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JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort: What to Expect from an All-Inclusive Family Vacation in Costa Rica

Golfpedia Costa Rica — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 19:46:38 +0000

This Costa Rica family travel story highlights our experience during an All-Inclusive holiday at the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort.

From sunbathing with iguanas and enjoying fresh ceviche, to beachside roasted marshmallows under golden sunsets –life’s true joys do come from the simplest pleasures and, this spot at the heart of Costa Rica’s North Pacific coast made it happen for us.

Welcome & Pura Vida¹!

¹ Pura Vida [POO-rah VEE-dhah] is a popular Costa Rican expression that translates literally to ‘pure life.’ However, its meaning goes far beyond the words themselves. It embodies the laid-back, positive, and grateful lifestyle that Costa Ricans, Ticos embrace.

This article is not sponsored.

Get answers to your travel questions:

What is the closest golf course to JW Marriott Guanacaste?
What’s on the Menu? All-Inclusive Dining options at JW Marriott Guanacaste.
Is the JW Marriott Guanacaste a good place to stay with young children?
What is the best tee time at Hacienda Pinilla golf course?
What is the closest beach to JW Marriott Guanacaste?

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But first, rest

Traveling as a family that loves active golf days and tropical mornings in the sun means figuring out the necessary sleep arrangements the night before –making sure all family members get the quality rest necessary to wake up fully replenished and recharged.

The JW Marriott Guanacaste made this seamless for us. After watching the sun dip at Mansita Beach and getting back to our room, housekeeping staff arrived at our doorstep with a full bed setup in tow—providing comfy, extra pillows—to ensure our little restless sleeper would be as comfortable as possible.

The room had one King Size bed, so the extra bed fit nicely between the wall and our bed, conveniently doubling as railing for extra safety. This is the first thing mentioned in this article, as our vacation would have definitely not been the same without this important detail.

INSIDER TIP:

Resort offerings can change according to season—always verify what is included in your stay to make the most of your experience.

Waking up to Swaying Sea Waves

Our first morning at the JW Marriott Guanacaste greeted us with the sound of waves and a salt-infused breeze you can only associate with a tropical haven like this.

If you’re staying at one of the resort’s oceanfront rooms you’ll notice you’re mere steps away from the beach —an open invitation to enjoy Costa Rica’s natural beauty.

Nearest Golf Course: Hacienda Pinilla

The closest golf course to the JW Marriott Guanacaste is the Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course.

This par-72 course spans across the Hacienda Pinilla development –the same complex where the JW Marriott resort is located.

A short 4-minute drive will take you from the resort’s premises to the Hacienda Pinilla Golf Club.

Hacienda Pinilla’s 15th hole might take your breath away completely. As you tee off with its stunning ocean backdrop, don’t be surprised if a deer and its fawn happen to wander across your path— one of those rare, unforgettable golf moments that will make whatever distance you’ve covered feel completely worth it.

What is the Best Tee Time at Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course?

The best tee time at Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course depends on your preference:

Early Morning (6:30AM – 8:30 AM) – The best choice for a faster-paced game (mid-week.) You’ll also have the best chance of spotting wildlife like deer, iguanas, and howler monkeys.

Afternoon & Twilight Golf (2:30PM – 4:00 PM) – A great option for those who enjoy golden-hour golf, with softer light and cooler conditions as the sun starts to set.

Hacienda Pinilla Golf Club offers discounted rates for Twilight Golf (Tee time after 1PM) and Super Twilight Golf (Tee time after 3PM) so be sure to check out their updated rates directly on their website. Afternoon rounds might be windier depending of the time of the year, but they will also offer some of the most stunning ocean views, especially near sunset.

Pura Vida Sunbathing Mates

Guanacaste’s rich biodiversity stands out among the happiest discoveries for travelers visiting Costa Rica’s remotely secluded areas –such as Hacienda Pinilla, where JW Marriott Guanacaste is located. During our stay we saw countless varieties of birds, butterflies and tropical flowers.

But perhaps the most fascinating encounters were those with relaxed iguanas, casually lounging next to us by the poolside, as if joining our tropical sunbathing session –a true embodiment of the Pura Vida spirit.

On the lookout for signs of Hope and Good Luck

If you consider yourself a believer, and are staying at the JW Marriott Guanacaste or any surrounding areas in Guanacaste, make sure to be on the lookout for “Esperanzas²” Tettigoniidae family –also known as ‘bush crickets’ or Katydids.

Among Guanacaste’s many cultural traditions, the ‘Esperanza²’ stands out as a tiny but powerful symbol of good fortune. Catching a glimpse of this vivid green insect is said to bring good luck.

During our stay we saw a couple of them hanging at our doorstep as we entered or exited our room.

² Esperanza is the Spanish word for ‘hope.’

Poolside & Beach Fun

Fun at a tropical oceanfront resort might mean something slightly different for every family.

If your family is more into walking by the beach and spending hours building sand castles, the JW Marriott Guanacaste is perfect for that, just as it is for spending your whole day by the pool enjoying the ocean sounds, iguana visits and poolside splashes.

Tico Coffee Shop & Pastry Delicacies

The JW Marriott Guanacaste features its own gelato and coffee shop. Our All-Inclusive package treated us to Costa Rican coffee beverages, sweet and salty food items and soft beverages during our entire stay.

INSIDER TIP:

Confirm what’s included in your package at the JW Marriott Guanacaste, so you can plan accordingly.

The warm, friendly staff added an extra layer of sweetness to an already sweet afternoon stop every single time.

Costa Rican coffee bags and souvenirs are not included in All Inclusive packages, but they sure make great gifts to bring back home.

Infinite Sunsets

During Costa Rica’s dry season, Playa Mansita—the tranquil beach right in front of JW Marriott Guanacaste—becomes a prime spot for some picture-worthy and unforgettable sunsets.

We visited in October, during Costa Rica’s rainy or ‘green’ season and were still able to enjoy some beautiful sunsets.

INSIDER TIP:

Costa Rica’s weather patterns can be highly unpredictable, with the dry season usually spanning from December to March or April. However, it could casually deliver you a stunningly clear sunset during August or September. The key to enjoying Costa Rica? Embrace the moment, rain or shine.

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Dining at JW Marriott Guanacaste

The JW Marriott Guanacaste features 4 different restaurants, a pool bar, and a sports bar.

Sabanero Steakhouse –for premium cuts, Tamarine –Asian fusion dining, Sandbar –Artisan beer and signature burgers, Azul –locally inspired seafood, and Pimento– for authentic Italian comfort –All of which were included in our All-Inclusive stay.

A few standout dishes left a lasting impression during our stay at JW Marriott Guanacaste.

Among them, were the freshly-prepared ceviche we got to enjoy oceanfront at Azul, while dinner at Pimento gave us a comforting taste of Italy, with the prosciutto & pecorino antipasto, and a special caponata, thoughtfully prepared by the chef that evening.

Tropical After Sun Reset & Skincare Rituals

A sun-soaked day in Guanacaste’s tropical dry climate might mean your skin will need more than just SPF—it will need a deep hydration boost.

This area’s dry tropics may cause your skin to feel a bit more thirsty than usual after full days outdoors, so be sure to pack a rich, deeply hydrating face moisturizer—your skin will thank you after every golden hour!

INSIDER TIP:

Gently tapping a couple of drops of camellia oil before your normal moisturizer might work miracles for your skin while visiting dry tropical areas. Just as a soothing, hydrating lip mask for overnight recovery may feel as an absolute life saver.

History & Local Heritage in Every Corner

If you’re into learning about local history and culture while traveling, the JW Marriott Guanacaste will have something for you in almost every corner.

In many ways, walking its hallways feels like taking a journey through time with its red terrace floors and colonial-style candelabras—as if pulled straight from the pages of a Latin American period novel.

Its walls are covered with photographs of historical landmarks, native pottery pieces and traditional ‘Guanacasteco’ scenery.

Pictured on the right: Casona de Santa Rosa, a historic landmark located at Hacienda Santa Rosa.
It stands as a remembrance site in Costa Rican history, marking the site of the Battle of Santa Rosa in 1856. Remains a symbol of Costa Rica’s national pride and resilience.

Soothing Wind Downs in Tico³ Style

After a day filled with tropical explorations, poolside splashes, and endless excitement, settling little travelers down for the night can feel like a challenge.

Following the usual steps of your normal sleep routine at home can help your little explorers get in the mindset for rest —even during an exhilarating tropical vacation.

³ Tico Costa Ricans proudly call themselves ‘Ticos,’ a beloved slang term unique to the country.

My Blue Mariposa is one of our bedtime favorites, a beautifully-illustrated children’s book, perfect for learning Spanish at the same time you learn about Costa Rica’s most fascinating natural species.

This book was written by author Jodie Marie Fisher as her tribute to Costa Rica, a country she fell in love with at first sight during a college exchange experience.

The Bilingual Children’s Book: My Blue Mariposa features 57 varieties of plants, ten different species of butterflies, and 15 varieties of insects and animals —all carefully hand-drawn, and colored with a pencil technique by Costa Rican artist Ruth Angulo of Casa Garabato.

If your family wants to learn about Costa Rica’s natural wonders while practicing your Spanish reading and listening skills, this book is a must-have.

‘Hasta luego⁴’ Guanacaste

Our family holiday at the JW Marriott Guanacaste was definitely worth the distance. If you’re considering a place to spend 3 or 4 days of your Costa Rican vacation, enjoying high-quality family time, you should definitely consider their All Inclusive package, or similar offerings.

Make sure to check out their social media for updates on available packages throughout the year.

⁴ ‘Hasta luego’ means ‘see you later’ in Spanish. A very common, Costa Rican greeting among locals.

How to book a tee time at Hacienda Pinilla Course?

You can book your tee time at Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course by following any of these steps:

Using their tee time reservation link here.
Make sure to check their updated offers and discounted rates for Twilight Golf (after 1PM) and Super Twilight Golf (after 3PM.)
Alternatively, you can book online through the official Hacienda Pinilla Golf Club website, or verified, third-party booking platforms that feature Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course.

Basic facts & figures about Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course

Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course

Location: Santa Cruz, Guanacaste

18 holes

Par 72

Nearest resort:
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa

Golf rental available: Yes.
Golf shop available: Yes.

Learn more about this golf course

INSIDER TIP:

Consider booking your stay in advance, especially during Costa Rica’s peak seasons (December to April.) Make sure to ask about any special rates or packages, such as twilight golf or seasonal offers during your stay.

‘Tico’ Brands and Small Businesses mentioned in this article:

Café Britt
Casa Garabato
Armando del Vecchio

Ruth Angulo
Blue Mariposa Books
Jodie Marie Fisher

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Thank you for visiting GOLFPEDIA Costa Rica, an authentically honest approach to golf & family fun in Costa Rica. If you enjoyed this article, make sure to say hi on social media:

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Let’s connect & share family fun experiences. Pura vida!

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article serves as a general overview of options and benefits and should only be used for informational purposes. The information provided in this content should not be construed as any legal or financial advice. Before booking, please contact your licensed travel agent for additional assistance.

La Iguana Golf Course in Costa Rica: Here is What you can Expect

Golfpedia Costa Rica — Sun, 20 Oct 2024 19:24:38 +0000

La Iguana Golf Course in Herradura, Costa Rica is advertised online among the best golf courses in Costa Rica– but does it really meet expectations?

This GOLFPEDIA Costa Rica article is meant to help you acquire basic knowledge about this highly-coveted golf course in Costa Rica, as well as things to know and expect when visiting La Iguana for the first time.

Disclaimer: This article is not sponsored, but rather written by a golf mom who values spending meaningful family time, while enjoying outdoor & indoor activities during tropical vacations.

Welcome & Pura Vida!

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Are there special green fee rates for tourists at La Iguana Golf course in Costa Rica?

La Iguana Golf Course is located within the Los Sueños Residential Community and Beach Club complex. It regularly offers different special packages for tourists and residents alike depending on seasonality. For example, during certain parts of the year, twilight golf may be available at a discounted green fee rate.

What is the best time of day to play at La Iguana Golf Course?

With Costa Rica’s highly humid conditions running for most of the year (dry season goes from December to April) you might find it a better idea to tee off as early as possible. TheGolfplusOne reports: “Whenever my husband tees off later than 6:30am, he never fails to mention extreme thermal sensation on the course.” This may be somewhat relieved by La Iguana’s friendly beverage cart, but only temporarily, so it may be wise to take your precautions.

Can I expect to see Iguanas at this golf course?

Yes, many but not only Iguanas. La Iguana Golf Course is one of those spots that does live up to its name. As you go deeper into your game, you’ll be surprised at the amount of wildlife, natural sounds and biodiversity that is constantly present at this golf course. If you are a nature enthusiast, make sure to have your phone or camera handy to capture your favorite Costa Rican rugged pals, furred friends and feathered buddies.

Is there an All Inclusive resort near La Iguana?

La Iguana Golf Course is located within the same grounds that houses the Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort. While this is not an All Inclusive golf resort, it does offer a variety of dining options that go from seafood at ZOÉ, a ‘surf & turf’-infused steakhouse like Hacienda Kitchen, delicious food by the golf course at ‘18 and Greene’, authentic Latin American snacks at La Panga, Asian cuisine at ‘Diverso’, and casual dining at the ‘Ocho Sunset Bar’. And of course, there is the 24 hours in room dining menu —always one call away. Simply dial ‘0’ if you feel too tired or cozy to leave the room.

There are different golf-related activities that are included with your stay at the Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort, which may include:

A bucket of golf balls to fine-tune your shots at the driving range.
A naturally-rich guided tour of La Iguana Golf Course. A great experience for natural contemplation & family bonding away from screens & doomscrolling (a must these days.)
Unlimited rounds at the resort’s mini golf.
Mini golf-related activities at the resort Kid’s Club.
As many iguana & wildlife pictures your phone can store during your golf rounds.

*Based on our family vacation experience. Specific activities and their availability may vary according to season.

Is La Iguana’s staff friendly?

One of our favorite things about visiting La Iguana as a family–is sensing just how friendly the staff is. Yes, there is a cultural factor at play here that may come from Costa Ricans (known as ‘Ticos’) and their overall warmth and friendliness; however, this goes a little further when you visit La Iguana Golf Course. But don’t just take this article’s word for it: if you decide to visit and notice the same, make sure to comment on GOLFPEDIA’s Instagram or Facebook posts reporting what you experienced during your visit.

Subscribe now for exclusive insider tips to plan your ultimate Costa Rica golf experience

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Is La Iguana a family-friendly golf course?

Yes! If you are staying with your family at Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort you’ll be happy to learn that a full guided tour of the golf course is included with your stay. Our family took this tour and it was a beautiful learning & bonding experience, with our tour guide being so kind and detailed in each description and– giving enough time to stop, watch nature and take pictures.

Are there fun daily activities & entertainment for kids near La Iguana?

If you are staying with your family at Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort, you’ll also be excited to know that various entertainment activities for your little ones are included with your stay. These activities are hosted in different spots of the hotel’s grounds. You can expect your kids to enjoy fun activities such as:

Pizza making class.
Cupcake decorating.
Dream catcher crafting.
Piggy bank making with recycled materials
Mini golf tournament
Charm bracelet making.
Marshmallow bonfire at sunset.
And many more.

*These activities may be included when you stay at the resort. The list is based on our family vacation experience. Specific activities and their availability may vary according to season. Make sure to check before booking.

How to book a tee time at La Iguana Golf Course?

You can book your tee time at La Iguana by following any of these steps:

Using their tee time reservation link here.
Through their App: La Iguana Golf Course at the Apple App Store & La Iguana Golf Course at Google Play Store.
Visit La Iguana Pro Golf Shop in person.
Alternatively, you can book online through the official Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort website or third-party booking platforms that feature La Iguana Golf Course.

Golf Savings Tip. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Make sure to ask about any special rates or packages, such as twilight golf or seasonal offers.

Basic facts & figures about La Iguana Golf Course

La Iguana at Los Sueños Marriott

Location: Herradura Beach

18 holes

Par 72

Nearest resort:
Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort

Golf rental available: Yes.
Golf shop available: Yes.

Learn more about this golf course

* Based on personal travel experience. Availability may vary according to season.

Want to add something from your own experience?

Every travel experience is different. While our family’s recent experience near La Iguana Golf Course was a happy one, yours might be different. If you feel you have insightful tips that help make this article better and useful for golf families visiting La Iguana Golf Course in the future, make sure to share them in the comments, and also consider stopping by and say hi on our social media:

GOLFPEDIA Costa Rica on Instagram

GOLFPEDIA Costa Rica on Facebook

Golfpedia Costa Rica

Was this article helpful for you?

Thank you for visiting GOLFPEDIA Costa Rica, an authentically honest approach to golf & family fun in Costa Rica. If you enjoyed this article, make sure to say hi on our social media:

GOLFPEDIA Costa Rica on Instagram

GOLFPEDIA Costa Rica on Facebook

Let’s connect & share family fun experiences. Pura vida!

costa rica golf course honest review Archives | Golfpedia Costa Rica

JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort: What to Expect from an All-Inclusive Family Vacation in Costa Rica

But first, rest

Waking up to Swaying Sea Waves

Nearest Golf Course: Hacienda Pinilla

What is the Best Tee Time at Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course?

Pura Vida Sunbathing Mates

On the lookout for signs of Hope and Good Luck

Poolside & Beach Fun

Tico Coffee Shop & Pastry Delicacies

Infinite Sunsets

Dining at JW Marriott Guanacaste

Tropical After Sun Reset & Skincare Rituals

History & Local Heritage in Every Corner

Soothing Wind Downs in Tico³ Style

‘Hasta luego⁴’ Guanacaste

How to book a tee time at Hacienda Pinilla Course?

Basic facts & figures about Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course

Was this article helpful for you?

La Iguana Golf Course in Costa Rica: Here is What you can Expect

Are there special green fee rates for tourists at La Iguana Golf course in Costa Rica?

What is the best time of day to play at La Iguana Golf Course?

Can I expect to see Iguanas at this golf course?

Is there an All Inclusive resort near La Iguana?

Are there other golf-related activities near La Iguana?

Is La Iguana’s staff friendly?

Is La Iguana a family-friendly golf course?

Are there fun daily activities & entertainment for kids near La Iguana?

How to book a tee time at La Iguana Golf Course?

Basic facts & figures about La Iguana Golf Course

Want to add something from your own experience?

Was this article helpful for you?