Situated on a serene beachfront in Costa Rica, surrounded by national parks, conservation areas and waterfalls, is JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa, the first-ever all-inclusive property from JW Marriott.
Here, privacy and nature mingle in perfect harmony, and guests are treated to an elevated escape. Located 75 minutes from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR), it’s the ideal retreat for travelers looking for seclusion.
“The opening of the world’s first all-inclusive JW Marriott represents a defining moment for both our resort and the evolution of luxury hospitality,” said Sandra Blum, general manager at JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa. “We have thoughtfully reimagined the all-inclusive experience through the lens of the JW Marriott brand – where exceptional service, sophisticated design, culinary excellence, and meaningful well-being come together in an atmosphere of effortless elegance.”
The JW Marriott brand has three pillars: mindful service, holistic well-being and nourishing cuisine. JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa was created with these pillars in mind, encouraging guests to not only relax, but also engage in curated activities and elevated dining throughout their stay.
On the design front, the all-inclusive resort pays homage to Sibü, the creator deity of Costa Rica's Bribri and Cabécar Indigenous cultures, with spaces that are deeply rooted in nature and local heritage. The use of organic materials and layouts that blend with the landscape work to nurture wellbeing, while intentional experiences inspire reflection and help foster a lasting connection to the destination.
“It is an honor to welcome guests to a destination that not only celebrates the beauty and culture of Costa Rica but also sets a new global standard for luxury all-inclusive travel,” Blum said. “Our team is proud to deliver the personalized, intuitive hospitality that defines JW Marriott, creating experiences that inspire every guest to be fully present and leave with lasting memories.”
A Sensory Journey
Dining at JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa is a sensory journey shaped by the flavors, colors and rhythms of Costa Rica. The property has 11 restaurants and bars where guests can indulge in everything from tropical fruits and freshly caught seafood to globally inspired cuisine, all crafted with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. Each meal is thoughtfully designed to reflect the destination.
Visitors can even choose a more hands-on approach and personally harvest ingredients from the JW Garden themselves, forging a meaningful connection. These types of opportunities invite guests to slow down, engage their senses and discover the flavors that make Costa Rica a remarkable culinary destination.
Elevated Accommodations
Contemporary sophistication meets refined finishes throughout the resort’s accommodations. Those in search of the most exclusive way to experience this property can opt for a suite in the Griffin Club. It all starts with a personalized check-in at the Griffin Club Lounge, and from there, guests are treated to a private pool and exclusive beach area, in addition to in-room offerings.
In total, JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa has 415 suites (including presidential, master, griffin and junior categories). The views range from ocean and pool to tropical and resort, offering endless ways for visitors to admire and connect with Costa Rica’s iconic surroundings.
Throughout the property, areas are curated to promote mindfulness, encouraging guests to remain present during their stay. From the spa and fitness center to the cabanas and children’s recreation area, there’s something for everyone. While there’s plenty to do on property, travelers can also opt to explore the area through the resort’s exclusive off-property experiences, like rainforest journeys and visits to volcanic hot springs.
“Opening the doors to the first all-inclusive JW Marriott is the culmination of a shared vision and the dedication of an exceptional team committed to creating something truly special,” said Kimberly Cover, director of sales and marketing at JW Marriott Costa Elena.
“Every aspect of the guest experience has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the warmth of Costa Rican hospitality, elevated by world-class service, refined accommodations, and meaningful connections to our destination. We are honored to welcome the first guests and look forward to creating unforgettable memories while setting a new benchmark for luxury all-inclusive travel in Costa Rica.”
To learn more about JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa, visit www.jwmarriottcostaelena.com.
Origionally appeared in the Fall 2026 issue of The Compass magazine
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