El Ranchito Surfcamp

The courtyard was a lovely place to relax and take in Panama when we weren’t surfing, and our room was extremely clean. Jiani’s nightly meals were spectacular and gave everyone a nice chance to talk about the day together. Lorenzo’s surf lessons were a highlight. He built on our progress day by day, introducing what made sense and adjusting to each person’s needs. Between the instruction, food, and hospitality, the experience went well beyond what I expected. I’d definitely return to keep learning and enjoy more of what El Ranchito offers.

I booked a week at El Ranchito’s surf camp, then stayed for a second week because I was enjoying myself so much. I came to improve my surfing, and I definitely did. Lorenzo checks the tides and conditions every day and shifts lesson times when needed, including moving a session later or into the afternoon if things aren’t right. Surf conditions keep changing, so planning several days ahead like some other schools do can be difficult. I appreciated that the focus here was on going out when the timing was best. The rooms and grounds were consistently clean and well cared for. I also loved the shared dinners Jiani made each day. Eating under the huge tree with the lights on was really cosy. I’d recommend it if you’re serious about surfing and want a relaxed stay.

The meals with the hosts were a lovely part of the camp, and I’d recommend joining them. Jiani cooks delicious food, and sharing dinner adds a nice social side to the stay. There’s also a kitchen if you’d rather prepare your own meals. For a good coffee in this quiet, remote spot, The Break café right on the beach is a great little extra. Lorenzo’s lessons were a real highlight. The groups are small, so you get individual attention, and I learned more than I expected while enjoying the process. He finds conditions suited to your level each day. The hosts also pay close attention to guests’ well-being, and the camp has a pleasant, laid-back feel. It was just what I wanted, and I’d happily go back.

We were four, with two teenagers, and spent five nights at the surf camp. The quiet Guanico neighborhood was a nice change from other surf spots such as Santa Catalina, which we visited later. We’re still travelling in Panama, but all of us feel this will have been the best part of the trip. We stayed in the Waikiki room, which had two double beds and was spacious, clean, and very nice. We were all complete beginners, yet after a few days with Lorenzo, a patient and very experienced instructor, we were catching waves on our own. Jiani made us delicious dinner every day. What stays with us most is how genuinely interested and welcoming Jiani and Lorenzo are. We felt at home, like friends. We’re grateful for their warmth and would come back if we get the chance to visit Panama again.