study underscores the value of habitat mapping in providing a robust scientific basis for decision-making and the sustainable utilization of coastal and marine resources in Bohai Bay.