Why Take Your Kids to Dreams Las Mareas in Costa Rica
When I first arrived at Dreams Las Mareas Resort in Costa Rica, it simply seemed like a very nice resort. But after a couple days, I realized there is something special about this place. Located in Guanacaste in the northwest corner of the country, this hotel induced that blissed-out-living-in-the-moment feeling that can be hard to find, even on vacation. We didn’t worry about school or work or anything else here. Our biggest decisions each day were things like, “Pool or beach first? Strawberry or piña colada smoothie?” That’s just what we needed on this mother-daughter vacation. Read my hotel review to discover why you should book a stay at this Costa Rica beach resort for families, too!
This website sometimes receives compensation, hosted travel, or products related to blog posts. This article may include affiliate links at no extra cost to consumers. As an Amazon Associate, we earn money from qualifying purchases.
Water play
Water lovers will adore Dreams Las Mareas for its infinity pools, a winding waterslide, a bubbling hot tub, and a crescent moon-shaped beach beside a bay with mellow waves. Thirsty? There’s a swim-up pool bar (my favorite!). Plus, splashy activities like boogie boarding and snorkeling are included for resort guests. Pay an extra fee for other water fun like Scuba diving, jet skiing and deep sea fishing. Water play doesn’t have to end at night, either, with poolside movies to keep you swimming past dark.
Something that really upped the water game at this Costa Rica beach resort for families, though, was our room-front plunge pool, just steps from our private patio. Upon arrival, my daughter did a poolside happy dance upon seeing this watery treat. The rooms above us had their own private hot tubs on their balconies, too!
My 10-year-old and I bedded down in a room next door to my friend and her daughter of the same age. When we wanted to see what they were doing, we hopped in the water and waded on over or tiptoed along the pool’s edge to say, “Hola!” At night, we two moms chatted and sipped wine on our patios while the girls giggled and played in the water.
Dreams Spa
The water theme continues at the Dreams Spa by Pevonia. The Hydrotherapy Garden is off the hook with its waterfall jets spraying into a cool-water pool, cut into the side of a mountain. A whirlpool will ease away any travel pains.
Choose an indoor or outdoor relaxation room in which to thumb through magazines or take a little post-treatment snooze. Healthy snacks and tea are on hand as well. Select from an array of therapies including massages, facials and body treatments. I have been to many hotel spas in my travels, and this is one of my all-time favorites for sure.
Clubs for Kids and Teens
While mom or dad are off at the spa, children (ages 3-12) can play at the Explorer’s Club. This kids club features a movie theater, indoor play area, and outdoor playground. Activities include swimming, sand castle building, video games, arts and crafts, and more. On weekends, kids are treated to “camping” night on the beach.
The Core Zone Teens Club (ages 13-17) at Dreams Las Mareas keeps teenagers smiling while on family vacation with sports, games, a pool table, Foosball, ping-pong, video games, a Euro-bungee and snackbar. There are even late night disco mixers, if they’re so inclined (and their parents approve).
All-Inclusive Food and Drinks
With seven restaurants to choose from at Dreams Las Mareas, you’re sure to find something to tempt the taste buds of every member of the family.
- Oceana’s fresh, delectable seafood and hanging bar chairs wins my vote as best restaurant.
- For an adult’s only date night, head over to Portofino for swanky Italian cuisine.
- Himitsu is the only restaurant that requires reservations for its teppanyaki service.
- World Café is where to go for a huge breakfast buffet each morning, with an array of fresh fruits, charcuterie items, omelet station, made-to-order crepes and serve-yourself bloody Mary’s. This international buffet is open for lunch and dinner as well.
- For a lighter breakfast or mid-day treat, Coco Café serves coffees and pastries.
- El Patio offers up Mexican eats, and there are a few poolside casual fare options for lunch.
- Seaside Grill is where to go for tropical cocktails and grilled specialties
Seven bars, including one night club, ensure you won’t go thirsty at Dreams Las Mareas Resort. Soda, juice, smoothies, beer, wine, and cocktails are included for all hotel guests. My daughter’s favorites were the banana smoothies with chocolate syrup and Shirley Temples with extra cherries. Cheers!
More at Dreams Las Mareas
Need more reasons to book a stay at Dreams Las Mareas? There’s also live entertainment, complimentary bicycle rentals, and cooking or dancing classes! Plus, it’s easy to sign up for off-site excursions like zip-lining and jungle-trekking in beautiful Guanacaste. After a few days at this Costa Rica beach resort for families, you’ll forget all about your to do list, and relax into la pura vida, Costa Rica’s laid back way of life.
Dreaming of a trip to Costa Rica with kids? Discover fun activities in Guanacaste for families now!
Save this Dreams Las Mareas Resort Review
If you’re looking for a Costa Rica beach resort for families, then be sure to save this story. Simply pin the image above to Pinterest. I hope you’ll follow Travel Mamas on Pinterest while you’re at it!
Do you think your family would like this Costa Rica beach resort? Let us know in the comments below!
A Note from The Travel Mama: Dreams Las Mareas hosted our stay for the purpose of this review. All opinions are mine, as always.
IF you had to pick, Dreams Las Mareas or Westin Conchal in Costa Rica?
Hi Megan – I have never been to Westin Conchal so I can’t compare the two. If you’re traveling with kids, though, I highly recommend Dreams Las Mareas. There really are so many things to do for all ages and the vibe is very playful. Enjoy Costa Rica!
do you remember what the height or age restrictions were for the water slide? I have 5 and 8 year olds and I am concerned that the 5 year old would not be allowed but the 8 yo would.
Hi Lisa – I’m sorry to say I can’t recall if there was an age or height restriction for the waterslide. I’d give Dreams Las Mareas a call and see if they can help you out. Have a fab time at this incredible resort!
Hi, when did you travel to the resort? We are thinking of planning a wedding but want to make sure our beach pictures have some greenery and is not dry! Do you recommend a certain time to go? Thank you,
Leti
Hi Leti – I think we visited in May. From looking at Weather.com, it looks like the highs in Guanacaste tend to be in the 80s and 90s year-round. The dry season in Costa Rica is from mid-November to April. In Guanacaste, the dry season lasts several weeks longer than in other places. Even in the rainy season, days often start sunny, with rain falling in the afternoon and evening. Hope that helps!
Hi Colleen,
Love your site! Getting married at Dreams Las Mareas this December, so excited! Is there an outdoor hot tub by the pools? Thank you!
Joanne
Joanne – Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! There is one whirlpool in the pool area. Enjoy!
I’m hoping to take the Family to Costa Rica in January! this looks like a great place to start!
Wonderful! Costa Rica is such a friendly and beautiful country – I’m sure your family will love it!
Hi, I have just stumbled upon this blog whist looking to staying at Dreams. May I ask if the snorkeling straight from the beach is good. We have a 13 year old “water baby” daughter and she is in her element when snorkeling or diving.
We don;t want the expense of diving every day so if the snorkeling direct from the beach is good then we may be on a winner…
Hi Davina – The snorkeling from the shore was pretty good. There are some rocks off to one side of the beach, which makes a good place to go spy on fishies. Enjoy Dreams Las Mareas!
Going there for March Break with a 5 year old and a 7 year old. Glad I stumbled upon this blog! I am even more excited to go now.
Do you know if there are ziplining tours that will allow the children?
Hi Asha – The zip-lining tour with Spider Monkey Canopy tour that my daughter and I enjoyed in Guanacaste, Costa Rica was for children ages 8+. Typically the primary concern is weight and height of the child. I don’t know if there are other zip-lining tours in the area that may be able to accommodate smaller children. Enjoy la pura vida in Costa Rica!
Looks AMAZING.
Dreams Las Mareas sounds like a lovely spot to unwind and enjoy quality time with the kids. I’m sure my teenage daughter wouldn’t balk at a trip to this resort.
Tonya – I love that teens have a club where they can go to get a break from mom and dad (and vice versa!). 🙂
Water everywhere for the mini-me; spa for mamma. I’m in! I love Costa Rica anyway… always looking for a reason to go back!
Francesca – Oh, and what a spa it is! If you’re a big fan of spas, Dreams Las Mareas won’t disappoint!
What a great trip! We’ve never been to an all inclusive, but keep talking about it. And Costa Rica, another one on the bucket list. This would definitely take care of both. So many great things to enjoy at this resort. Thanks for sharing!
Kirsten – I hope you get a chance to experience Dreams Las Mareas. So. Much. Fun!
This sound so fun. We are thinking of going to Costa Rica for our anniversary.
Allison – DO IT! You will love Costa Rica!
Looks dreamy! I love it when they have both a kids and teen club. The food looked really good in those pics and I love those swinging chairs. I never thought of going to Costa Rica but this resorts makes it look very doable.
As a fan of all-inclusives, I’m keeping this one in mind for a future family trip! Love the walk-out plunge pools!
Oh, you’d LOVE Dreams Las Mareas, Kara!
Looks fabulous. Many of our clients are requesting Costa Rica these days. Will bookmark!
ha ha ha…this is so cool. I have a eight year old daughter and a two year old son. I am guessing I will be able to travel with them in another two years.
Then again, when I think of traveling alone with them…I start sweating. So, loads of respect for you!
Rekha – The kids club helps a lot because you can get away for a bit of alone time. I say, take them next year when you’re little one turns 3. Happy travels!