New JW Marriott all-inclusive announced for Costa Rica

Marriott International has signed an agreement with Mullen Real Estate Capital to open an all-inclusive resort in Costa Rica, it emerged today

The property, located within the Costa Elena resort community in Guanacaste, will undergo conversion starting in July 2025. It is scheduled to open under Marriott’s JW Marriott All-Inclusive brand in spring 2026.

According to Marriott, this will be one of the first JW Marriott all-inclusive resorts globally, featuring 415 guest rooms, 11 restaurants and bars, and 44,000 square feet of water amenities including 17 swimming pools. Additional features will include a 16,000-square-foot spa, 10,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, and a fitness centre. The resort also has 885 feet of beachfront.

Future plans could include JW Marriott branded residences adjacent to the resort, Marriott said in a statement.

Uriel Burak, Marriott International Vice President for Development in the Caribbean and Latin America, said: “We’re delighted to expand in Costa Rica with one of our first JW Marriott all-inclusive resorts. This project kicks off a strategic partnership with Mullen Real Estate Capital, who are pioneers in this sector.”

Jeff Mullen, President of Mullen Real Estate Capital, added: “We’re very excited about our partnership with Marriott and JW Marriott, brands known globally for their excellence and high standards.”

Costa Rica continues to attract luxury travellers and investment. Marriott opened its 50th luxury hotel in the region earlier this year—Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. The company signed 10 new hotel deals in Costa Rica in 2024 alone, adding 1,086 rooms to its pipeline. Marriott currently has 22 operational properties across 15 brands in Costa Rica, with more openings planned in 2025.

Marriott International, headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, operates more than 9,300 properties globally across 30 brands. The JW Marriott brand comprises more than 125 hotels in 40 countries, targeting travellers who prioritise wellness and luxury experiences.

Mullen Real Estate Capital was established to manage real estate assets owned by the Mullen family, known for founding the Apple Leisure Group. The company focuses on hospitality and real estate investments in North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe.

Image: Marriott International