JW Marriott opened its first all-inclusive resort, the JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa, in October 2026. The property is located in the Guanacaste resort area on the northwest coast of Costa Rica and is now accepting guests.
Resort Development and Design
The 415-room resort was developed by Mullen Real Estate Capital, which reimagined the former Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica property instead of constructing a new building. The resort’s design incorporates traditional Costa Rican architectural elements inspired by the Bribri and Cabécar Indigenous peoples.
Amenities and Facilities
The resort features the largest resort poolscape in Costa Rica, with a 44,000 square feet pool area. Facilities
include pool cabanas, a large garden, a modern fitness center, and a kids club. The Spa by JW spans over 9,000 square feet offering full-body treatments and kid-friendly services. Additionally, the Griffin Club operates as a hotel-within-a-hotel with butler services, private pools, dedicated beach access, and a 24/7 lounge.
Dining, Family Programs, and Unique Features
On-site dining offers 15 bars and restaurants featuring international buffet options along with Japanese, seafood, Italian, and Costa Rican cuisines. A culinary school provides interactive cooking sessions where guests learn to prepare local dishes. The resort hosts JW Marriott’s first Mindfulness House, a wellness sanctuary beside a native Guanacaste tree. Guests
also have access to a stand-alone root beer stand honoring J.W. Marriott Sr.’s original business. Family-oriented amenities include the Family by JW program with enrichment and wellness activities for children.
Rates and Guest Activities
Standard rates through the end of 2026 start at $656 per night for two guests. Marriott Bonvoy members can redeem stays starting from 110,000 points per night. Guest activities include weekly local shopping markets, guided kayaking excursions, and family-focused programming through the Family by JW Club.
