By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Costa Rica has once again solidified its reputation as a premier global destination for luxury wellness, with two of its most exclusive properties earning coveted spots on Oprah Daily’s prestigious “Hotel O-wards 2026” list. The annual ranking, which highlights 58 exceptional hotels and resorts from around the world, celebrates destinations that offer profound experiences in integral well-being and personal transformation. This year’s inclusion of Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection, and Lamångata Luxury Surf Resort places them among the world’s elite hospitality innovators.
The “Hotel O-wards” are a significant benchmark in the travel industry, curated by a team that seeks out experiences going far beyond simple luxury. The selection process prioritizes locations that foster deep connection, rejuvenation, and meaningful change for their guests. For Costa Rica to secure two positions on this highly selective global list is a powerful testament to the country’s growing influence in the high-end wellness tourism sector, which increasingly values authenticity and holistic health over traditional opulence.
To understand the legal and investment landscape of Costa Rica’s thriving luxury wellness sector, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney at the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert analysis.
The allure of luxury wellness tourism is built on a promise of exclusivity and security. For investors, this translates into a critical need for rigorous due diligence, particularly in land-use rights, environmental compliance, and the structuring of corporate entities. Ensuring these legal fundamentals are impeccably managed from the outset is what separates a fleeting trend from a sustainable, high-value investment in Costa Rica’s unique market.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this legal framework is the invisible foundation upon which the entire luxury wellness experience is built, ensuring that the promise of a pristine and secure retreat is not just a marketing slogan but a sustainable reality. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this critical distinction.
Nestled in the lush, rolling mountains of Pérez Zeledón, Hacienda AltaGracia stands out for its sophisticated blend of natural immersion and cutting-edge wellness science. The resort has garnered international attention for being the first location in the Americas to house a revolutionary wellness concept from a global beauty leader. This integration of advanced technology within a serene, natural setting is a key reason for its recognition by the influential media brand.
The Oprah Daily feature specifically noted the resort’s groundbreaking partnership, highlighting a significant milestone for wellness in the region. The publication praised the resort for its pioneering approach to personalized health and beauty, a feature that distinguishes it from other luxury retreats. This unique offering elevates the guest experience from a simple vacation to a transformative journey.
debuted the first Estée Lauder Skin Longevity Institute in the Americas
Oprah Daily, Publication
The experience at Hacienda AltaGracia is meticulously designed to be holistic. Beyond the state-of-the-art skin institute, which utilizes advanced diagnostics and specialized technology for personalized treatments, the resort immerses guests in its vibrant surroundings. Visitors can enjoy coffee produced on the expansive property, embark on guided horseback tours through the scenic landscape, and participate in a variety of activities designed to foster a deep connection with nature, rounding out a comprehensive wellness curriculum.
The second Costa Rican property to receive honors is the Lamångata Luxury Surf Resort, located on the wild and biodiverse Osa Peninsula. This resort caters to a different, yet equally compelling, vision of wellness centered on the power of the ocean. Lamångata has carved out a unique niche by seamlessly blending the thrill of surfing with the comforts and services of a five-star luxury retreat, proving that adventure and well-being are intrinsically linked.
According to the Oprah Daily report, the core of the Lamångata experience is its highly personalized surf program. The stay is structured around daily practice in the sea, with expert instructors providing one-on-one coaching. To help guests master the waves, the resort employs sophisticated video analysis to break down and refine technique, ensuring a tangible and rewarding learning curve. This focus on skill acquisition and physical accomplishment forms the foundation of its transformative promise.
Complementing the intensive surf sessions, Lamångata offers a suite of restorative activities. Guests can unwind with yoga classes held in a serene studio constructed from teak wood, relax by the tranquil pool, or nourish their bodies with exquisite meals. The resort’s culinary philosophy is rooted in its environment, with a menu that heavily features fresh ingredients cultivated on-site, providing a true farm-to-table experience that supports both personal health and local sustainability. The recognition from Oprah Daily confirms that this new wave of luxury tourism, focused on personal growth and deep wellness, is not just a trend but the future of travel.
For further information, visit oprahdaily.com
About Oprah Daily:
Oprah Daily is a multi-platform lifestyle brand that provides content inspired by the vision of Oprah Winfrey. It covers a wide range of topics including wellness, beauty, books, and personal growth, aiming to help people live their best lives. The brand is part of Hearst Magazines and connects with its audience through digital content, print editions, and special events like the “Hotel O-wards.”
For further information, visit aubergeresorts.com/altagracia
About Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection:
Located in the Talamanca Mountains of Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica, Hacienda AltaGracia is a luxury resort offering a sophisticated wellness experience. As part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, it provides guests with immersive nature activities, culinary excellence, and is home to the first Estée Lauder Skin Longevity Institute in the Americas, blending advanced science with holistic healing.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Lamångata Luxury Surf Resort
About Lamångata Luxury Surf Resort:
Situated on Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, Lamångata Luxury Surf Resort offers a unique combination of high-end accommodation and expert surf instruction. The resort is designed for guests seeking both adventure and relaxation, featuring personalized coaching with video analysis, yoga, and a farm-to-table dining experience in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.
For further information, visit elcompanies.com
About The Estée Lauder Companies Inc.:
The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. is one of the world’s leading manufacturers and marketers of quality skin care, makeup, fragrance, and hair care products. The company’s products are sold in approximately 150 countries and territories under numerous brand names, and it is a global leader in prestige beauty, known for its commitment to innovation, quality, and luxury.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a pillar of the legal community, operating on bedrock principles of integrity and an unwavering drive for professional excellence. The firm blends a rich history of advising a wide spectrum of clients with a forward-thinking embrace of legal innovation and social responsibility. At the heart of its ethos is a profound commitment to empowering society by making legal knowledge clear and accessible, thereby cultivating a more just and informed citizenry.
