Panama’s Amador Causeway stands as a testament to the country’s ingenuity and transformation. Originally a feat of engineering, cutting through the isthmus to create the Panama Canal, Panama repurposed its excavated land to craft a haven of leisure and relaxation—the Amador Causeway. Stretching 6 kilometers over the ocean, this scenic roadway connects four islands—Naos, Flamenco, Perico, and Culebra—off the coast of Panama City, near the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal. Today, it stands as one of the city’s premier destinations for outdoor leisure and nightlife. Lined with picturesque palm trees, walking paths, tourist shops, and restaurants, the causeway offers unrivaled views of Panama City’s towering skyline and the majestic ships awaiting passage through the canal beneath the iconic Bridge of the Americas.
However, the allure of the Amador Causeway extends beyond its asphalt expanse. The surrounding islands and land at the base of the causeway host a myriad of attractions and entertainment options, captivating both international tourists and local residents alike. In the first quarter of 2016 alone, over 15,000 international visitors flocked to the Amador Causeway to bask in its offerings of rest and recreation. Yet, it’s not just tourists who revel in its splendor; the causeway and its adjoining islands attract a diverse array of locals, while upscale neighborhoods dot the Amador area, offering exclusive waterfront living.
Despite its current status as a beloved leisure hub, the Amador Causeway’s history is shrouded in military significance. Once a heavily fortified military post within the U.S. occupation of the Panama Canal Zone, its recreational amenities were initially reserved for those privileged to serve Uncle Sam. In a remarkable turn of events, what was once among the most heavily fortified military outposts in the Western Hemisphere now stands as a beacon of leisure and entertainment for all who traverse its scenic expanse.
