The Dania Cutoff Canal is a saltwater canal in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, primarily serving as a sheltered urban paddling route connecting to larger waterways. It offers a straightforward flatwater paddling experience suitable for beginners, with calm, sheltered water and no significant current or wave hazards. The canal's character is largely defined by its role as a connector, passing through a mix of urban and industrial areas with views of the surrounding cityscape and developments. A notable sight along the canal is the Seminole Hard Rock Guitar Hotel.

For access, there are several public boat ramps. Griffin Marine Park provides a free launch with a boat ramp, parking, dock, and restrooms, operating from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Hollywood Rotary Park offers similar free amenities, including a boat ramp, parking, and dock, with hours from dawn to dusk. Another launch point is the South Fork Canoe Launch at 4490 S State Road 7 in Davie, which provides access to the western portion of the canal. Harbour Towne Marina on the canal also has a boat ramp, but it charges a $20 launching fee and a $20 parking fee, and paddlers should be aware the ramp surface can be extremely slick.

The canal connects to more dynamic and hazardous waterways, which is a critical safety consideration. To the east, it leads to Port Everglades Inlet, a busy 24/7 shipping lane and a full-speed boating zone where large ships and fast-moving boats operate. Paddlers must exercise extreme caution and know exactly what they are doing before venturing near or crossing this inlet, as vessels cannot stop quickly. Within the narrower canal itself, motorboat traffic may create wake, requiring paddlers to brace for passing waves.

A popular extended route is an approximately 17 to 18-mile loop connecting the Dania Cutoff Canal with the New River and the Intracoastal Waterway. Paddlers often plan this trip to cross the busy Port Everglades inlet early to avoid peak boat traffic. From the western launch at South Fork, paddling east leads to the wildlife area of Pond Apple Slough, a restored wetland known for bird watching, located roughly two miles from the launch. The canal is also noted as a potential sheltered anchorage for vessels during unfavorable weather conditions on the open Intracoastal.