Piedras Blancas National Park

Piedras Blancas National Park is a protected area in Puntarenas Province on Costa Rica’s Pacific side, established to conserve lowland rainforest and coastal ecosystems. The park forms part of the country’s network of protected areas safeguarding tropical forest and wildlife.

Visitors seek the park for rainforest hiking, wildlife observation, and to experience intact lowland tropical forest that supports amphibians, birds, and mammals. Facilities are limited and access is typically via organized tours or local access points that serve trailheads.

The park was created as part of Costa Rica’s national conservation program to protect remaining lowland forests and to maintain ecological connectivity along the Pacific slope. Management focuses on habitat protection and regulated visitor access.

Piedras Blancas lies on the southern Pacific side of Costa Rica within Puntarenas Province, in a coastal rainforest region that links to other conservation areas in the region.

• Ecological role: Protects coastal and lowland rainforest habitats important for biodiversity and connectivity to other protected areas on Costa Rica’s Pacific slope.

The park is in southern Puntarenas Province near the Osa Peninsula corridor. Access is typically by road from Puerto Jiménez or Palmar Sur, or by boat along the Gulf of Dulce; expect long travel times and variable road conditions. Work with local outfitters for transfers and guided access.

• Pack binoculars for shorebird and mangrove viewing; the park is important for coastal biodiversity.
• Check with local park authorities regarding boat access and guided tours - much of the park's coastline is best experienced from water.
• Expect humid, tropical conditions and plan travel in the drier months if beach or boat access is a priority.