Hotel Review

An island adventure awaits at this Wyndham Grand Resort.

BY BROOKE PORTER

RIO MAR BEACH RESORT & SPA

RIO GRANDE, PR (24 MILES FROM SAN JUAN) • 6000 Rio Mar Blvd • 800-474-6627 • www.wyndhamriomar.com

River Course, seventh hole The curving driveway leading up to Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa may be less than a mile long—but when you arrive at the entrance, the busy highway you just exited will already feel worlds away. The property is enormous (500 acres to be exact), and the hotel reflects its size. Walking through the enormous lobby—with each side leading to separate wings—you may not feel like you’re on a secluded beach getaway, but the tropical atmosphere is relaxing nonetheless.

Frangipani spices used in
the spaEach of the island-themed rooms overlooks either the Atlantic Ocean, El Yunque National Rainforest or the gardens, but, regardless of the view, the upscale, earth-toned island décor will put you at ease (as will the Wyndham signature “Be Well” bedding).

Those looking for an adventure have the island at their fingertips. The resort can arrange everything from nighttime kayaking in a bioluminescent bay (if you’ve ever wanted to paddle in the ocean in the pitch black, this is your chance) to snorkeling, sailing and deep-sea fishing.

Landlubbers may rather play a round of golf on the Ocean Course (a Tom and George Fazio masterpiece) or the River Course, Greg Norman’s first Caribbean design; indulge in a treatment at Mandara Spa; try their luck at blackjack in the on-site casino; or get comfortable in a cabana by the peaceful adult pool or family-friendly activity pool.

The kids pool

Those longing for a taste of local flavors—or some Italian or sushi—can choose from a variety of options. Simply prepared seafood is the star at Aqua Luna, while tapas make up the menu at Boleros Lounge. The poolside Sea Breeze is best for a casuallunch, while Palio is ideal for a fancy dinner (the lasagna may sound plain, but it’s a standout). Wherever you eat, make sure to order a Ziggy Zaggy, the signature frozen drink.

However you choose to spend your time in Puerto Rico, there’s no doubt as you turn to leave the resort and head home, you’ll wish the driveway were 100 miles long just to prolong your departure.