A Relaxed Escape to the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo

Infinity Pool, Check!

Let’s be honest: sometimes you just need a break. No work emails, no chores, no responsibilities—just you, your partner, and a beautiful place to unwind. That’s exactly what my wife and I were after when we booked our stay at the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo. As a dual-income, no-kids couple, we wanted a mix of relaxation, adventure, and a little luxury, and this place delivered. Here’s the lowdown on our experience, from the travel to the resort itself.

Getting There: Is it Easy and Stress-Free?

Flying out from Costa Rica.

We flew into Liberia International Airport (LIR), which is about a 30-minute drive from the resort. Liberia is a smaller airport, so it’s way less chaotic than some of the bigger hubs. No long lines, no endless walking—just grab your bags, hop in a cab or the resort shuttle, and you’re on your way. The drive to the resort is scenic, with dry tropical forests and glimpses of the ocean. It’s the kind of ride that immediately puts you in vacation mode.

The Location: Quiet and Stunning

The view from the lobby.

The resort is tucked away on the Peninsula Papagayo, a secluded area that feels like it’s a world away from everything. It’s surrounded by lush forests and calm beaches, and the wildlife is everywhere. We saw monkeys swinging through the trees, iguanas lounging by the pool, and even a few dolphins out in the bay. It’s peaceful without being boring, which was exactly what we were looking for.

That said, if you’re someone who needs a lot of action or nightlife, this might not be your spot. The area is quiet, and the resort itself is the main attraction. But for us, that was a plus. We were there to relax, not party.

The Rooms: Comfortable and Stylish

Beautiful rooms and suites.

We stayed in one of the suites, and it was exactly what we needed. The room was spacious, with a king-sized bed, a sitting area, and a private terrace overlooking the ocean. The design is modern but with a Costa Rican twist—lots of natural wood and earthy tones. The bathroom was open and airy, with a huge shower and double sinks (because no one wants to fight over counter space).

The best part? The terrace. We spent a lot of time out there, sipping coffee in the morning and wine in the evening. It’s the kind of space that makes you want to slow down and just enjoy the moment.

The Food: Solid, But Not the Star of the Show

Welcome drink? Yes please.

Let’s talk about the food. It’s good—not mind-blowing, but good. The breakfast buffet is a highlight, especially if you’re a Hyatt Globalist and get it for free. There’s a mix of local Costa Rican dishes and international options, so you can start your day with gallo pinto (rice and beans) or stick to pancakes and eggs if that’s more your style.

For lunch and dinner, the restaurants are decent but pricey. We ate at the resort most nights because, honestly, we didn’t feel like leaving. The seafood is fresh, and the cocktails are strong, so no complaints there. That said, if you’re a foodie, you might want to venture out for a meal or two.

The Activities: Relaxation Meets Adventure

Do it! Go on an adventure while you are there!

One of the things we loved about the Andaz Papagayo is that it strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. If you want to do nothing but lounge by the pool with a book, you can. The infinity pool is stunning, with panoramic views of the ocean and plenty of comfortable loungers. There’s also a swim-up bar, which is always a win in my book.

But if you’re feeling more active, there’s plenty to do. We went hiking one morning and saw howler monkeys and colorful birds. Another day, we rented kayaks and paddled around the bay. The resort also offers snorkeling, paddleboarding, and even yoga classes. We didn’t try the zip-lining, but it’s nearby if you’re feeling adventurous.

The Vibe: Chill but Sophisticated

The grounds are lush and the scenery is stunning.

The overall vibe of the resort is laid-back but sophisticated. It’s not stuffy or pretentious, but it’s definitely upscale. The staff is friendly and attentive without being overbearing, and the other guests were a mix of couples like us and a few families (though it never felt overrun with kids).

One thing to note: the resort is spread out, so be prepared to do a bit of walking. There are golf carts to shuttle you around if you need them, but we enjoyed strolling through the property and taking in the views.

The Bottom Line

Monkeying Around: The playful monkeys are around the resort and they are ready to steal your food.

The Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo isn’t perfect, but it’s pretty close. It’s the kind of place where you can truly unwind and reconnect—with each other and with nature. The location is stunning, the rooms are comfortable, and there’s enough to do to keep things interesting without feeling overwhelming.

If you’re a couple looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure in a beautiful setting, this is a great choice. Just don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and a good book—you’re going to need both.