Pristine Nature of Papagayo Peninsula
Sun-bleached sands, quiet afternoons, and the hoots of howler monkeys welcome you to Papagayo on Costa Rica's north Pacific coast.
The sparkling Gulf of Papagayo is a sapphire swath of sparkling ocean and warm waters, protected by graceful fingers of land on both northern and southern sides. And in between them, along the golden coastline, are the various Papagayo hotels and eco-resorts.
The Papagayo Peninsula doesn't really have a central town or community. Instead, the area's hotels border the bay, nestled on hillsides falling to perfect beaches.
Papagayo is an excellent choice for any beach lover to visit, particularly suited to those who prefer the all-inclusive model.
Adventure and Relaxation
Papagayo is all about sunshine and fun on the beach. You'll find twelve different beaches around the bay here, all offering bathwater warm and calm waters backed by tropical dry forests where noisy howler monkeys live.
The area offers many opportunities for relaxation and adventure, from sunbathing on spotless beaches to sunset catamaran tours, banana boat rides, and parasailing.
If you’re looking for further exploration, numerous national parks and reserves provide spectacular wildlife watching opportunities and an active volcano is just a day trip away.
Luxury in Papagayo
Most hotels in Papagayo specialize in green luxury – a unique blend of exceptional service and eco-friendly amenities.
The Four Seasons is arguably Costa Rica's most luxurious resort, home to opulent rooms, suites, and rental villas with breathtaking sunset views.
You'll also find Andaz Costa Rica here, part of the Hyatt portfolio of hotels. A stay at Andaz is a truly unique experience, perfect for those looking for secluded luxury and gourmet dining.
The 35-room Bosque de Mar rounds out our Papagayo hotel offerings if you're looking for small and understated. The hotel's oceanside location, just steps from the sands, is the perfect home base for Pacific coast explorations – and the ideal choice for lazy afternoons doing nothing at all.
FAQs
What are the best luxury resorts in the Papagayo area?
The Four Seasons and Secrets Papagayo are wonderfully luxurious. Secrets is an adults-only hotel on a gorgeous beach set amid lush gardens. It's all about pampering and more pampering.
How many days do you need in Papagayo, Costa Rica?
We recommend staying about a week in Papagayo to make the most of your resort and participate in various offsite activities. You might also include a day trip or two to another area.
Is the Gulf of Papagayo touristy?
It's what we'd call "upscale touristy," meaning, yes, there are a lot of tourists, but they're not out partying on the streets in a central town causing a lot of noise. Instead, Papagayo attracts calmer guests who like to enjoy the beach and resort amenities.
Is Papagayo safe to visit?
Yes. Papagayo is a safe part of Costa Rica. We always recommend keeping an eye on your belongings just in case, but it's an upscale area. Many hotel options are all-inclusive, so you don't have to worry about carrying and keeping an eye on your wallet. You can bounce between the pool and beach without worry.
Which is an economical hotel in Papagayo?
Bosque del Mar starts at just $170 per night. Additionally, it's eco-friendly and right on a soft sand beach that is widely accepted as the most beautiful beach in the country.