Nekajui Ritz-Carlton Reserve vs. Four Seasons Costa Rica: Which is Better? (2026 Review)
If Peninsula Papagayo is the kind of place where every curve of coastline feels like a movie set, then these two properties are the stars. Four Seasons Costa Rica is the confident classic. Nekajui is the new, design-forward supermodel with a funicular. You really can’t go wrong, but the experiences have their own texture. And to be clear, there is a lot of overlap. Same golf course. Same tennis and recreation areas. Same third-party company for excursions and day trips. Papagayo is the shared backyard. The difference is in how each property frames it.
Funicular to the beach at the Ritz-Carlton Nekajui
Overall Feel
Four Seasons feels like a true luxury resort built for families. Warm, polished, full of life. The kind of place where kids feel at home and parents feel taken care of. It has a natural energy to it, the kind that makes you want to wander around in your sandals with a coffee.
Nekajui feels more curated. A little sleeker and more design-forward. Calm without being quiet. The architecture and lighting do half the heavy lifting of relaxing you. It’s not trying to be everything to everyone, which is exactly why it works.
Rooms
Four Seasons rooms are classic, comfortable, and very family friendly. Great layouts. Reliable storage. And because it’s on its own peninsula with two beaches, you usually get a lovely view.
Nekajui’s rooms feel like modern Costa Rica. Sculptural lighting. Wooden soaking tubs. Frette linens. Intentional space. The two-queen Ocean Vista room is shockingly functional for families who don’t want a full suite. And the balcony is a true hangout zone, not an afterthought.
Food
The truth is that it can be guaranteed that you will not have a bad meal at either of these properties. They both have multiple strong restaurant options. If you’re staying at one resort, it’s worth the reservation and 7 minute drive to check out the other. FYI yes, they all have kids menus.
Four Seasons wins on spontaneity. A very good no-reservation restaurant is a luxury in itself. Sushi, pad thai, coconut curry shrimp, all easy and delicious. You can show up hungry and be fed.
Nekajui wins on atmosphere. Brisa at sunset is almost too pretty. The lighting glows, the colors shift, and the whole thing feels like someone designed the mood board around that exact hour. There’s also a treehouse bar for adults and a splurge-worthy omakase dinner.
Pools
Four Seasons has great family energy. Plenty of space, great service, shade options, and that classic resort buzz.
Nekajui’s pools feel more sculpted into the landscape. The main infinity pool is where everyone gathers. The adults-only pool somehow stays empty, no matter how many adults are on property. Peaceful would be an understatement.
Beach
Four Seasons gives you two beaches, both easy and family friendly. Classic white sand, swimmable water, and plenty of room.
Nekajui’s beach is smaller and more dramatic. A marbled mix of black and white volcanic sand. It disappears at high tide and returns at low tide. Accessed by a very steep, very fun funicular. Snorkeling was wonderful.
Spa and Wellness
Four Seasons has a very good spa and gym, but Nekajui wins here. The hydrotherapy circuit alone could convince someone to extend their stay. Hot and cold plunges, ocean views, a breezy open-air gym, and a serene yoga studio where even midday classes feel cool.
Nekajui Adults Only Hydrotherapy Spa Pool
Kid Friendliness
Four Seasons is the clear family hub. Kids club, toys, activities, warm service, and a natural rhythm that includes children without making anyone feel like they’re at a children’s resort. Countless honeymoons happen here too. It’s not just for families.
Nekajui is kid friendly but in a quieter, more design-forward way. They’re great with special requests, and some suites have adorable bunk rooms. It’s more serene overall, perfect for families who travel well and appreciate a beautiful setting.
Service
Four Seasons service is classic, consistent, and as polished as you’d expect.
Nekajui’s service is warm and heartfelt, with a few small bumps that are normal for a new resort. I have full confidence it will match the design very soon.
Who Should Go Where
The Adults Only Pool Area at the Nekajui
• Honeymoon: Both work, truly. Plenty of honeymoons happen at Four Seasons. But if I had to choose, I think Nekajui might win for me here. It feels a little more cinematic.
• A special grown-up birthday trip: Nekajui, no question. It has the mood, the lighting, the spa, the sunsets.
• A multigen holiday: Four Seasons. Easy, spacious, organized. The grandparents will be happy, the kids will be happy, and you’ll never have to overthink the daily plan.
The Verdict
Both are beautiful. Both share the same Papagayo perks. Both give you access to golf, tennis, recreation, excursions, and the same natural playground. Four Seasons feels like a true family vacation. Nekajui feels like the elevated, design-forward version of that vacation. The good news is that you can’t choose wrong here. Papagayo makes both shine.
If you’re mapping out your own Costa Rica trip and want help choosing the right resort for your style, you can start planning with me right here on my website. For a detailed breakdown of a full week, check out my Papagayo, Costa Rica Family Vacation Guide published on FORA.
I book these properties all the time and can match you with the spot that actually fits how you travel. If you prefer to double check my credentials, you can peek at my Fora advisor page or Virtuoso profile and read my Testimonials. Either way, I’ll take care of the details so you can focus on the fun.
