JW Marriott has entered the all-inclusive world for the first time, choosing Costa Rica’s northern Pacific coast for the debut.

Set above the secluded bay of Playa El Jobo in Guanacaste, the new JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa combines 415 rooms with wellness, dining and outdoor experiences designed around the destination. Highlights include Costa Rica’s largest poolscape, with 17 pools, a 16,000-square-foot wellness destination and 15 restaurants and bars.

Food plays a major role. Guests can roast their own coffee and take a seven-course culinary journey through Costa Rica’s provinces at Leal, try wood-fired coastal cooking at Casado or explore Afro-Caribbean flavors at Puerto Limón. There is even LaGloria, a nine-seat root beer stand inspired by J. Willard Marriott’s first business venture.

Wellness is equally central. The resort introduces JW Marriott’s first Mindfulness House alongside Spa by JW, with experiences ranging from sunset sound baths and cacao ceremonies to treatments incorporating volcanic clay and native cacao.

Beyond the resort, guests can head out on sunset hikes, kayaking trips, private yacht charters, deep-sea fishing and diving excursions. A weekly night market also brings local artisans, food, music and storytelling onto the property.

The opening also introduces JW Marriott’s next-generation Griffin Club, offering a more private resort-within-a-resort experience with dedicated concierge service, its own pool, lounge and beach area.

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