Papagayo Peninsula: World's Best Eco-Luxury Destination
Updated: Dec 21, 2021
Located on the north Pacific coast of Costa Rica, the Papagayo Peninsula offers a supreme fusion of nature, adventure and high-end luxury. It is a popular destination for those seeking an exclusive eco-luxury retreat and is easily accessible from multiple airport hubs throughout the United States.
Words by Markin Abras & Adriana Garuolis
The Setting
The Papagayo Peninsula is located within the Guanacaste province in the northwest corner of Costa Rica. The peninsula stretches over an area of 15 miles and was formed by volcanic activity. It contains a total of 31 separate beaches and is likewise host to a rich biological diversity.
Papagayo is home to several captivating species of animals including the delightfully interactive white-faced capuchin and howler monkeys, ring-tailed coatis, white-tailed deer, and a plethora of bird life. A remarkable variety of marine fauna (dolphins, turtles and rays) surrounds the peninsula as well.
There are a host of national parks within driving reach of the peninsula that include Parque Nacional Santa Rosa, Parque Nacional Volcan Rincon de la Vieja, Parque Nacional Guanacaste, Parque Nacional Volcan Tenorio, Parque Nacional Palo Verde, as well as the Lomas de Barbudal Biological Reserve.
As part of a national conservation effort, it is of notable mention that Costa Rica's government requires that 70% of the land on the peninsula remain untouched (undeveloped) ensuring that its biodiversity is preserved.
Stay in Nature: Luxury Style
Papagayo Peninsula is the unique, exclusive home of both the Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort and the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica, allowing you to experience Papagayo's splendorous natural world up, close and personal, without setting luxury aside.
Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort
Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort-a concept by Hyatt
Phone: +506 2690 1234
Nestled on the lush shores of Papagayo Peninsula, Andaz captures Costa Rica’s iconic “Pura Vida” philosophy, representing a country and its people that are “teeming with life”. Andaz, a Hindi word connoting “personal style,” encourages guests to express their own sense of style. When you stay at Andaz you will celebrate your own freedom of being whilst experiencing a part of Costa Rica’s vibrant culture and community.
Hotel Features
Andaz offers world-class amenities amongst its 153 guestrooms and suites with stunning views of the Pacific ocean and its tropical dry forest landscape characteristic of the Guanacaste province. Its privileged, ocean-surrounded location allows you to enjoy two pristine beaches located at different sites in the peninsula, each surrounded by lush vegetation and lowland mountains.
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Dine at any of three dining spots, each offering a superb gastronomical experience with a Latin American flair.
Ostra Restaurant offers an elegant dining experience in an intimate and romantic setting that is exquisitely intertwined with the natural surroundings, including its tropical forest and Culebra Bay views. Ostra offers a unique Costa Rican/Peruvian fusion style seafood fare and its signature ceviches are touted to be the best in the Guanacaste Province.
The other two eating sites are the Chao Pescao and Rio Bhongo restaurants. Chao Pescao is a casual dining experience specializing in plate samplers (“tapas” style) and cocktail mixologist specialties. It is the liveliest of the three restaurant options, providing a setting - such as sitting alongside others at the entertaining and engaging mixologist bar - encouraging interaction and fun to be had by its patrons. Rio Bhongo is the main restaurant of the resort offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. Rio Bhongo is considered a central meeting point for guests to enjoy an array of freshly made locally-inspired foods alongside outstanding sights of Culebra bay, a tree-studded beautiful infinity pool and guaranteed playful monkey visits at various times throughout the day.
For those seeking total relaxation, make sure to visit Onda Spa. Featuring nine inspiring spa treatment rooms, enjoy luxurious treatments using the finest locally-sourced natural and organic ingredients.
For those looking to satisfy their fitness needs, Andaz offers complimentary 24 hour access to a fully equipped fitness center, steam room and showers. Private yoga lessons are available upon request.
Whether planning a professional meeting, wedding or inspirational gathering, Andaz offers a complete range of event planning and services. Events are held at award-winning, architecturally-outstanding, stand-alone studios with stunning ocean views, ideal for unforgettable gatherings of any kind.
For those looking to experience Costa Rica’s nature, Andaz offers a spectrum of activities such as personalized tours of indigenous reserves and national parks, including explorations of the nearby Rincón de la Vieja volcano. Other notable experiences include zip-line tree canopy tours and water sports such as kayaking, snorkeling, paddle boarding and more.
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2696 0000
Rated as the Top Resort in Central & South America by Condé Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards, the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica—sits on majestic site at Peninsula Papagayo—furnishing the ultimate nature luxury experience with superb facilities and style. Teeming with wildlife and surrounded by two magnificent green-turquoise beaches–Playa Blanca and the Playa Virador, the Four Seasons is the ideal upscale eco-resort getaway.
Hotel Features
Distinguished Davis Design Studio recently redesigned the resort’s 182 guest rooms, lobby, retail and culinary sites. Natural colors and textures, including new furnishings, deliver a handcrafted chic design while bridging indoor-outdoor spaces harmoniously. Each room’s private balcony seamless connects you the Papagaygo’s marvelous ocean views including its diverse flora and fauna.
Memorable Stay
Suite, Villas & Private Estates
For an unforgettable stay, the Four Seasons offers suites, villas and private estates.
Miramiar Suite and Canopy Premier Plunge Pool Suite both features three-bedrooms overlooking marvelous views over the coastline and tropical dry forest from a private terrace and pool. Villa options include two or three-bedroom Residence Villas with plunge pool. Prominent private residence estates include Casa del Mar, Casa de la Luna and Casa del Cielo. All private estates feature outdoor living space, heated infinity pool, jacuzzi, barbecue space and can host up to 10 adults and 4 children or 8 adults and 6 children. Casa de la Luna Residence Estate maximum occupancy is 6 adults or 4 adults and 2 children. Estate guests receive welcome amenities, complimentary laundry services, fresh flowers even a butler for guests staying a minimum of five nights.
Experiences For All
The ultra-chic resort has something unique for everyone to enjoy including a world-class 18-hole golf course designed by Arnold Palmer. Guests have access to oceanfront pool cabanas, three infinity edge pools, full-service spa, tennis courts, fully equipped fitness center and a concierge services. A range of experiences are available for quests including monkey chatter hike, snorkeling exploration, enology class, sunset yoga, moonlit kayak tour, bird watching, chocolate rum tasting, beach family movies, sunset bike tours even cooking classes.
Culinary Sites
Four Seasons offers fine dining at several culinary sites. Bahia features Latin American cuisine made from seasonable organic and locally produced ingredients, prepared in a wood-fired open kitchen. Start your morning with a copious buffet-style breakfast featuring delightful Costa Rican cooked specialties alongside with an extensive selection freshly made foods. For lunch and dinner, Bahia offers a range of grilled specialties such as fire-grilled seafood and meats, locally grown vegetables, grilled avocado, roasted mushrooms and more.
Savor inspired Italian seafood cuisine at Pesce. Enjoy dazzling ocean vistas while savoring classic Italian specialties including carpaccios, pastas, risottos, fishes and meats. Open daily for dinner and reservation is recommended.
American premier steakhouse Caracol features prime dry-aged beef, raw bar and a variety of classic dishes. Located in the Four Seasons Golf Club, you will enjoy magnificent views of the Arnold Palmer golf course.
Enjoy a more casual setting at Añejo. Offering grab-and-go options, this relaxed venue is the ideal stop for those looking for a quick morning bite, tapas, crudos and pre-dinner cocktails offering a wide range of premium liquors and spirits.
For those looking for experience rum, don’t miss La Reserva. Enjoy a wide selection of premium rums, special blends and infusions from expert mixologists.
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