ELLE Escapes: Río Grande
Elle Magazine | 13.11.2026 20:20
6 min read
Puerto Rico has long been one of my favorite island destinations for a little rest and relaxation. Time and again, I find myself drawn back to the charming towns dotted along its northern and northeastern coasts. This month, my travels brought me to Río Grande, a tranquil, picturesque municipality affectionately known as La Ciudad de El Yunque (The City of El Yunque).
Just a 30-minute drive from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, Río Grande offers a calmer setting than the bustling streets of San Juan, while still keeping the capital city’s attractions within easy reach. Beloved for its lush landscapes, breathtaking scenery, and abundant flora and fauna, the area is also home to a significant portion of El Yunque National Forest, which, fun fact, is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System.
Whether you prefer lounging poolside with a piña colada, venturing into the rainforest for a scenic hike, or heading west to meander through the vibrant streets of Old San Juan, I’ve found that Río Grande makes for an idyllic home base to experience the best of what the island has to offer.
Ahead, discover my recommendations for where to stay, what to eat, and what to explore in this enchanting corner of Puerto Rico.
What to See
El Yunque National Forest
Getty
Taking a nature walk or scenic hike through El Yunque National Forest is a must when visiting Río Grande. Whether you book a guided tour or venture out on your own with a rental car, there are trails suited to every experience level. Along the way, you’ll be stunned by the sheer variety of plants and wildlife you encounter. On my trip, I finally put a face to the symphony of chirps I’d been hearing throughout my stay: the Puerto Rican spindalis, a small, yellow-bellied bird native to the island.
The forest is also home to a seemingly endless variety of tropical trees, mushrooms, orchids, and ferns. Climb the spiral staircase of the Yokahú Observation Tower for panoramic views of the lush green canopy and surrounding mountain peaks, and be sure to pack water shoes if you fancy a refreshing dip in one of the forest’s rivers or natural waterfall pools.
Bahia Beach Golf Club
Bahia Beach Golf Club
Whether you’re an avid golfer or just getting into the sport, Río Grande has several world-class courses worth exploring. Among them is Bahía Beach Golf Club, an 18-hole, par-72 course designed by renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. in 2008. Stretching 6,890 yards through lush tropical landscapes, the course features 15 holes bordering water, with beautiful rainforest views along the way. You’ll wind around scenic lakes before reaching the Atlantic coastline for the final few holes, making for an unforgettable morning or afternoon on the green.
Culebra and Icacos Island
Set sail from the nearby town of Fajardo for a morning, afternoon, or all-day affair spent exploring nearby islands with seemingly untouched beaches. Popular destinations include Culebra and Icacos Island, where you can lounge on the boat, soak up the sun, swim in crystal-clear waters, or snorkel among vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish.
Credit: Cotopaxi
Now 76% Off
Credit: Form
Now 10% Off
Credit: Form
Where to Eat
Perla
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Puerto Rico
Perla, located at Four Seasons, opened this November under the direction of executive chef Victor Rosado and became one of my favorite dining spots during my visit. Taking its name from the Spanish word for “pearl,” the elegant restaurant offers a tempting selection of small bites, from pillowy Parker House rolls served with smoked butter to spicy salmon mousse, alongside standout seafood dishes like hamachi and Chilean sea bass.
The thoughtfully designed interior boasts natural wood accents and bold contemporary artwork, with sweeping ocean views to admire between courses. As for what to order, don’t miss the oyster brûlée with yuzu kosho hollandaise and crispy Ibérico ham, the prime New York strip steak served with Hasselback potatoes, or the tender octopus accompanied by creamy potato causa.
Don Pepe Restaurant
Don Pepe
For lunch, head to Don Pepe, a longtime local favorite where the atmosphere is casual and the focus is on authentic Puerto Rican cooking made with quality ingredients and bold flavors. The menu spans traditional favorites like beef piononos and mofongo served with your choice of protein and sauce, alongside heartier, mouthwatering dishes like succulent grilled pork loin, the restaurant’s signature burger, and lobster risotto. The extensive cocktail menu also offers a tempting selection of tropical concoctions made with locally produced Don Q rum.
Ocean Terrace
Another recent addition to the dining options at the Four Seasons Resort is Ocean Terrace, a picturesque open-air restaurant set along the shoreline. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant has a varied menu with something to satisfy every craving.
Mornings begin with a generous breakfast buffet, and if you have a sweet tooth like me, the coquito French toast on the à la carte menu is a must-try. For lunch, you’ll find everything from truffle honey stracciatella served with ciabatta to salads, pizzas, and sandwiches. Come dinnertime, I’d recommend exploring the selection of freshly made pastas, especially the creamy carbonara with pancetta—a dish I’m still dreaming about.
Zara Embroidered Eyelet Midi Dress
Credit: Zara
Anine Bing Lili Tote Raphia Bag
Farm Rio Sea Flat Sandal
Now 47% Off
Where to Drink
Palm Court
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Puerto Rico
When you’re in the mood for a glamorous, atmospheric lounge to sip cocktails, head to Palm Court. The sleek, modern interior features plush seating that invites you to settle in and unwind, while a grand, square-shaped white marble bar serves as the room’s centerpiece. Beyond the elegant interior, an outdoor terrace offers additional seating for those who prefer to dine or enjoy a drink in the warm ocean breeze.
Sugar Beach Bar
Located at the Bahía Beach Club, Sugar Beach Bar is a laid-back, open-air spot serving flavorful cocktails and delicious shareable bites. Sip on a tasty tropical cocktail made with local rum or tequila while soaking up stunning views of the ocean waves and Sugar Beach Pool.
El Cocoteros Grill
Situated right by the Bahía Beach driving range, El Cocoteros Grill is a casual spot to unwind with a local beer. Open for breakfast and lunch, the restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere, modern furnishings, and scenic rainforest views. And if you’re out on the golf course, you can even have drinks delivered straight to your golf cart.
Credit: Revolve
Credit: Vestirsi
Credit: Net-a-Porter
Where to Stay
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Puerto Rico
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Puerto Rico
You can always count on a five-star stay at a Four Seasons, and the recently opened Four Seasons Resort and Residences Puerto Rico, nestled within the picturesque Bahía Beach community, is no exception. Set across 483 acres of spectacular tropical landscape, the resort boasts 104 guest rooms, 35 luxurious suites, and an impressive collection of private residences. The property has rightfully earned a coveted Michelin Key in recognition of its exceptional grounds, hospitality, and dining.
The accommodations are everything you’d expect from the hotel company, with luxe, modern furnishings, 24-hour in-room dining, and an attentive concierge team that can arrange everything from dinner reservations to rainforest excursions. The location also doubles as a private nature reserve, with conservation efforts that include rain gardens and sea turtle nesting protection. Guests can explore the surrounding wildlife and tropical flora through guided nature experiences, all without leaving the vicinity. And if you find yourself wishing you could stay a little longer, the dreamy private residences offer a more permanent escape to paradise.
As for how to spend your days, take your pick among lounging along the resort’s two miles of pristine beachfront, cooling off in one of the two swimming pools, or heading out to explore the island.
Bahia Beach Resort & Golf Club
A golf lover’s dream, Bahía Beach Resort & Golf Club offers a more residential take on the traditional resort experience. Visitors can enjoy a private getaway in one of the community’s luxurious villas and residences, many of which are available for short-term rentals. Among them is Paradise View Villa, an incredible two-bedroom, three-bathroom property that comes with a six-passenger golf cart for getting around the grounds. Guests also have access to an array of resort amenities, including the golf club, tennis facilities, a fitness center, and the Lakehouse, where a variety of water sports await.
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar
Ideal for families, larger groups, or those planning a special celebration, Wyndham Grand Rio Mar has 400 guest rooms, including 40 spacious suites with refined, colorful furnishings. With so much to see and do on the property, you could easily spend your entire getaway without venturing beyond the resort. Indulge in restorative treatments at El Yunque Spa, spend a lazy afternoon under the sun on the beach, or enjoy a round of golf at the scenic Rio Mar Country Club.
Veronica Beard Birke Merino Wool Tank Top
Now 30% Off
Credit: Veronica Beard
Faithfull The Brand The Linen Pant
Now 20% Off
$270 $216 at faithfullthebrand.com
Credit: Faithfull
Credit: Loeffler Randall
Beauty Picks
Color Wow Mini Extra Strength Dream Coat Anti-Frizz Treatment Spray
If your hair is prone to frizz, be sure to pack an anti-frizz treatment spray. My go-to is Color Wow’s Extra Strength formula, which works wonders in humid climates.
SPF is a must when traveling to Puerto Rico, and EltaMD’s lightweight, dermatologist-recommended sunscreen absorbs quickly while helping soothe skin prone to acne and rosacea.
Credit: Revolve
With its dreamy blend of warm caramel and sweet vanilla, Summer Fridays’ Sunlit Vanilla is the perfect fragrance to pack for a tropical escape.
