JW Marriott officially opened JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa in October 2026, marking the brand’s first foray into the all-inclusive market. The property is located on Costa Rica’s northern Pacific coast in Guanacaste, perched above Playa de El Jobo. The resort pioneers a new luxury hospitality concept centered on well-being, presence, and cultural connection, blending immersive experiences with an all-inclusive offering.
Resort Size and Accommodations
The resort comprises 415 accommodations including suites and Presidential Suites, designed with a villa-inspired style. It features JW Marriott’s first next-generation Griffin Club, a private enclave offering personalized services such as a dedicated lounge, personal assistants, and
a private beach area. Some suites offer swim-out pool access to enhance the indoor-outdoor connection. Mindful Rooms and Suites designed for intentional and restful stays provide tailored experiences for guests seeking wellness-focused accommodations.
Design and Local Inspirations
Phiba by DCM led the resort’s architecture, collaborating with local Costa Rican architects, artisans, and artists. The design reflects the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, inspired by Indigenous legend Sibú and Guanacaste’s rhythms. The handcrafted walnut Lobby Oculus symbolizes the aura of Sibú. An art collection curated by Indiewalls highlights the local Pacific coast with materials and craftsmanship that emphasize mindful living within nature.
Dining and Culinary Diversity
JW Marriott
Costa Elena features 15 dining and bar venues that showcase a fusion of Costa Rican and international flavors. Signature venues include Leal, with immersive tasting menus inspired by Costa Rican provinces; Casado, a wood-fired coastal grill; and Puerto Limón, which celebrates Afro-Caribbean cuisine. Additional offerings include Italian pasta at Luciano, Mexican dishes at Santos, and Japanese-influenced menus at Namuyaki and Boga. LaGloria, a root beer stand, honors JW Marriott’s first business venture from 1927. The resort’s culinary programming integrates a JW Garden on-site, providing fresh herbs, fruits, and vegetables for its menus and cocktails.
Wellness and Programming
The resort’s 16,000-square-foot wellness area encompasses
the brand’s first Mindfulness House, Spa by JW, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Treatments incorporate local traditions using volcanic clay, cacao, and other native ingredients. Signature rituals include a Sibú four-element ceremony, hydrotherapy, sound baths, and cacao ceremonies. The Mindfulness House, set beside undisturbed forest and a native Guanacaste tree, offers open-air areas for reflection, sound healing, Reiki, and self-guided wellness practices. Family programming at the Family by JW Club includes children’s yoga, story time, and guided meditation. Adults can select from adventure and wellness pursuits such as guided meditation, sound healing sessions, and a weekly night market showcasing local
culture.
Guests have access to excursion opportunities beyond the resort including sunset hikes, kayaking trips, yacht charters, deep-sea fishing, nature treks, and diving along Costa Rica’s coastline.
Leadership on the Resort’s Vision
Bruce Rohr, Vice President and Global Brand Leader of JW Marriott, stated, “The opening of JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa represents more than our entry into the all-inclusive category, it introduces a new expression of the JW Marriott brand.” Rohr emphasized that the resort offers “an all-immersive experience rooted in well-being, presence, and meaningful connection” designed to invite guests to slow down and leave feeling renewed by the destination and shared
experiences.
