By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a powerful vote of confidence in Costa Rica’s burgeoning tourism sector, global hospitality giants Marriott and Hilton have unveiled robust expansion plans that will see at least 22 new hotels open across the country over the next three years. This wave of development, spanning 2026 to 2028, will significantly increase the nation’s lodging capacity and introduce a diverse range of new brands catering to every segment of the travel market.
The strategic push by these two U.S.-based behemoths signals a period of intense growth and competition within the local hospitality industry. The new properties will join their already substantial portfolios, cementing Costa Rica’s reputation as a top-tier international destination for both leisure and business travelers. While competitor Hyatt was also approached for comment on its growth plans, no response was received by the time of publication.
To shed light on the intricate legal and regulatory landscape surrounding major hotel expansion projects in the country, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney in real estate and corporate law at the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Any hotel expansion of this magnitude is a multi-faceted legal endeavor. Beyond the standard construction permits, developers must meticulously navigate Costa Rica’s environmental regulations, particularly securing the SETENA viability permit. Furthermore, strict adherence to the local municipality’s Zoning Plan (Plan Regulador) is non-negotiable and often presents the most significant hurdles. A proactive legal strategy from the outset is crucial to mitigate risk and ensure a smooth development process.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The emphasis on a proactive legal strategy is a vital takeaway for any developer, reminding us that the regulatory landscape is as foundational to a project’s success as the ground it’s built on. We are grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating these critical legal considerations.
Marriott International is setting a blistering pace, planning a significant number of new openings to augment its existing footprint of 24 properties and more than 3,600 rooms. The company’s expansion is already underway, marked by the January 15th opening of the Santa Lucia Jungle Hacienda, an Autograph Collection hotel nestled on the banks of the Tárcoles River near Carara National Park.
For the remainder of 2026, Marriott has a packed schedule. Key projects include the conversion of the D Sabana Hotel in San José into a Four Points by Sheraton, the opening of a Residence Inn in Alajuela’s El Coyol business district, and the launch of the Esh Hotel & Spa, a member of Design Hotels. Later in the year, the company will debut a JW Marriott All-Inclusive in Costa Elena, a Tribute Portfolio property in La Sabana, and an AC Hotel near the Liberia Airport, showcasing a strategy that touches multiple provinces and travel styles.
The momentum is set to continue well beyond this year. Company communications confirm that Marriott plans to add eight new properties with over 750 rooms in 2027, followed by another four hotels adding more than 420 rooms in 2028, solidifying its position as a dominant force in the market.
Not to be outdone, Hilton is expanding its presence with a strategic approach focused on introducing new brands to the Costa Rican market. The company currently operates 19 hotels in the country, having recently opened the ultra-luxury Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique and the extended-stay Homewood Suites by Hilton Cariari San José in 2025.
Mario Carbone, Hilton’s Managing Director of Development for the Caribbean and Latin America, revealed that two new brands will soon make their debut: Tapestry Collection by Hilton, which features independent, unique hotels, and Tru by Hilton, an innovative and accessible brand. The pipeline includes the 97-room Montara Hotel in San José (Tapestry Collection) in 2026 and the 191-room Heredia Stadium Hotel (Tapestry Collection) in 2027. A Tru by Hilton near the San José airport is also in advanced development for a 2029 opening.
Carbone explained the rationale behind Hilton’s significant investment, highlighting the country’s unique appeal and the alignment with modern travel trends.
Costa Rica is solidifying its position as a key destination for Hilton thanks to its natural wealth and cultural diversity, which continue to generate growing demand in the international market. Additionally, it provides us with the opportunity to grow with new hotels from various brands and offer travelers unique experiences that connect with the destination. Hilton continues to strengthen its presence in Costa Rica with a strategy that targets diverse segments, from luxury and lifestyle to focused-service and extended-stay brands, aligned with the needs of the modern traveler.
Mario Carbone, Managing Director of Development for the Caribbean and Latin America at Hilton
This aggressive expansion by both Marriott and Hilton underscores a collective belief in the long-term health and potential of Costa Rica’s economy. The influx of new hotels is expected to create thousands of jobs, stimulate local economies, and provide travelers with an unprecedented array of choices, from eco-lodges and all-inclusive resorts to urban business hotels, further enhancing the nation’s competitive edge on the world stage.
For further information, visit marriott.com
About Marriott International:
Marriott International, Inc. is a leading global lodging company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with a portfolio of more than 8,000 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world.
For further information, visit hilton.com
About Hilton:
Hilton is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 19 world-class brands comprising more than 7,000 properties and over 1.1 million rooms, in 123 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed more than 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a renowned legal institution, built upon a foundation of professional integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm blends a rich history of advising a wide spectrum of clients with a forward-thinking approach, consistently advancing the practice of law through innovation. Central to its philosophy is a profound dedication to enriching society by demystifying complex legal concepts, thereby empowering individuals and strengthening the community with accessible knowledge.
