JW Marriott Guanacaste Beach Resort

The main drawback is the distance from the airport. With traffic, the drive could take 2 to 3+ hours, and being so isolated meant the hotel overcharged for things. A small bottle of Eviam cost $18, a pretty sad bowl of Ramen was over $20, and a scoop of ice cream set us back 10 bucks. Still, we had a good time and thought it was a nice resort, with no major complaints. The hacienda-inspired setting was a great experience, and we loved the hammocks around the hotel. Having a de facto private branch was a big plus, and the pool is huge. What impressed us most may have been how quiet it was, even though kids are allowed.

The people at JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa made our six-night stay feel special from the beginning. Everyone was smiling, warm, and focused on good service. Each morning started with relaxing beach yoga, one of the highlights we looked forward to. Housekeeping was consistently spot-on, and the whole property was beautifully cared for. The resort itself is stunning, with a huge pool and direct access to a gorgeous beach. It's also conveniently close to Tamarindo, local restaurants, and other beautiful beaches, so exploring the area was easy. We had an incredible stay that exceeded our expectations, and we'd happily return. Highly recommend it!

My wife and I were at dinner when someone charged more than $30 at Britt Shop to our room. They only asked for a room number, without checking a name or signature, and Britt Shop gave no receipt showing either. Even after I showed that we were both at dinner, JW Marriott would not refund the charge. The amount wasn't much compared with the thousands we'd spent on the trip, but the situation felt unfair. The property itself is beautiful, though it's far from many tourist spots, including Rain Forest, Volcano, and Eco Park. Get a receipt with your name on it and sign it to protect yourself.

The breakfast buffet has loads of freshly made options, and dinner was just as good. The huge pool is a kid's dream, and we loved our stay. A special thanks to Guest Relation Manager - Nelson for arranging a surprise in our room at check-in for our special date! It's a lovely place in the Guanacaste region, with private beach access and a quiet feel because it's a bit outside the main city. That distance makes it harder to enjoy local food and culture in town, though, so a rental car is probably the best way to get around.