First JW Marriott all-inclusive property — Marriott Bonvoy points and status apply, which is a real differentiator for frequent Marriott travelers.
Guanacaste's dry season (January–April) offers weather reliability that Caribbean properties during their winter seasons cannot guarantee.
17 pools for 415 rooms is an exceptional ratio — meaningful pool availability even during peak occupancy.
The whale watching and eco-adventure excursion program is unique to Guanacaste and has no equivalent at Caribbean all-inclusives.
Cons
The resort has not yet opened at time of writing — all details are pre-opening announcements. Opening timelines shift; verify status before booking.
LIR airport is approximately 49 miles away — longer and more expensive airport transfer than most Caribbean all-inclusive alternatives.
Pacific coast conditions (surf, tides, wind) are more variable than protected Caribbean bays — research seasonal conditions for your travel dates.
Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa
Pros
Pink Gin Beach is genuinely calm and swimmable — sheltered cove geometry prevents the choppy surf that affects more exposed Caribbean beaches.
Ten restaurants for 257 rooms is a high ratio, resulting in shorter waits and more consistent kitchen quality than larger Sandals properties.
Five-minute airport transfer is among the shortest in the Sandals chain — no long bus rides after a redeye.
SkyPool suites with private infinity plunge pools are architecturally distinctive and not replicated at most other properties.
PADI scuba diving up to two dives/day is included — at $80–100 per dive externally, this adds real value for certified divers.
The property's smaller, quieter personality makes it work well for couples who want intimacy over high-energy activity.
Cons
The Sandals app reservation system is unreliable — restaurants show as fully booked while tables are available, and closures go unannounced.
Summary
Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has a higher guest rating, while JW Marriott All-Inclusive Resort Costa Rica has more restaurants, while JW Marriott All-Inclusive Resort Costa Rica is the larger property, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more dining venues, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa offers more activities.
"Partial ocean view" and even some "ocean view" rooms deliver disappointing sightlines — verify the specific building and floor before booking.
Butler Elite categories represent a meaningful price jump; the value is clearest for guests who actually use 24-hour room service and prefer to delegate planning.
Beach lounger availability at the South Seas pool requires early claiming (pre-8:30 AM on busy weeks) — not ideal for late risers.
Older sections of the property show maintenance wear relative to the newer Italian village buildings.
