Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort: Luxury, Wellness, and Ocean Views

September 17, 2025

There are some places that feel special the second you arrive, and the Andaz in Costa Rica is one of them. Tucked away on the lush Papagayo Peninsula, this luxury resort is surrounded by jungle, ocean, and that slow, easy energy Costa Rica is known for. The fact that it is only about 30 minutes from Liberia Airport makes it even better. From the moment you check in, everything is taken care of for you. It is the kind of place where you can completely relax, never have to leave the property, and not think about a single detail. After my time at Rythmia, this was the perfect escape to ground myself and settle back into my body and spirit.

The Resort & Design

The property itself is stunning. The design feels like it belongs to the landscape, with structures that open to the jungle and frame sweeping views of Culebra Bay. Open air spaces, warm woods, and soft textures give it a modern yet soulful vibe. One of my favorite examples of this is the yoga shala, a serene space that overlooks the ocean and makes every practice feel connected to nature. Everything here is elevated but never pretentious. It feels chic, calming, and completely in harmony with its environment. The same indoor outdoor flow continues into the rooms.

Rooms with a View

The rooms at the Andaz in Costa Rica are spacious, modern, and designed with the same connection to nature as the rest of the property. Floor to ceiling windows open to private terraces with sitting areas, inviting you to slow down and take in the jungle or bay views. The interiors reflect Costa Rica’s natural beauty with earthy tones, organic textures, and handcrafted details, while still giving you every modern comfort you could want. One of my favorite touches was the shower, which has a door that opens directly to the balcony so it feels like an outdoor shower while still offering total privacy. It is the perfect blend of luxury and ease, creating a space you look forward to coming back to after a day in the sun.

Pools & Beach Club

The pool scene at the Andaz Papagayo Hotel Costa Rica is one of the best I have experienced. There are multiple pools throughout the property, each designed with a different type of traveler in mind. Families will love the lively family pools and the kids club, which keeps little ones entertained and makes the resort a true win for parents. For those seeking peace and quiet, there is a serene adults only pool that feels like a private escape. I learned that if you want to have a friend stop by to hang at the pool, they do charge a fee for anyone that’s not a guest.

Another highlight is Casa de Playa, the resort’s private beach club that you reach by boat (so fun!). Spending the day there feels like slipping away to your own secret cove. The water is calm and swimmable, the sand is soft, and there is a restaurant serving fresh, flavorful dishes and tropical cocktails. It is the kind of place where you could easily spend an entire day without wanting to leave.

Dining at Andaz

Food is always such an important part of travel for me, and the dining at Andaz was a highlight of my stay. Rio Bhongo is the casual, family friendly spot, perfect for an easy breakfast or a relaxed meal during the day.

My favorite, though, was Ostra. While it is known as the resort’s fine dining restaurant, it also serves breakfast, and this quickly became my top choice each morning. The setting is calm and refined with stunning bay views, and the menu is Asian inspired with beautifully balanced flavors. During my stay, there was even a special pop up called Perla (the pearl inside the oyster), featuring sushi that was not only delicious but also offered great vegan options. It felt creative, fresh, and unexpected in the best way. Dinner at Ostra is equally memorable, perfect for a romantic evening or anyone looking for a more elevated dining experience.

For nights with a little more energy, Chao Pescao is the place to be. The small plates are fun to share, the cocktails are incredible, and live music on some evenings adds such a vibrant touch. It is the kind of spot where you want to linger long after your meal is over.

No matter which restaurant you choose, the emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and Costa Rican flavors makes every meal feel like a special part of the experience.

Wellness & Activities

Wellness feels beautifully woven into every part of the Andaz experience. Daily yoga sessions take place in the open air shala overlooking the ocean, and it is hard to imagine a more peaceful or inspiring setting. Beyond yoga, the resort also offers an open air gym, sound baths, and other mindful experiences that make it easy to stay grounded while traveling. It was the perfect environment for me as I continue on my healing journey.

The spa was another highlight of my stay. Nestled into the lush landscape, it feels like a true retreat within the resort. Treatments draw on local healing traditions, and one of the most meaningful rituals begins with setting an intention and then tossing a flower over a bridge as an offering. It is such a beautiful way to begin your treatment and connect more deeply with yourself and the environment.

Andaz also partners with The Explorers for a wide range of activities. I chose the coral planting excursion, which allowed me to engage with sustainability in a hands-on way. Whether it is through yoga, spa rituals, or eco-friendly experiences, mind, body, and spiritual wellness here feels intentional and fully aligned with the pura vida lifestyle.

Who It Is For

The Andaz Papagayo Hotel Costa Rica is best suited for couples, families, or small groups of friends who want to share a luxury experience together. With a kids club, family friendly pools, and plenty of activities, it works beautifully for families, while the adults only areas and spa make it just as ideal for a romantic getaway. Since the resort is only 30 minutes from Liberia Airport, it is also a perfect spot to either begin or wrap up your Costa Rica adventure.

Final Thoughts

My time at the Andaz in Costa Rica was everything I could have hoped for in a luxury escape. From the thoughtful design and ocean views to the wellness offerings and Casa de Playa, it is the kind of resort where every detail is taken care of from the moment you arrive. For me, it was the perfect place to ground after Rythmia and settle into the pura vida lifestyle. Whether you are starting or ending your Costa Rica trip here, the Andaz Papagayo Hotel Costa Rica is a destination that makes you want to slow down, breathe, and simply enjoy the beauty around you.

What is your idea of the perfect luxury escape: wellness, adventure, or pure relaxation?