Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo: Still Worth the Points?
A Longtime Favorite That’s (Almost) Still a Steal
We first stayed at the Andaz Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo back when it was just 21,000 Hyatt points per night. At that price, it felt like a hidden gem. A private hillside jungle retreat with panoramic ocean views, wildlife all around, top-tier breakfast, and golf carts to take you everywhere? No-brainer.
Now that it goes for 35,000 points per night, it’s a little harder to be as enthusiastic. But even at that higher rate, I’d still go back—and I have. This is still my favorite Hyatt resort overall, and here’s why it continues to earn that spot, even if the price point has crept up.
The Property: Jungle Meets Luxury
The resort sits on a cliffside overlooking Culebra Bay, surrounded by thick greenery and howler monkeys swinging overhead (we’ve heard them many times—sometimes before sunrise). The design leans into the natural surroundings. Think open-air lobbies, stone pathways, and rooms that bring the outside in with big windows and earthy materials.
There are three beaches, two of which are accessible by walking trails or golf cart rides—Playa Sombrero and Playa Andaz. These aren’t massive stretches of sand, but they feel private, peaceful, and wild in the best way.
The pools are spread out across the resort, with options for both family-friendly and adults-only relaxation. In the evening, the pool area lights up with string lights and soft music, creating a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for winding down after a day exploring or doing nothing at all.
Rooms That Feel Like Nature Lodges—Only Better
Rooms at the Andaz Papagayo are sleek but warm, with clean concrete floors, wooden accents, and oversized sliding doors that open to jungle or bay views. The rain showers with floor-to-ceiling windows make you feel like you’re bathing outdoors—without the bugs.
We’ve stayed in standard rooms and suites, and they all deliver on comfort. The beds are firm but plush, and the design is minimal but luxurious. There’s a desk if you’re working remotely (don’t), and every room has a cozy lounging spot inside and out.
The Golf Carts Are a Feature, Not a Gimmick
Don’t underestimate how much you’ll appreciate the on-demand golf cart rides. The resort is spread across hilly terrain, and while you can walk everywhere, having a friendly driver zip you around makes a big difference, especially with kids or beach bags in tow.
You call a cart from your room, the beach, the pool—wherever—and someone’s there in minutes. It’s seamless, and somehow adds to the overall resort charm. Our daughter thought it was the best part of the trip.
Breakfast Is a Big Deal Here
Hyatt Globalists (and some rates) get access to the breakfast buffet, which is held at Rio Bhongo, the main restaurant. This isn’t your average breakfast spread. We’re talking fresh fruits, Costa Rican specialties like gallo pinto, local cheeses, pastries, omelet stations, and fresh smoothies made to order.
Even the coffee is great. And this is coming from someone who travels with their own coffee gear just in case.
There’s something about that open-air setting, with monkeys rustling in the nearby trees and the bay in the distance, that just makes mornings feel special. It’s easily one of the best hotel breakfasts we’ve had anywhere.
Dining & Drinks
The resort has three main restaurants:
- Rio Bhongo – Open for breakfast and casual dining throughout the day.
- Chao Pescao – Tapas and cocktails, great for sunset and live music nights.
- Ostra – The upscale option, focused on seafood.
Food is solid across the board. Prices are typical for a luxury resort, but not outrageous. We’ve also grabbed fresh coconuts (as seen in our photo) from the staff walking around with them in the afternoon. Small touches like that add to the overall experience.
Activities On Property
There’s plenty to do without ever leaving:
- Free mixology and barista classes
- A kids’ club and curated family activities
- Spa treatments with jungle or ocean views
- Complimentary kayaks and paddleboards
- Guided nature walks
You can also book excursions through the hotel—things like boat tours, snorkeling, or visits to nearby beaches and hot springs.
We also spent time just hanging out on the secluded beaches, letting the kid play in the sand while we watched the sun drop behind the trees.
Wildlife Encounters Are Daily
We’ve seen howler monkeys, iguanas, and coatis during every stay. Look up while you’re walking the trails—you’ll almost always spot movement in the trees. It adds a layer of magic that you just don’t get at many resorts.
The Points Situation
When we first booked the Andaz at 21,000 points per night, it felt like one of the best value redemptions in Hyatt’s entire portfolio. That’s changed. Now it falls under Category 8, with nights typically 35,000 points.
Most of the year, you’ll see that 35,000-point rate, especially during winter and school breaks. That’s steep—but we’ve still done it.
Would I go out of my way to book at that rate every time? Maybe not. But if it you find off peak pricing for 29,000 it’s not a bad use of points.
The property still holds up. It’s gorgeous, relaxing, and feels like a full experience—not just a hotel stay.
Final Thoughts
The Andaz Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo remains a standout Hyatt property. Yes, the point cost is higher now, and the wow-factor that came with a 21,000-point redemption has faded a bit. But the combination of nature, comfort, food, and service still makes it one of the best.
If you’re headed to Costa Rica and want a luxurious, nature-immersed escape where you don’t need to leave the resort to feel like you’ve had an adventure—this is it.
