Bahía Lapataia is a coastal bay located within Tierra del Fuego National Park, at the terminus of the Pan-American Highway. The bay is a saltwater feature connected to the broader Beagle Channel, offering paddlers a scenic marine environment at the symbolic "end of the world." The primary access point for paddlers is from the shore at the end of Route 3, where the road culminates at the bay. This area serves as a common launch and take-out point for guided canoe tours, which utilize stable, inflatable canoes. Paddling typically occurs within the sheltered confines of the bay itself, though conditions are strongly influenced by the region's notorious wind and weather, which can include rain and strong gusts even during summer months. The overall character is one of remote, rugged Patagonian coastline, with dramatic mountain backdrops and forests coming down to the water's edge.

Notable sights from the water include views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, and the coastal area is rich in birdlife. Paddlers may observe species such as kelp geese, steamer ducks, oystercatchers, and black-necked swans. The bay's waters also hold historical significance, with traces of ancient native inhabitants reported along the coast. The best time for paddling aligns with the warmer and more accessible summer season in the Southern Hemisphere, from October through February, though variable conditions persist. All paddling within the bay occurs inside the national park, requiring payment of an entrance fee for visits between October and the end of February; entry is free from May to September. Guided tours are a prevalent way to experience the bay, often combining a paddle with hiking in the park. These tours typically last around 1.5 hours on the water and emphasize the need for proper cold-weather, waterproof gear due to the consistently cool and damp climate.