Santa Catalina, Panama
Come and explore the exquisite beauty, sun, sand and surf at
Rancho Estero in
Santa Catalina, Panama. Bask in the cool climate of our tiki cabañas and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and
Playa Estero. Santa Catalina, a small fishing village, first captured the attention of surfers back in the 1970s. This
secluded getaway destination, which today is home to approximately 250 full-time residents, features tropical forests,
incredible beaches and some of the
best surf in Central America. Santa Catalina serves as the nearest access point to
Isla Coiba, a renowned destination for world-class
SCUBA diving and
fishing. Groceries, ATMs, and other basic services can be found just an hour away by car in the city of
Soná.
Rancho Estero offers convenient accommodations for anyone seeking the ultimate in sand, swim, and surf. Experience the local hospitality, take a hot shower, grab a drink at the bar, or simply sit back and relax on our incredible sun deck. Rancho Estero is one of the few resorts offering
free Internet access. Local restaurants, all of which are within walking distance, cater to a variety of tastes, serving up anything from the 'Catch of the Day' to pasta as well as
Panamanian and International cuisine. If you're looking for action, there are three dive centers in
Santa Catalina, all of which offer day and/or overnight excursions with dive instructors who are
PADI certified.
Snorkeling trips can easily be arranged either via the dive centers or a local captain.
Visitors come to
Santa Catalina for relaxation and outdoor recreation. While there are several gathering spots for socializing, Santa Catalina isn't an all-out party destination. Unlike other
Central American surf resort locations, Rancho Estero offers travelers the opportunity for a
quiet getaway, while still providing an action-filled
vacation. Whether your idea of the perfect day is lounging in solitude on an
isolated beach or spending your time
scuba diving,
surfing, or playing soccer on the
white, sandy beach,
Rancho Estero in Santa Catalina will provide the utmost in satisfaction. In Santa Catalina and nearby
Coiba National Park you'll find pristine
beaches, stunning turquoise waters, and the most incredible
sunsets. Coiba National Park, located less than one hour away from Santa Catalina boasts one of the largest
coral reefs on the entire Pacific Coast. The warm ocean currents are teeming with large schools of
tropical fish. There's also plenty other varieties of marine life to be found including
orcas,
humpback whales,
sea turtles,
sea horses and more. The optimal time for good weather and the
biggest waves is February to August. During this time wave faces can get as high as six to nine meters; other times the average is two to three meters. There are many other breaks that can get even larger, some are in walking distance, others require a
boat ride to reach. Whether you come to relax, hike, swim, or ride the waves, your friendly hosts and hostesses at
Rancho Estero will provide you with an unforgettable stay that not only fulfills your desires, but also
fits your budget!