Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve: A New Way to Experience Luxury in Costa Rica
When we talk about luxury hotels in Costa Rica, some stand out for their location, others for their design, and some for their service. But only a few truly transform the way we build an entire itinerary.
After visiting Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, I can confidently say this is one of those properties.
This is not just another addition to the luxury portfolio. It’s a place that redefines how luxury connects with nature.
A setting that elevates the entire experience
Located in Península Papagayo, surrounded by over 1,400 acres of protected land within the Guanacaste Conservation Area (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Nekajui achieves something remarkable: it integrates seamlessly with its environment without ever competing with it.
From the moment you arrive, everything feels intentional.
No excess. No visual noise.
Just nature, thoughtful design, and a strong sense of exclusivity.
The name “Nekajui,” derived from the Chorotega language meaning “lush garden,” perfectly reflects the atmosphere of the property.
Rooms designed to stand out
One of the elements that impressed me most was the design of the accommodations.
Natural materials — especially wood — are used throughout, complemented by refined contemporary details. Some spaces even carry a subtle modern Gatsby-inspired aesthetic, giving them a distinctive personality. But more than the design, what truly stands out is the view.
Here, the landscape is not a backdrop.
It becomes part of the room.
From Reserve Rooms to private villas, each category is designed to offer:
- Direct connection with nature
- Expansive indoor-outdoor living spaces
- Options with plunge pools and outdoor showers
- Flexible layouts for couples, families, or groups
This versatility makes it a highly adaptable product depending on the client profile.
Culinary experiences that add real value
During my visit, we had lunch at Niri Beach Club, and it immediately became clear that gastronomy plays a key role in the overall experience.
The arrival via funicular already sets the tone, and once you reach the beach level, the atmosphere shifts — more private, more relaxed, more exclusive.
Service was consistent, the open kitchen well executed, and the quality of the ingredients evident. It’s the kind of experience that works perfectly for clients looking for something casual, yet elevated.
Across the property, the dining venues allow for different moments:
- Puna, led by Chef Diego Muñoz, elevates the culinary standard of any itinerary
- Ámbar, ideal for sunset experiences overlooking the bay
- Café Rincón, perfect for more relaxed, daytime breaks
- La Casona Bar, the social heart of the property
And like any truly exceptional property…there are still experiences meant to be discovered.
Why Nekajui is a strategic addition to luxury itineraries
Beyond the guest experience, what mattered most to me was understanding how this property performs within a broader itinerary.
This is where Nekajui truly stands out.
It allows you to:
- Instantly elevate the level of a Guanacaste itinerary
- Offer a more intimate experience within a globally recognized brand like Ritz-Carlton Reserve
- Seamlessly integrate high-end activities within Papagayo (golf, marina, wellness, private experiences)
- Minimize travel time by centralizing experiences in one destination
This makes it an ideal base for clients seeking high-end travel without logistical complexity.
A clear opportunity for the luxury segment
After exploring the property, experiencing its offerings, and analyzing its value from a commercial perspective, the conclusion is clear:
Nekajui is not just another luxury resort in Costa Rica. It is a strategic asset for elevating our proposals.
It’s the type of property that:
- Simplifies the sales process
- Adds immediate value to an itinerary
- Appeals to high-end clientele
- Differentiates Costa Rica within the luxury market
And in today’s luxury travel landscape, that matters.
Why I Curate Nekajui, Ritz-Carlton Reserve for ST Collection
I experienced this property so I could curate it with confidence for our clients. While Nekajui can be part of a broader Costa Rica itinerary, my honest recommendation is to stay at least three nights to truly experience everything the property and Peninsula Papagayo have to offer.
The setting, the design, and the experiences surrounding Nekajui deserve time. This visit reaffirmed why Nekajui, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is proudly part of our ST Collection luxury portfolio.
If this destination resonates with you, I would be delighted to assist in customizing every detail of your clients’ journey. From private air transfers and luxury ground transportation, to curated experiences across Peninsula Papagayo, private guides, and the careful selection of the perfect accommodation at Nekajui.
My team of Luxury Travel Agents and I are ready to support you at every stage, ensuring each itinerary delivers the level of exclusivity, comfort, and authenticity your clients expect. Reach out to me directly, and let us design a seamless, tailor-made journey your clients will truly remember.
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