Costa Rica is a hugely popular destination for travelers of all kinds, thanks to its spectacular natural attractions, excellent connectivity and well-developed infrastructure.
With both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, untouched jungles and mountainous national parks, Costa Rica has something to offer every visitor. On the Pacific side, Manuel Antonio National Park features beautiful beaches and the famous Punta Catedral, one of the country’s standout spots. On the Caribbean coast, the warm, calm waters of Cahuita provide a more relaxed seaside experience. Adventurous travelers can hike around Arenal Volcano or observe wildlife such as monkeys and sloths at Hacienda Barú National Wildlife Refuge.
Reaching these attractions is straightforward thanks to two main international airports: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near the capital, San José, and Guanacaste Airport (LIR) near Liberia. Flights from Miami take under three hours, while travel from Los Angeles is about six hours. Costa Rica’s central location in the Americas also makes it convenient for travelers from South America. The country’s pleasant year-round climate has long attracted North American retirees, so local businesses are well-equipped to meet the needs of U.S. visitors. Costa Rica uses Central Standard Time, matching cities like Houston and New Orleans, which helps travelers stay connected with family and colleagues at home.
© Marriott
These advantages support a thriving MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) market that the country has actively developed. A major investment was the $35 million Costa Rica Convention Center, which opened in 2018 and spans 168,000 square feet. The center, designed with energy-efficient systems, underscores Costa Rica’s sustainability focus and offers three main spaces, the largest seating up to 4,000 people. Located roughly 5 miles from San José airport and 6 miles from downtown, the convention center is a flagship venue for large events.
San José also offers hotel-based MICE options such as the Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belén, recognized as the country’s top MICE hotel in recent years. The property features 28 function rooms, including the Juan Vázquez de Coronado ballroom, which can accommodate up to 1,000 guests.
Outside the capital, a variety of distinctive venues cater to organizers seeking different experiences. JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa in Playa Mansita, Guanacaste province, provides four event rooms with a total capacity of up to 600 attendees and is about 1.5 hours from LIR airport. Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo, less than an hour from LIR, offers an extensive selection of event spaces including two beach areas, giving planners many options for memorable meetings and incentives.
Costa Rica continues to expand and refine its MICE offerings. Strong transport links, reliable infrastructure and a long history of hosting international visitors make it an attractive choice for corporate events. And when meetings finish, attendees can unwind on world-class golf courses, explore national parks or relax on pristine beaches.
© Marriott
UNIQUE VENUES
Costa Rica also offers MICE hotels with integrated golf facilities. Hotel Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort, on Herradura Bay on the Pacific coast, is about a 1.5-hour drive from SJO. The resort features 13 event rooms and the 18-hole La Iguana Golf Club, which winds through rainforest and provides ocean views. Designed by renowned architect Ted Robinson, the course has been recognized as one of the best in the country.
The Westin Reserva Conchal All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa, located on the Pacific coast roughly an hour from LIR, offers nine indoor and outdoor event spaces, with the largest venue accommodating up to 800 guests. Its grand ballroom can be subdivided into smaller rooms for more intimate gatherings, and the 18-hole golf course delivers spectacular coastal views. Family-friendly amenities such as the Westin Family Kids Club make it easy to combine business with leisure.