La Buena Vida

Top choice in Santa Catalina


These lovely villas spill down a leafy hillside along the main road. Each is themed and decorated with colorful mosaics and tiles crafted by the American owners. With great service, they have ironed out every little detail here, from local tips to fast internet and quality lunchboxes for tours. There are popular yoga classes on a sprawling deck and professional massages.

Cabins include a fridge, screened windows and air-conditioning. ‘Gecko’ is the most deluxe, while 'Butterfly' offers the delicious option of showering outdoors. 'Bird' has two floors. One larger group villa (Casa del Mar) features a kitchen and BBQ patio. La Buena Vida composts, recycles and sells local artisan goods.