Composed of seven countries, Central America gives travelers everything they need for a fantastic vacation.
Whether it’s sightseeing ruins, basking in gorgeous beaches, or enjoying wildlife, all the countries here offer all this and more.
The best part is that there’s a host of award hotels to book in these countries too. Take your pick from the most luxurious properties available, these are the best hotels and resorts in Central America to book with points.
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- 1. Calala Island (Nicaragua)
- 2. JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa (Costa Rica)
- 3. Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
- 4. W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal
- 5. The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa (Costa Rica)
- 6. Ka’ana Resort (Belize)
- 7. Punta Islita, Autograph Collection (Costa Rica)
- 8. Hotel Nantipa (Costa Rica)
- 9. Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection
- 10. Matachica Resort & Spa - Adults Only (Belize)
- 11. InterContinental Tegucigalpa at Multiplaza Mall (Honduras)
- 12. Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club, Curio Collection by Hilton (Belize)
- 13. InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall
- 14. InterContinental Real San Pedro Sula (Honduras)
- 16. W Panama
- 17. InterContinental Miramar Panama
- Wrapping Up
- FAQs
1. Calala Island (Nicaragua)
Calala Island. Image Credit: Calala Island
Calala Island is a luxurious private island off Nicaragua’s Caribbean coast. With only 4 exclusive suites available, the island is perfect for a private escape. In fact, guests can book the entire island if they’re traveling as a group.
All of the suites sit on the beach, so you’re steps away from the water. The rooms are designed by architect Matthew Falkiner with each one built from sustainable hardwood and decorated with king-sized beds, bespoke furniture, and floor-to-ceiling windows covered in gauzy curtains.
Net walls allow air to breeze through from the outside hence there’s no air conditioning. There’s a deck, open roof showers, a hammock, and a stylish bath as well. Dining is wherever you like. Dine at the restaurant, by the beach, or at the pool bar.
The amenities are limited but you’ll find a host of activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. Deep-sea sports fishing and diving are also available. There’s also a swimming pool and spa palapa right by the mangroves.
Calala Island is an SLH-World of Hyatt partner and considered one of the best hotels and resorts in the world you can book with points. Book a rewards night here by using 35,000 points on off-peak dates; 40,000 points on standard dates; and 45,000 points on peak dates.
During the low season, the cash rate starts at $2,350 while peak season means paying $3,650 per night. The average season rate is $2,550 per night.
2. JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa (Costa Rica)
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa. Image Credit: JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
Located in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica, the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is a relaxing resort ideal if you want someplace remote.
First built in 2009, the rooms are fresh and inviting. A large king bed with an oversized headboard pairs beautifully with the rich wood furniture and cream walls. Terra-cotta floors bring a sense of earthen look to the room while a minibar, flatscreen TV, and coffeemaker bring a modern touch.
Inside the bathrooms are Aromatherapy Associates toiletries including a large soaking tub, and a private area for the toilet and shower.
The JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is known for having the largest infinity pool in Central America, twisting and winding all around the property. There’s also a spa, a business center, and a fitness room.
The signature restaurant, Mansita, offers a cozy escape with rustic chandeliers and stone walls. Meanwhile, Azul Grill focuses on seafood, while Azul Bar is perfect for cocktails. Tamarine serves Asian fusion cuisine and Sabanero is great for steaks.
Redeem a free rewards night at the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa, a Category 6 Marriott Bonvoy member. You can exchange 40,000 points on off-peak dates; 50,000 points on standard dates; and 60,000 points on peak dates.
A standard room in the low season is $450 per night while in the peak months, the same room costs $1,450 per night. Meanwhile, the average season rate is $990 per night.
Learn to gather points from the best! The Points University will teach you the ins and outs of earning and redeeming points to book your next luxury getaway!
3. Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo. Image Credit: Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
Aside from being a romantic adult’s retreat, the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo also works great for families too.
The resort has carefully blended nature and architecture to create a fantastic resort filled with hidden gems and modern comfort in every inch. Even the lights at night are kept low to minimize disturbing the wildlife.
Rooms here are large and minimalist. Think beautiful white walls, extra high ceilings, and large glass windows that offer space and light. A king bed is dressed in white sheets with cream upholstered furniture and dark wood accents. Essential modern items are also provided like a kettle, electronic safe, ironing board, and a coffeemaker.
Open-plan bathrooms offer little privacy but come with stone floors, massive shower areas, marble vanities, and Lather toiletries.
The property has two small hidden beaches, a gorgeous 3-tier family pool, and a private adults-only pool. Meanwhile, Cambi Kids Club is great for entertaining kids. There’s also a luxurious spa including a huge event space. Food is available in any of the 3 restaurants – Ostra, Chao Pescao, or Rio Bhongo.
Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo is a Category 5 World of Hyatt member hotel. This means you can exchange 17,000 points on off-peak dates; 20,000 points on standard dates; and 23,000 points on peak dates for a standard room here.
However, when booking in cash, the low season rate is $500 per night while the peak season rate is $1,950 per night. The average season rate is about $840 per night.
Speak with a points consultant and find out how to get the most value for your points or transform them into fantastic luxury retreats.
4. W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal
W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal. Image Credit: W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal
W Costa Rica is a stylish resort ideal for anyone who loves a playful and bold resort with stunning views of the Guanacaste Forest.
The resort is located inside the Reserva Conchal, which means you’re surrounded by opulent private homes, a beach club, and a golf course.
All of the rooms are located in three-story high-rise buildings. Entry-level ones offer 613 square feet of space and feature W’s bold aesthetic. This means bright colors paired with a balcony and a stunning view.
There’s a large king bed draped in white linens and colorful throws. Dark wood furniture, a sofa, and a designated minibar with signature W amenities are on the side. Bathrooms are filled with marble along with a rain showerhead in a private glass stall. There are also W-branded toiletries.
Enjoy international cuisine at the Cocina de Marcado, W’s main restaurant. There’s also an impressive Living Room Bar for drinks and cocktails.
For amenities, W has a swimming pool called the WET Deck, a beach area including the Zona Azul Beach Club, and the AWAY Spa & Fit. There’s even a zipline to enjoy!
Book an amazing stay at W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal. This Category 7 Marriott Bonvoy property lets you redeem 50,000 points on off-peak dates; 60,000 points on standard dates; and 70,000 points on peak dates.
The low season rate is $490 per night while the peak season rate is $1,800 per night. Meanwhile, the average season rate is $770 per night.
Bask in the beauty and amazing amenities the W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal has to offer. This fantastic resort has everything a W hotel brand offers and more!
Even better, as an AuPACS client, you are entitled to great perks like suite upgrades or hotel credits whenever you avail of a paid booking.
5. The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa (Costa Rica)
The Westin Reserva Conchal. Image Credit: The Westin Reserva Conchal
The Westin Reserva Conchal is challenging to reach but once you get there, it’s worth it. The resort is close to the towns of Brasilito and Tamarindo including just a few hours to Santa Rosa National Park.
Entry-level rooms are spacious and modern with a mix of bright as well as subdued colors. The Westin’s Signature Heavenly Bed is spread in the middle of the room, together with armchairs, sofas, and entertainment amenities. Each room even comes with a balcony.
Inside the bathroom is White Tea by Westin bath products, separate showers behind frosted glass doors, and rainfall showerheads.
The Westin offers two stunning free-form swimming pools surrounded by a gorgeous stone deck. There’s access to the stunning Playa Conchal beach through the rich forest. A zen-like spa is filled with a hair salon and several treatment rooms.
In addition, there’s a fitness center, a kid’s club, a small shopping area, including a Robert Trent Jones II-designed championship golf course.
The Westin spoils its guests with 11 restaurants on the property – offering a range of Asian and Latin American dishes. Make sure to drop by the main restaurant, Mitra, or drop by Cauri for an amazing view of the countryside.
Redeem a free rewards night at this Category 8 Marriott Bonvoy property. This means you can exchange 70,000 points on off-peak dates; 85,000 points on standard dates; and 100,000 points on peak dates for a standard room.
For paid bookings, the low season rate is $453 per night while in the peak season, a standard room is $945 per night. The average season rate is $610 per night.
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6. Ka’ana Resort (Belize)
Ka’ana Resort. Image Credit: Ka’ana Resort
Ka’ana Resort is a sophisticated hideaway inside the Belizean rainforest. Named after the Mayan word for “heavenly place, this SLH Hyatt property promises guests a quiet getaway that’ll make them forget about the stresses of the outside world.
The resort is less than 30-minutes away from Belize City and is just a 5-minute drive to the beautiful Mayan ruins of Xunantunich.
Being a boutique resort, there’s only 17 hacienda-style villas and suites here. Each one features high ceilings and is designed to make you feel like you’re part of the jungle landscape.
Expect to see local wood like mahogany and cabbage bark in the rooms, along with a balcony and hammock, seating, and modern comforts like a TV and minibar. The bathrooms are equally fantastic, with plush robes and amenities.
La Ceiba Restaurant serves American-Belize dishes like tamales, ceviches, and tacos. For drinks and bites, the Wallace Lounge is perfect. The resort even has a 500-bottle wine cellar, which will make any wine lover happy.
Guests can bask in the infinity pool or go for treatments at the spa. There’s also an adventure desk, where you can explore the beauty of Belize by signing up for local tours.
Ka’ana Resort is a Category 6 SLH Hyatt hotel, which means you can redeem 21,000 points on off-peak nights; 25,000 points on standard nights; and 29,000 points on peak nights.
A standard room in the low season costs $214 per night while in the peak season, the same room is $1,000 per night. Meanwhile, the average season rate is $600 per night.
7. Punta Islita, Autograph Collection (Costa Rica)
Punta Islita, Autograph Collection. Image Credit: Punta Islita
Surrounded by gorgeous beaches, Punta Islita is found in the lush southwestern area of Guanacaste.
This area is known as a beach lover’s paradise, making it a great spot for deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, and surfing. There are 30 rooms on the property with entry-level spaces starting at 269 square feet. It’s a bit on the small side but considering this is a boutique property, it works just fine.
Each room is fresh and modern with king or queen beds dressed in white linens. Touches of light blue on the pillows, curtains, and artwork bring the beauty of the outside indoors. In the bathrooms are deep, dark wood touches including a vanity with a sleek white sink and wall mirrors.
For amenities, there are meeting spaces, a fitness area as well as a spa. There’s access to a swimming pool and the beach as well.
There are two restaurants on-site including Alma Restaurant which combines Costa Rican flavors with an international palette. On the other hand, Aura Restaurant is an oceanside dining space centering on pizza, burritos, burgers, and seafood.
Punta Islita is a Category 6 Marriott Bonvoy hotel. You can book a standard room by redeeming 40,000 points on off-peak dates; 50,000 points on standard dates; and 60,000 points on peak dates.
On the other hand, when it comes to paid bookings, the low season rate is $284 per night while the peak season rate is $550 per night. The average season rate is $480 per night.
8. Hotel Nantipa (Costa Rica)
Hotel Nantipa. Image Credit: Hotel Nantipa
Like other resorts in the area, Hotel Nantipa emphasizes sustainability above all else. This means the resort is filled with trees and the architecture is built around the natural environment.
The rooms here are set in two-story blocks called “Nanku” or “Home” when translated in the Chorotega language. Each room is modern and slightly minimalist in design. White walls are complemented by grays and black furniture with king or twin beds to accommodate group travelers.
Each room comes with a balcony and a suspended hammock. Bathrooms are also stylish and paired with lovely showers and organic toiletries. Pricier rooms have a private plunge pool.
Oceanfront dining is at Nantipa’s Manzú restaurant. Using only the freshest ingredients, they serve a combination of Costa Rican dishes with seafood paired with unique cocktails.
The resort offers access to a gorgeous beach lined with loungers and outdoor pillows. A large pool is perfect for basking and swimming while the spa is ideal for relaxing.
Hotel Nantipa is a Category 6 SLH Hyatt property. It’s even considered one of the best Small Luxury Hotels in the World you can book using points. For free nights, you can redeem 21,000 points on off-peak dates; 25,000 points on standard dates; and 29,000 points on peak dates.
For cash bookings, a standard room in the low season is $374 per night while in the peak months, the rate per night is $700. The average season rate is $430 per night.
9. Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection
Alaia Belize. Image Credit: Alaia Belize
Alaia Belize is among the top-rated hotels in Belize and it recently became a part of the Marriott brand, becoming the first hotel to join its Autograph Collection. It’s located at Ambergris Caye, the country’s largest island, making it easily accessible for flights.
There are 155 guest rooms here, with a selection of studio spaces and large bedroom villas. Standard rooms like the Vista Studio start at 350 square feet and come with a balcony/patio area. There’s a king bed in crisp white sheets, light gray walls, and patterned carpet.
The bathroom is crisp and modern with beige marble, a sink with stylish fixtures, huge mirrors, and a glass-enclosed shower and toilet.
For amenities, there’s beach access and a beach club, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, a spa, dive shop, art gallery, and kid’s club. Dining options include Sea Salt, where they serve fresh seafood and Belizean dishes. There’s also the Alaia Wine Club and The Terrace Bar for light bites and drinks.
A Category 6 Marriott Bonvoy property, Alaia Belize lets you redeem 40,000 points on off-peak dates; 50,000 points on standard dates; and 60,000 points on peak dates.
If you book with cash, the low season rate is $297 per night while the peak season rate is $630 per night. The average season rate is $420 per night.
10. Matachica Resort & Spa – Adults Only (Belize)
Matachica Resort & Spa. Image Credit: Matachica Resort & Spa
Perfect for a laid-back luxury vacay, Matachica Resort & Spa is considered one of the most luxurious resorts in Belize’s Ambergris Caye.
The resort is adults-only so it’s a favorite getaway for couples on their honeymoon. It’s also close to key attractions like the Belize Barrier Reef, which is only 20-minutes via boat from the island.
All the rooms at Matachica reflect the resort’s stunning beauty. These are spacious thatched-roof casitas with a large king bed framed by a bold, colored splash wall. Colorful artwork and rugs give the space color while a large sofa provides seating.
Modern touches are noticeably absent to help guests focus on their vacation. Bathrooms include stone showers with L’Occitane toiletries. Keep in mind the bathrooms aren’t air-conditioned so it’s best to leave the shutter windows open to let in the cool breeze.
The beach is fantastic and within a few meters away from the main resort. There’s also a stunning pool with loungers and umbrellas. Various activities can be arranged by the resort, like diving, fishing, or a special honeymoon trip.
When it comes to food, Matachica has Mambo, which is one of the best restaurants in the area. The Red Bar, on the other hand, overlooks the beach and is great for sundowners. Quick note, it’s best to go for the all-inclusive package when visiting the resort since it can get pricey if you pay for every meal.
This resort is a Category 6 World of Hyatt property so you can redeem a rewards night using 21,000 points on off-peak nights; 25,000 points on standard dates; and 29,000 on peak dates.
Meanwhile, the standard room is $280 in the low season while the same room costs $572 per night on peak season. The average season rate is $400 per night.
11. InterContinental Tegucigalpa at Multiplaza Mall (Honduras)
InterContinental Tegucigalpa at Multiplaza Mall. Image Credit: InterContinental Tegucigalpa at Multiplaza Mall
InterContinental Tegucigalpa at Multiplaza Mall is a stylish hotel at the heart of the city. The hotel itself is located inside Multiplaza Mall, which means the central business district and entertainment center are just a few steps away.
The hotel is surrounded not just by the mall but other attractions too like the Presidential House of Honduras, a 6-minute walk, and the Centro Civico Gubernamental, which is an 8-minute walk away.
Standard rooms start at 248 square feet decorated in a modern but simple design. There’s a cozy king bed with a lovely padded headboard. Meanwhile, a rust orange chaise lounge and pillows add color to the room, contrasting against the nude beiges and creams.
On the side is a desk for working. Meanwhile, the large windows provide a mountain view. Inside the bathroom are a shower tub combination, a spacious sink, mosaic walls, and striking marble touches.
For dining, the hotel features three restaurants as well as one coffee shop. There’s also a poolside bar and 24-hour room service. You’ll also find a full-service spa, an outdoor swimming pool, a steam room, as well a 24-hour gym.
Book a free night’s stay at InterContinental Tegucigalpa at Multiplaza Mall using 25,750 to 31,000 IHG Rewards Club points per night.
During the low season, the cash rate is $166 per night while in the peak season, the same room is $280 per night. The average season rate is $230 per night.
12. Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club, Curio Collection by Hilton (Belize)
Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club. Image Credit: Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club
Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club is at the southern tip of Ambergris Caye, on the northern portion of Belize. Because it’s on an island, guests have to fly into the island then be ushered in a golf buggy once they arrive in the town of San Pedro.
All of the rooms here are separated into villas and cottages. Studio rooms serve as entry-level spaces. These are decorated in a British-colonial style with classic elements like vaulted ceilings, verandas, and louvered windows.
Every piece of furniture is made locally and uses sustainable hardwood. Modern touches like a safe, coffee service, flatscreen TV, and a mini-fridge are also available. There’s a cool yet rustic shower with hardwood floors and iron sheeting too.
Complimentary breakfast is served at The Verandah. Meanwhile, The Beach Club is perfect for seafood snacks and ceviches. The main town also has a lot of dining options.
Being the first luxury hotel here, there’s a host of amenities for guests. This includes a swimming pool, a fitness center, a yoga studio, a tour desk, and The Beach Club.
Redeem a free night at the Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club by using 80,000 Hilton Honors points per night for a standard room.
For paid rates, the low season cash price is $190 per night while the peak season rate is $400 per night. During the average season, it’s $200 per night.
13. InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall
InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall. Image Credit: InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall
Found in Escazú, InterContinental Costa Rica at Multipplaza Mall is just a short drive away from the main town of San José.
All of the rooms are large and spacious filled with a homey vibe. Apart from a comfy king bed, in-room facilities include a flatscreen TV, coffeemaker, safe, iPod dock, and more. Bathrooms are also luxurious with shower/tub combinations and lots of marble.
There’s a host of amenities as well. This includes two large swimming pools, a beautiful tennis court, a business center, as well as a 24-hour fitness center. For absolute relaxation, the resort offers a 16,000 square foot spa with 12 treatment rooms, a salon, and treatment rooms.
When it comes to food, there’s a host of amazing restaurants including Azulejos, which is great for casual dining; Alfredo, for Italian dishes; the Steak and Lobster Factory for delicious beef and seafood; then Nau Lounge, for Asian-inspired delectables sashimi and sushi. For drinks over live music, head to the Zambra Lobby bar.
InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall is a great place to book a rewards night. You can exchange between 28,500 to 34,000 IHG Rewards Club points per night.
For cash bookings, the low season rate is $170 per night while in the peak season, the rate per night is $218. The average season rate is $180 per night.
14. InterContinental Real San Pedro Sula (Honduras)
InterContinental Real San Pedro Sula. Image Credit: InterContinental Real San Pedro Sula
15. Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Gran Hotel Costa Rica. Image Credit: Gran Hotel Costa Rica
Gran Hotel Costa Rica is a beautiful 90-year old property recently acquired by the Hilton brand. It sits proudly opposite Teatro Nacional right on the southwest side of the Plaza de la Cultura.
During the 1930s, the first three floors were built as a hotel. Later on, additional floors were created on top that features wonderful arched windows. After Hilton acquired the building, they also made upgrades, creating a modern luxury hotel to fit their Curio Collection.
The rooms at the Gran Hotel Costa Rica are strikingly modern and sleek. Everything is kept neutral, with white sheets on the bed, lovely light wood accents, and beige curtains.
A subtle-patterned carpet adds interest while reflecting the chic tropical wallpaper in the bathroom. Speaking of the bathroom, it has a separated shower area, water closet, and locally produced toiletries by Mandarina.
Dining is available at Cultura5 which serves international cuisine mixed in with a local flair. On the same level, on the 5th floor, there’s a fitness center. It’s small but it has weights, cardio machines, and more for a good workout. There’s no swimming pool or sauna at the hotel though.
The Gran Hotel Costa Rica is a must-visit if you’re in the area. Book a rewards night here by using 35,000 to 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
When booking in cash, the low season rate is $140 per night while in the peak months, the same room costs $200 per night. The average season rate is $170 per night.
16. W Panama
W Panama. Image Credit: W Panama
W Panama is a wonderful high-rise hotel in the heart of Panama’s business district. When booking a stay here, guests get to enjoy a luxurious, modern space amidst the bustling metropolis.
Like most W properties, the rooms here are stylish and effortlessly chic. There are bold colors on the furniture and pillows, tempered by white on the walls, sheets, and even the light wood on the floor. This mix of playful elegance is perfect for those looking for an energetic yet refined environment.
Floor-to-ceiling windows provide a fantastic view of the city. To complement the rooms, there are pristine bathrooms with walk-in showers and deep soaking tubs. Bliss Spa bath products complete the space.
Splurge on cocktails at La Cajita or the WET Deck bar. Handcrafted cocktails are also a treat in the Living Room. In addition, Moro is a favorite among the locals angling for a cosmopolitan culinary treat.
There’s an outdoor swimming pool called the WET Deck including a spa called the AWAY Spa and of course, a fitness center.
W Panama is a Category 5 Marriott Bonvoy property, which means you can redeem 30,000 points on off-peak dates; 35,000 points on standard dates; and 40,000 points on peak dates.
A standard room in the low season is $100 per night while in the peak months, the same room costs $180 per night. The average season rate is $150 per night.
17. InterContinental Miramar Panama
InterContinental Miramar Panama. Image Credit: InterContinental Miramar Panama
InterContinental Miramar Panama is found at Avenida Balboa, the country’s financial district. It’s the perfect hotel for those who are on a business trip or simply need a stylish place right in the middle of the city.
Filled with bright and luxe decor, the rooms feature off-white marble floors paired with leather desk chairs and thick white duvets covering the beautiful king bed.
The room features a monochromatic palette and is filled with modern touches like a minibar, TV, and reliable Wi-Fi. Bathrooms include a shower/tub combination with full hot tubs for the upgraded rooms. Basic toiletries are also provided.
Being a massive property, there’s a host of amenities here including an outdoor swimming pool lined with cabanas and loungers. There’s also a small spa and gym. A host of restaurants, including The Bay View Restaurant, offer delicious treats while two small bars serve cocktails and light bites.
To book a rewards night, you can redeem 19,000 to 24,000 IHG Rewards Club points for a standard room. In the low season, the cash rate is $95 per night while in the peak season, the same room costs $150 per night. The average season rate is $120 per night.
Wrapping Up
Central America is an exciting place to visit.
With all these luxe and stylish resorts, you’ll always find a place to call home when vacationing in any of these countries.
Safe travels!