Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
Peninsula Papagayo, Guanacaste
On Costa Rica’s Pacific side—the drier side, FYI—the Andaz is a great landing spot for those seeking a chill pace and family-friendly amenities. Rooms have pebbled rainfall showers, floor-to-ceiling windows, and, depending on the floor, plunge pools or balconies overlooking the forest or bay. There are four restaurants; the highlight is Ostra, which features spins on traditional Costa Rican dishes like casado croquettes.
Guests spend most of their time at the four pools (one is adults-only) and three distinct beaches: One is relatively untouched and perfect for lying out on a towel. Another is set up as a take-off spot for kayaking and snorkeling. (Keep your eye out for the turtles who’ve taken up residence in the coral garden.) And the third, which serves as the resort’s beach club, is accessible by a short boat ride.
If you’re traveling with kids between 4 and 12, the thoughtful children’s programming is reason to book this resort over others: The kids’ club has a full schedule of activities, like basic Spanish classes, pottery painting, treasure hunts, and nature meditation. And the resort staff is particularly warm and attentive with little ones. The fact…
