The Kenmare River, also historically and commonly referred to as Kenmare Bay, is a large, fjord-like saltwater bay on Ireland's southwest coast. It is a drowned glacial valley approximately 55 kilometers long, situated between the Iveragh Peninsula to the north and the Beara Peninsula to the south, creating a sheltered location for paddling. The bay is dotted with numerous islands, including the Greenane Islands, Daniel’s Island, and others near the Parknasilla Estate, offering many inlets and channels to explore. The shoreline is steep and rugged, composed of Old Red Sandstone, and the entire area is designated as a Special Area of Conservation. Paddlers can expect to encounter common seals hauled out on rocks, bottlenose dolphins, and a wide variety of sea birds; white-tailed sea eagles nest on the surrounding cliffs, and basking sharks may be seen in early May. The water is salt, and the bay experiences significant tidal movement. For safety, paddlers are advised to know the weather conditions thoroughly, as the harbour areas can be very exposed to westerly and northerly swell. Timing a paddle to coincide with high tide is recommended to fully access the ins and outs along the cliffs. There are numerous public access points for launching along both peninsulas, often where roads lead down to the water, though paddlers should be mindful of private property. Specific launch points include the town pier in Kenmare, Templenoe Pier, and the area around Sneem on the north shore. Commercial guided tours, including night kayaking trips to witness bioluminescence, operate from locations like Templenoe Pier and the Parknasilla Resort pier. The area is rich in history, with nearby castles, ring forts, and stone circles visible from the water.