Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Costa Rica

The resort is easily accessible with flights into Liberia International Airport (LIR). From there, it’s about a 40-minute transfer to the property. Nekajui shares the same gated complex as the Andaz Costa Rica and Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo, but it has a very different personality—more of a mountain resort overlooking the ocean, offering a sense of privacy and seclusion.

Nekajui features 77 rooms, 27 suites, and 3 luxury tents (including a family tent), plus 37 residences and even a 10-bedroom mansion. The accommodations are spread across 10 buildings, most with stunning views of the Pacific.

• 60% of the rooms and suites have private plunge pools.

• All guests are paired with a personal Manzu (meaning “friend”), a butler-style host who manages up to six rooms. Communication is simple through WhatsApp.

• For the best views, we recommend Building 1, closest to the main resort pools and restaurants, or Building 6B/C, which offers extra privacy and proximity to the swinging bridge.

Sustainability is also at the heart of Nekajui. 70% of the materials excavated to build the property were reused in its construction.

The resort map of Nekajui helps show an aerial view of where the accommodations are located.

With nine dining outlets and three bars, culinary exploration is part of the Nekajui experience. A few highlights:

• Mirador / Puna – Breakfast with panoramic views by day; Peruvian fine dining by night.

• Café Rincón – Casual pastries, coffee, and grab-and-go options.

• Niri Beach Club – A jungle-meets-seafood concept with Portuguese and Spanish influences.

• Brisa – Poolside international dining, with American bar favorites.

• Cooper’s Speakeasy – A hidden bar tucked behind the Puna check-in counter, named after Simon Cooper, a Ritz-Carlton legend.

We recommend making reservations in advance, especially during slower seasons when select outlets may only open on certain nights. Every restaurant emphasizes Costa Rican ingredients and sustainable practices, though we found the quality of meals and service somewhat inconsistent during our stay.

The resort also offers immersive activities, including cooking classes (pasta, sushi, empanadas), a cocktail masterclass featuring ilang ilang flowers, and complimentary nature walks where you’re likely to spot howler monkeys in the morning.

Nekajui is home to three pools: a stunning infinity-edge pool, an adults-only pool at the main resort, and one pool down at beach level.

Getting to the Niri Beach Club requires taking a small funicular (capacity of 8) or walking down steep stairs. While the beach is calm, it isn’t the most private, as tours often stop by the nearby cave.

Wildlife lovers will enjoy spotting monkeys, coatis, iguanas, and exotic birds in the surrounding dry forest. Active travelers can take advantage of kayaks, paddleboards, golf, boating, and fishing excursions.

• Nekajui is best for adults, active couples, or families with older teens. The atmosphere leans more adult-oriented. For a family-friendly resort in Costa Rica, our top choice is Four Seasons Costa Rica.

• Families with young children should consider traveling with a nanny. The kids’ club (ages 4–12) was basic compared to other luxury resorts in Costa Rica.

• Accessibility: The main resort areas are wheelchair accessible, but the steep terrain and many stairs to the beach may present challenges.

• Service and dining were not always consistent—something to consider if food is a top priority for your trip.

Through our Hotel-Only service, we can book your stay at the exact same rate you find online, with the added benefit of booking directly with us. We charge zero fees through this service; it is completely complimentary!

When you book with Ourisman Travel, you will be a VIP guest and receive exclusive amenities:

• Room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, and property credits.
• With VIP status, hotel management and staff eagerly await your arrival.
• First priority of the best rooms and suites available.
• Guaranteed lowest rates.
• Ourisman Travel, a top-rated travel advisor, offers enhanced service and attention to detail, free of booking fees.

Ritz Carlton STARS benefits take priority over other programs like Virtuoso or Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts, ensuring the best possible upgrade opportunities.

Nekajui offers a fresh take on Costa Rican luxury, blending culture, sustainability, and elevated design in a spectacular setting. With its jungle-meets-ocean atmosphere and focus on authentic experiences, it’s a fantastic option for travelers who value a sense of place and don’t mind a few quirks that come with a brand-new resort.

Be among the first to experience this brand new gem in Costa Rica! For more information on current STARS rates and promotions, email us at [email protected] or fill out a travel request form. For the DIY travelers, you can even make your booking online with Virtuoso, and we will convert it to a STARS booking on your behalf. We look forward to making your Costa Rica stay truly unforgettable!