The Invergordon lifeboat was launched and local coastguards teams deployed at about 14:30.
As they headed to the scene it was reported that the dinghy had come to rest on a sandbank.
The local coastguards on the ground were able to reach the inflatable vessel and help the occupants to safety.
Invergordon Lifeboat spokesman Michael MacDonald said: "They were lucky to come to rest on a sandbank.
"If the wind had picked up it could have been blown them further out with the tide also on it's way out and they could have been put in more danger."
Two adults and a child were rescued by coastguard teams after their dinghy was blown offshore near Nairn East beach.