Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique Debuts

Hilton has unveiled the Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique, expanding Hilton’s luxury portfolio in the Caribbean and Latin America. Situated along the shores of Playa Penca on Punta Cacique, the 188-room resort provides views of Costa Rica’s Northern Pacific Coast. Guests can indulge in six dining experiences, amenities including a multi-level pool, dedicated kids and teens clubs, a 17,000 square foot spa and fitness center, and 10,000 square feet of meeting space.

Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique

"We are thrilled to celebrate the grand opening of Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique, a significant addition to our presence in the region. This property marks the debut of the brand in Costa Rica and offers guests an unparalleled level of luxury and our signature Waldorf Astoria hospitality,” said Danny Hughes, president, Americas, Hilton. “We look forward to welcoming travelers from around the world to discover Costa Rica’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and natural beauty.”

Conveniently located just 25 minutes from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, and the first property to open in the Punta Cacique luxury community, the resort provides easy access to premier attractions and nearby beach towns while maintaining exclusivity and serenity. Perched cliffside, its architecture is thoughtfully terraced within the natural contours, capturing distinctive panoramic views including Culebra Bay to the North, Coco Bay to the South, and unobstructed sunset views over the Pacific. 

The landscape design incorporates native flora that conserves water and gradually envelops the structures, fostering a deep connection with the surrounding environment. Sordo Madaleno Arquitectos of Mexico City crafted indoor and outdoor spaces to flow effortlessly together, intentionally integrating into natural site contours and featuring living rooftops to mitigate heat and enhance sustainability. The resort proudly holds the prestigious Costa Rican "Bandera Azul Ecológica" award for Playa Penca, which recognizes the effort of organizations that seek to improve environmental conditions, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation.

Upon arrival, guests are immersed in the area’s natural beauty. The design crafts a unique guest journey, starting at the arrival building reception and Terrace Bar with sweeping, panoramic views of Playa Penca from every angle, creating an immediate sense of calm. Pathways guide guests organically to their rooms and the vibrant public area known as Poblado, featuring exquisite dining venues and the iconic Waldorf Astoria Clock. This journey continues through a cascading sequence of pools and waterfalls, culminating in an elevated path that leads to the Beach Lounge and the stunning Sunset Rooftop.

The property’s 148 guest rooms and 40 suites offer views of Punta Caciques’ dramatic landscapes, where lush forests and pristine beaches create an unforgettable backdrop. The design is modern and refined, with earthy tones that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings. Spacious terraces and balconies invite the outdoors in, creating a serene and effortless sense of connection with nature. For an elevated experience, guests can indulge in one of 40 suites, each thoughtfully designed with generous living areas and private terraces or rooftops, 22 of which feature private plunge pools. Every detail is meticulously curated for unparalleled privacy and comfort, ensuring a memorable stay in paradise.

“The opening of Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique marks the premiere of the brand in yet another world-class destination,” said Dino Michael, senior vice president and global head, Hilton Luxury Brands. “From the many considerations in its architecture and design, to curated guest experience and food and beverage, this property is embodying the next era of the Waldorf Astoria brand and our considered growth this year and beyond.” 

Embracing the ethos of barefoot luxury, beyond the guest rooms, travelers can immerse themselves in a tropical paradise at the resort’s multi-level pool. Crystalline waters cascade from the highest tiers to the lowest, with steps adorned with loungers resting just below the water’s surface. For the ultimate relaxation, canvas-cushioned sunbeds are readily available along the wooden deck that encircles the pool, offering views of leafy treetops in the distance.

Just steps away lies an idyllic, secluded stretch of beach along miles of uninterrupted oceanfront on the coast of Guanacaste. Guests can venture to the beach and unwind on deluxe loungers, cabanas, and umbrellas while taking in the native plants and rocky outcrops that flank Playa Penca. The temperate climate allows for swimming, paddleboarding, and boating year-round.

The resort boasts six culinary experiences, each infused with the flavors and traditions of Guanacaste. Executive Chef Nicolas Piatti and Food and Beverage Director Ana Martinez prioritize sourcing local ingredients from small-scale farmers and nearby plantations ensuring every dish narrates the story of the land, the people, and the rich cultural heritage of the region. 

At La Finca, Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique’s signature restaurant, dishes seamlessly blend tradition and modernity with expertly caught seafood, showcasing the best of the region and dry-aged, grass-fed beef, prepared using time-honored Chorotega harvesting techniques and incorporating maize-based ingredients from the region. Tico-Tica captures the spirit of the “Pura Vida” lifestyle offering a relaxed yet sophisticated setting where visitors can enjoy a succulent meal while taking in the captivating views of Playa Penca. The all-day dining restaurant is anchored around an open kitchen and the culinary team will harness the power of the open flame creating a menu that flows naturally from daytime to evening embracing the ingredients, spices and flavors of Costa Rica.

The brand’s signature Peacock Alley Bar brings Waldorf Astoria's elegance to Costa Rica, serving small plates that celebrate ancestral flavors alongside expertly crafted cocktails featuring local ingredients from raw sugarcane to Costa Rican rum. Buena Nota Bakery & Coffee Shop offers fresh, tropical treats, including artisan coffee sourced from top Costa Rican regions. Copo y Cono Ice Cream Shop serves vibrant, locally flavored ice creams, while Vida Pool & Grill provides a coastal dining experience with Latin-inspired dishes like suckling pig, ceviches, and tostones.

The Spa at Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique harmonizes the destination’s untamed terrain with modern techniques and ancient practices. Its ritual-based treatments are meticulously crafted to recenter and connect with nature’s rhythm. Drawing on the healing traditions of the Chorotega people, indigenous to the region, the Spa uses volcanic clay and minerals to absorb negative energies and restore balance. This commitment to leveraging the region’s abundant bounty is reflected in its thoughtfully crafted, earth-based treatments that harness the potency of locally sourced and indigenous ingredients—such as volcanic clay, cacao, and native botanicals.

The holistic sanctuary spans 17,000-square-feet and features 11 tranquil treatment rooms, elegantly appointed pre- and post-treatment lounges, saunas, steam rooms and a jacuzzi. The spa’s offerings are centered around wellness, rituals, sustainability & environmental respect, and mindful connection, embodying the essence of the ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle and the serene spirit of Costa Rica. Guests can experience a unique selection of therapies and rituals that blend ancestral wisdom with innovative practices, such as Chorotegan Cacao Healing, a ceremonial ritual incorporating cacao, volcanic mud, and craniosacral massage for heart-opening rejuvenation and Mariola Body Experience, a rejuvenating ritual featuring Costa Rica’s Melipona honey, spiritual herb cleansing, an indulgent body scrub, wrap, and a soothing full-body massage.

The resort’s wellness offerings extend beyond the spa, with a fully-equipped fitness center and a diverse range of programming for all ages, including a fitness pool surrounded by plush chaises. Guests can choose from a range of wellness activities, including an open-air yoga studio, guided meditation, and dynamic movement classes, each designed to suit their individual wellness journey. 

Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique presents a collection of once-in-a-lifetime immersive explorations for guests of all ages, highlighting the adventurous essence of Costa Rica. Guests can embark on a private tour to the Brunca region—where they can explore thriving coffee plantations, learn about the intricate art of coffee production, and enjoy an exclusive tasting led by Costa Rican Barista Champion Azofeifa. Hands-on activities such as chocolate sculpting, farm tours and more have been designed to connect visitors with the heart and soul of the destination.

The broader Guanacaste region offers visitors a diverse array of scenic wonders, including majestic volcanoes, soothing hot springs, and captivating waterfalls. Year-round, guests can enjoy water activities including boating, paddleboarding, surfing, snorkeling, and guided wildlife excursions. Nearby towns like Coco and Playa Hermosa offer opportunities to explore beaches, shops and restaurants. For families, the resort’s dedicated Kids Club and Teens Club ensure a rejuvenating and engaging experience for all ages.

Complementing its design, the property boasts 10,000 square feet of versatile meeting and event space perched atop the serene Punta Cacique peninsula, overlooking Playa Penca. The resort’s distinctive spaces and ballrooms feature spectacular ocean views and verdant greenery. The grand and junior ballrooms, along with an event lawn, set refined scenes for sophisticated events of up to 382 attendees. 

The resort’s ceremonial pavilion is a blissful indoor setting for bespoke affairs, wedding ceremonies, and receptions. Outdoors, the resort’s ceremonial terrace and white-sand beach offer a dramatic backdrop for nuptial celebrations beneath the Costa Rican sky. Each ceremonial pavilion can host up to 100 guests.