Hilton Hotels’ high-end Waldorf Astoria brand will debut in Costa Rica in 2025 with a barefoot luxury property and wellness retreat.

The new-build resort will open in the tropical province of Guanacaste known for its lush forests and pristine beaches. Currently under construction, Waldorf Astoria Guanacaste is expected to open with 190 guest rooms and 25 branded residences.

Wellness will form a core part of the resort’s leisure facilities. The property will feature a holistic spa and wellness centre with a gym, a movement studio, outdoor yoga facilities and lap and thermal pools.

Inspired by sacred Mayan healing wells called cenotes, Waldorf Astoria Guanacaste’s spa will be home to eight treatment rooms – plus three outdoor treatment rooms emulating a tree house – along with a variety of the brand’s signature spa treatments.

The tropical retreat will join Waldorf Astoria’s portfolio of more than 30 properties around the world, five of which operate with a spa partnership with premium skincare, spa and fragrance brand Guerlain. However, no official announcements about spa partners for the Costa Rica flagship have been made yet.

The property will focus on sustainable luxury with an emphasis on architecture that blends into the surroundings, native flora and fauna and offerings that connect guests with the natural environment. All resort vehicles operated on the property will be electric.

“Costa Rica is a fast-growing and highly sought-after destination that is an ideal place to introduce the world-class personal service of our Waldorf Astoria brand,” said Chris Nassetta, Hilton president and CEO.

“We look forward to sharing our signature hospitality and creating unforgettable stays for our guests in this serene and beautiful location.”

A growing presence

Waldorf Astoria Guanacaste will join Hilton’s portfolio of 200 properties in the Caribbean and Latin America. The hotel group also currently has a development pipeline of more than 100 hotels in the region.

Waldorf Astoria Guanacaste will be managed by Hilton and owned by Revolution, Cacique Investors LLC and Garnier & Garnier – the project’s Costa Rican developer.

The resort will become a part of the Cacique Costa Rica community and is set to offer retail, residence and wellness experiences that highlight Guanacaste’s natural beauty and connect guests to the local community.

Upon arrival, guests will be greeted in “El Pueblo,” the lobby area and hub for guests to relax, socialise and unwind. Guests can also expect high levels of culinary excellence with a selection of food and beverage offerings, including a signature restaurant and bar, a speciality outlet and a gelato shop.

Younger travellers will be able to explore a range of the resort’s family-friendly activities, including a kid's centre and teen’s club.

For groups and events, the luxury property will offer approximately 10,000sq ft of meeting and event facilities, including indoor and outdoor space, an event lawn and a ceremonial pavilion for weddings.