Witches Rock (Roca Bruja) is a world-class beachbreak sitting along the 6km stretch of Playa Naranjo, facing the huge offshore rock that gives the spot its name. Local lore has it that the rock was thrown into the sea by an angry volcano some 50km away. The waves here are ultra-fast, zippy walls that streak down the sand, throwing plenty of crystalline tubes and offering a good length of ride.
When It Works
The sandbars break both left and right, and the spot is consistent. Swell arrives from south to west, with southwest the best match, and a bit of south in the swell helps the most. It works from 1.2 m / 4 ft to 3.7 m / 12 ft.
Most surfers gather just south of the rivermouth, where the sandbars pile up, but there are always more peaks further south if you're willing to walk. North of the rivermouth is usually smaller.
Wind and Tide
Look for northeast offshore wind. Mid and high tide both work, and a rising tide is generally the better call. Higher water is worth waiting for here, since it keeps the fast walls from closing out.
Local Tips
The lineup gets busy, and crowds have grown a lot in recent years. Beginners can find waves here. Keep an eye out for saltwater crocodiles around the rivermouths.
Access
Getting here takes some effort. The only effective options are a boat from Playa del Coco, where there's an inconsistent left, or a 4X4 in the dry season. Like most national parks, there's no accommodation, so camping is the only option. Parking is restricted.
