The Saint Sebastian River is a slow-moving, tidal river system in Sebastian, Florida, that empties into the Indian River Lagoon. It offers a glimpse of "old Florida," characterized by thick subtropical vegetation including mangroves, oaks, cypress, and palms along its banks. The river is largely protected from development due to the bordering Sebastian River Preserve State Park, resulting in a quiet and scenic paddling environment. The flow is gentle and the river is generally protected from wind, making it suitable for beginners.

Several established access points exist for paddlers. The Sebastian Canoe Launch, located on Canoe Launch Cove off County Road 512, provides a dedicated canoe/kayak launch dock on the South Prong, along with a pavilion, picnic tables, and paved parking; it operates daily from 7am to sunset. Dale Wimbrow Park, on Roseland Road, offers a formal boat ramp and an informal grassy shoreline for launching. Further east on Roseland Road, the Donald McDonald Campground provides another launch site, though parking is limited. An informal launch point also exists near the intersection of US 1 and Indian River Drive for access from the Indian River Lagoon, requiring a carry through brush to a small beach.

Paddlers can choose between upstream and downstream routes. Paddling upstream from launches like Dale Wimbrow leads into narrower, wilder sections of the river. Heading downstream leads toward the wider, more open waters approaching the Indian River Lagoon, which sees increased boat traffic. A common day trip involves launching at the Sebastian Canoe Launch and paddling north to Dale Wimbrow Park or Donald McDonald Park, a journey estimated to take three to four hours; this requires arranging a shuttle or using a rental service that provides transportation. The commercial operator "About Kayaks" offers self-guided tours with shuttle service from their office on Airport Drive West.

Wildlife sightings are a key feature, with opportunities to see manatees, alligators, turtles, otters, raccoons, and a variety of birds including osprey, sandhill cranes, herons, egrets, and bald eagles. Facilities at the main launches include picnic areas and restrooms at Dale Wimbrow Park. Regulations at the county-managed Sebastian Canoe Launch prohibit pets, alcohol, open fires, camping, overnight parking, and fireworks. As a tidal river, paddlers should be mindful of tidal currents, particularly when planning trips to or from the Indian River Lagoon, and be aware of motorized boat traffic in the lower, wider sections.