Planning a luxury getaway to Costa Rica’s stunning Golfo de Papagayo comes with high expectations—and an array of world-class resorts to choose from. A quick geographic tip that trips up many first-time visitors: Andaz, Four Seasons, and Nekajui are located inside the gated Peninsula Papagayo enclave, while Waldorf Astoria sits just across the bay on Playa Penca.
Each property brings its own distinct personality to the table. Here is what you need to know to pick the right home base for your trip:
Andaz Costa Rica Resort: An absolute paradise for families. Beyond its kid-friendly amenities and lush setting, a major highlight is the Andaz Beach House. Located on a separate, secluded beach, the resort provides a free boat transfer to get you there—turning a simple ride into a memorable water adventure.
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica: Famous for high-end dining and top-tier service. Most importantly, it holds a unique geographic advantage: it is the only resort in the area where you can watch the sunset directly from the property.
Nekajui (A Ritz-Carlton Reserve): A masterclass in high-design and exquisite decor. Its standout feature is a breathtaking hanging bridge that adds pure magic to the arrival and resort experience. Its beach is also home to the famous tidal caves. Local Secret: Even if you are staying at Andaz, Four Seasons, or Waldorf Astoria, GoSouth can take you directly to explore these incredible ocean caves by boat.
Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica: Offers dramatic elevated views, gorgeous surrounding landscapes, and an incredibly welcoming atmosphere for families traveling with children.
The Local Secret: Catching the Sunset
While these properties offer world-class luxury, geography creates a unique twist: Four Seasons is the only resort where you can see the sunset from land. Because the other resorts face inward toward the bay or hillsides, the golden hour gets cut short by the coastline.
To catch the legendary Pacific sunset from Andaz, Nekajui, or Waldorf Astoria, you have to get out on the water. Our private GoSouth Sunset Boat Tours take you beyond the bay’s edge to experience the vibrant colors over the open ocean—complete with drinks, sea breezes, and front-row seats to nature’s daily show.
Seamless Boat Pickups Right from Your Resort Beach:
You don’t need to worry about transfers or taxis to start your ocean adventure. With 15 years of local maritime expertise, GoSouth Adventures picks you up directly from your resort’s beach:
Pickup Locatios by boat:
Andaz Costa Rica Resort: Sombrero Oscuro Beach
Nekajui (Ritz-Carlton Reserve):Playa Huevo
Waldorf Astoria: Playa Penca
Four Seasons Resort: Playa Blanca (Switches to Playa Virador depending on wind conditions)
Whether you want a private sunset cruise, a snorkeling expedition, or a coastal charter, our team ensures a seamless experience from the moment you step onto the sand.
