The Maria River is located on the mid north coast of New South Wales, just north of Port Macquarie, Australia. It is a winding, meandering waterway characterized by multiple arms, lagoons, anabranches, and back channels that offer considerable variety for exploration. The river runs parallel in sections with Maria River Road and borders portions of the Maria River National Park. The surrounding landscape features tall timber, mangroves, and tea tree plantations, with a gin distillery also situated along the banks.

The river's geography includes notable features such as Boomerang Island, where an anabranch separates the island from the mainland, and a series of lagoons accessible by paddling through the back channels. A large fallen mangrove has been noted in the anabranch near Boomerang Island, which paddlers should be aware of as a potential obstacle. The upper section of the river is particularly quiet, with paddlers often having it entirely to themselves.

A popular route run by the Port Macquarie Hastings Canoe Club covers approximately 15 kilometres, heading up the Maria River, crossing into back channels and lagoons, and returning via the Maria Anabranch. The river also connects with the Wilson River to the north, offering additional route options for those wishing to extend their paddle.

Wildlife encounters are a notable feature of paddling here. Dolphins have been observed near the river's mouth, and white-bellied sea eagles and azure kingfishers are regularly spotted along the waterway. The river also supports diverse underwater and surface scenery that rewards attentive paddlers.

The river is suitable for kayaking year-round, with winters described as mild in the Port Macquarie region. Summer paddling can become warm quickly, and a northeasterly sea breeze is common on warmer days. The overall character of the river is calm and unhurried, with minimal boat traffic reported on the upper sections, making it well suited to relaxed exploration. The Port Macquarie Hastings Canoe Club organises group paddles on the river, indicating it is accessible to organised groups as well as solo paddlers.