“Great resort!”

This was my second trip to Costa Rica, and I was looking to spend a few days relaxing after a business trip in San Jose. I was not disappointed. Being a female, solo traveler, I selected an inclusive resort because I knew that you needed a car to get around in Costa Rica. Everything was right there. The property is beautiful, the rooms very comfortable, the food quite good. Plus, I went during low season, so I got a good deal on the room and the resort was not over crowded. A few things to consider, though. First, the market is definitely the upscale traveler, not necessarily someone looking for a cultural experience. They didn't even have the traditional casado on the dinner menu, almost unheard of in Costa Rica. They must assume that people who stay at the Marriott aren't interested in Costa Rican food or culture. The food I had was quite good, but it's not traditional. Also, it is far from everything. So, if you're looking to relax and get away from it all (as I was) it's great. But it's a long trip from the Liberia airport, and is even 1/2 hour from the local town.

“What an incredible place!”

We spent a few days in July at this magnificent new luxury hotel...emphasis on luxury. The rooms, restaurants and social areas including pool & beach were gorgeously decorated and perfectly maintained. The service was absolutely impeccable, loved by adults and children. We felt very special and it is definitely worth the expense. All in all a perfectly serene yet fun, beautiful, elegant and unforgetable place. Can't wait to go back. I don't think the published photos do justice.

“JW Marriott in Costa Rica”

Very nice facility. We enjoyed our time with the exception of the exit process. It was a Saturday and a busy entrance and exit day, and only one person on to work the exit desk. Would recommend that you plan hours ahead of time to ensure that you make your plane and get to the airport on time.

“SLC LOVES JW MARRIOTT IN COSTA RICA”

GREAT HOTEL.

“Royal Treatment. Already planning our next trip.”

Luxury and comfort galore. This is a first class hotel. Beautiful rooms and facilities. Swimming pool was unbelievable. Largest ever seen. Excellent food; especially the Monsito restaurant for breakfast and lunch. Have the buffet breakfast and the lunch fillet mignon. Staff are remarkable and they "never" forget your name. Views of both forest and ocean are outstanding. Go to the beach and watch the sunset; you won't forget it. Hotel is on a huge natural reserve and it's a 20 minute taxi ride into Tamarindo. No shuttle service.

“Secluded Hotel”

First time in Costa Rica and won't be the last! This hotel is situated in a beautiful secluded area. Great grounds and great service from all the staff. Concierge was very helpful in setting up and recommending activities. I highly recommend on renting a car/SUV if you plan to stay here, closest town is about 25 minutes away. For good inexpensive meals plan on eating off site of the hotel. Hotel prices are a bit high.

“Guanacaste Trip”

JW was just what the holiday needed. Extremely helpful staff, great location, private beach and lots of relaxation. Just a wonderful nature getaway

“Great place to relax”

little mix up with a charge on our bill. waiting for the credit card bill to make sure it was removed. overall a beautiful hotel, good service.

“I DIDN'T WANT TO LEAVE!”

What an amazing hotel from the amenities to the staff! First, Irene at the reception desk is the best there is. She was spot on with recommendations (zipline at Catagena if you want to do just that and avoid tours; eat at Caroline's in Tamarindo; Lola's at playa avellanas has really good food - try the tuna and chicken satay) so please go to her if you need any help. Second, the amenities are luxurious. The room is great - nice sized sleeping area, bathroom and terrace with screen. The gigantic, free flowing pool is gorgeous with 2 "infinity" areas, the best being the one facing the ocean. The staff is always there to help set up umbrellas and put towels on your lounge chairs. Don't forget to get a massage at the spa, one of the best I've been to. Third, the food is yummy. Try the Marriott burger at the pool, eat at Tamarine and definitely at Sabaneros ( we went twice!). For $25 the breakfast buffet is a really good deal if you can eat a lot so that you avoid eating lunch. Don't miss out on 2 or 1 happy hour at the lobby bar from 6-7pm or the grill from 5-7pm with their 2 for 1 mojito special. I preferred the lobby bar though as they have many cocktails to choose from. The hotel is VERY isolated so you may want to rent a car. If you do please get an SUV. The roads are pretty heinous and you'll be glad you got one. We rented a Toyota Rav 4 and it worked just fine. I'm sure I'm missing something but hopefully I've helped.

“Had the best patio ever!!!”

The JW Marriott Guanacaste was beautiful! We had a nice welcome with complementary mango drinks and warm towels. The bell hop showed us around the entire hotel. Our favorite spot was the patio in the hotel room. We spent every night out there drinking cocktails, talking and listening to the ocean waves. Housekeeping was great! They even lined up all our toiletries when they cleaned our room. We ordered room service a couple of times and the food was good, and the prices would be comparable to what you'd pay at a sit down restaurant. But you definitely have to order their pineapple juice, it tasted like just like a smoothie. You'll have to drive to Tamarindo if want to do anything at night, because the hotel dies out around 8 pm. Perfect for honeymooners who what a remote and quite vacation. We thought it was a lovely place, it's just the drive that was a bit of a pain.