Surfers seeking world-class waves in a secluded Costa Rican paradise will find their haven at Witch’s Rock. This enchanting spot boasts an ancient rock formation and rolling mountains, setting the stage for nearly year-round perfect tubes and barrels. A visit to Witch’s Rock promises an unforgettable experience.
To plan your trip to this coveted destination, you’ll find all the essential information here.
Reaching Witch's Rock: Your Guide to Accessing the Surf Spot
Previously, driving to Playa Naranjo, the beach where Witch’s Rock is located, was possible. However, this required a 4×4 vehicle and an experienced driver, as the road was in poor condition. The journey from the park entrance to the campground parking lot took approximately two hours.
Keep in mind that even when the Playa Naranjo sector reopens, driving will require a 30-minute walk on hot sand from the parking lot to the surf break. During the rainy season, the road conditions are hazardous, and driving is not recommended, even with a 4×4. In extreme weather conditions, park rangers may prohibit driving altogether. Therefore, the best way to reach Witch’s Rock is by boat.
Your Witch's Rock Boat Adventure Awaits
Essential Information for Visiting Santa Rosa National Park
To access Santa Rosa National Park, you’ll need to purchase tickets, which cost $15 USD or 7867.87 colones per adult and $5 per child (ages 2-12). Reservations are also required. The park operates daily from 6 AM to 2 PM, specifically for surfing activities. Your boat captain will typically handle ticket purchases on your behalf, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Distance from Playas del Coco to Witch's Rock
Witch’s Rock is approximately a 45-minute boat ride from Playas del Coco, making it the ideal launch point for your journey. Playas del Coco offers calm waves, providing a smooth departure point for your boat trip. For surfers, Witch’s Rock is an absolute must-visit, and a day trip from Playas del Coco is an unforgettable experience.
You can depart from Playas del Coco with a trusted boat operator who offers various excursions, including boating, beach hopping, snorkeling, fishing, and Witch’s Rock surf trips.
Distance and Surfing Conditions at Witch's Rock
Witch’s Rock is approximately a 1.5-hour boat ride from Tamarindo, making it a popular destination for surfers. Several surf camps in Tamarindo offer trips to this coveted spot.
The best times to visit Witch’s Rock for optimal surfing conditions vary. You’ve had the opportunity to surf at Witch’s Rock twice, first in late November 2020 and again in mid-January 2021. Both times, the waves were relatively small, ranging from 1-3 feet, ideal for longboarding. As a longboarder, you appreciate the smaller waves, but Witch’s Rock also offers opportunities for surfers of all levels, with both right and left-hand waves and an A-frame wave.
Witch’s Rock features three main surf spots, including two by the river mouth that receive bigger waves during swells, and another called “El Burro.” El Burro offers fast, hollow rights with a good south/southwest swell and favorable lefts with a more southern wind and swell. When surfing near the river mouth, be aware of your surroundings, as crocodiles may venture out to observe visitors.
Surfing Conditions at Witch's Rock: A Guide
As a longboarder, you’ll find the small waves at Witch’s Rock, ranging from 1-3 feet, ideal for your skill level. The open waves provide ample opportunities for fun and excitement. Both visits to Witch’s Rock, in November and January, offered perfect conditions for longboarding, with 1-3 foot open A-frame waves at El Burro. However, the January trip was windier and choppier, with bigger sets.
For experienced surfers, Witch’s Rock offers bigger swells, perfect for long tubes and barrels. Yeison experienced this in June, with waves going left and right at El Burro. The surf spot receives swells from West, Northwest, and Southwest directions, generating waves up to 6 feet high. This attracts expert surfers looking to showcase their skills and get barrelled. Witch’s Rock has waves year-round, but the rainy season (May-November) brings the biggest swells, while the dry season (December-April) offers offshore winds. Mid to high tide is the best time to surf, as low tide typically results in close-outs. Witch’s Rock caters to surfers of all levels, from advanced beginners to experts.
Explore Costa Rica with Vamos Rent-A-Car!
Vamos Rent-A-Car not only offers reliable vehicles but also provides expert guidance to help you uncover Costa Rica’s hidden treasures. We can assist you with insider tips and a downloadable checklist to ensure you don’t miss any must-see attractions.
Book your car today with Vamos Rent-A-Car and start your adventure. For personalized assistance, contact us now!
