Sustainable Travel in Montezuma: 7 Ways nYa Hotel Reduces Your Footprint

1) Built Smart: Reuse, Local Craft, Native Landscape

We began by using what we already had. Much of Hotel nYa was created by reusing the old hotel structure to reduce construction waste, as well as to preserve the grown native trees and plants that were present. Reuse keeps materials in circulation, shortens supply chains, and gives the hotel a grounded, local character. We take pride in the fact that all our furniture is made from teak sourced from our teak plantation forests and crafted by Costa Rican artisan woodworkers.

Outdoors, native and climate-fit plants thrive with less water and support pollinators that belong here. Permeable paths help rain soak back into the soil, and shaded nooks make outdoor time comfortable in both seasons.

How you can help: Choose locally made souvenirs in town rather than imports. Your purchase supports families you’ll likely meet around the village and reduces freight impact.

2) Water Stewardship, Front and Center

Fresh water matters on the Nicoya Peninsula. We use efficient fixtures, right-size laundry schedules, and route treated water to irrigate the gardens rather than sending it to waste. Our teams tracks usage so comfort stays high without extra draw on local supplies. During the dry months, these choices keep the property healthy and reduce stress on the system.

How you can help: Reuse towels and linens during multi-night stays. Carry a reusable bottle and refill at water stations around the property—simple habits that add up quickly in our climate.

3) Clean Energy Mindset

Comfort is important—and so is how we power it. Solar-heated hot water, and an in-room electrical system that makes it easy to switch off; help keep energy use in check. Natural airflow and shaded terraces invite you to spend more time in the breeze and less time relying on A/C. If you prefer A/C at night, we encourage moderate settings so sleep stays comfortable without unnecessary energy demand.

How you can help: Keep doors and windows closed when the A/C is on, and set a reasonable temperature. You’ll rest well and lower energy use at the same time.

4) Low-Waste Operations & Refill Culture

We limit single-use plastics by offering refillable amenities and bulk purchasing behind the scenes. Eco-friendly detergents protect staff, guests, and waterways. Back-of-house, we sort materials for local recycling partners to keep more resources in circulation. It’s not flashy work, but consistency matters—waste goes down when the better option is the easy option.

How you can help: Pack a reusable tote and water bottle. You won’t need disposable bags for errands, and refilling is simple across the property. If you bring snacks, choose minimal packaging and use the labeled bins.

5) Kitchen Loop: Farm-Forward Dining & Compost

Food is where sustainability feels immediate. At Agrá, we favor short supply chains: seasonal produce from nearby farms and straightforward preparations that respect ingredients. When available, seafood is line-caught and served without heavy processing. In the background, kitchen scraps and garden trimmings go to compost, which nourishes our fruit trees and garden beds. Closing this loop cuts landfill waste and builds healthier soil—quiet steps that make a visible difference over time.

How you can help: Ask for seaonal dishes to taste what’s in peak season and grown close to the hotel. Use the labeled bins so organics and recyclables end up where they should.

6) Conservation & Community in Action

Sustainability is also about people. Your stay supports Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Romelia with over 290 hectars of land, two of the largest beaches of Montezuma Playa Cocal (Playa Grande) and Playa Cocalito —sea-turtle nest protection, beach clean-ups, and environmental education. We hire locally, collaborate with schools on workshops, and host small cultural gatherings on property. These relationships make travel feel real and keep more value in Montezuma. If you plan a hike in our region (including Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve), the official guidelines from SINAC are a reliable reference.

How you can help: A conservation fee is already included with your stay and goes straight to local field projects; if you wish, you can add to it at check-in or check-out. Your support funds sea-turtle protection, native-tree planting, and school eco-workshops—ask reception if you’d also like to join a turtle watch or a beach clean-up.

7) Low-Impact Mobility & a Walkable Base

Montezuma is compact and best explored on foot. We plan transfers so you can move once and then slow down—most activities are a short walk or drive from the hotel. Choosing walking for short distances lowers emissions and helps you notice details that make this place special. When you do need wheels, grouping plans by area reduces extra trips, and sharing taxis with other guests is an easy way to cut vehicle miles while keeping plans flexible.

How you can help: Map your day in clusters—beach and lunch nearby, then one ride to an afternoon trail. Opt for morning outings for cooler temperatures and quieter paths. Stay on marked trails to protect vegetation and reduce erosion.

Practical Tips for Guests

• Pack light and versatile. A compact rain jacket, quick-dry clothing, and sturdy sandals or shoes work in both seasons. If you want a full checklist, see What to Pack for Montezuma—it breaks essentials down by season and travel style.
• Choose reef-safe sunscreen. It protects marine life and turtle hatchlings during beach days and boat trips.
• Respect wildlife. Observe from a distance and skip feeding. For hikes and birding, Cabo Blanco is a great option; review current guidance via SINAC before you go.
• Eat and rest well. Blue Zone habits come naturally here—simple food, natural movement, time outdoors, earlier nights. A massage or stretch session in the spa area can help reset your rhythm.

Why This Matters in a Blue Zone

Nicoya’s Blue Zone reputation is built on everyday habits that compound: natural movement, plant-forward meals, community support, and a lower-stress pace. Thoughtful hospitality supports those patterns by making the better choice the easier one—refill instead of discard, walk instead of drive, seasonal instead of shipped. If you want background on the concept, the Nicoya overview at BlueZones.com is a helpful primer. We’re not chasing a perfect scorecard. We’re focused on small, consistent actions that add up.

How you can help: Map your day in clusters—beach and lunch nearby, then one ride to an afternoon trail. Opt for morning outings for cooler temperatures and quieter paths. Stay on marked trails to protect vegetation and reduce erosion.

Plan Your Stay the Sustainable Way

Pick a room that fits how you travel. If your dates are flexible, the Green Season offers quieter trails, fuller waterfalls, and excellent value. For slow mornings and good food, Restaurante Agrá is steps from your door; if you’re resetting your routine, our calming yoga & spa shala is designed for rest.

If you have questions about transfers, conservation activities, or community events, our team is happy to help you plan details that match your values and pace.

reservations@nyahotel.cr
+506 8609 3999
www.nyahotel.cr