The Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest Beach & Golf Resort in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico—located about 30 minutes from San Juan—is undergoing a major renovation to the tune of $55 million. The project, led by LionGrove, a hospitality investment firm based in Puerto Rico and Miami, alongside hospitality and destination design firm Wimberly Allison Tong & Goo, is transforming and elevating the 542,000-sf resort. The transformation, which will take place over the coming months, will encompass the full reconstruction of all 400 guestrooms, 10 culinary outlets—with the addition of three new signature restaurants—a revamped lobby and porte cochere, new pool experiences—including one exclusively for adults—modern social and nightlife spaces, and innovative programming, plus a renovated state-of-the-art racquet ball club. The renovation will ensure minimal disruption to guests, with the first set of new offerings rolling out before the holidays in December 2024.
Chris Sariego, Managing Director for LionGrove, tells Prevue that the renovations are going to lead to “a very elevated product.”
With renovations set to be completed by November 2025, the property, which sprawls over 600 acres and is nestled at the base of the El Yunque rainforest, is fronted by a pristine beach, which means, says Sariego, it's amazing views all around. In fact, part of the renovation includes the addition of a deck where attendees will be able to get an up-close look at the tropical rainforest, the only one of its kind in the U.S. National Forest System.
These stunning surroundings also lead to great options for outdoor group experiences. There’s an “environmental scientist on staff,” notes Sariego, “who can create environmental- and ecological-focused programming for groups.” Participants can engage in activities ranging from kayaking on the Mameyes River to exploring the region’s diverse ecosystems and stargazing. The program also includes citizen science initiatives, interactive exhibits and art activities that foster a deep connection to Puerto Rico's environment and promote environmental stewardship.
When it comes to catering to events and meetings, Sariego notes that the resort has 100,000 sf of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, including the 21,000-sf Rio Mar Ballroom, the 6,400-sf Caribbean Ballroom, breakout rooms and ample outdoor space. With 600 acres, he says, “we have unlimited outdoor space.” Additionally, there's a dedicated entrance for groups. —Laurel Herman & Paloma Villaverde de Rico
wyndhamriomar.com/event-space-in-puerto-rico