Tuesday, October 2, 2018

Wed In Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Words by Samantha Ross
Photos courtesy of Starwood Photography

Located in the upper northeast corner of Costa Rica’s North Guanacaste region, The Westin Golf Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal is a tropical wonderland all its own. Draped in the kind of magical flora that would put The Jungle Book to shame, The Westin provides couples with a myriad of backdrops for a storybook wedding. Your guests can join you barefoot on the white sand beach and enjoy cocktails at a poolside reception. Or, you may choose to say your vows high above the crashing waves and under looping banyan trees with views of the meticulously groomed rolling hills of the resort’s 71-par, world-class golf course. If this is the case, be prepared for some unexpected visitors. As a registered wildlife reserve, the resort is home to a roaming troupe of white-headed capuchin monkeys that often steal the show.

With more than a dozen all-inclusive restaurants, seven pools, countless outdoor activities, and even some healthy nightlife on property, you may feel completely satisfied to never leave the resort during your time in Costa Rica. However, just 10 miles from your stay at The Westin is the quaint and touristy beach town of Tamarindo. Known for excellent surfing (and shopping) conditions, Tamarindo will entertain everyone in the family. Be sure to visit the brand-new Volcano Brewing Company for the delicious Gato Malo Dark Ale. Hankering for some of that famous Costa Rican coffee? The Waffle Monkey will knock your socks off. Just a little farther and you’ll find wildlife and zipline tours awaiting you in the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park.

In Costa Rica, every day you’ll be met with adventure, which makes returning to your room at The Westin Golf Resort and Spa, Playa Conchal each evening even more special. It feels like coming home. Therefore, it’s nearly impossible to leave Costa Rica without making plans to return. Thankfully, the resort will make every visit, including anniversary trips, as incredible as the first.

This article first appeared in Destination I Do Fall/Winter 2017 issue.