At the northernmost tip of Puerto Rico, where the lush expanse of the El Yunque National Rainforest meets the sweeping blue of the Atlantic Ocean, is Rio Mar—a place that combines the breathtaking beauty of nature with the vibrant, soulful culture of Puerto Rico. Here, nestled on 607 acres of tropical paradise, you will find a place to relax, reset, and recharge.
The Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest, Beach & Golf Resort has long been a beloved fixture on this coastline. After a comprehensive $60 million renovation that unfolded over three years, the property has completed a “renaissance”. The result is a seamless blend of golden-age sophistication and modern Caribbean energy.
The Location
The rare location between the rainforest and the sea makes Rio Mar a landmark destination, and also includes 2.5 miles of uninterrupted beachfront on the Atlantic Ocean, where the stretch of golden sand feels both private and expansive. Whether you’re an early morning walker or a sunset seeker, this coastline is the heart of the property. The duality of being steps from the ocean while gazing at the lush peaks of El Yunque creates a setting that few Caribbean resorts can claim. Located only 30 minutes from SJU airport and no passport required for American citizens, this is the perfect weekend getaway.
The Rooms
The renovation touches every corner of the resort, and the 400 guest rooms and suites have been completely transformed into serene sanctuaries. Inspired by the vibrant hues of El Yunque, the soothing palettes of green and blue, light wood finishes, and spa-inspired bathrooms with large rainfall showers, this contemporary Caribbean elegance feels both luxurious and connected to nature.
Many of the accommodations offer private balconies with views of either the emerald rainforest or the turquoise Atlantic. All rooms feature Kassatex luxury bedding, towels and robe, Rituals bath products, 42-inch TV, minibar, coffee/tea maker and complimentary WiFi. The design team has struck the balance between modern sophistication and the relaxed warmth of island life, ensuring the rooms are not just places to sleep but true retreats.
The Activities
When you decide to leave your sanctuary, the resort offers an array of activities for everyone. The grounds are the perfect place for golf, tennis, pickleball and bike riding. The beachfront experience is complemented by five redesigned pool areas, including the adults-only Aura Swim Lounge, which offers chic cabanas and a sophisticated, club-like vibe, and the family-centric Turtle Cove Adventure Pool features a brand new waterslide tower.
As the sun sets, the property’s personality shifts from relaxed beach club to sophisticated nightlife. The newly unveiled Casino Rio Mar & Sportsbook Lounge brings a buzz of energy, but the true pièce de résistance is hidden in plain sight. Tucked within the casino is The Vault, a speakeasy-style cabaret. This “secret” venue is a transportive experience, mixing golden-age glamour with modern touches. With live cabaret performances, curated cocktails, and a sultry, intimate ambiance, The Vault is a grown-up playground that feels a world away from the family-friendly pools just outside.
The Food
Culinary enthusiasts will find the resort’s culinary selection appealing. The dining program is now a destination in its own right, featuring ten distinct venues. Leading the charge is Roots Coastal Kitchen, where the culinary team has collaborated with Chef Jeff McInnis, a James Beard Award finalist and “Top Chef” alum, alongside partner Janine Booth and Executive Chef Ramón Carrillo. The menu at Roots is a vibrant celebration of Caribbean flavors and contemporary coastal cuisine, featuring fresh local ingredients that compliment the island’s spirit.
This is complemented by concepts such as Palio, a chic fine dining eatery for contemporary Sicilian fare, and Caicu, a lobby bar serving artisanal cocktails and Caribbean bar bites. The depth and quality of the dining options mean that guests could easily spend a week exploring the resort’s culinary map without ever getting bored.
The Spa
To wash away the remnants of the previous night or simply to find deep relaxation, look no further than the new El Yunque Spa. Inspired by local healing rituals and the rainforest’s natural elements, the spa is a sanctuary of wellness. It features 11 treatment rooms offering a menu that blends ancient traditions with advanced therapies—from CBD therapeutic massages to rejuvenating facials. Every treatment is designed to restore balance.
The Wyndham Grand Rio Mar has successfully navigated a complete transformation, emerging not just updated, but reinvented. It honors its incredible location where the rainforest meets the sea, while offering a level of design, dining, and diversion that places it firmly among the Caribbean’s top resorts. Whether you’re seeking adventure in El Yunque, a round of golf, a quiet sunset moment, or a cocktail in a hidden speakeasy, this is a place that invites you to find your own rhythm.
