Mosquito Lagoon is a broad, shallow saltwater lagoon forming the northernmost part of the Indian River Lagoon system on Florida's Space Coast. It is bounded by the Canaveral National Seashore to the east and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge to the west, creating a remote and undeveloped paddling environment. The lagoon is characterized by extensive open water, a series of spoil islands formed from dredging the Intracoastal Waterway, and a maze of shallow creeks and channels, particularly in its northern aquatic preserve section. Access points are numerous. On the western mainland, launches include River Breeze Park in Oak Hill, Mary McLeod Bethune Park, Menard-May Park in Edgewater, and Bairs Cove at the end of Bairs Cove Road near Haulover Canal. Within the Canaveral National Seashore's Apollo District on the eastern side, paddlers can use the Apollo Beach Boat Ramp, which is open 24 hours, as well as designated canoe/kayak launches at Parking Lots #5, #6, and near the Visitor Center, though these are only accessible during park operating hours. Eddy Creek on the Canaveral National Seashore is a favorite launch spot. A designated paddling trail system, the Mosquito Lagoon Blueway, extends over 15 miles one-way from Callalisa Park in New Smyrna Beach to south of Turtle Mound, incorporating internal loops. A marked canoe trail exists around Shipyard Island, with maps available at the park visitor center. Hazards include strong winds, which can create challenging conditions on the open lagoon, and significant mosquito populations, especially during the warmer months, necessitating insect repellent. Lightning storms are also a seasonal concern. The area is shared with motorboat traffic, particularly along the Intracoastal Waterway channel. Facilities at launch sites typically include parking, and some, like the Apollo Beach ramp, have separate parking for vehicles with trailers. The water body is historically significant, with its original name dating to Spanish exploration, and it offers unique views of rocket launches from Cape Canaveral. Wildlife sightings commonly include dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and a variety of wading birds and osprey.