Nantipa Hotel

Region, Country

A barefoot-luxury haven by the sea

Nantipa is an SLH-affiliated, 29-room beachfront sanctuary in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica's renowned surf and wellness hub within the Blue Zone. Locally owned, it offers four room categories, many with private pools and outdoor showers, and ranks in Condé Nast's top 20 Central America hotels. Partnered with Virtuoso, Signature Travel Network and Select, it holds Costa Rica's highest sustainability certification. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood at Manzú and yoga and spa treatments at Numu.

Key features

29 guest accommodations including bungalows, suites and 3-bedroom beachfront villas — many with private plunge pools, terraces, indoor/outdoor showers, ocean or garden views
On-site beachfront restaurant Manzú serving handcrafted cocktails, traditional Costa Rican dishes and fresh seafood cuisine using local ingredients
Numu Wellness Centre with an open-air spa, holistic treatments, wellness offerings and ideal for yoga, relaxation and retreat-style stays
Strong sustainability credentials: locally-crafted construction materials, solar water heaters, wastewater treatment, reforestation and community support
A relaxed, barefoot-luxury atmosphere that prioritises simplicity, comfort and immersion in nature over ostentatious, resort-style extravagance

Standout features

A unique beachfront location just steps from the Pacific, blending ocean views with a jungle backdrop for a true “sand-between-your-toes” experience
An easy walk from the buzz of town, Nantipa is perfectly placed for guests to stroll to Santa Teresa’s cafés, shops, surf spots, and local establishments
“Barefoot luxury” / boho-chic vibe — laid-back comfort, natural materials, rustic-chic design and a relaxed seaside ambience
A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) and connected to renowned networks such as Virtuoso, Signature and Select
Situated on the Nicoya Peninsula, one of only five Blue Zones worldwide, the hotel offers a unique appeal for wellness, longevity and holistic living

Number of rooms

29 rooms:

16 suites ideal for families and small groups
11 bungalows for couples only (6 on gardens / 5 on beach)
2 three-bedroom beachfront villas for larger families, multiple couples

Price range

Mid to high end

The hotel is ideal for couples, families and wellness-minded travellers looking for active relaxation

Signature experiences

Greet the day with a grounding morning yoga session
Master Santa Teresa’s world-class waves in a tailored surf lesson, guided by expert local instructors
Indulge in a private beach dining experience with candlelight, fresh sea air and bespoke menus for an unforgettable evening
Craft Costa Rican cocktails in a hands-on mixology session using local spirits, tropical fruits and beachside inspiration
Wade into the night for a magical bioluminescence tour, watching the ocean glow under your fingertips
Join local fishermen at dawn for an authentic day on the water, learning first-hand traditional techniques and experiencing Santa Teresa’s maritime culture

Where

Nantipa sits directly on the golden sands of Playa Santa Teresa, on the scenic Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica’s Puntarenas province. Nestled where lush jungle meets the Pacific, it offers immediate beachfront access and the relaxed charm of a small surf town.

What

Hotel Nantipa is a barefoot-luxury beachfront retreat in one of the world’s five Blue Zones. With 29 guest rooms, an open-air spa, a dedicated yoga shala, and beachfront dining at Manzú, it blends wellness, relaxation and authentic Costa Rican beach culture. Steps from the Pacific surf and framed by lush jungle, Nantipa offers an intimate escape where guests can immerse themselves in nature, wellness, and the laid-back surf-town vibe of Santa Teresa.

When

The property opened in 2019 with 15 rooms and has been steadily expanding ever since, pausing only briefly during the pandemic. From the start, it has been developed with a commitment to the highest standards of sustainability.

Why

Visitors are drawn to Nantipa for its unique blend of barefoot luxury, authentic design and sustainability. The hotel embraces local culture, sourcing ingredients from nearby farmers and fishermen, supporting the community and creating a warm, personalised experience. Conveniently located within walking distance to many town establishments, it’s easy to dine out and explore. Guests can enjoy an amazing holiday that combines relaxation, adventure and conscious travel.

Who

Mario Mikowski is a third-generation hospitality professional in Costa Rica, with 30+ years of experience and a deep passion for sustainability and authenticity. He has held leadership roles at Hotel Presidente and Tabacón, served on the National and local Chambers of Tourism, and currently serves as President of the Amigos of Costa Rica Foundation.

Positive impact statement

At Nantipa, sustainability is central to our barefoot-luxury ethos. The hotel holds Elite level certification under Costa Rica’s CST program and is a member of SLH’s Considerate Collection.

Every design choice— from solar water heaters and energy sensors to a state-of-the-art wastewater-treatment system—minimizes environmental impact.

We prioritize hiring local staff, sourcing ingredients and goods from nearby producers, and supporting community initiatives, while offering guests opportunities to engage in eco-friendly practices that help preserve Santa Teresa’s natural beauty and culture.