Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve Resort in Costa Rica is now open

Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve Resort, has opened as of late February 2025. For those curious about the name, Nekajui means “garden” in Chorotegan, the language of an indigenous nation that once populated the area.

The property is located in the 1,400-acre Peninsula Papagayo complex in Costa Rica, about a 45-minute drive from Guanacaste Airport, in Liberia (LIR). Peninsula Papagayo is also home to the Four Seasons and Andaz.

Outside view of the Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Source: Marriott)

This 107-key property is a great option for those looking for a warm-weather getaway, whether for lounging by the pool or beach, or engaging in more active pursuits. The area offers plenty of activities, from zip-lining to kayaking.

Entry-level accommodations are the Ocean Reserve, measuring 872 square feet (78 square meters). Room types go up from there, with options ranging from a Reserve Canopy Suite to a Treetop Tent. Accommodations are divided into three distinct zones:

• A classic zone, featuring hacienda-style architecture

• A transitional zone, showcasing traditional Guanacaste-region architecture

• An organic zone, designed with treehouse-style architecture

Dining Options at Nekajui Ritz-Carlton Reserve

The resort offers several dining choices, including Café Rincón (a coffee house open for breakfast and lunch), Niri Beach Club (a Mediterranean restaurant open for lunch and dinner), Puna (a Latin American restaurant open for dinner), and more.

Niri Beach Club at the Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Source: Marriott)

Resort Amenities

The property boasts a signature spa, a 24/7 fitness center, three outdoor pools, beach access, and much more.

Outdoor swimming pool area at the Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Source: Marriott)

Real vs. Rendered Rooms

We did notice that the resort may have taken some creative liberties with its renderings. Interestingly, the hotel’s website includes both real photos and renderings, allowing guests to compare how rooms were envisioned versus how they actually appear.

Looking at the images side by side, we can’t help but feel that the renderings present a much more polished aesthetic compared to the actual rooms. The color scheme, in particular, appears somewhat underwhelming and gives the property a slightly dated look.

Ritz-Carlton Reserve and Marriott Bonvoy

For those unfamiliar with Ritz-Carlton Reserve, this is Marriott’s ultra-luxury hotel brand. Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties are more exclusive than standard Ritz-Carlton hotels, offering a smaller, more personalized experience. The brand currently has seven properties, with several more in development.

We reviewed the Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve a while ago.

Ritz-Carlton Reserve Costa Rica Rates & Points Requirements

With the new Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Costa Rica now open, what can guests expect in terms of rates? Prices are high, though this is consistent with other properties in the Peninsula Papagayo complex.

Entry-level rates start at just over $1,500 per night in the low season and over $2,500 per night in the high season. These rates include the $175 nightly destination fee but exclude other taxes and fees.

Sample rates for 3 nights in June at the Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Source: Marriott)

For those looking to redeem Marriott Bonvoy points, rates start at around 150,000 points per night. Guests can take advantage of the fifth-night-free benefit on award stays, which improves the overall value. However, even with this perk, point redemption remains quite costly.

Sample point redemption rates for 1 night in June at the Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Source: Marriott)

Conclusion

The Ritz-Carlton Reserve brand has expanded to Costa Rica with the opening of a property in the Peninsula Papagayo development. This 107-key resort offers a range of accommodations and is poised to become a popular—and expensive—destination for Bonvoy members.

Having more high-end options in Costa Rica is always exciting. This is one of two new international luxury properties opening in the country this year, with the Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Cacique also set to debut in the coming months.