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From191US$ /night
Check-in
20Mar2026Select date
Check-out
21Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Playa Matapalo - Sardinal, Matapalo (Guanacaste), Costa Rica
-
Next to the beach
7.6
/10
3.4
3.7
/5

Riu Guanacaste - A 5-star beachfront resort with an all-inclusive system, conference facilities, and lively pool atmosphere

The 701-room Riu Guanacaste features a beachfront location on Matapalo Beach, surrounded by green hills and offering direct access to the Pacific Ocean. The all-inclusive system includes a buffet restaurant and themed dining options, with menus prepared by the hotel's chefs. Guests can enjoy leisure facilities such as a large pool with a party atmosphere, a wellness center with a Renova Spa offering massages and treatments, and entertainment activities like introductory scuba diving. The property also includes a casino, disco, and shops. Five modern conference rooms with full equipment are available for business events. Nearby landmarks include The Monkey Farm (3 km) and Guacamaya Beach (5 km). A continental breakfast is available each morning at Riu Guanacaste.

Pros

Direct beach access with protected turtle nests on Matapalo Beach.

Multiple dining options, including themed restaurants and buffet-style meals.

On-site wellness center with a Renova Spa, jacuzzi, and steam room.

Conference facilities with five fully equipped meeting rooms.

Lively pool area with entertainment staff and a party atmosphere.

Cons

The pool area can be noisy due to its party atmosphere.

The nearest major town, Liberia, is 35 km away.

Must-do experiences

  • Visit Rincon de la Vieja National Park for stunning waterfalls.
  • Savor the local Olla de Carne at a nearby sodas for lunch.
  • Take a sunset catamaran tour to see marine life up close.
  • Explore Liberia's Market for vibrant local crafts and produce.
  • Visit the historic Tempate Church for a taste of local culture.
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Select your room type

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Standard Room
1 person
Pool Side Room
1 person
Suite
1 person
Deluxe Room
1 person
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Prices and availability

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Facilities

Enjoy modern comforts, from ocean-view suites to family-friendly options with breakfast included

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
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Hotel Riu Guanacaste Location

Playa Matapalo - Sardinal, Matapalo (Guanacaste), Costa Rica
Map view
Playa Matapalo - Sardinal, Matapalo (Guanacaste), Costa Rica
Restaurants
Langosta Feliz Marisqueria
2800 ft
Restaurant
Explore Matapalo (Guanacaste)
Explore the Surroundings
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
The Monkey Farm
The Monkey Farm
35 minutes walking
A sanctuary for local wildlife, offering guided tours to see rescued monkeys and learn about conservation efforts.
Los Almendros de Ocotal
10-minute drive
A tranquil beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying stunning sunsets.
Ocotal Beach Club
10-minute drive
A vibrant beach club featuring watersports, dining, and events, providing a lively atmosphere for relaxation and fun.
The Congo Trail
10-minute drive
An adventurous zip-lining experience through lush jungles, providing breathtaking views and exhilarating thrills.
Zip-lining at The Congo Trail
10-minute drive
An adrenaline-pumping zip-line adventure through the treetops, perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
Relaxation at a Local Spa
10-minute drive
A serene spa offering massages and wellness treatments, ideal for unwinding and rejuvenating after a day of exploration.
Langosta Feliz Marisqueria
Langosta Feliz Marisqueria
10 minutes walking
A casual seafood restaurant known for its fresh ceviche and relaxed beachfront vibe. Reservations recommended.
Playas del Coco Nightlife
15-minute drive
A lively area featuring bars and clubs with live music and dance, perfect for a fun night out with friends or family.
How to get 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
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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:
6
Number of rooms:
701

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Hotel Riu Guanacaste from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 551 verified reviews
7.3/10
Very good
60%
Recommend
Pros
Beach access
Pool areas
Buffet variety
Friendly staff
Clean rooms
Cons
Room issues
Limited options
Guest reviews
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Check-in
20Mar2026Select date
Check-out
21Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room