Blueprints show magnificent plunge pools, awesome panoramic views, and tons of privacy
A new Ritz-Carlton is opening in Peninsula Papagayo — and we’ve got an exclusive sneak peek at it.
Ritz Carlton Reserve Resort Guanacaste at Peninsula Papagayo
One of Costa Rica’s most luxurious and coveted resorts is about to welcome its first ultra-luxury hotel. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and Peninsula Papagayo plan to open Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in 2024.
This private 1,400-acre gated community in the northwest region of Guanacaste has become a luxurious playground of luxury homes, incredible beach clubs, world-class hotels and restaurants, and an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course. Nekajui plans to further solidify the exclusivity and status of the area by adding 107 luxury guest rooms and suites with covered outdoor terraces, private plunge pools, spa-like bathrooms, views of Pochote Bay, and stunning views of the surrounding islands.
Designed to immerse visitors in Costa Rican architecture and culture, the new Ritz-Carlton Reserve will be divided into three distinct zones, each with its architecture, design references, and curated signature elements from local artisans.
These include a “Classic Zone,” a contemporary interpretation of traditional hacienda-style architecture that will cover the arrivals area, guest rooms and suites; and a sun-drenched “Transition Zone,” showcasing the local Guanacaste region in the guest rooms, suites and branded residences and the “Organic Zone” featuring treehouse architecture inspired by the natural surroundings of the guest rooms, as well as the beach club and spa.
The resort’s name, Nekajui (pronounced nek-ah-wee), aptly means Garden of the Chorotegan – the language of the indigenous people who once inhabited the area. The resort and its cascading infinity pools will sit on a verdant hillside shaded by lush natural gardens. A nearby suspension bridge draws guests to the stunning spa. Meanwhile, a custom-built cable car takes visitors to a natural amphitheater where the beach club is located, steps away from the sea caves, tide pools, and white, sandy beaches ideal for catching sun rays.
While the Papagayo Peninsula is already known for its unique and pristine beaches, land and water activities, adventurous pursuits and the spirit of Pura Vida, the Nekajui area promises to be even more private. It sits on a quiet beach revered for its bioluminescence – a moonlit sight – and its bay also boasts some of the calmest and most secluded waters. The uncompromising location also lacks ultra-low light pollution development, allowing visitors to experience tranquility day and night.
Of course, there is plenty of services. Nekajui will join a small group of major Ritz-Carlton properties in Reserve’s portfolio. Five other resorts are currently spread across some of the most breathtaking locations in the world, including Bali, Indonesia; Krabi, Thailand; Niseko, Japan; Los Cabos, Mexico; and Dorado Beach, Puerto Rico.
With more staff and relatively fewer rooms, Nekajui offers the opportunity to entertain guests in person. Costa Rica DMC Inc. will help incentive and corporate planners create highly customized programs that offer once-in-a-lifetime group adventures, VIP tours, and a whole new level of corporate experience.
