The Athens Group, a full-service real estate development company, has announced the opening of Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica. The property is the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Central and South America and marks a strategic expansion of the company’s international hospitality portfolio.
Developed through a joint venture with Mohari Hospitality and Gencom, Nekajui becomes the eighth property in the Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio. “Every detail of Nekajui was designed to create a serene and culturally immersive escape that reflects our commitment to pushing the boundaries of luxury development,” said Victor Cortes, vice president of development at The Athens Group.
Located near the Peninsula Papagayo Arnold-Palmer Signature Golf Course and tennis center, the resort includes 107 ocean-view guest rooms and suites, treetop tents, a beach club, seven dining concepts and the signature Nimbu Spa.

“Nekajui is unlike anything we have ever created, bringing to life our most ambitious vision yet for what place-based, purpose-driven hospitality can be. From meticulously crafted architectural details to our collaboration with a world-renowned hospitality brand, every element is designed to deliver lasting value to guests, owners and the surrounding community,” said John Mansour, principal and chief development officer of The Athens Group.
In addition to the hotel, the development includes 36 private residences ranging from two to five bedrooms. According to the company, all 36 residences were sold before the hotel’s opening and are intended for large groups and multigenerational families looking for long-term stays in the region.