Inspired by its Breathtaking Surroundings,
Contemporary Design Harmonizes with Local Culture in a Tranquil
Costa Rican Paradise
PENINSULA PAPAGAYO, Costa Rica, Feb. 25,
2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Nestled within one of the
world's most biodiverse destinations, Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton
Reserve, has officially opened its doors, offering discerning
travelers a secluded, ultra-luxury retreat amidst the unspoiled
natural beauty of Costa Rica's
Peninsula Papagayo. Named after the Chorotega word for "lush
garden," Nekajui (NEK-ah-wee) marks a monumental milestone
as the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Central and South America and the eighth addition to the
brand's exclusive portfolio.
Located on Peninsula Papagayo, a 1,400-acre canvas of dry
tropical forest atop coastal cliffs, Nekajui's collection of 107
thoughtfully designed ocean-facing rooms, suites, and three luxury
treetop tents seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living while
celebrating Costa Rica's rich
cultural heritage. Owned by Mohari
Hospitality and Gencom, and developed by The Athens
Group, the resort's accommodations range from expansive guest
rooms, starting at 872 square feet, to one- and two-bedroom suites,
the luxurious four-bedroom Nekajui Grand Villa, and 36 private
residences featuring two to five bedrooms. For the ultimate
exclusivity, Villa Guayacan is a 10-bedroom retreat set amidst a
remarkable natural backdrop.
"Nekajui represents the essence of our Ritz-Carlton Reserve
portfolio—crafted for those seeking the rare and undiscovered",
said Tina Edmundson,
President of Luxury at Marriott International. "As our eighth
Reserve property and the first in Central and South America, this secluded sanctuary on
Peninsula Papagayo immerses guests in the natural splendor and
cultural richness of Costa Rica.
Every touchpoint reflects a deep connection to the destination,
from thoughtful design and curated art to locally inspired wellness
and dining. Nekajui is not just a place to visit—it's a place to
feel, discover, and leave transformed."
Design in Harmony with Nature
Nekajui's architecture serves as a paradigm of rare luxury that
celebrates the culture and nature of Guanacaste—blending native
materials and sustainable design with contemporary style and
refinement. Constructed with locally sourced materials,
including stone and wood—indigenous to the
region—and eco-conscious practices, the oceanfront resort
embodies a profound connection to its natural surroundings. Elegant
in its simplicity, the design reflects a commitment to
environmental preservation, incorporating low-impact,
resource-efficient materials throughout the resort.
Upon arrival, guests are welcomed at La Casita,
inspired by traditional Costa Rican villages, before
entering La Casona, the resort's airy and expansive
living room, offering mesmerizing panoramic views of the Papagayo
coastline. A modern interpretation of historic Guanacaste
haciendas, La Casona pays tribute to the Sabanero ranchers and the
spirit of Guanacaste through architectural elements that honor the
region's heritage. Secret gardens and hidden pathways provide
endless opportunities for discovery. Handpicked and meticulously
curated, Nekajui's extensive art collection includes over 550
pieces of work, including nearly 125 original artworks by more than
30 Latin American artists.
Nearby, a majestic Ceiba tree in the central courtyard between
La Casita and La Casona serves as a cultural touchpoint, grounding
guests in the region's history. Adjacent to La Casona, La
Capilla is inspired by the personal chapels found in
haciendas throughout the region and adorned with 650,000 locally
crafted hand-laid mosaic tiles, symbolizing the power of
connection. Ideal for social events and gatherings, La Capilla
embodies the warmth of community and shared experiences.
Showcasing framed vistas of Playa Pochote and the Pacific
Ocean, the resort's elegant accommodations feature
multi-panel, floor-to-ceiling glass doors unveiling sweeping
seascapes. Outdoor shower gardens, private plunge pools, and
deep-soaking tubs invite guests into a sensory immersion fully
enveloped in nature's beauty. Contemporary interiors reveal
artistic craftsmanship, showcasing local custom woodwork and
traditional accents that reflect the vibrant colors of the region's
flora and fauna. Chorotegan-inspired décor—featuring gold works,
clay pottery, and hand-crafted local wood, stone, and tile—add to
Nekajui's unique sense of place, transporting guests to a timeless
sanctuary and enhancing Costa
Rica's tropical paradise.
Culinary Journeys Bringing Local Ingredients to Life
Rooted in Costa Rican heritage and crafted by world-class
talent, Nekajui's culinary and cocktail destinations promise an
epicurean journey as transformative as the destination itself. At
the center of the resort's dining offerings is Puna,
the signature restaurant conceptualized by acclaimed Chef
Diego Muñoz. Renowned for
his role in shaping modern Peruvian cuisine, Chef Muñoz
masterfully combines indigenous ingredients with refined global
techniques to craft an immersive dining experience. Inspired by the
Andean highlands and Costa Rica's
lush landscapes, Puna will also present an exclusive six-seat
Asian-Peruvian Omakase-style experience. Native flavors are
harmonized with precise Asian techniques, offering a sophisticated,
multi-sensory journey.
Executive Chef Lulu
Elizaga spearheads the resort's culinary program,
infusing global expertise and creative vision into each dish.
Nestled within the canopy, just steps away from the beach, the
ultra-stylish Niri Beach Club, accessible by a chic
funicular, offers a breathtaking setting for dining and drinks
into the evening, featuring a menu inspired by Spanish and
Portuguese cuisine. The private beach club celebrates earth and
fire with a wood-fired oven, Iberian-inspired dishes, and
refreshing Agua Fresca variations and modern twists on beach
classics. Situated near the resort's sparkling infinity
pool, Poolside presents Latin-inspired casual
dining with a wide selection of freshly caught
seafood. Ámbar, a suspended treetop bar, named after
the gemstone "amber" with its golden yellow hues reminiscent of a
sunset, brings vibrant cocktails to life amidst Costa Rica's lush flora and celestial
motifs. La Casona Bar reimagines the traditional
lobby bar with a botanical twist, serving local herb-and
floral-infused cocktails crafted with ingredients sourced directly
from the resort's gardens, complemented by a curated selection of
delectable tapas, snacks and quick bites.
Nekajui's innovative beverage program has been exclusively
created with The Herball, mixology specialists
renowned for designing sustainable and culturally anchored drinks,
tonics and cocktails. This collaboration elevates the bar
experience, blending local botanicals with inventive techniques to
embody Costa Rica's natural
spirit. The Herball's unique menus come to life at Nekajui's
restaurants, bars, and lounges, including Café Rincón,
which celebrates Costa Rica's rich
coffee and cacao heritage with artisan brews, imaginative cocktail
creations, and a light gourmet menu.
For those seeking deeper connections to the land, the
resort's Dining Beyond program offers unparalleled
private culinary experiences. Whether dining in treetop hideaways
or under the stars on a secluded beach, these exclusive moments
immerse guests in the breathtaking beauty of Peninsula
Papagayo.
A New Well-Being Destination
Named after the word for "water" in the Chorotega
language, Nimbu Spa & Wellness spans an
expansive 27,000 square feet and is home to an awe-inspiring
hydrotherapy pool designed to emphasize the restorative power of
water. Nimbu invites guests to embark on a journey of deep
rejuvenation, mindful well-being, and spiritual renewal. Wellness
experts have designed bespoke journeys integrating local elements
including Chorotega pottery, volcanic mud, and Juanilama essential
oils. Signature experiences include Harmonic Monochord
Healing, a treetop ritual that uses vibrational energy to relax
and restore. At the same time, the Volcanic
Lift facial detoxifies and illuminates the skin using
volcanic glass and activated carbon, paired with reflexology for a
revitalizing glow. Accessible by a suspended walking bridge and
serene garden pathways, the spa seamlessly integrates with its lush
natural surroundings.
With its innovative design immersing guests in tranquility
within the tropical rainforest, Nimbu features individual treatment
cabanas nestled in the treetops, private spa suites, and saunas
with breathtaking panoramic water views—each space crafted to
soothe the senses and inspire the soul.
Boundless Adventure
Beyond its world-class amenities, Nekajui invites guests to
immerse themselves in the wonders of The
Outpost at Palmares Preserve, a 250-acre
sanctuary encircling the resort. This protected haven encompasses
three distinct ecosystems within a compact area. Led by in-house
adventure outfitters, The Explorers, The
Outpost provides thrilling outdoor adventures such as ziplining,
guided wildlife hikes, and serene canoe excursions through
enchanting mangroves.
For surfing enthusiasts, the nearby Santa Rosa National Park
offers legendary breaks at Witch's Rock and Ollie's Point, where
SurfX pros guide guests to embrace the essence of pura
vida. Additional watersports—including windsurfing,
paddleboarding, scuba diving, snorkeling, and sailing—encourage
guests to discover the unspoiled nature.
Golfers can enjoy Peninsula Papagayo's private 18-hole,
par-72 Arnold Palmer Signature course. Set amidst 125
acres of old-growth forest, valleys, and sea cliffs, the course
features wide fairways and breathtaking views. Conveniently located
within walking distance from the resort, the clubhouse and Racquet
Center further enhance this premier golfing destination.
"At Nekajui, every moment is an invitation to reconnect—to the
heartbeat of Costa Rica, its
sacred landscapes, and most intimately, to your own spirit," says
Ana Gorjão Henriques, General Manager, Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton
Reserve Peninsula Papagayo. "We are delighted to welcome guests to
this hidden sanctuary, where thoughtful design, culinary artistry,
and transformative wellness converge, creating experiences that
resonate long after departure.
For more information or to make a reservation, please
visit www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/lirrz-nekajui-a-ritz-carlton-reserve.
Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Peninsula
Papagayo
Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Peninsula
Papagayo, is a magical journey where adventure, tradition, and
nature converge in an unparalleled luxury escape. Immersed in an
exotic tropical paradise, Nekajui—meaning "lush garden" in the
regional Chorotega dialect—offers 107 ocean-facing rooms, suites,
luxury tents, and 36 private residences, all designed to bridge
wilderness, wellness, and refined living. This tranquil sanctuary
invites guests to indulge in the land and local heritage. Just 45
minutes from Guanacaste Airport (LIR) and approximately five hours
from major U.S. metro areas, Nekajui offers an escape into a
mesmerizing world of luxury, where adventure meets renewal in an
extraordinary and intimate setting. For more information, visit
Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Peninsula Papagayo.
About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC
Delivering the Gold Standard in service in coveted destinations
around the world, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC currently
operates more than 120 hotels in over 35 countries and territories.
From iconic urban destinations to stretches of paradise in
untouched corners of the earth, The Ritz-Carlton offers the
opportunity for true discovery and transformative escapes that stay
with guests long after they depart. Committed to thoughtful
innovation, The Ritz-Carlton encompasses two groundbreaking brand
extensions, Ritz-Carlton Reserve and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht
Collection. Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a collection of rare estates
set apart from the world, where personalized care and cultural
immersion are paramount. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
translates the brand's legendary service and hospitality for sea,
reimagining the ultra-luxury cruising category. For more
information or reservations, visit the company website at
www.ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit
news.marriott.com and to join the live conversation, use
#RCMemories and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR). The Ritz-Carlton is
proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program
from Marriott International. The program offers members an
extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on
Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including
complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for
free or for more information about the program, visit
marriottbonvoy.com. The Ritz-Carlton is committed to supporting the
destinations where it operates through Community Footprints, the
company's social and environmental responsibility
program.
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