Santa Rosa National Park

Santa Rosa National Park is Costa Rica's first national park, established in 1971 to protect the site of the 1856 Battle of Santa Rosa and the last remaining tropical dry forest in Central America. The park also includes world-famous surf breaks like Witch's Rock and Ollie's Point, accessible by boat.

By Plane

Daniel Oduber International (LIR) in Liberia, about 40 km north (45 minutes).

By Train

Costa Rica has no passenger rail service to this area.

By Car / Road

From Liberia, 40 km north on Route 1 to the park entrance. The main entrance is at La Casona.

Hiking trails and 4x4 roads within the park. Boat access to coastal surf breaks.

• La Casona — Historic hacienda and battle site museum

• Witch's Rock (Roca Bruja) — Iconic surf break accessible by boat

• Ollie's Point — Famous right-hand point break

• Tropical dry forest — Last large tract in Central America

• Playa Naranjo — Remote beach with nesting sea turtles

• Surf Witch's Rock and Ollie's Point (boat trips from Playas del Coco)

• Hiking through dry forest

• Visit the historic battlefield and museum

• Wildlife watching (monkeys, deer, birds)

Pack food. No restaurants inside the park.

Bring plenty of water.

• Budget: Camping at Playa Naranjo US$4/night
• Mid-range: Stay in Liberia or Playas del Coco (30-40 km)

Visitor center has basic souvenirs.

• Liberia — 40 km south
• Playas del Coco — 35 km southwest
• La Cruz — 15 km north