the amador causeway, panama city, panama flamenco island
Once the home of a U.S. Army base, the Amador Causeway has quickly become one of Panama's most popular tourist destinations. Comprised of three small islands — Naos, Perico and Flamenco — and extending 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) out into the Pacific Ocean from the mainland, the Causeway forms part of the Cinta Costera and offers visitors panoramic views of the Bridge of the Americas, Panama City, Panama Bay, and commercial vessels as they commence or complete their transit through the Panama Canal.
Its gentle breezes, panoramic views, and an assortment of dining and attractions offer something for everyone, making it a must-see during your visit to Panama.
The walking path that runs the entire length of the Causeway is tiled with red brick and lined with tropical trees and comfortable benches. Open and well-maintained, the path is popular with pedestrians, rollerbladers, skateboarders, and runners alike, particularly on weekends.
Its northernmost portion is home to the Radisson Hotel, Panama Convention Center, Biodiversity Museum, and the Balboa Yacht Club, which has a long pier and fleet of private yachts anchored along the Canal.
As you head south — away from the mainland — the first island you reach is Noas, home to the Smithsonian Institute's Naos Laboratories and Marine Exhibition Center or Punta Culebra. Naos Island has a small commercial center, a hotel, and several restaurants. In addition, the ferry to Taboga Island departs from here; just before reaching the entrance to Punta Culebra, turn left and head for the pier.
Google Map - Biodiversity Museum Google Map - Balboa Yacht ClubA bit further ahead and off to the left is Perico Island, which resides inside Panama Bay. You'll find a large commercial center with bars, restaurants, souvenirs, and retail stores. Perico Island is also home to Panama's first and only cruise ship terminal on the Pacific. The Amador Cruise Terminal is a new, modern facility spread over 21 acres costing more than $165 million. Construction on the project began in 2017 and entered service on May 20, 2019.
Continue south, and you'll soon reach Flamenco Island, the last and most significant of the Causeway's three islands. The island consists of two large commercial complexes. Most of the stores in the upper complex — to the right — have closed. In the lower complex are several eateries/restaurants, the Amphora Duty-Free duty-free store and the Fuerte Amador Marina & Resort.
Metro buses to Amador Causeway depart every 30 minutes from the Albrook Bus Terminal; look for the bus that reads "Amador." They depart from behind/alongside the Metro train station, not where most other buses arrive and depart.