Location: Jacó 
Lodging Type: Hotel 
From: $491 / night 
A Strategic Location for Biodiversity
Just around an hour’s drive from San José and the Central Valley, Santa Lucia is located along the banks of the Tárcoles River at the edge of Carara National Park near the beach communities of Playa Herradura and Jacó.
Positioned in a transition zone between tropical dry forest and Pacific rainforest, Santa Lucia sits within one of the most biologically rich areas of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific.
The Quality of Marriott’s Autograph Collection
Opened in 2026, Santa Lucia has been redeveloped and repositioned as part of Marriott’s prestigious Autograph Collection. The property combines rainforest and nature experiences with a colonial-style hacienda concept, incorporating plaza spaces, a chapel, and traditional architectural details into the surrounding environment.
The result is a property that feels both nature-focused and culturally themed, rather than a standard resort. This unique atmosphere is what has turned Santa Lucia into a true member of the Autograph Collection.
Expansive Facilities with Sweeping Views
The hotel has 88 accommodations in a range of categories, all designed to showcase forest or mountain views while providing those modern creature comforts that hospitality is famous for. Lean out from the private balcony or terrace and admire the surrounding nature for a true taste of Costa Rica’s beauty. Some categories even provide closer proximity to the sounds of the river, while the suites offer additional space and privacy.
Local Flavors in Traditional Settings
Dining at Santa Lucia centers on Costa Rican flavors and regional ingredients. For example, Casa del Río serves traditional dishes highlighting local produce and Pacific seafood. Meanwhile, Bambú Grill provides a more casual poolside setting with lighter fare and cocktails, perfect for those afternoons where you’re just taking a refreshing dip.
Finally, head to La Cantina if you want to enjoy a traditional Costa Rican tavern atmosphere while sipping drinks, tasting small plates, and participating in the social environment.
On-Site Activities and Beyond
The hotel offers recreation and wellness facilities, including a main swimming pool, a children’s pool, jacuzzi, and a fitness center. The Sukia Wellness spa offers treatments in open-air spaces surrounded by rainforest, so if you want some pampering or indulgement, it’s hard not to spend some time here.
The property also maintains hiking trails within its private reserve and coordinates guided excursions into Carara National Park, birdwatching outings, and river safaris along the Tárcoles. If you have nature lovers in your group, they’ll love diving right into the forest to chase all these sights.
Ready for a Mountain Retreat?
While the beaches of Jacó and Herradura are within a 30–35 minute drive, the primary appeal of Santa Lucia Jungle Hacienda lies in its forest-river setting, abundant wildlife, and access to one of Costa Rica’s premier birding regions. It serves as a comfortable base for travelers seeking biodiversity, guided nature experiences, and a quieter Central Pacific alternative to beach-focused resorts near Jacó.
If you’re interested in staying at Santa Lucia Jungle Hacienda or exploring other Central Pacific accommodations, please contact our expert travel consultants who will be happy to assist you with your plans.
