Río Grande is your destination for premium golf courses, authentic Puerto Rican food, and adrenaline-driven adventures in the El Yunque rainforest. It’s a beautiful retreat in nature and only a 30-minute drive from the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU).
Whether you want to visit for a while or stay forever, Río Grande’s enchanting mountains, effervescent waterfalls, and unending views are just what you need. Here’s our bucket list of things to do in Río Grande, Puerto Rico:
Explore El Yunque National Rainforest
The world-famous El Yunque (The Anvil) got its name because its mountains look like an anvil from an angle. This is the only tropical rainforest within the American National Forest Service.
This natural wonder spans an impressive 28,000 acres distributed across rivers, streams, waterfalls, valleys, and hiking trails. El Yunque hosts over 240 tree species, 150 native fern species, and some rare animals such as the iguaca (Puerto Rican parrot) and the coquí (a native tree frog).
El Yunque is the setting for many thrilling adventures such as hiking, rock climbing, canyoneering, rappelling, and ziplining. You can also take a ferry along the Río Espíritu Santo for a more relaxing activity.
Go on a Hike
You can hike the many trails in El Yunque, regardless of your skill level. One of the most popular trails leads to Mount Britton, passing by its historic stone tower. Built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the tower stands at one of the area’s highest elevations.
If you do this hike on a clear day, you’ll enjoy views of the forest, the Atlantic Ocean, and Puerto Rico’s northeastern and southeastern plains. Allocate 20 to 40 minutes for this 1.3 km hike and take in all the views.
Hike to the Waterfalls
Bring waterproof gear and a change of clothes for your rainforest hikes as there’s a downpour at least four times daily. Wear sturdy footwear to safely traverse the trails, and pack plenty of water and snacks so that you can spend as much time as you like in nature.
For a more secluded experience, the Juan Diego stream leads to three hidden but beautiful waterfalls. Dip into the water for a quick swim and sit along the waterside to enjoy the sounds and sights of this tropical oasis.
La Coca Waterfall is the most popular among visitors. Although it’s not the largest waterfall in El Yunque, it is the first one you’ll encounter when you start your hike. Its water spills from an iconic towering rock, making for memorable vacation photos.
See the Yokahú Observation Tower
Once in El Yunque, you must visit the Yokahú Observation Tower. Indigenous Taíno people named this tower as they believed a deity sat there to watch over the natural landscape. Carefully climb its spiral staircase of 98 steps and ascend to panoramic views of the island. You’ll be able to see Puerto Rico’s east coast as it stretches from the rainforest to the stunning white sand beaches.
Go Ziplining Through the Rainforest
If you seek an adrenaline rush, then visit the Rainforest Zipline Park. The eight ziplines offer unique and exhilarating experiences.
Safety is the top priority, so you’ll have ample safety gear and detailed instructions from your guides. Also check out the climbing walls and the aerial course with hanging bridges, rappelling points, and an iconic Tarzan swing. Go for a wild adventure in the rainforest!
Enjoy a Day of Golfing
If you crave some rounds of golf, then Río Grande is the place to be. Renowned for its many golf courses, Río Grande attracts dedicated golfers worldwide.
The Río Mar Golf Course (at the Wyndham Río Mar resort) is the best with a well-maintained course designed by expert architects. It offers a challenging but scenic experience, as it lies between the ocean and the rainforest. You’ll enjoy golfing with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and El Yunque as you attempt to score as many holes-in-one as possible.
While at the Wyndham, indulge in the luxurious clubhouse, fine dining, and other amenities.
Other Río Grande golf courses include Berwind Country Club, Coco Beach Golf Club, and Bahia Beach Resort and Golf Club.
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What to Do in Río Grande, Puerto Rico?
Take a Ferry Ride
Río Grande (Great River) is located on the northeastern tip of Puerto Rico and is home to the Río Espíritu Santo. This river runs from Río Grande on the coast to Luquillo inland and holds the distinction of being Puerto Rico’s only navigable river.
The La Paseadora del Río Espíritu Santo is a small ferry that takes you through the scenic five-mile natural reserve. Book a tour and learn about this unique ecosystem’s diverse flora and fauna. Also, settle in for storytime centered on the region’s myths and legends.
Spend the Day at the Carabalí Rainforest Adventure Park
Carabalí Rainforest Adventure Park lies close to El Yunque in the neighboring town of Luquillo. It’s an action-packed ranch with adventures for the entire family. You can choose from:
- Horseback riding along the beach
- Four-wheeler and ATV rides
- Side-by-side UTV excursions
- Mountain biking
- Go-kart racing
- Hayrides (popular with the kids)
All of that adventure will leave you famished! Don’t worry: refuel at the Carabalí Bar and Grill with a hearty steak or a spicy salmon dinner.
Explore the Beaches
Visiting the beach is among the things to do when visiting the eastern region of Puerto Rico. The top beaches include:
- Luquillo Beach provides calm swimming due to it being protected by reefs.
- Playa Azul has calm to moderately wavy waters, suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and boogie boarding.
- Seven Seas Beach offers calm, crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling.
- Wyndham Grand Rainforest is a secluded beach for the hotel’s guests.
If you want to catch some waves, you’re in luck! La Pared Beach offers three to five-foot waves perfect for surfing. You can also reserve some lessons and rent boards if needed.
Snorkeling
Puerto Rico’s east coast has beautiful beaches for swimming and other water activities. While there are no specific snorkeling spots, you can check out the El Yunque rainforest tour with a snorkeling experience. Or get your snorkel set, visit a calm beach, and snorkel away!
Kayaking
If you love kayaking, take a guided night tour of Laguna Grande, a bioluminescent bay in the nearby town of Fajardo. As you paddle through the mangroves, you’ll experience the glow of the tiny marine organisms that transform the bay into a light show.
You can also get kayaking tours that combine El Yunque and Luquillo. You’ll enjoy the mix of kayaking through the mysterious rainforest river and paddling your way in the crystal-clear ocean under the rippling sunlight.
Check Out Local Dining
Delectable food always makes a vacation so much better! From roadside cuisine to luxury dining, Río Grande has it all.
Be sure to visit the following restaurants for authentic Puerto Rican dishes:
- El Verde BBQ is an iconic roadside restaurant offering well-known dishes. These include roasted chicken, ribs, arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), yuca al mojo (cassava in a garlic sauce), and other local comfort foods.
- Richie’s Restaurant offers sea views and delicious outdoor dining. Dive into seafood-stuffed mofongo (mashed plantain), grilled chicken breasts, ribs in BBQ guava sauce, and as many dishes as you desire.
- W Sushi Bar is a favorite with the locals. While you can get traditional sushi, they also offer dishes featuring Japanese and Puerto Rican flavor fusions.
- Don Pepe is the place for indoor dining with a glass (or two) of wine. Tantalize your taste buds with dishes like carne frita (fried pork chunks), chicharrones de pollo (deep-fried chicken pieces), mahi mahi, diverse seafood, and much more!
- Ekelekua offers the familiar tapas, tacos, wraps, burgers, and sandwiches with Puerto Rican flair.
There are so many amazing food spots to explore. So drive around Río Grande and feel free to indulge!
Shopping
Río Grande is not a shopping destination, as its focus is on sustainable eco-tourism. But you can check out:
- Caribbean Trading Company for items like souvenirs, Puerto Rican coffee, premium cigars, and Caribbean spices.
- The Outlet Mall at Route 66 is a great family destination as you explore the Sector 66 Arcade games after a little retail therapy.
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Go to a Festival
Depending on when you are in Río Grande, you can experience the festivals.
- Fiestas de Cruz is held in May. It’s a Catholic celebration honoring the Cross that Puerto Rico inherited from Spain.
- Fiestas Patronales de Nuestra Sra. Del Carmen is held in July. This is another Catholic festival honoring Our Lady of Carmen, the patron saint of fishermen.
These festivals include religious processions, food, and parades.
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Visit Río Grande, Puerto Rico
We’ve explored the best things to do in Río Grande, Puerto Rico. Whether you’re visiting or planning to live in this tropical wonderland, an adventure awaits you!
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Contact us and let’s talk about purchasing your slice of paradise in Río Grande: