Costa Rica has welcomed a new luxury destination with the opening of Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, on the breathtaking Papagayo Peninsula. This exclusive resort, the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Central America, blends sustainable architecture with Chorotega-inspired design, creating an unparalleled experience in one of the most scenic regions of Costa Rica.
The name Nekajui (pronounced NEK-ah-wee) comes from the Chorotega word for “lush garden,” reflecting the resort’s deep connection to the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. The Chorotega people, indigenous to parts of Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Honduras, have long influenced the country’s traditions, and their legacy is honored throughout Nekajui’s design and offerings.
Nestled on the coastline of Guanacaste, the resort features 107 ocean-facing rooms and suites, along with three luxury treetop tents, offering guests a unique blend of comfort and immersion in nature. For those seeking the height of exclusivity, Nekajui also boasts 36 private residences ranging from two- to five-bedroom villas. The most luxurious accommodation, Villa Guayacan, is a 10-bedroom retreat, promising the ultimate private escape.
The resort’s sustainable design incorporates local stone, wood, and handcrafted décor, ensuring that its presence harmonizes with the surrounding environment. La Casona, the heart of the resort, draws inspiration from historic Guanacaste haciendas, celebrating the legacy of Costa Rica’s sabaneros (cowboys) through its architecture and interior design.
A defining feature of Nekajui is its extensive art collection, showcasing over 550 works, including nearly 125 original pieces by Latin American artists. Adding to its cultural richness, La Capilla, an event space, is adorned with an astonishing 650,000 handcrafted mosaic tiles, making it a striking venue for social gatherings.
Each accommodation at Nekajui is designed to provide seamless indoor-outdoor living, with multi-panel, floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening to the tropical landscape. The interiors feature locally sourced custom woodwork, clay pottery, gold accents, and handcrafted stone and tile all elements inspired by the Chorotega people and Costa Rica’s natural environment.
Nekajui offers a diverse culinary journey, showcasing the flavors of Latin America and beyond. Puna, the signature restaurant led by Peruvian chef Diego Muñoz, blends the flavors of the Andean highlands with Costa Rica’s vibrant landscapes. Guests can also indulge in an intimate six-seat Asian-Peruvian Omakase experience, highlighting the fusion of Latin and Asian culinary techniques.
Other dining options include:
Niri Beach Club – accessible by funicular, featuring a Spanish and Portuguese-inspired menu.
Poolside – serving casual Latin-inspired seafood dishes.
Ambar – a treetop bar offering craft cocktails with golden-hued surroundings.
La Casona Bar – a cocktail lounge with local herbs and tapas-style bites.
Café Rincón – celebrating Costa Rica’s rich coffee and cacao heritage with artisan brews.
For relaxation, Nimbu Spa & Wellness named after the Chorotega word for “water” provides a 27,000-square-foot sanctuary featuring a hydrotherapy pool, garden pathways, and suspended spa cabanas among the treetops. The setting offers a tranquil escape for rejuvenation.
Beyond the resort, adventure awaits at The Outpost at Palmares Preserve, a 250-acre natural sanctuary where guests can explore the region’s biodiversity through activities such as ziplining, guided hikes, and canoeing through mangroves. Water enthusiasts can enjoy surfing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing along the coastline. Additionally, golfers can experience the world-class Arnold Palmer Signature Course, located nearby.
With its ultra-luxurious accommodations and unparalleled amenities, Nekajui caters to travelers seeking an exclusive retreat. According to the resort’s website, rates start at around $2,000 per night, while the treetop tents exceed $7,000 per night. This pricing reflects the premium experience offered by Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties.
Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, introduces a new level of luxury and cultural immersion in Costa Rica, blending indigenous heritage with modern sophistication. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or gourmet dining, guests can expect an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Papagayo Peninsula.
