Hotel Riu Guanacaste, Matapalo (Guanacaste) ∞ Discover spa retreats, reviews & deals for 2026

75 photos

Book with us and save

up to 10%

compared to Booking.com

Key details

About Resort

Playa Matapalo - Sardinal, Matapalo (Guanacaste), Costa Rica

Close to the beach

7.6

/10

3.4

3.7

Loved by Hotel Riu Guanacaste guests

Clear water
Friendly staff
Clean rooms
Delicious food
Beautiful grounds

"The wildlife is absolutely amazing in the morning and evening from our balcony you can see and hear howler monkeys."

harrytizz from United Kingdom

read full review

"Loved the idea of having one firm and one soft pillow with another in the wardrobe if needed."

redcheeks1982

read full review

"A couple of times a week they release the baby turtles into the sea which was an added bonus whilst watching the sun set which is magical."

Ej000 from United Kingdom

read full review

Riu Guanacaste, a 5-star Sardinal hotel, features an extensive all-inclusive system and a prime beachfront location on Mata Palo Beach. This large resort boasts 701 rooms, a casino, multiple dining options, and numerous leisure activities, catering to diverse interests and preferences.

Rooms & Amenities

The 701-room Riu Guanacaste offers modern air-conditioned accommodations equipped with a mini-bar, in-room safe, and hair dryer. Many rooms feature stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, making for a memorable stay.

Dining & Entertainment

Dining options at Riu Guanacaste include a buffet restaurant and themed restaurants showcasing a variety of global flavors. Guests can also enjoy a vibrant atmosphere at the bar and take advantage of poolside service.

Leisure & Wellness

Leisure facilities include a large pool with a lively party atmosphere, a wellness center featuring a jacuzzi, steam room, and massage treatments at Renova Spa. Guests can also engage in various sports activities such as introductory scuba diving.

Business & Local Area

Riu Guanacaste offers five modern conference rooms suitable for meetings and events, equipped with necessary facilities. The proximity to attractions such as the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park provides opportunities for hiking and ecotourism.

Must-do experiences

Tour Rincón de la Vieja National Park for stunning waterfalls.
Savor Gallo Pinto, our traditional breakfast dish, at local sodas.
Discover artisan crafts at the Liberia Market on weekends.
Take a sunset cruise on the Papagayo Gulf for breathtaking views.
Visit the Lizard Lounge for live music and a vibrant atmosphere.

View resort on map

Guest Emotional Experience

Explorers, Not TouristsMeet the locals!

“If you walk a little bit on the beach, toward Monkey Bar you will meet the monkeys, free of charge!”

Craiova1966

Shine on SocialsIguana selfie!

“One of my favorite things was to see the many iguanas (all sizes and colors) that would visit the pool area.”

Tinjo72

Away at HomeJungle wake-up

“Some mornings we pulled back the curtains and could and hear the howler monkeys and watch the colourful birds chirping.”

Sue from United Kingdom

View all

Select your room type

Hotel Riu Guanacaste offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Standard Room

1 person

Pool Side Room

1 person

Suite

1 person

Deluxe Room

1 person

Click button to see more rooms

Show all rooms

Show all roomsLess

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

Hotel Riu Guanacaste offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

Free internet access
24-hour reception
Wheelchair access
Currency exchange
Sundry/Convenience shop
Gift/Newsstand

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Kayaking
Tennis court

Services

Car hire
Laundry

Dining

Continental breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Buffet breakfast

Children

Children's pool
Children's play area
Kids club

Spa & Leisure

Outdoor swimming pool
Casino
Night club
Garden area
BBQ facilities
Spa & wellness centre
Turkish bath
Jacuzzi

Room features

Air conditioning
In-room safe

Hotel Riu Guanacaste Location

Playa Matapalo - Sardinal, Matapalo (Guanacaste), Costa Rica

Map view

Playa Matapalo - Sardinal, Matapalo (Guanacaste), Costa Rica

City landmarks

Farm

The Monkey Farm

1.9 mi

Landmark

Los Almendros de Ocotal

2.2 mi

Beach

Ocotal Beach Club

2.1 mi

Landmark

The Congo Trail

2.5 mi

Landmark

Cementerio Nuevo Colon

2.3 mi

Landmark

Iglesia de Nuevo Colon

2.5 mi

Landmark

Guacamaya Beach

3.0 mi

Church

Iglesia Catolica de Playas del Coco

3.7 mi

Gallery

Rojas Bros Boruca Indigenous Arts

3.8 mi

Landmark

Alessandra Cola Art

3.7 mi

Restaurants

Langosta Feliz Marisqueria

2800 ft

Restaurant

Explore Matapalo (Guanacaste)

Explore Local Activities and Dining

The Monkey Farm

35 minutes' walk

A sanctuary for rescued monkeys, The Monkey Farm features interactive experiences with wildlife and educational tours.

Ocotal Beach Club

10 minutes' drive

A relaxing beachfront destination, Ocotal Beach Club offers sunbathing, swimming, and water sports with stunning ocean views.

The Congo Trail

10 minutes' drive

A thrilling canopy zip line adventure situated in the tropical forest, providing unique biodiversity viewpoints.

Snorkeling at Ocotal Beach

10 minutes' drive

Snorkeling near Ocotal Beach reveals vibrant marine life. Rentals and guided tours are available for both beginners and experts.

Yoga at Harmony Wellness

10 minutes' drive

Harmony Wellness offers relaxing yoga sessions amidst nature, with classes suitable for all levels, often held outdoors.

Langosta Feliz Marisqueria

10 minutes' walk

A vibrant seafood restaurant known for its fresh ceviche and tropical cocktails in a relaxed beachside setting.

El Velero

10 minutes' drive

An upscale dining venue with a diverse menu featuring Costa Rican flavors, best enjoyed with sunset views overlooking the ocean.

Coco Beach Nightlife

15 minutes' drive

A lively nightlife spot in Playa del Coco, featuring bars and dance clubs with music and entertainment for all ages.

Live Music at Papagayo Centro

10 minutes' drive

An inviting venue showcasing local bands and artists, perfect for enjoying communal vibes and live performances weekly.

Getting around

City Centre

Matapalo (Guanacaste)4 min · 1000 ft

Airports

Liberia Airport (LIR)46 min · 18.8 mi

Tamarindo Airport (TNO)56 min · 23.1 mi

Want to see exclusive early booking offers?

Access special rates now and plan your next wellness retreat!

Check Rates

Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-23:59

Check-out

until 12 pm

Breakfast

The hotel Riu Guanacaste serves a continental breakfast for free.

Year renovated:

2009

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

701

Property is also known as

riu guanacaste review

riu guanacaste in costa rica

riu guana

hotel riu guanacaste costa rica pictures

riu guanacaste transat

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Hotel Riu Guanacaste from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 1027 verified reviews

7.3/10

Very good

62%

Recommend

Pros

Beach access

Pool areas

Buffet variety

Friendly staff

Cons

Room maintenance

Restaurant service

Limited shade

No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.

Open reviews

FAQs

About Hotel Riu Guanacaste

What is the check-in and check-out policy at Hotel Riu Guanacaste?

Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is until 12:00.

How far is Hotel Riu Guanacaste from Liberia Airport?

The hotel is 35 km from Liberia Airport, which is approximately a 47-minute drive.

What dining options are available at Hotel Riu Guanacaste?

The hotel features several on-site restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, including buffet and themed dining options.

What pool amenities does Hotel Riu Guanacaste offer?

Guests can enjoy a large outdoor swimming pool with a lively party atmosphere, as well as a jacuzzi.

Is parking available at Hotel Riu Guanacaste?

The hotel provides on-site parking facilities for guests.

What activities can guests enjoy at Hotel Riu Guanacaste?

Guests have access to activities such as kayaking, introductory scuba diving, and golfing.

What room amenities are available in the rooms at Hotel Riu Guanacaste?

Each room is equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a mini-bar, and a smart TV.

Are there entertainment options at Hotel Riu Guanacaste?

The hotel features a casino, disco, and regular entertainment activities for guests.

Is there a business center at Hotel Riu Guanacaste?

The hotel offers five fully equipped conference rooms suitable for meetings and events.

What is the location of Hotel Riu Guanacaste in relation to nearby attractions?

The hotel is located near Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park and beautiful surfing and snorkeling beaches.

Does Hotel Riu Guanacaste offer airport transportation?

The hotel provides services for bicycle and car rentals to explore the area.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.

Borinquen Thermal Resort

Liberia, Costa Rica

9.0

234 USD/night

Villas Sol Hotel And Beach Resort

Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste), Costa Rica

5.0

243 USD/night

Barcelo Montelimar All Inclusive

Montelimar, Nicaragua

7.9

99 USD/night

Hideaway Rio Celeste Hotel

Bijagua, Costa Rica

9.6

566 USD/night

Tango Mar Beachfront Boutique Hotel & Villas

Tambor (Puntarenas), Costa Rica

9.3

222 USD/night

Blue River Resort & Hot Springs

Liberia, Costa Rica

8.31 review

200 USD/night

Rancho Santana

El Limon, Nicaragua

9.4

450 USD/night

Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas

Tamarindo, Costa Rica

8.9

334 USD/night

Hotel La Mariposa

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

8.4

248 USD/night

Playa Blanca Beach Resort

Playa Blanca (Cocle), Panama

7.0

129 USD/night

Barcelo Tambor

Tambor (Puntarenas), Costa Rica

7.6

180 USD/night

San Marcos 124 Gran Pacifica Resort

San Diego, Nicaragua

7.0

229 USD/night

Popular hotels all over the world

Find your perfect hotel stay today

8.5/10

Ac Hotel Nashville

Nashville, United States

Steps from Lower Broadway honky-tonks, Guest-only rooftop bar with live music

View hotel

8.2/101 review

Hotel Nature Phuket Phuket

Phuket, Thailand

5 min drive to Patong Beach, 3 outdoor swimming pools

View hotel

8.2/10

Harris Hotel Seminyak

Seminyak (Bali), Indonesia

5 min walk to Dhyana Pura Beach, 4 swimming pools

View hotel

Hotel Morritt Hotel

Award-winning Garage Spa, AA Rosette accredited Gilroy's restaurant

The Woodlands Resort Curio Collection By Hilton

Forest Oasis Waterpark & Lazy River, 2 championship golf courses

The Tremont House, Galveston, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel — Visit website

Historic downtown Galveston location, Rooftop Bar with harbor views

Hotel Js Luwansa Hotel & Convention Center

2 km from embassy district, 244 well-appointed rooms

Sandcastle Resort Va Beach

Oceanfront location on Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Oceans 14 restaurant with ocean views

The Adelaide Inn Adelaide Hotel

64 rooms and suites, Outdoor pool and spa area

Mere Court Hotel

AA Rosette Restaurant, 3 hectares of private grounds

Holiday Inn Express Stevenage

25-minute train to central London, Inclusive Express Start Breakfast buffet

Westin San Antonio North Hotel

Indoor & outdoor pools, Fitness centre with sauna