Nicaragua’s Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa luxury resort has been named as one of 15 finalists in this year’s National Geographic World Legacy Awards. The property was chosen for its outstanding efforts in the “Community Engagement” category – for providing direct and tangible economic and social benefits that improve local livelihoods.

Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa is a new $250-million, 1,670-acre low-density private beach community on Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast. The property features 37 room accommodations, each with an ocean view, pool and private staff. Other resort amenities include Spa Mukul, with six private spa-treatment sanctuaries; a beach club featuring dining and lounge areas and a swimming pool; and the 18-hole Guacalito Golf Course.

Working closely with rural villagers, Mukul provides ongoing education, training and capacity building to improve local livelihoods through sustainable tourism. In addition to providing employment for nearly 500 local residents, Mukul is also partnering with the nonprofit organization Nica Agua to provide ceramic clean drinking water filters to local households.

The World Legacy Awards recognizes leading travel companies and destinations that are driving the sustainable tourism transformation of the travel industry.

Mukul Beach Golf & Spa, www.mukulresort.com