Witch's Rock
Witch's Rock is Costa Rica's most famous wave—a perfect A-frame beach break inside Santa Rosa National Park that gained worldwide fame in Endless Summer II. Getting here requires either a boat trip or a rugged 4WD adventure through the park, adding to its mystique. The wave breaks in a stunning, pristine setting with dramatic rock formations and jungle backdrop. When Pacific swells pulse in, the peaks are hollow and perfectly formed. A bucket-list destination for adventure surfers.
Witch's Rock surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (225°)
- Direction range
- 200° - 270°
- Size range
- 1m - 3.5m
- Ideal size
- 2.1m - 2.9m
- Height multiplier
- 0.90×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 135°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 2m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Boat from Playas del Coco. Also accessible via 4WD through national park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Witch's Rock?
The Witch's Rock profile favors the recorded tide range, ideally between 0.5m and 2m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Witch's Rock?
The Witch's Rock profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 45° to 135°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Witch's Rock?
The Witch's Rock scoring profile favors swell from SW (200° to 270°), a swell-height range of 1m to 3.5m, and a reference period of 16s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Witch's Rock?
The main season at Witch's Rock is Apr-Oct. A secondary window runs Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. SW swell season April-Oct. Year-round waves.
How do I get to Witch's Rock?
The spot profile lists LIR as a nearby airport. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $200 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Boat from Playas del Coco. Also accessible via 4WD through national park.
What kind of wave is Witch's Rock?
Witch's Rock is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
SW swell season April-Oct. Year-round waves.
Getting There
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