Lynnhaven Bay is a tidal saltwater bay in Virginia Beach, Virginia, connecting to the Chesapeake Bay via Lynnhaven Inlet. It is a broad, open bay characterized by calm water with occasional slight turbulence, and there are no waves in the interior areas. The bay is bordered by extensive tidal salt marshes and maritime forest, creating a natural setting. Paddlers access the bay via several launch points. A primary hand-launch access is via Crab Creek, which is used by local tour operators to enter the bay's interior marshes. For those with trailered boats, the public Owl Creek Boat Ramp offers four concrete launch lanes with temporary mooring and provides direct access to Lynnhaven Bay. Another significant launch is the single boat ramp at First Landing State Park's Narrows area, which provides access to Linkhorn and Broad Bays, with passage to Lynnhaven Bay and the Chesapeake beyond; this ramp has three lanes, a large parking lot, and a usage fee. Plans are also in development to add a public ADA-accessible kayak launch at Pleasure House Point on the bay.

The paddling experience is heavily influenced by tides and wind. The bay is open to the Chesapeake, so wind exposure and fetch can be significant, making conditions choppier, particularly in the afternoons and evenings which are generally windier. Mornings typically offer calmer conditions. The area has notable boat traffic, which is cited as being heavier in the evenings, especially during summer. Paddlers should be prepared for potential crossings of busier channels when moving between the bay's interior marshes and the open Chesapeake. Wildlife sightings are a major feature, with frequent occurrences of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, particularly in the morning due to commuting and feeding patterns. Other common sightings include bald eagles, osprey, sea turtles, sting rays, pelicans, herons, and egrets. The aesthetic is one of a developed coastal area with significant natural buffers, offering views of marshes, forests, and suburban shoreline. Facilities are primarily at the launch sites, including parking and restrooms at the First Landing State Park ramp. The recommended time for paddling, particularly for calmer conditions and wildlife viewing, is in the morning, especially during the summer months.