Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

This resort exceeded my expectations in every possible way. I won this trip through work so I did not pay for it, full disclosure. The property is so beautiful. The staff is amazing, without being overbearing, and the food was so good. They have tons of activities- so the sunset kayak! So fun. Everywhere you turn, the place feels magical. We saw so many monkeys, beautiful birds and loved having our own plunge pool. We also enjoyed the spa which was beautiful and we had great massages. This place is so chill and relaxing. Worth every penny and more. I hope to go back one day!

Best first impression in any travel experience. This resort is absolutely a stunner from incredible staff who make the stay magical to the incredible location. The entire team of manzu, the cleaning staff, the chefs, guest experience and restaurant staff all make you feel at home. The view is magical, enchanting and just photo worthy at sunset and sunrises. Best gem in the area. We were able to relax immediately and through our entire stay felt recharged and rejuvenated. The spa is perfection with its cliff side pool. The rooms impeccably maintained . Definitely coming back

Everything about the new Nekajui Peninsula Papagayo, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is truly five-star. The property itself is absolutely stunning, and our room was beautifully appointed with views that were simply breathtaking. What made our stay exceptional, however, was the staff. Every single person went above and beyond to ensure guests felt taken care of. A special thank you to Cristian, Jason, Mery, Katerin, and Hector—but without question, Wilson was outstanding. We enjoyed our stay so much that we returned again in March, and it was no surprise (but very much appreciated) to see the same incredible team still there. They welcomed us back like family, which says everything about the level of service and consistency at this property. We can’t recommend this resort highly enough.

It would take long time to write everything that is great about this property, the amenities and the wonderful staff. What I can say is that we have been lucky to stay in some of the best resorts in the world and Nekajui is at the top. Every--and I mean EVERY--detail of this property is perfectly thought out and beautiful. The beach and pools are amazing. Then the spa and gym is high end and great. The rooms are spectacular! From the furniture to the lighting to the Japanese toilet, it's luxury that few ever get to experience. The in-room hair dryer is a full equipped Dyson! All the restaurants were excellent. The breakfast is so good, the challenge is not to overeat. The staff are universally warm and welcoming. These kind people are proud of their country and their hotel and its shows. They will do anything for you. The pictures speak for themselves. This is one of the best luxury hotels in the world and it shows. If you can swing it, stay here. You will be happy and thankful, sipping a cold Imperial in your personal plunge pool while hummingbirds, parrots and monkeys go about their business in the pristine landscape that surrounds you.

My family of four spent four nights at the Ritz—two at the beginning and two at the end of our Costa Rica trip—and it was a fantastic experience. The property is beautiful, peaceful, and exceptionally well run. We had strongly considered the Four Seasons, given its reputation for families, but ultimately chose the Ritz due to my Marriott status and points redemption. It proved to be a great decision. Roxen Suarez on the reservations team was incredibly accommodating, especially with last-minute changes to our travel dates. She also ensured our room was perfectly set up for a family of four, with both a sofa bed and a rollaway ready upon arrival. I had initially worried the hotel might feel too quiet or geared more toward couples, but the kids’ programming exceeded expectations. The kids loved activities like make-your-own pizza, bracelet making, and especially the nightly s’mores. One evening also included a stargazing session with an astronomy educator, who guided the kids through the night sky using high-powered telescopes—an absolute highlight of the trip. Service throughout the property was excellent. The team at the family pool was attentive and proactive, always ensuring lounges were set up with towels, water, and umbrellas, and quick to assist with food and drink orders. Down at the beach, the staff made it easy to enjoy the complimentary paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling equipment. Our butler (“Manzu”), Pablo, was highly responsive via WhatsApp, helping with everything from room requests to dining reservations and in-room service. I also had the chance to meet several members of the management team, including Rodrigo Fontenele, the Rooms Manager. Everyone was welcoming, thoughtful, and genuinely focused on ensuring a great guest experience, always open to feedback and eager to help. A truly special property with an outstanding team.