Waldorf Astoria Punta Cacique – Luxury Retreat in Costa Rica

Costa Rica just raised the bar for luxury escapes. The grand opening of the Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique marks a new era for travelers who crave lush jungles, five-star indulgence, and inspired design in equal measure. If Guanacaste wasn’t on your must-visit list, this extraordinary Hilton-managed property is about to change your mind.

Whether you’re a Hilton Honors points enthusiast, a connoisseur of world-class dining, or just looking to unwind in your private plunge pool, here’s everything you need to know about Costa Rica’s most exciting new resort.

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Photo Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique via Booking.com

An Iconic Debut on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast

The Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique officially opened its doors in April 2025 on a stunning peninsula in Guanacaste, offering guests panoramic views of both lush forests and the glittering Pacific. For luxury travelers, this isn’t just another beach destination. This marks the debut of the legendary Waldorf Astoria brand in Costa Rica, setting a high standard for future openings in Central America.

Convenience is a priority here. The resort is only a 25-minute drive from Liberia’s Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR), which serves direct flights from an impressive roster of North American and European airlines. No long, winding transfers required—just a quick ride and you’re stepping into paradise.

Resort at a Glance

• Accommodations: 148 guest rooms, 40 spacious suites (22 with private plunge pools), plus 20+ Waldorf Astoria residences
• Dining: Six inventive venues spotlighting Costa Rican flavors
• Wellness: 17,000-square-foot spa with indigenous rituals and locally sourced botanicals
• Pools & Beach: Expansive multi-level pools, beachfront cabanas, and endless ocean sunsets
• Family Friendly: Dedicated kids’ and teens’ clubs
• Events: 10,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor event space
• Hilton Honors: Earn and redeem points, with award nights starting at 120,000 points

Modern Suites, Plunge Pools, and Effortless Comfort

Step inside your suite and you’ll understand Waldorf Astoria hospitality at its finest. Each room is elegantly appointed with natural materials and features floor-to-ceiling windows that frame dazzling views. Private terraces and balconies invite you to immerse yourself in the surrounding beauty, whether that’s morning jungle mists or golden Pacific sunsets.

Want a true VIP arrival? Spring for one of the 22 deluxe suites with a private plunge pool. These secluded havens are designed for relaxation and ultimate privacy, whether you’re sipping Costa Rican coffee at sunrise or toasting champagne under the stars.

Residences and villas are also available for travelers seeking a more residential experience, ideal for families or extended stays. Many are still under development, but several are already welcoming guests looking to call this slice of paradise “home” for a while.

Dining That Tells the Story of Costa Rica

Waldorf Astoria’s culinary team pulls inspiration from the abundant land and sea that defines Guanacaste. Here’s a taste of what’s on the resort menu:

• La Finca: The crown jewel, spotlighting local seafood and grass-fed steaks in elegant surrounds.
• Peacock Alley Bar: An homage to Waldorf’s New York roots, with Costa Rican twists on craft cocktails and signature small plates.
• Tico-Tica: All-day dining inspired by Costa Rican home cooking—but elevated for discerning palates.
• VidA Pool & Grill: Latin-inspired bites and refreshing drinks in a breezy, poolside setting.
• Buena Nota Bakery & Coffee Shop: Pastries, Costa Rican coffee, and grab-and-go goodies to start your adventure right.
• Copo y Cono Ice Cream Shop: House-made, locally flavored ice creams perfect for cooling off after a day in the sun.

Menus emphasize organic, farm-to-table ingredients. Don’t miss the signature dishes using raw sugarcane, native cacao, and, of course, regional rums.

Pools, Spa & Beachfront Bliss

No Costa Rican luxury escape would be complete without all-day relaxation (or adventure, if that’s your style).

• Multilevel Pools: Take your pick from sun-drenched decks, in-water loungers, swim-up bars, or shaded cabanas. The design flows naturally with the peninsula’s landscape, creating private nooks for everyone.
• Exclusive Beachfront: Glide right onto soft sands with loungers, cabanas, and umbrellas at your disposal. Whether it’s a morning swim or sunset stroll, the beach here is peerless.
• Signature Spa: Inspired by Costa Rica’s indigenous healing traditions, the spa offers rituals and treatments that incorporate volcanic clay, local cacao, and native botanicals. Twenty-one treatment rooms, private hydrotherapy pools, and personalized wellness journeys elevate the experience. Fitness fans will love the state-of-the-art gym and movement studios.

Families are especially welcome. Young adventurers can join the supervised kids’ clubs and teen activities, while grown-ups steal away to the spa or beach.

Events and Celebrations with a Tropical Twist

Luxury isn’t just for couples or solo travelers. The Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique was designed for weddings, corporate gatherings, and milestone celebrations. There’s 10,000 square feet of event space, including dramatic ballrooms, an event lawn with ocean views, and bespoke catering crafted from seasonal, local ingredients. Every detail is handled with Waldorf’s signature polish.

Booking Your Stay: Points, Perks, and Promotions

Rates at the Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique reflect its ultra-luxury status. (Rates and point info per the time this article was published – check the Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica hotel for current rates):

• Cash rates start from $1,500 per night (pre-tax), rising above $2,000 in peak seasons. Taxes and fees add another 25%.
• Hilton Honors Points: Standard rewards start at 120,000 points per night. Elite members can unlock a fifth night free, lowering the effective points rate to 96,000 points per night.
• Promotions: For cash bookings, take note of special offers—like 20% off for stays of 3+ nights and resort credits ($500 for standard rooms, $1,000 for suites). Checking with Hilton for Luxury travel advisors can get you extra perks and flexibility.

Redemptions are a great value at this property, but it’s wise to book early. Award categories sometimes shift, and blackout dates can become an issue as word spreads about this stunning resort.

Location, Getting There, and Why Guanacaste?

Guanacaste’s “Gold Coast” is renowned for its dry tropical climate, stunning beaches, and lush jungle. The region is a hotspot for surfers, eco-tourists, and luxury travelers, from honeymooners to families.

The Waldorf Astoria is situated on a peninsula at Punta Cacique, offering an unbeatable vantage point for stunning sunset ocean views and direct access to pristine beaches. Liberia International Airport (LIR) is just 17 miles away, with direct flights from key U.S. cities and beyond. There’s no need for domestic puddle-jumpers or long transfers; you land and before you know it, the beach is at your feet.

“I have stayed in many hotels in Costa Rica, by far the Waldorf Astoria has been the best experience! Friendly treatment, spectacular facilities. New property, delicious food, private beach, spectacular pools or pools, comfortable rooms.”
Carlos H – A TripAdvisor Reviewer

A New Standard for Luxury in Costa Rica

The global Waldorf Astoria footprint is synonymous with iconic properties and exceptional experiences. The arrival of Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique ups the ante for the entire region, setting a new benchmark for elegant, immersive luxury in Central America.

Whether you’re seeking culinary adventure, wellness, family fun, or total relaxation, this resort delivers. The only question is whether a few days will be enough.

Plan Your Luxury Escape

The Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique is open now for reservations, with stays starting April 22, 2025. Book with Hilton Honors points for the best value, or through a Hilton for Luxury travel advisor for exclusive amenities and added perks.

Your next unforgettable getaway is waiting on the Guanacaste Peninsula. Will you be among the first to experience Costa Rica’s new luxury icon?

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