Explore the Amador Causeway: Panama City’s Scenic Waterfront Escape

Welcome to the Amador Causeway, one of the most iconic and relaxing spots in Panama City. As your virtual tour guide, let me show you why this 6-kilometer stretch of land connecting the mainland to four tranquil islands is beloved by locals and travelers alike.
 

Whether you want to rent a bike, enjoy ocean breezes, take in panoramic views, or have a fresh seafood dinner with a view of passing ships, Amador Causeway (Calzada de Amador) is where the city meets the sea in the best way possible.

📍 What is the Amador Causeway?

The Amador Causeway is a manmade road built from rocks excavated during the construction of the Panama Canal. It stretches from the mainland near Balboa to the Islands of Naos, Culebra, Perico, and Flamenco in the Pacific Ocean.

Originally built for military purposes in the early 20th century, it’s now a vibrant leisure area filled with:

Restaurants and cafés

Walking and biking trails

Marinas and yacht clubs

Museums and family attractions

Scenic spots to relax and photograph the Panama skyline

It’s a rare place where you can see the Panama Canal, the Pacific Ocean, downtown skyscrapers, and jungle hills all in one 360° view.

🚲 Top Things to Do on the Amador Causeway

1. Bike or Walk the Causeway

The causeway has wide, flat paths perfect for cycling, jogging, or walking. Rent a bike or tandem from rental shops near the Naos Island entrance, or bring your own and enjoy the breeze.

Distance: ~6 km round trip

Scenery: Ocean on both sides, ships entering the canal, skyline, and islands

Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and golden light

It’s one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the outdoors in Panama City.

2. Enjoy Waterfront Dining

The Amador Causeway is famous for its open-air seafood restaurants and international dining. Some top options include:

Mi Ranchito: A popular Panamanian restaurant known for its ceviche and fried fish

Bucanero: Elegant seafood and steak with sunset views

Lenos & Carbon: Colombian-style grilled meats and Latin flavors

Panama Brewing Co.: Craft beer and pub food with a breezy terrace

Many restaurants have terraces facing the ocean, offering romantic dinners or casual family lunches with unbeatable views.

3. Visit the Biomuseo

The Biomuseo, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, is one of Panama’s most striking landmarks.

Exhibits: Natural history, biodiversity, the isthmus of Panama, and its effect on the planet

Architecture: Colorful and artistic structure representing Panama’s cultural and ecological diversity

Great for: Families, science lovers, design enthusiasts

It’s located near the start of the causeway, making it a perfect first stop before exploring further.

4. Watch Ships Enter the Panama Canal

From the causeway’s vantage points, you can watch massive container ships and cruise liners waiting to enter the canal.

There are benches along the way to sit, relax, and watch this maritime marvel. It’s especially impressive during golden hour or at night, when the city and canal lights sparkle across the water.

5. Visit the Islands

The Amador Causeway connects four islands that each have their own charm:

Naos Island: Start of the causeway; quiet, with scenic views

Culebra Island: Home to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute

Perico Island: Great for dining, marina views

Flamenco Island: Most developed; has a marina, shops, restaurants, and the Flamenco Duty-Free Center

Flamenco Marina is also the departure point for boat tours to Taboga Island and other Pacific coast excursions.

🌇 Best Views on the Causeway

The causeway is a photographer’s dream, especially at sunrise and sunset.

You’ll enjoy views of:

Downtown Panama City and its futuristic skyline

Casco Viejo, the historic quarter

Bridge of the Americas, spanning the canal’s entrance

Green hills of Ancon and beyond

Panama Canal traffic

Tip: The best viewpoints are near the end of the causeway around Flamenco Island.

🎟️ Activities and Attractions

Besides dining and sightseeing, the Amador Causeway offers several other fun options:

- Boat Rentals and Tours

Many operators offer sunset cruises, fishing trips, or island-hopping tours departing from the marina.

- Go-Karts and Bikes

Family-friendly recreational areas near Naos Island include go-kart rentals, scooters, and family bikes.

- Duty-Free Shopping

The Flamenco Duty-Free complex has souvenirs, clothes, electronics, and snacks — tax-free.

🕒 When to Visit

Best Time of Day:

Morning (7–10 AM): Cooler for biking or walking

Late Afternoon (4–6 PM): Best lighting for views and photos

Evening: Romantic dinners and cool sea breezes

Best Time of Year:

Dry season (December to April) offers the best weather, especially for outdoor activities and views.

🧭 How to Get to Amador Causeway

From Downtown Panama City:

Taxi or Uber: 10–15 minutes from Casco Viejo or city center (~$3–$7)

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Includes Amador Causeway as a stop

By Car: Easy parking available on Flamenco and Perico islands

Walking or Biking:

You can walk or bike from the city, but it’s best to start from the Causeway entrance near Albrook and Balboa.

💰 Costs and Entry

Entrance: Free — no ticket needed to access the causeway

Bike rentals: ~$5–10/hour

Biomuseo: ~$18 for adults, discounts for children and students

Dining: Prices vary — from budget-friendly to fine dining

Boat tours: ~$20–60 depending on duration and destination

🧳 What to Bring

Sunscreen and hat (it gets sunny!)

Sunglasses and reusable water bottle

Comfortable shoes or sandals

Camera or smartphone

Binoculars (optional, for ship-watching or bird-spotting)

Light jacket if staying into the evening

📚 Fun Facts About the Amador Causeway

Built using rock from the Gaillard Cut, excavated during the Panama Canal's construction

Originally a military defense point with American barracks and bases

Named after Manuel Amador Guerrero, Panama’s first president

The Pacific terminus of the canal is visible from its southern end

The area has become a hotspot for international events, concerts, and marathons

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Absolutely. The Amador Causeway is perfect for:

Families with kids: playgrounds, go-karts, ice cream, and open spaces

Couples: romantic walks, sunset dinners

Solo travelers: peaceful, safe place to explore and relax

Cyclists and fitness lovers: safe, flat biking and running trail

📌 Nearby Attractions

Make a day out of it by pairing your visit to the causeway with:

Ancon Hill: Panama City’s best viewpoint

Casco Viejo: UNESCO colonial old town

Panama Canal Miraflores Locks: Just 20 minutes away

Cinta Costera: Another oceanfront park area ideal for walking and cycling

Albrook Mall: Shopping and dining hub nearby

🏁 Final Thoughts: Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Amador Causeway

The Amador Causeway is much more than just a road — it’s one of Panama City’s top attractions, offering the perfect mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, cultural landmarks, and waterfront dining.

Whether you're riding a bike with ocean breezes on your face, watching ships sail toward the Panama Canal, or enjoying seafood with the skyline behind you — this is the place where Panama's modern marvels and natural charm come together.

It’s peaceful, photogenic, and fun for all ages. So don’t skip the Amador Causeway — your Panama City itinerary won’t be complete without it!