Marriott International has partnered with Mullen Real Estate Capital to bring a luxurious JW Marriott resort to Costa Elena, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, redefining all-inclusive experiences.

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) has unveiled plans to expand its luxury portfolio with the signing of a new agreement with Mullen Real Estate Capital. This partnership will bring the prestigious JW Marriott brand to the shores of Costa Elena, an exclusive resort-residential community located in the stunning Guanacaste region of Costa Rica. Set to be one of the first all-inclusive JW Marriott resorts globally, the new property reflects Marriott’s dedication to redefining luxury all-inclusive experiences, integrating mindfulness, exceptional service, and sophisticated design into every aspect of the resort.

“We are thrilled to expand our presence in Costa Rica with the introduction of one of the first JW Marriott All-Inclusive Resorts,” said Uriel Burak, Marriott International Vice President, Development, Caribbean and Latin America (CALA). “This project marks the beginning of a strategic collaboration with Mullen Real Estate Capital, a pioneer in the all-inclusive sector, within the CALA region.”

A Premium Destination on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica

Located just 49 miles from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, the JW Marriott Costa Elena will offer a world-class experience for discerning travelers. With 415 elegantly designed guest rooms, the resort is poised to become a premier destination for both leisure and business travelers. Guests will be treated to an impressive selection of amenities, including 11 diverse food and beverage outlets that highlight local flavors and international cuisine. A staggering 44,000 square feet of water amenities will feature 17 swimming pools, offering the ultimate relaxation for visitors.

In addition to these leisure-focused amenities, the resort will provide 10,000 square feet of state-of-the-art indoor meeting space, catering to corporate events and conferences. The brand’s focus on wellness is reflected in a 16,000-square-foot spa, meticulously designed to provide guests with a rejuvenating experience, as well as a cutting-edge fitness center to maintain an active lifestyle.

A Beachfront Retreat in an Exclusive Community

Positioned within the exclusive Costa Elena community, the JW Marriott Costa Elena will boast an enviable 885 feet of pristine beach frontage, solidifying its status as a highly sought-after destination for luxury travelers. The resort’s strategic location within Costa Elena also opens the door to future developments, including the potential addition of JW Marriott-branded residences on adjacent plots of land. This future expansion would further enhance the resort’s offering, blending upscale living with luxury resort experiences in a one-of-a-kind destination.

“MREC is thrilled to embark on this exciting collaboration with Marriott International and JW Marriott, a brand synonymous with excellence and world-class service. Together, we look forward to unlocking new opportunities, setting new benchmarks, and creating a future filled with limitless potential,” commented Jeff Mullen, President at Mullen Real Estate Capital. 

Costa Rica’s Rising Appeal for Luxury Travelers and Investors

Costa Rica has long been known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and thriving tourism industry. In recent years, the country has attracted increasing interest from both luxury travelers and investors. Marriott’s commitment to this market is evident through its significant expansion efforts in Costa Rica. In February 2025, Marriott opened its 50th luxury hotel in the country, the Ritz-Carlton Reserve Nekajui, underscoring the region’s appeal to affluent guests.

In 2024, Marriott secured 10 new hotel deals in Costa Rica, adding 1,086 rooms to the market and pushing its total development pipeline to 15 properties, which will add an additional 1,776 rooms. By the end of 2025, Marriott will have 22 hotels open across 15 brands in Costa Rica, making it one of the leading hotel operators in the country. This rapid expansion reflects the rising demand for luxury travel in Costa Rica, with more Marriott properties expected to debut in the near future.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Marriott in Costa Rica

As Costa Rica’s tourism continues to grow, Marriott’s portfolio in the country is set to expand significantly. With the introduction of the JW Marriott Costa Elena and other properties in the pipeline, the company is firmly committed to establishing Costa Rica as a key luxury travel destination in the region. This new resort will elevate the country’s tourism offerings while providing Marriott with a leading position in the ever-growing luxury hospitality market.

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