The Sakonnet River is a tidal strait in the western portion of Narragansett Bay, not a true river. Its character varies significantly along its length, from narrow, fast-moving channels to broad, open waters exposed to Rhode Island Sound. For paddlers, choosing an appropriate launch site is critical for a safe and enjoyable trip. Several public access points exist, including the Sakonnet Harbor boat ramp in Little Compton, the Gull Cove State Boat Ramp and Stone Bridge Boat Ramp in Portsmouth providing access to The Cove, and Fogland Beach Conservation Area. Colt State Park in Bristol offers another launch, but its shoreline is rocky and exposed to large fetch from the west and south, with significant powerboat traffic and a major shipping channel nearby.

Tidal currents are a primary safety consideration. In constricted areas like the narrows near the Old Stone Bridge, currents run at a strong pace, with maximum flow capable of laying large channel marker buoys flat. This area is used by experienced sea kayakers for rough-water practice but is considered dangerous for inexperienced paddlers. Paddling with an outgoing tide combined with southerly winds can create very rough conditions, particularly at the river's mouth. The typical weather pattern involves a southwest wind that develops most mornings and blows briskly through the afternoon, producing significant waves on the open river and Mount Hope Bay. Once outside the small Sakonnet Harbor, paddlers are on the open waters of Rhode Island Sound, where large ocean swells can also affect the area. Heavy boat traffic is present, especially in the main channel.

The paddling experience ranges from sheltered exploration to exposed coastal travel. The Cove in Portsmouth is a large tidal estuary with many shallow coves and channels under four feet deep at low tide, suitable for exploration. Heading south from Sakonnet Harbor, paddlers can reach West Island and the Sakonnet Point Lighthouse, though this involves navigating around rocky ledges exposed to ocean swells and is only for experienced kayakers. The shoreline features a mix of sandy beaches, rocky headlands, and pristine areas, including the largest eel grass bed in Rhode Island. Wildlife includes ospreys, harbor seals, and a seagull rookery on West Island. Given the variable conditions, consulting local resources like the Rhode Island Canoe and Kayak Association (RICKA) or paddling with someone familiar with the waterway is strongly advised.