the cinta costera panama city panama
The Cinta Costera is a park-like expanse covering 65 acres, built over several years in multiple phases. While it consists primarily of walking paths, gardens, and a bike lane, dispersed throughout, you'll find tennis, soccer, and volleyball courts, exercise equipment, and other installations.
The Cinta Costera stretches more than 10 miles and provides unparalleled views of Panama City's downtown area, coastline, and southern entrance to the Panama Canal. Unfortunately, there is little cover from the weather; you're out in the open the entire time. Nearer to the city — between Punta Paitilla and the fish market — it's common to see people selling merchandise, food, and refreshments. Lamentably, there are no restrooms.
Popular with locals and foreigners alike, the Cinta Costa is an ideal place for a casual walk, run, or bike ride if your visit to Panama affords you ample time.
From its onset at Punta Paitilla — Panama City's most upscale and densely populated residential community — the Costera straddles Panama Bay and Balboa Avenue, heading west while passing the Statue of Balboa, until reaching the famous fish market, or "Casa de Mariscos." This portion of the Costera is very park-like, with plenty of large open spaces, manicured grounds, and numerous installations, including basketball, volleyball, tennis courts, and exercise equipment. It is, by far, the most frequented portion of the Costera, which is not surprising given the number of apartment buildings nearby.
Then, it encircles Casco Antiguo — over the water — before turning south past Maracana Stadium. The over-the-water section consists of a walking path and bike lane separated by a manicured garden-like divide; ample seating is available for those needing a rest, but there is no protection from the weather. You get a nice view of Las Bovedas and the San Francisco de Asis Church, which reside along Casco Antiguo's waterfront. Nearer to the stadium, the Costera widens to accommodate several volleyball courts and a skateboard park.
It then proceeds down the Amador Causeway, passing the Bridge of the Americas and Biodiversity Museum, until it concludes on Flamenco Island. While many people regard the Amador Causeway as a unique destination, it is officially a part of the Cinta Costera — its southernmost section. A wide brick and cement path runs along both sides, with benches and trees. Click here more information about the Amador Causeway.