The Waikanae River runs a short course from the bush-clad hills behind Reikorangi down to its estuary at Otaihanga on the Kapiti Coast. The character of the river changes considerably along its length. The upper reaches are steep and gorge-like, making river travel physically demanding. The lower reaches, along with the Otaihanga and Waimanu Lagoon areas, offer safe and sheltered water that is well suited to entry-level paddlers and children. Kayaking and canoeing are the predominant paddle craft activities in these lower sections.

Otaihanga Domain, located south of Waikanae off Otaihanga Road, provides a convenient access point to the lower river. A public walkway runs along the true left (southern) bank from the domain to within approximately one kilometre of State Highway 1, which can be useful for trip logistics. The river has numerous access points along its lower reaches, with detailed information available through Fish & Game NZ's Kapiti Coast brochure.

Paddlers sharing the water with other users should be aware that the lower river and estuary area attract significant fishing activity. The Waikanae is a popular trout fishery, with the fishing season running from October to April. The river is also a heavily used whitebaiting river, with whitebait fishing concentrated from the river mouth upstream toward SH1 between 15 August and 30 November, during which time up to 60 whitebaiters at a time may be present when fish are running. Paddlers planning trips during these periods should anticipate congestion in the lower reaches and near the river mouth.