JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa

This sprawling 310-room property—open since February 2009—distinguishes itself by straddling the line between major resort and remote wilderness lodge. The colonial-style building features breezy rooms with dark wood accents and capacious balconies with water views (pool and ocean). Though it's not all-inclusive, the Marriott has fully-realized facilities.  You can opt to do nothing—lounge by the endless chain of pools, stroll on the volcanic beach, detoxify in the dry sauna—or go active and zip line through the rainforest canopy, spy monkeys on strenuous mountain hikes, plunge into nearby hot springs, or fish in the Pacific.  There are five restaurants and grills; for a romantic evening, chef Erick Sala will serve you a five-course private dinner on Mansita Beach.