The Coral Gables Waterway comprises a network of man-made canals threading through the heart of Coral Gables in Miami-Dade County, Florida. This urban waterway system, originally envisioned by developer George Merrick as part of his "City Beautiful" concept, extends approximately 7 miles through exclusive residential neighborhoods before connecting to Biscayne Bay. The canals flow generally southeast, paralleling streets like Riviera Drive and weaving past landmarks including the historic Biltmore Golf Course.

Paddlers will find flatwater conditions suitable for beginners through intermediate skill levels, with three primary launch points providing access to different sections of the system. The Ruth Bryan Owen Waterway Park on Granada Boulevard serves as the put-in for the longest route—a 5.7-mile journey requiring approximately 3 hours to reach Matheson Hammock Park. This intermediate-level paddle transitions from protected canal to open water at Biscayne Bay, where wind and tides demand greater attention. An alternative launch beneath the Metrorail at Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Riviera Drive offers access to the canal's upper reaches toward the Biltmore area, while the designated launch at Cocoplum Circle provides entry into the waterway's exclusive southern neighborhoods.

The canals feature walls of oolitic limestone—a fossilized rock formed approximately 125,000 years ago during the Pleistocene epoch—creating a distinctive geological backdrop. Wildlife sightings include ospreys, cormorants, kingfishers, herons, and ibises perched in overhanging trees. Manatees frequent the waterway during winter months, particularly congregating in the Mahi Canal, a western side channel where warmer water attracts these marine mammals. Spotted rays and jumping mullet appear regularly, while mangrove stands line portions of the route near the bay.

Paddlers pass through residential areas where historic house numbers remain visible on docks—remnants of an era when mail arrived by boat. Sculptures placed along the waterway provide visual interest, and the route through the Biltmore Golf Course grounds between holes 6 and 7 offers views of the course's fountain features and historic bridges. The Mahi Canal reveals unusual boathouses carved into the coral walls.

Tidal currents remain light throughout most of the system but can slow progress, particularly during outgoing tides. Powerboat traffic increases substantially on weekends, requiring vigilance from paddlers. At low tide, shoals off Matheson Hammock provide stopping points, though kite surfers frequent this area on windy days. The waterway serves as a monitored indicator of sea level rise and aquatic health for the city, with ongoing environmental considerations regarding water quality. Mosquito repellent proves essential year-round, especially in mangrove-lined sections, and early morning or late afternoon paddles avoid both peak sun and heavier boat traffic.