Costa Rica’s beaches, rainforests, and mountains make it a dream for tennis players. Imagine smashing a serve with Pacific waves crashing nearby or rallying under jungle shade. The country’s tennis scene is booming, with ~50,000 players and 200+ courts, especially in Guanacaste’s luxury resorts.
We spotlight four top destinations—Four Seasons, JW Marriott, Punta Islita, and Los Sueños—boasting Har-Tru clay courts, pro-led programs, and jaw-dropping views. From beginners to pros, these resorts offer an unmatched tennis experience wrapped in Costa Rica’s natural splendor.
Why Tennis in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica’s tennis courts, mostly Har-Tru clay, are softer than hard courts, reducing joint strain and slowing play for strategic rallies. The country’s eco-tourism leadership—~26% of land protected, ~98% renewable electricity—sets the stage for sustainable resorts. All four resorts sit in Guanacaste, a 1–2-hour drive from Liberia International Airport, making them easy to reach. Book clinics or lessons early, as peak season (December–April) fills fast.
Tennis fits Costa Rica’s active, outdoor lifestyle. With a tropical climate (75–85°F year-round), players enjoy consistent conditions, unlike colder climates where indoor courts dominate. The sport’s growth, up 20% since 2020 per local federations, reflects investments in resort facilities and public courts. Resorts host international visitors and locals, fostering a vibrant tennis community. Whether you’re chasing a workout or a scenic match, Costa Rica’s courts deliver.
Four Picturesque Tennis Destinations
Guanacaste’s resorts combine world-class tennis with Costa Rica’s wild beauty. The four destinations below, totaling 10 Har-Tru courts, offer top-notch facilities, coaching, and activities like golf or zip-lining. Each resort tailors programs for all skill levels, ensuring everyone from kids to competitive players finds their groove. Here’s where to play.
1. Four Seasons Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
On Guanacaste’s Pacific coast, the Four Seasons Resort features four Har-Tru clay courts with ocean vistas. Daily clinics, led by a USPTA-certified pro, teach strategy and technique, while private lessons focus on skills like volleys or spin.
The resort’s LEED certification highlights eco-efforts, from solar power to water-saving irrigation. Off-court, try the Arnold Palmer-designed golf course, snorkeling, or guided rainforest hikes. After tennis, relax at the spa or savor fresh ceviche at one of five restaurants. Guests in 2024 raved about the courts’ upkeep and coastal views, making Four Seasons a tennis hotspot.
The resort also hosts junior camps and round-robin tournaments, drawing families and competitive players. Its courts, open daily, are lit for evening play, perfect for cooler matches under the stars. With a kids’ club and wellness programs, it’s ideal for groups mixing tennis with leisure.
2. JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
In Hacienda Pinilla, JW Marriott offers two Har-Tru clay courts surrounded by greenery and Pacific waves. Daily clinics, led by a seasoned pro, sharpen your game, while private lessons target serves or backhands. The resort’s sustainability shines through water conservation and local sourcing. Beyond tennis, guests surf, ride horses, or unwind at the spa. Its 2025 TripAdvisor reviews praise the courts’ condition and oceanfront setting.
JW Marriott’s 1,000-acre property includes biking trails and a nature reserve, perfect for post-match exploration. The resort’s tennis programs emphasize fun, with social mixers for guests to meet. Dining ranges from casual tacos to upscale seafood, rounding out a laid-back yet luxe vibe.
3. Hotel Punta Islita
Punta Islita, a boutique resort in Guanacaste, has one Har-Tru clay court tucked between jungle and ocean. Its intimate setting suits players seeking a quiet escape. Pro-led clinics and private lessons cater to all levels, focusing on fundamentals or advanced tactics.
The resort supports sustainability through solar power and community projects, like local art initiatives. Off-court, try zip-lining, kayaking, or beachfront yoga. Guests in 2024 loved the court’s serene feel and personalized coaching.
Punta Islita’s small size—30 rooms—ensures a tailored experience. Its restaurant, using farm-fresh ingredients, serves dishes like grilled mahi-mahi. The resort’s remote location, a 45-minute drive from Nosara, adds to its charm for those craving solitude with their tennis.
4. Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort
In Herradura, Los Sueños Marriott boasts three Har-Tru clay courts amid rainforest scenery. Open daily, the courts host clinics, private lessons, and seasonal tournaments like the 2024 Guanacaste Open, attracting local and global players.
Clay’s softer surface enhances control and cuts injury risk, ideal for long sessions. The resort’s pros, often USPTA-certified, tailor coaching to your goals. Beyond tennis, play the La Iguana golf course, hike, or spot toucans on bird-watching tours. Farm-to-table dining and a spa complete the package. Recent reviews highlight the courts as a draw for competitive players.
Los Sueños also offers fishing charters and marina access, appealing to adventure-seekers. Its proximity to Jacó, a lively surf town, adds nightlife options. The resort’s tennis camps, especially for juniors, make it a family-friendly choice.
Tennis Culture and Events
Costa Rica’s tennis scene is thriving, with resorts driving growth. Four Seasons and Los Sueños host events like the Guanacaste Open and summer camps, blending competition and community. These draw pros and amateurs, boosting the sport’s profile.
Public courts in San José and Tamarindo complement resort facilities, with ~60,000 players projected by 2025, per the Costa Rican Tennis Federation. Local coaches, many USPTA-trained, elevate training quality.
Tournaments often feature eco-conscious touches, like reusable water stations, aligning with Costa Rica’s green ethos. Social events, like Four Seasons’ doubles mixers, connect players from the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. The sport’s accessibility—clinics start at $20/hour—makes it welcoming for all.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica pairs tennis with unmatched natural beauty. From Four Seasons’ four-court gem to Punta Islita’s jungle court, these resorts deliver top facilities and eco-friendly vibes. Pack your racket, book a clinic, and play surrounded by ocean and rainforest. Whether you’re nailing aces or picking up a racket for the first time, Costa Rica’s tennis destinations offer a perfect serve.