Guanacaste Gears Up for Luxury: St. Regis Set to Open in 2027
Luxury travel in Costa Rica is about to reach new heights. Marriott International has announced plans to introduce its elite St. Regis brand to the Gulf of Papagayo, Guanacaste—a region already known for its world-class beaches and vibrant eco-tourism. Construction is set to begin in July 2025, with the grand opening projected for early 2027.
The future St. Regis Papagayo will span an impressive 220,000 square meters between the scenic bays of Panamá and Culebra. Just a short 25-minute drive from Liberia International Airport, the resort will offer guests and residents 580 meters of stunning beachfront along one of the country’s most desirable coastlines.
Designed as both a hotel and residential destination, the property will feature 120 high-end rooms and 143 private residences. The experience will be anchored by a thoughtful blend of nature, elegance, and cutting-edge design—bringing together some of the most acclaimed names in hospitality development. Mexican firm Sordo Madaleno will handle the architecture, with interiors by Gensler Mexico City and landscape design by Maat Handasa. Ana Ramírez of Ancestral Handmade Hotels is curating the wellness experience, while TalentChef is shaping the culinary program.
Food and beverage will be central to the guest experience, with six signature dining venues planned. Highlights include a beachfront grill, a Japanese-Costa Rican fusion concept, a speakeasy-style bar, and a clubhouse offering casual gourmet cuisine.
The St. Regis Papagayo is also positioning itself as an events destination, with over 950 square meters of flexible meeting and celebration space. Add to that a luxurious spa, multiple pools, a curated library, and the brand’s hallmark butler service, and you have a blueprint for an unmatched experience in Costa Rica.
This project is more than just a new luxury property—it’s a milestone in Guanacaste’s evolution as a global destination. It reflects a growing demand for upscale, sustainable travel and the increasing interest in Costa Rica’s unique mix of biodiversity, wellness culture, and pura vida lifestyle.
With the arrival of St. Regis, the Papagayo coast is set to redefine what luxury means in Central America—where high-end travel meets unspoiled nature in the most inspiring of settings. As representatives of Costa Rica and DMC industry, we can’t wait to see this magical new spot!
The Costa Rica DMC Team