Suisun Bay is a large, tidal bay within the San Francisco Bay system, located downstream from the confluence of the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers. It is an expansive water body characterized by its connection to the broader Delta and its significant tidal flows. The northern shoreline provides several public boat launch sites that serve as primary access points for paddlers, including the Suisun City Marina and Boat Ramp and McAvoy Yacht Harbor near Pittsburg. McAvoy Yacht Harbor offers a boat ramp, parking, and restrooms, with calm and sheltered conditions suitable for beginners, though paddlers should time their trips around slack tide for the easiest conditions. The winding backwaters of the adjacent Suisun Marsh offer more protected routes for exploration, featuring channels lined with common reed, cattails, and tule. These marsh areas, such as the restored Pacheco Marsh, provide tranquil waters and important wildlife habitat, with opportunities to see egrets, sea lions, and the endangered salt marsh harvest mouse.

Paddling in Suisun Bay requires careful planning due to several key factors. Tidal currents are a dominant force, and paddlers must account for them when planning routes, as trips can strategically use the current for travel. Strong winds are a known hazard that can catch newcomers off guard, creating challenging conditions, especially on the open bay. Morning hours generally offer calmer winds. The southern channel experiences busy shipping traffic, requiring vigilance and caution, particularly when crossing open water or navigating near marinas. The bay's open expanse means it can develop a significant fetch in windy conditions. The dynamic tidal and wind environment dictates that trips are best undertaken by those prepared for changing conditions. The area offers a range of trip types, from short loops in the marsh to longer adventures, such as a 14-mile route from Pittsburg out around Chipps Island. The waterfront in Suisun City provides a scenic backdrop, with views of Mount Diablo and the Napa Range, and sunset paddles are a popular way to experience the area. The overall character is one of a working waterway intertwined with recovering wetlands, offering paddlers a mix of open-water challenge and serene marshland exploration.