JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort &Spa
Originally developed as a luxury destination resort in 2002, JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa at Hacienda Pinilla represents a sophisticated evolution of Costa Rican hospitality on the Pacific coast.
- Ceremony
- 30 seated
- Reception
- 150 seated
- Nearest airport
- LIR · 45 minutes
- Open season
- January – April
- Price range
- $$$
- Rating
- 4.5 /5 · 1,845
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is a hotel destination wedding venue in 50309, Costa Rica, hosting 30 to 150 guests in the $$$ price range, reached from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (Liberia) (LIR), 45 minutes. Best months: January, February, March, April.
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa in 50309, open January–April.
Originally developed as a luxury destination resort in 2002, JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa at Hacienda Pinilla represents a sophisticated evolution of Costa Rican hospitality on the Pacific coast.
Built on the grounds of the historic Hacienda Pinilla estate, the property honors its agricultural heritage while delivering contemporary five-star amenities across 1,200 acres of private beachfront.
The resort's architecture reflects colonial Costa Rican design principles, with modern infrastructure seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape.
Our stay at JW Marriott Guanacaste was absolutely wonderful. The hotel is top-tier: the rooms are beautiful, the food is delicious, and the pool is truly the best we have seen anywhere in the world. The surrounding nature is stunning. A special thank you to Lester and the entire reception team. They are wonderful, welcoming, and hospitable people who made us feel right at home. One thing to note: the hotel is quite secluded, and there is currently road construction nearby, which made the trip a bit challenging. However, everything else was so perfect that it was absolutely worth it. We highly recommend this place!
4 notes, from the desk.
1,200 acres of private beachfront property with direct Pacific Ocean access and multiple ceremony backdrops
Two championship golf courses within the Hacienda Pinilla development, plus spa facilities spanning 12,000 square feet
On-site capacity for up to 150 guests with multiple indoor and outdoor event spaces including a 3,000 sq ft ballroom
All-inclusive accommodations with 224 rooms ranging from standard to suite categories, allowing multi-night guest stays
Best held in January, February, March.
The months the weather — and the local rhythm — is kindest to a stay at JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa.
Check availability.
Choose a day from the calendar.
We hold dates in pencil. A first note comes back within two business days.
How the weekend usually runs.
Yours will be different — nothing below is required. Every planning begins with the three meals you most want to eat, and builds outward.
- 2:00 PMGuest arrivals and room check-in; welcome cocktail by the pool
- 6:30 PMRehearsal dinner at beachfront restaurant (optional, additional cost)
- 9:00 AMBridal party preparation in designated suites
- 4:00 PMCeremony on beach pavilion or indoor venue
- 5:30 PMCocktail hour with ocean views and appetizers
- 7:00 PMReception in ballroom or outdoor terrace with dinner and dancing
- 10:00 AMFarewell breakfast for departing guests
Things worth knowing.
LIR · 45 minutes
Guests fly into Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (Liberia). The desk arranges every transfer.
$35,000-65,000
Pricing excludes florals, photography, entertainment, and décor which can add $5,000-15,000. High season (Dec-Mar) rates run 20-30% higher. Minimum guest count typically 30 for wedding events.
$1,500-2,500
A one-time licence and setup fee, paid to the venue.
$180-280 / head
A seated dinner with wine and service, by headcount.
$250-500 / night
A standard room in the wedding window. Group rates on request.
January – April
4 viable months. Shoulder dates soften the light and the rates.
Asked along the way.
What is the wedding season at JW Marriott Guanacaste?+
The dry season (December-April) is peak wedding season, though the green season (May-November) offers lower rates and lush landscapes. Rain showers are typically brief afternoon events during green season months.
Does the resort provide wedding planning services?+
Yes, the resort employs dedicated wedding coordinators who manage vendor logistics, timelines, and on-site coordination. An experienced team handles everything from ceremony setup to reception logistics.
What are the nearest airports?+
Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia is 45 minutes away. San José International Airport (SJO) is approximately 5.5 hours away but offers more flight options.
Can the resort accommodate dietary restrictions?+
The culinary team accommodates vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific menus. Advance notice allows customized tasting menus for the couple.
Is the beach ceremony location weather-protected?+
While the resort offers an open beach ceremony space, covered pavilions and indoor backup venues are available for weather contingencies.
Hold dates at JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa.
A note to the desk with a rough season and guest count. We hold dates in pencil for three weeks before confirmation. A reply comes within two business days, from a person by name.