Rancho Estero

Rancho Estero is a small eco-village on a cliff above the Pacific in Santa Catalina, with direct access to Playa Estero. A handful of oceanfront cabanas host a maximum of 25 guests, with a fully equipped open kitchen and a small surf shop on site.

For surfing, the property offers lessons and 2-, 3- or 4-day camps (1.5 hours of instruction per day, accommodation and breakfast included), plus board rentals (soft tops, shortboards, longboards, funboards) and stand-up paddle rentals. Playa Estero suits beginners and longboarders; the nearby Santa Catalina reef breaks are for experienced surfers.

The village is also the gateway to Coiba Island, with diving and tours arranged with local operators.