If you’ve visited the Rio Mar area in recent years—or you’re planning your first trip soon—you might’ve heard about the major upgrades happening at the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar resort. What started as a quiet renovation project has evolved into a full-scale reimagining of the entire guest experience. From new pools and restaurants to thoughtfully redesigned public spaces, Rio Mar is stepping into a new era.
And for guests staying in the villas, condos, and private residences throughout the resort grounds (like the ones we manage), the changes are genuinely exciting.
The Rio Mar Resort Reimagined
The transformation at the Wyndham Grand is a multi-phase, $55 million project designed to elevate the entire property, from arrival experience to dining, recreation, and entertainment. As of early 2025, two phases are already complete, with the final stage rolling out this fall.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Phase 1 (Completed Late 2024): Introduced two brand-new pools (including a zero-entry family pool and an adults-only pool), upgraded the main lobby and porte-cochère, and added sleek cabanas and gathering spaces.
Phase 2 (Completed Early 2025): Focused on the hotel’s 400 guest rooms and suites, with redesigned interiors, new bathrooms, and enhanced in-room amenities.
Phase 3 (Coming Fall 2025): Includes three signature restaurants, a wellness-focused racquet center, an immersive nature-inspired “Xplorers Club,” and a cabaret-style casino lounge for nighttime entertainment.
The upgrades are part of the greater resort community and many of the amenities are open to all guests including those staying in villas, condos, or rental properties.
The Pools: A Refreshing Upgrade for All
One of the most visible (and welcome) changes is the new pool deck.
Whether you’re here with family or just looking to relax in the sun, the zero-entry family pool, shaded lounge areas, and new Aura Adult Swim Lounge bring a modern, resort-style feel to your day. If you’ve stayed in Rio Mar before, the difference is instantly noticeable: more comfortable seating, better flow, and an overall sense of thoughtful design.
Day passes are available through ResortPass or directly at the Wyndham front desk. They include access to the pools, beach loungers, and food & beverage service.
Dining: A Culinary Step Up
While there have always been solid dining options at Rio Mar, the latest updates have added some much-needed variety and sophistication.
Among the highlights coming in Phase 3:
A modern Spanish-style restaurant
A refined omakase-style dining experience
A bold cabaret-style lounge for dinner and entertainment
A few of the more casual beachfront favorites (like Marbella and Seabreeze) have also been upgraded with refreshed menus and brighter, more contemporary interiors.
Even if you prefer to cook at home or in your rental, it’s worth booking a night or two out during your stay to explore the new flavors. The atmosphere alone adds something special to your vacation even if you’re just stopping in for drinks or tapas.
A New Spin on Sports: The Upgraded Racquet Club
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just enjoy the occasional volley under the sun, the all-new Racquet Club at Rio Mar is a standout addition to the resort’s growing list of amenities.
Set to debut as part of the Phase 3 transformation, the upgraded facility is designed for both casual and competitive play. Expect beautifully resurfaced courts, new lighting for evening matches, upgraded equipment rentals, and a welcoming clubhouse atmosphere that blends sport with social connection.
Tennis, pickleball, and more will be available, making it one of the most versatile and wellness-focused spaces at the resort.
Whether you’re looking to squeeze in a match before brunch or join a round-robin with other guests, the new racquet club brings energy, movement, and a little friendly competition to your vacation. It’s a great way to stay active without ever leaving the resort.
If you’re staying in one of our nearby rentals, you’re just a short walk (or warm-up jog) away from the action.
Nature & Adventure Meet Design
One of the more interesting additions is the upcoming Xplorers Club. It is a nature-inspired adventure and activity center designed to connect guests with Puerto Rico’s incredible natural surroundings. From guided hikes in El Yunque to stargazing, kayak outings, and hands-on environmental education, this is more than just a “kids’ club.”
It’s a fresh reminder that Rio Mar isn’t just a beach resort, it’s a front-row seat to the rainforest.
If you’re traveling with curious kids, teens, or just want to plan some off-the-beaten-path experiences, this new programming is worth keeping an eye on.
Evening Energy: Casino & Cabaret
The Rio Mar casino is getting a major overhaul. The new concept blends classic Puerto Rican nightlife vibes with a modern edge: think live music, curated cocktails, and vintage cabaret styling.
It is expected to open by Thanksgiving and is set to become a central social hub within the resort, especially for couples or groups looking for something more dynamic than a beach bar.
Why It Matters
We manage several properties across the Rio Mar community, vacation rentals that enjoy the same gorgeous scenery, walkable access to the beach, and proximity to the restaurants, golf courses, and nature that make this destination so unique.
Here’s how these renovations benefit our guests:
More ways to spend your day: Whether it’s lounging poolside, exploring new restaurants, or finding a quiet nook with a view, the new additions add more variety to your stay.
Improved atmosphere: Even walking through the resort feels different, more cohesive, modern, and welcoming.
Flexible access: With pool passes, spa bookings, and event tickets now available to non-hotel guests, it’s easier than ever to customize your experience.
You’re not locked into a single vacation style. Want a quiet day in your villa with a home-cooked meal? Perfect. Craving a poolside cocktail and cabana service? Just grab a day pass. Want to explore El Yunque in the morning and listen to live jazz in the evening? That’s all right here now.
What’s Next for Your Stay at Rio Mar
The Rio Mar transformation isn’t just about hotel rooms—it’s about creating a more vibrant, enjoyable, and diverse guest experience for everyone on the property. As local hosts who live and breathe this community, we’re genuinely excited to see these changes taking shape.
Whether you’re a returning guest or planning your first stay, this is a great moment to rediscover what Rio Mar has to offer.
And if you’re staying with us? You’re in the perfect spot to enjoy it all—steps from the beach, surrounded by beauty, and now with even more ways to relax, explore, and indulge.
Reach out today to learn more about our available properties and experience everything this reimagined space has to offer.