JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa - Beachfront Luxury in Costa Rica

About JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa

JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa stands as one of Costa Rica's premier luxury beachfront resorts, offering an unparalleled blend of sophisticated hospitality, stunning natural beauty, and world-class recreational facilities. Located on the sun-drenched Pacific coast of Guanacaste, the resort spans a breathtaking stretch of golden sand beach flanked by tropical dry forest.

The property embodies Marriott's flagship luxury brand ethos — thoughtful attention to detail, impeccable service, and an unwavering commitment to guest wellbeing. With its championship golf course, award-winning spa, multiple dining venues, and expansive pool complex, JW Marriott Guanacaste delivers a complete resort experience that appeals to couples, families, and groups alike.

Since its opening, the resort has earned recognition as one of the finest properties in Latin America, consistently appearing on "Best Of" lists from major travel publications.

Location

The resort occupies a prime beachfront position in Hacienda Pinilla, a 4,500-acre residential and resort community near the town of Tamarindo in Guanacaste Province. The property is approximately one hour from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia and about four hours from San José.

Guanacaste's Gold Coast is renowned for its consistently sunny weather, warm Pacific waters, and spectacular sunsets. The surrounding area offers surfing at Tamarindo and Langosta beaches, Rincon de la Vieja National Park, and the charming town of Tamarindo with its shops and nightlife.

For a comprehensive look at the region, explore our guide to Guanacaste beach resorts.

Rooms & Suites

The resort features 310 spacious rooms and suites, all designed with contemporary tropical elegance:

• Deluxe Rooms – 50 m² rooms with private balconies, premium bedding, marble bathrooms with rain showers, and views of the gardens, pools, or Pacific Ocean.
• Ocean View Rooms – Positioned for stunning views of the coastline and sunsets, with upgraded amenities and premium bathroom products.
• Executive Suites – 80 m² suites with separate living and dining areas, oversized marble bathrooms, and expansive balconies overlooking the ocean.
• Presidential Suite – A lavish 160 m² retreat with private terrace, jacuzzi, full dining room, and panoramic ocean views. Butler service included.

Every room features high-speed Wi-Fi, 55-inch flat screens, Nespresso machines, luxury bath products, and twice-daily housekeeping.

Things to Do

JW Marriott Guanacaste offers an exceptional array of activities:

• Championship Golf – The Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course, an 18-hole par-72 championship course designed by Mike Young, winds through tropical landscapes with ocean views on multiple holes.
• Spa by JW – A 24,000-square-foot wellness sanctuary with 18 treatment rooms, volcanic mud therapies, hydrotherapy circuits, a couple's suite, and a zen garden. Treatments draw from local ingredients including coffee, cacao, and volcanic clay.
• Multi-Pool Complex – Three stunning swimming pools including an adults-only infinity pool overlooking the ocean and a family-friendly pool with water features.
• Beach Activities – Surfing lessons, boogie boarding, beach volleyball, and horseback riding along the shoreline.
• Tennis & Fitness – Two professional-grade tennis courts and a state-of-the-art fitness center with ocean views.
• Kids Club – The JW Kids Club offers supervised activities including nature crafts, beach games, cooking classes, and cultural workshops.
• Eco Tours – Guided mangrove kayaking, estuary birdwatching, and turtle nesting excursions (seasonal).

Dining

Five distinctive restaurants and bars cater to every palate:

• Sabanero Steak House – A premium steakhouse featuring USDA Prime cuts and locally sourced beef, paired with an extensive wine list in an elegant hacienda-style setting.
• Azul Restaurant – The resort's signature seafood restaurant serving fresh Pacific catches, ceviche, and innovative coastal cuisine with panoramic ocean views.
• Mansita – All-day international dining featuring an extensive breakfast buffet, themed lunch specials, and rotating dinner menus celebrating global flavors.
• Nau Lounge – A sophisticated beach bar serving artisanal cocktails, craft beers, and tapas as the sun sets over the Pacific.
• Pool Bar – Refreshing drinks and light fare served poolside throughout the day.

Why Stay at JW Marriott Guanacaste

JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa delivers the ideal combination of beachfront luxury, championship golf, and family-friendly amenities on Costa Rica's magnificent Pacific coast. The resort's size and range of facilities ensure there is something for everyone, from couples seeking a romantic spa retreat to families looking for sun, surf, and adventure.

The property's location within Hacienda Pinilla provides a sense of exclusivity while remaining accessible to the broader Guanacaste region's attractions. For travelers seeking the top hotels in Costa Rica, JW Marriott Guanacaste consistently ranks among the finest.

Planning your trip? Our Costa Rica airport arrival guide has everything you need to know about arriving in Liberia and reaching the resort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the golf course on-site?

Yes, the Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course is located within the resort community, just a short golf cart ride from the hotel. Tee times and packages are available for hotel guests.

What is the best time to visit?

Guanacaste enjoys year-round sunshine. The dry season (December–April) offers guaranteed sun, while the green season (May–November) provides lower rates and lush scenery with brief afternoon showers.

Does the resort offer all-inclusive packages?

JW Marriott Guanacaste offers select packages that include meals and activities, but it is not a traditional all-inclusive resort. Contact the reservations team for current package options.

How far is Tamarindo from the resort?

The resort is about 15 minutes by car from Tamarindo, which offers additional restaurants, shops, nightlife, and surf breaks.

Is the resort family-friendly?

Absolutely. The JW Kids Club, family pool, connecting rooms, and numerous activities make it an excellent choice for families traveling with children of all ages.