Riu Guanacaste, Matapalo (Guanacaste) - Reviews, Rooms Options & Prices 2025

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About the Resort

Lir, Playa Matapalo, Matapalo (Guanacaste), Costa Rica

Riu Guanacaste is a luxurious resort situated in Matapalo, Costa Rica, offering all-inclusive services and a stunning tropical setting. This 5-star hotel is designed with modern architecture and lush gardens, making it an ideal escape for travelers. The resort features a wide range of amenities, ensuring guests can unwind and enjoy their stay amidst natural beauty. With direct access to beautiful beaches, Riu Guanacaste combines relaxation with the thrill of Costa Rica's vibrant culture.

Location

Located just 29 km from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, Riu Guanacaste provides convenient access for travelers. The surrounding area boasts several notable landmarks, including Guacamaya Beach and The Monkey Farm, both within a short distance. Guests can easily explore Costa Rica's natural and cultural attractions thanks to the resort's strategic location, enhancing the overall experience.

Rooms

Riu Guanacaste offers a variety of room types, including double rooms, family rooms, and suites. Each accommodation comes equipped with essential amenities like air conditioning, flat-screen TV, minibar, and private bathroom. Many rooms feature balconies that provide picturesque views and create a comfortable atmosphere with bed linen and towels available. Rooms cater to different needs, making this resort suitable for both couples and families.

Eat & Drink

The resort features several onsite restaurants that serve a range of international cuisines. Guests can start their day with a buffet breakfast, providing various options to suit diverse tastes. Notable dining options include Furama, La Toscana, and Tucán - Gourmet, each promising unique culinary experiences. These dining establishments allow guests to enjoy gourmet meals without leaving the comfort of the resort.

Leisure & Business

At Riu Guanacaste, guests can indulge in a multitude of recreational activities, including tennis and access to an outdoor swimming pool. The resort also features a hot tub, fitness center, and a children's playground. For those seeking entertainment, there is a nightclub and a kids' club that ensures families have enjoyable options. Such facilities promote a lively atmosphere while ensuring relaxation is readily accessible.

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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Family Room

Max:

2 persons

38 m²

Bed options:

1 King-size bed

Bathtub

Balcony

room details

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Standard Double Room

Max:

2 persons

31 m²

Bed options:

2 Double beds

Bathtub

Balcony

room details

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Two bedroom Family Suite

Max:

2 persons

76 m²

Bed options:

1 King-size bed

Bathtub

Balcony

room details

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Getting around

Explore available ways to reach your dream destination

City Centre

Matapalo (Guanacaste)700 m

Airports

Liberia (LIR) 30.9 km

Tamarindo (TNO) 38.1 km

Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Delicious Breakfast!

“The breakfast buffet was a highlight, featuring fresh pastries and a diverse selection of hot dishes.” view full review

Relaxing Spa Day

“The spa offered a serene atmosphere with an amazing hot stone massage that completely rejuvenated me.” view full review

Cozy Room Ambiance

“The room had a warm ambiance with soft lighting that created a perfect relaxing retreat.” view full review

Luxurious Shower

“The shower had fantastic pressure and temperature control, making for the best shower experience I've had.” view full review

General

Safe deposit box

Room features

Mini-bar
Sitting area
Ironing facilities

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Location

Lir, Playa Matapalo, Matapalo (Guanacaste), Costa Rica

Map view

Lir, Playa Matapalo, Matapalo (Guanacaste), Costa Rica

City landmarks

Farm

The Monkey Farm

3.8 km

Beach

Ocotal Beach Club

4.0 km

25 meters from Ocotal Beach

Los Almendros de Ocotal

4.1 km

Monkey Trail

The Congo Trail

4.6 km

Guacamaya Beach

4.1 km

Cementerio Nuevo Colon

4.4 km

Iglesia de Nuevo Colon

4.8 km

Church

Iglesia Catolica de Playas del Coco

6.6 km

Gallery

Rojas Bros Boruca Indigenous Arts

6.8 km

Coco Beach Hotel

Alessandra Cola Art

6.7 km

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback from previous guests about their experience

70%

liked the resort and would come back again

7.0/10

Very good

Rooms

7.4

Location

8.6

Service

6.4

Dining

5.4

John

United States, January 2025

7.8/10

I had a wonderful experience at the Riu Guanacaste overall, enjoying the stunning ocean views and friendly atmosphere. However, I found the food options a bit limited during dinner, which was a slight disappointment. The mornings were lovely, especially with the great selections at breakfast (I loved the fresh fruit!).

Rooms

8.0

My room was spacious and well-appointed, with a breathtaking view of the ocean from my balcony.

Service

7.0

The staff was attentive and friendly, always greeting me with smiles, though the wait times for room service could be improved.

Location

9.0

The resort is beautifully situated right on the beach, offering easy access to both relaxation and activities nearby (I enjoyed walking on the sand!).

Dining

6.0

While the breakfast buffet was impressive (those omelets were a highlight!), I felt that the dinner options could use a bit more variety to cater to different tastes.

Facilities

9.0

The pools were fantastic, particularly the infinity pool overlooking the ocean, providing a perfect relaxed vibe (I spent most afternoons lounging there!).

David

United States, December 2024

7.2/10

I had a wonderful stay at Riu Guanacaste, enjoying the beautiful beachfront location and the vibrant atmosphere around the resort. However, the dining experience didn't always meet expectations, as the quality varied and could be improved. Overall, I found it to be a relaxing getaway despite some minor concerns.

Rooms

8.0

My room was spacious and clean, featuring a comfortable king-sized bed that made my nights restful.

Service

6.0

Service was attentive at the bars, though I noticed a few delays at the restaurants during peak hours.

Location

9.0

The resort is conveniently located right on the beach, providing stunning ocean views and easy access to local activities.

Dining

5.0

I tried various dishes, but some meals were hit-or-miss in terms of freshness and flavor.

Facilities

8.0

The pools were inviting and well-maintained, perfect for lounging under the sun after a beach day.

Erik

United States, December 2024

7.0/10

My stay at Riu Guanacaste was quite enjoyable overall. The beach access was stunning, but the room could have used more attention to cleanliness. The buffet dining offered a variety of options, yet I found some dishes lacking in flavor.

Rooms

6.0

The room was spacious, although the housekeeping left something to be desired.

Service

7.0

The staff were generally friendly, but I noticed slow response times at the front desk.

Location

8.0

The location was perfect for beach activities and exploring the area, which I loved.

Dining

6.0

The selection at the buffet was decent, but the flavors of the dishes varied quite a bit.

Facilities

8.0

The facilities were well-maintained, with beautiful pools and a nice gym.

Henry

United States, November 2024

7.2/10

I had a wonderful stay at Riu Guanacaste, thanks to its beautiful beach access and spacious rooms. However, I found the dining options a bit limited, especially with the breakfast choices. Overall, it was relaxing, but I hope for more variety next time. 🌴🌅

Rooms

8.0

I loved the spacious rooms and comfortable beds, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Service

6.0

Service was friendly, but there were times when staff seemed overwhelmed during peak hours.

Location

9.0

The beachfront location was stunning, with easy access to sunbathing and water activities.

Dining

5.0

The breakfast offered an egg station, but I felt the overall dining options could use more variety.

Facilities

8.0

I enjoyed the well-maintained pools and the beautiful grounds, perfect for leisure time.

Brian

United States, September 2024

6.4/10

My stay at Riu Guanacaste was mostly enjoyable. The beachfront location and beautiful grounds were truly a highlight, though the food left something to be desired at times.

Rooms

7.0

I found my room to be spacious, featuring a comfortable king-size bed and a nice ocean view. However, the decor felt a bit dated.

Service

6.0

Service was friendly and attentive in most areas. yet I did experience some delays at the front desk during check-in.

Location

8.0

The resort's location was stunning, nestled right on the beach, surrounded by lush greenery. though it was a bit remote from nearby attractions.

Dining

5.0

Dining options ranged from decent to tasty. I did find the main buffet repetitive after a few days, which was a bit disappointing.

Facilities

6.0

The pools were inviting, with plenty of loungers available for relaxation. still, I wished there were more activities to engage in throughout the day.