JW Marriott launched its first all-inclusive resort, JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa, in October 2026 in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, located on the country’s northwest coast.
Mullen Real Estate Capital redeveloped the property by transforming the former Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica resort. The redesign incorporates architectural elements inspired by the Bribri and Cabécar Indigenous peoples, aligning with traditional Costa Rican design.
Resort Accommodations and Poolscape
The resort contains 415 guest rooms and features a hotel-within-a-hotel called Griffin Club that provides enhanced privacy, dedicated 24/7 lounge access, butler services, and exclusive beach and pool areas. The property boasts the largest resort poolscape in
Costa Rica at 44,000 square feet, according to a Marriott statement.
Amenities and Wellness Facilities
JW Marriott Costa Elena offers guests pool cabanas, an expansive garden, a modern fitness center, a kids club, and family-oriented experiences through its Family by JW program. The Spa by JW encompasses over 9,000 square feet and delivers full-body treatments, massages, and kid-friendly spa services. The resort also introduces JW Marriott’s first Mindfulness House, a dedicated sanctuary for reflection set beside native Guanacaste forest.
Dining, Activities, and Rates
The resort includes 15 bars, restaurants, and culinary venues ranging from international buffets to Japanese, seafood, Italian, and traditional Costa Rican cuisine. Guests can participate
in interactive cooking classes at the on-site culinary school focused on local dishes. A stand-alone root beer stand marks the brand’s first such facility, honoring J.W. Marriott Sr.’s original business.
A full calendar of activities offers experiences like weekly local markets and guided kayaking. The Family by JW Club provides enrichment and wellness activities for children. Room rates start at $656 per night for two guests through the end of 2026. Marriott Bonvoy members can redeem stays starting from 110,000 points per night.
