Amador Causeway, Panama City (must see)

The Amador Causeway, located in Panama City, is a prominent landmark and a hub of recreational and commercial activity. Constructed with rocks excavated during the building of the Panama Canal between 1904 and 1914, the causeway connects the mainland to the four islands of Naos, Perico, Flamenco, and one unnamed island. This 6-kilometer stretch serves as a breakwater at the Pacific entrance of the canal and has transformed significantly since Panama regained control from the U.S.-administered Canal Zone.

Today, the Amador Causeway is adorned with a four-lane road and accompanying bicycle and jogging paths that offer scenic views of Panama City's skyline and the Pacific Ocean. The causeway has seen extensive development, including the establishment of port facilities, marinas, a diverse array of shops, and a variety of restaurants offering cuisines ranging from local Panamanian to international flavors like Arabic, Italian, and Japanese.

The islands, while developed along their edges, still harbor secluded maritime jungles, preserving some of their natural beauty amidst the commercial expansion. The historical significance of the area is highlighted by the remnants of military fortifications dating from the 1920s to the 1980s, originally part of Fort Grant and later Fort Amador, which have been repurposed into commercial spaces such as restaurants and clubs.

For outdoor enthusiasts and tourists, the Amador Causeway provides a plethora of activities. Visitors can engage in walking, jogging, skating, cycling, and renting electric scooters. Water-based activities include kayak and paddle rentals for adventures in the bay. The causeway is also a departure point for trips to nearby Taboga Island and the Las Perlas archipelago.

Cultural and educational experiences are enriched by attractions like the Punta Culebra Natural Center, managed by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, and the Biomuseo. The area also hosts craft centers where local artisans sell their products, adding to the vibrant, multicultural atmosphere of the causeway. The Amador Causeway stands out as one of the most enjoyable outdoor locations in Panama City, blending historical, natural, and modern elements.