Croton Bay is a coastal bay on the Hudson River, located in Westchester County, New York. It is formed by the Croton Point peninsula to the north and the village of Ossining to the south. The primary access point for paddlers is via the Croton River, launching from the Echo Canoe and Kayak Launch at 18 Veterans Plaza in Croton-on-Hudson. This launch is located just upstream of a railroad bridge where the Croton River meets the bay. Paddlers must be aware of tidal conditions, as the ability to pass under this bridge into Croton Bay is dependent on sufficient water levels at high tide; at low tide, passage is often impossible and water levels on the river are significantly impacted. Once in the bay, paddlers are exposed to the broader Hudson River. The bay itself offers some protection from the main river's fetch, though venturing out towards the wider Hudson near Haverstraw can lead to wave action on windy days. Boat traffic from the Hudson is a consideration, and paddlers should be prepared for potential wakes.

The paddling experience is defined by its tidal nature and scenic views. From the bay, paddlers can see the town of Ossining and Sing Sing prison to the south, and the wooded, undeveloped shoreline of Croton Point Park to the north. A common route is to paddle from the river launch, under the train trestle at high tide, and explore Croton Bay before heading around Teller's Point (the tip of Croton Point) for views down the Hudson River towards the Tappan Zee Bridge. An alternative launch exists at Croton Point Park itself, from a sprawling beach on the peninsula, which provides direct access to Half Moon Bay and the Hudson River shoreline. Parking is available at both launches, with a fee at the Croton-Harmon station lot for the Echo launch. The area is popular, especially on summer weekends, and reservations for rentals or tours are recommended. Guided tours are available which explore either the protected Croton River or venture into the bay and Hudson, highlighting local wildlife like osprey, hawks, and herons, as well as historic sites such as Van Cortlandt Manor.