The expansive mangrove estuary of Ascension Bay known as the Santa Rosa Lagoon lies due west of Punta Pájaros. A massive system of linked small and medium lagoons, Santa Rosa is an important area to the ecosystem, harboring and nurturing juvenile fish and other sea life. Fishing is endless in this beautiful backcountry. An impressive number of juvenile tarpon, some up to fifty pounds, call Santa Rosa home, as do the area’s larger bonefish specimens, barracuda and snook. Santa Rosa offers excellent protection from the wind and is a great option for those tougher days on the flats. Santa Rosa is also a wonderful place for wildlife viewing, home to amazing birds like the boat-billed heron, roseate spoonbill, reddish egret, tiger heron, and pygmy kingfisher.