Whitewater Bay is a large, open saltwater bay within Everglades National Park in Florida, USA. It is a major inland body of water, over ten miles long and more than half that wide, with an irregular shape. The primary motorized boat access point is the Flamingo Marina boat ramp, which connects via the Buttonwood Canal to Coot Bay and then into Whitewater Bay. This ramp has dedicated parking. For non-motorized craft, paddlers can also launch from Flamingo and West Lake, though West Lake restricts motors to 6 horsepower or less. The bay is a key segment of the park's Wilderness Waterway, a marked route through the backcountry.

The paddling character is defined by significant exposure and remoteness. It is a challenging environment due to strong winds that can create arduous, choppy conditions across the open water. Navigation is notably tricky because of the monotony of the mangrove shoreline, which offers few distinct landmarks, making it easy to lose one's sense of direction. Paddlers are strongly encouraged to use NOAA Chart #11433 for navigation. The bay's aesthetic is one of vast "liquid land," dotted with mangrove islands and forests. Wildlife sightings can include American crocodiles, an endangered species found in the Flamingo area, manatees, and abundant wading birds like tri-colored herons.

Overnight trips are facilitated by backcountry camping platforms called chickees, which are located in Whitewater Bay and other areas. These are double platforms approximately 15 by 15 feet, equipped with a portable toilet. Accessing the platforms requires hauling gear up a ladder. Campers should be prepared for intense insects, particularly at dusk. The overall experience is one of a remote subtropical wilderness, demanding careful preparation for wind, navigation, self-sufficiency, and wildlife awareness.