Costa Rica’s exclusive Peninsula Papagayo community has welcomed its first ultra-luxury resort: Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
Perched above coastal cliffs with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the property has opened doors with a design by 10SB (previously SB Architects).
Inspired by the meaning of “lush garden” in the local Chorotega dialect, Nekajui (NEK-ah-wee) marks a milestone as the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Central and South America.
Arriving at Nekajui
La Casona
Upon arrival at La Casona—the resort’s grand, central gathering place—guests are greeted by architectural elements that pay tribute to the Sabanero ranchers and their Guanacaste spirit. La Casona reinterprets the traditional hacienda with modern elegance, while secret gardens, hidden pathways, and original local and Latin art invite exploration.
Nekajui’s sense of place is further emphasized through interior details inspired by Chorotegan décor, including figural gold artifacts, monochromatic clay pottery, and locally crafted wood, stone, tile, and bamboo.
Ocean-view accommodations
Nekajui’s ocean-facing collection of 107 guestrooms, suites, and three luxury treetop tents is deeply rooted in deference to the untouched landscape.
The accommodations, ranging from one- and two-bedroom suites to the four-bedroom Nekajui Grand Villa, feature expansive terraces or balconies with views of Pochote Bay.
The resort also includes 36 private residences, ranging from two to five bedrooms, as well as Villa Guayacan, a 10-bedroom ultra-exclusive home. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors merge sweeping seascapes with the interiors, while outdoor shower gardens, plunge pools, and deep-soaking tubs immerse guests in the landscape’s beauty.
Dining and wellness at Nekajui
Ambar
The resort’s F&B offerings include signature restaurant Puna, a hidden speakeasy, an artisan café and market, and Ambar, a suspended treetop bar. Meanwhile, the secluded Niri Beach Club, accessible by a chic funicular, features a wood-fired oven and toes-in-sand dining.
At the heart of the property is the 27,000-square-foot Nimbu Spa and Wellness. Named after the Chorotega word for water, Nimbu is home to Latin America’s largest hydrotherapy pool. Accessible by a suspended walking bridge and multiple garden paths, the spa immerses guests in the tranquility of nature.
Luxury tented suites
Canopy bridge
Main pool
Niri Beach Club
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