JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa in Costa Rica
Location
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is located in Pinilla, Costa Rica and sits on the shore of the ocean. There are many activities to do at the resort itself including; scuba diving, boating, and fishing. It is the only international branded hotel close to Tamarindo, a nearby Costa Rican town. They even have a free shuttle running to and from Tamarindo so you don’t have to rent a car (although they have a car rental service available at the hotel). The hotel is within 2 miles of Langosta, Avellanas, and Mansita beaches; it is 12 miles from Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas, and is also close enough to take a day trip to the Palo Verde National Park that has zip-line courses.
Discover a few of the other local attractions as well:
- Rincon de la Vieja National Park
- Zipline at Pura Aventura
- Palo Verde boat tours
- Golf at Hacienda Pinilla (.7 mi)
- Playa Negra, Playa Carbon, and Playa Conchal
Style and Character
The resort offers an authentic Costa Rican experience. It has the feel of a luxury hacienda. There are many colonial touches represented in the decor of the resort. There is a lot of hardwood that makes the resort feel elegant and charming. The beaches are picturesque and very well maintained. The resort is secluded on the coastline, and offers plenty of privacy.
Service and Facilities
There is an outdoor pool, an infinity pool, as even a kids pool. There is plenty of seating outdoors to soak up the sun. The hotel has a full-service spa that is ranked in the top 5 spas in Latin America by Spa Magazine so you can pamper yourself. They also have a beachside venue that is perfect for weddings. For those that get married at the hotel, catering and wedding planning services are available. The staff is very accommodating and friendly, helping make check-ins very smooth. There is also a 24-hour room service offered, in case anyone needs anything.
Other amenities include:
- Pool
- Spa
- Over 3 miles of biking and jogging trails
- Fitness center
- High-speed Wi-Fi
Rooms
This resort doesn’t disappoint. There are 310, non-smoking rooms. All rooms are spacious and have balconies so you can enjoy the climate and surroundings from the comfort of your room. If you’ve come all this way, the ocean view is the only way to go since it’s perfect for watching the sunset on the water. However, there are other room views of the pool and gardens that are great too. The decor of the rooms is inspired by Latin America, but with a sophisticated style. Their bathrooms have luxury marble and oversized bathtubs. Rooms also have double vanities, making it easier to get ready in the mornings.
Food and Drink
There are a total of five restaurants and two bars, offering a variety of fantastic food.
- Many visitors enjoy eating at the Azul Grill, a beachfront restaurant.
- Tamarine has Asian inspired food.
- For those looking to try authentic Costa Rican food, Sabanero is a Guanacastecan Steakhouse.
- And many enjoy cocktails at the Nau Lobby Bar, which also boasts excellent sushi.
Value for Money
With rooms starting at $289 a night, this resort is definitely worth the price. With amazing views of Costa Rica’s famous beaches, access to many amenities (including free internet), and private beaches close by.
Guests with Disabilities
The hotel allows service animals for guests with disabilities. Many facilities are also available to accommodate disabled guests and many of the rooms are accessible.
Family-Friendly
The hotel is very kid-friendly. There is a separate kid’s club accessible at no extra charge. You can get adjoining rooms for family vacations, and if you need them, cribs or infant beds are provided.