One of Puerto Rico’s most iconic beachfront resorts, Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest Beach & Golf Resort, has undergone a major transformation over the past two years. What was already a standout destination on the island’s northeast coast has been re-imagined from top to bottom to elevate the guest experience with contemporary design, vibrant culinary offerings, refreshed amenities, and exciting new programs that showcase Puerto Rico’s natural beauty and culture.
Overview of the Transformation
The resort’s redesign is part of a multi-million-dollar renovation led by LionGrove and world-class design partners, implemented in phases from late 2024 through late 2025. The result is a resort experience that blends luxury with an authentic Caribbean spirit, appealing to families, couples, and luxury travelers alike.
1. Redesigned Guestrooms & Suites
All 400 guest rooms and 40 suites were completely refreshed with a design inspired by the surrounding El Yunque National Rainforest and Atlantic Ocean.
Contemporary Caribbean color palettes and natural textures
Private balconies with ocean or rainforest views
Spa-style bathrooms and upgraded lighting
Intuitive in-room technology and modern furnishings
This redesign caters to a broad spectrum of travelers—from romantic escapes to multi-generational family stays.
2. New Arrival & Public Spaces
A striking new lobby and arrival experience greet guests with:
Natural light and elevated design elements
Tropical materials such as terracotta, wrought iron, and custom local art
A rainforest observation deck overlooking lush landscapes
These refreshed spaces set the tone for an immersive island getaway from the moment travelers arrive.
3. Pool & Outdoor Upgrades
One of the most visible parts of the renovation is the resort’s expanded poolscape:
Aura Adult Swim Lounge: Adults-only retreat with cabanas and refined service
Turtle Cove Adventure Pool: Zero-entry pool with slides and play features for families
Coquí Splash Pool: Kid-friendly interactive splash area
Together with other refreshed pool experiences, these spaces elevate how guests relax and play poolside.
4. Elevated Dining & Nightlife
The resort’s culinary landscape has been significantly enhanced with 10 distinctive restaurants and bars offering:
Roots Coastal Kitchen: Caribbean-inspired fine dining with local influences
Palio: Sicilian-style cuisine
Caicu: Caribbean bar bites and handcrafted cocktails
Seabreeze: Beachfront casual dining with comfort classics and interactive fun
The resort also unveiled The Vault, a 1950s-inspired speakeasy cabaret lounge hidden inside the redesigned casino, where guests can enjoy live performances, cocktails, and nightlife without leaving the property.
5. Enhanced Amenities & Experiences
Rio Mar’s transformation extends beyond aesthetics to guest experiences:
Xplorers Club: A family-oriented activity program inspired by Puerto Rico’s ecosystems and culture, blending education and adventure for children and families.
Updated Racquet Center: Modernized tennis and racquet facilities.
Expanded Wellness: El Yunque Spa now blends island healing traditions with advanced therapies and new fitness programming.
Golf & Recreation: The resort continues to offer two championship 18-hole golf courses as part of its revitalized leisure portfolio.
6. Phased Rollout Timeline (2024–2025)
The renovation was delivered strategically in phases to minimize disruption:
Phase 1 – December 2024: New pools, cabanas, and arrival enhancements debuted before the holidays.
Phase 2 – Early 2025: Refreshed guestrooms and suites, plus a new all-day café concept.
Phase 3 – Fall 2025: Signature restaurants, Xplorers Club, updated wellness offerings, racquet center, and final pool and entertainment spaces were unveiled.
Phase 4 – December 2025: Redesigned casino and The Vault speakeasy were completed.
What This Means for Caribbean Luxury Travelers
With its complete reinvention, Wyndham Grand Rio Mar now stands as one of Puerto Rico’s most compelling luxury beachfront destinations—offering:
A harmonious blend of natural beauty and upscale amenities
Modern design that reflects the island’s culture and environment
A widened appeal for families, food lovers, spa seekers, and nightlife enthusiasts
For travelers seeking a beachfront resort with both serenity and excitement, Rio Mar’s transformation delivers a new standard of luxury in the Caribbean.
Contact Caribbean Luxury Rentals for personalized recommendations and exclusive stays.
