COSTA ELENA, GUANACASTE, COSTA RICA - Marriott International has announced a landmark agreement with Mullen Real Estate Capital to introduce a new JW Marriott all-inclusive resort to the stunning shores of Costa Elena in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Slated to open in the second quarter of 2026, this property will mark a significant step for the JW Marriott brand as it ventures into the all-inclusive segment, promising to redefine luxury within this popular vacation model.
The upcoming resort underscores Marriott International's growing commitment to Costa Rica as a premier luxury destination. This development follows closely on the heels of the company's February 2025 announcement of its 50th luxury hotel in the CALA region, the Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, also located in Costa Rica. By the end of 2025, Marriott is projected to operate 22 hotels across 15 of its distinct brands in the country, with further expansions on the horizon.
"This project signifies the commencement of a strategic alliance with Mullen Real Estate Capital, a recognized leader in the all-inclusive sector within the Caribbean and Latin America region," stated Uriel Burak, Marriott International’s Vice President of Development for the CALA region. "Bringing the esteemed JW Marriott brand to an all-inclusive format in a location as captivating as Costa Elena is a testament to our dedication to offering exceptional and diverse experiences to our guests."
Nestled approximately 80 kilometers from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR), the resort will offer an unparalleled luxury escape. The property will feature 415 elegantly appointed guest rooms and an impressive array of 11 diverse restaurants and bars, catering to a wide range of culinary preferences. Water enthusiasts will be delighted by the expansive 4,100 square meters of water amenities, including a remarkable 17 swimming pools.
For events and wellness, the JW Marriott all-inclusive resort will boast over 900 square meters of sophisticated event space and a sprawling 1,500-square-meter spa. The spa will be meticulously designed to align with the JW Marriott brand's signature focus on holistic well-being. Guests can also expect a state-of-the-art fitness center to cater to their health and wellness routines.
The resort's prime location includes 270 meters of pristine beachfront, solidifying its position as a top-tier destination for discerning global travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Future development plans may also include the addition of exclusive JW Marriott-branded residences on adjacent land, further enhancing the luxury offerings and potentially creating valuable economic opportunities and local employment.
Jeff Mullen, President of Mullen Real Estate Capital, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, "We at MREC are thrilled to embark on this collaboration with Marriott International and JW Marriott, a brand synonymous with excellence and world-class service. Together, we anticipate unlocking new possibilities, establishing new benchmarks within the industry, and building a future brimming with limitless potential."
Costa Rica has increasingly become a magnet for luxury travelers and investors, drawn to its breathtaking natural beauty, commitment to ecotourism, and stable economic environment. The arrival of the JW Marriott all-inclusive resort in Costa Elena is poised to further elevate the country's standing as a premier luxury destination in Latin America, offering a sophisticated and immersive experience that blends the renowned JW Marriott brand ethos with the ease and indulgence of an all-inclusive format.
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