Nearby Activities

THINGS TO DO AND SEE NEARBY

The marina is located next door to San Lorenzo National Park. It is a short walk into the park entrance. The road is ideal for walking, jogging or mountain biking and much of it is shaded. There are several offshoots of the road that are worth exploring, especially Playa Diablo. You may encounter two and three toed sloths, troops of Howler and white-faced monkeys and abundent bird life. It is approximately 6 miles until the road ends at Fort San Lorenzo.

Fort San Lorenzo - This well maintained historic site is located on a bluff just above the entrance to the Rio Chagres. There are signs in English/Spanish explaining the history of the fort and the surrounding area.

Rio Chagres  - You can visit this river in your own boat. It is 10 miles from Shelter Bay to the entrance of the river.

Gatun locks - There is a visitor center and observation deck.

Gatun Dam - Before you cross the locks, visit the dam. From there you can walk down to the headwaters of the Chagres River.

Treat yourself to a haircut, manicure or massage at the new Vita Bela Spa at the Millenian Plaza, a new shopping center on the outskirts of Colon.  They offer discounts for Shelter Bay Marina clients.  Also at the plaza is a home center and a new food court serving American, Chinese and Middle Eastern food.

Melia Hotel - If you are looking for a night away from the boat or have guests arriving, the Melia Hotel and resort is located on Lake Gatun. This 5 star hotel is 20 miles from Shelter Bay and has a restaurant/bar/pool and casino.

Espinar Pool

The olympic swimming pool in Espinar is opened Wednesday - Sunday from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.   Admission is $4.00 each for entire day.  There are changing rooms, showers and toilets.  The pool is closed on Monday and Tuesdays for maintenance. 

Farther a field - Take a drive to Achiote, a rural farming community recently discovered for its world class bird watching. There are two trails just off the road to park and bird/animal watch and in the town there is an observation deck up a hill to take in the spectacular countryside.

Panama Canal Railway- Take the afternoon train to Panama City and come back on the morning train. This is a great way to cross the country. 

La Granja- Located 1/2 hour from the outskirts of Colon, this working farm offers horseback riding, a zip line and kayaking.  They also have a Palapa right on Gatun Lake available for BBQ's.  For more detailed information we have brochures in the marina lobby.

MARINA SOCIAL ACTIVITIES

If you enjoy walking there are many trails to choose from.  Ask in the marina office and a map will be provided.                                                                     
                                                                                                                                                                                    Shelter Bay Restaurant & Bar hosts happy hour every Monday through Friday with discount drinks and bar snacks, a great way to meet your neighbors.   We feature frequent dinner specials including a "Panamanian Night", "Mexican Night", Grilled Salmon, German Bratworst, and Italian Night.

Volleyball  happens at  4 pm most days. Come and join in the fun no matter what your skill level is.

We enjoy a friendly relaxed atmosphere here at the marina, so if you want to shoot a game of pool, throw some darts, play dominos, board games, put a puzzle together or play cards feel free to take a seat in our multi-purpose room or on our bay-view veranda, conveniently located adjacent to the bar.  A great place for catching a cool drink, lounging, reading and meeting friends. 

Come join us for our Sunday potluck.  Bring your own meat to BBQ and a side dish to share.  Every Sunday at 5:00.