Inside Rosewood Mandarina: A First Look at Mexico’s Newest Luxury Resort

Even though the development is more secluded than other resorts in nearby Puerto Vallarta and Punta Mita, I promise you won’t want to leave once you arrive. There’s everything from ziplining, cycling trails, and hiking, to beach clubs, first-class restaurants, and horseback riding—and even a polo field. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place. One&Only Mandarina opened here in late 2020 and quickly became one of Mexico’s most coveted luxury resorts, collecting awards ever since. Now, Rosewood Mandarina has joined the enclave, neighboring the O&O in this very unique and private enclave. Here’s my insider take (and how I can elevate your stay with Rosewood Elite perks):

The vibe

Rosewood Mandarina is the kind of luxury that feels natural and understated, not flashy or overdone. The architecture blends into the jungle using terracotta, earthy tones, and locally sourced materials. Jungle paths wind between casitas, the ambiance is calm and elevated, and those Pacific views stop you in your tracks.

There’s also a deep sense of place rooted in local culture, with artwork and craftsmanship from the region’s two main tribes—the Wixárika (Huichol) and the Náyeri (Cora). Service is warm, intuitive, and first-class, as you’d expect from the Rosewood group.

The suites

The resort’s layout is walkable and easy to navigate. Suites are grouped into three areas: Flatlands, Mountain, and Beachfront. One detail I loved: even the entry-level suites are huge—starting at around 1,000 sq ft. with generous outdoor space and oversized plunge pools that feel like your own private backyard. In fact, every suite here has a plunge pool. Each area has its perks depending on your priorities: privacy, views, or convenience.

My insider take:

• For honeymooners and couples: choose the Mountain Suites for panoramic ocean views and extra privacy.

• For families: the Flatlands are most convenient for kids’ club and pools.

• For beach lovers: the Beachfront Suites are the dream—stepping straight off your terrace into the sand and ocean breeze (my personal favorite). Some also have outdoor dining areas.

Beachfront Studio

The restaurants

Each restaurant feels different, but all share that relaxed Pacific-coast style. Here are the highlights:

• La Cocina: Casual, open-air spot for relaxed breakfasts and lunches.

• Buena Onda: Toes-in-the-sand beach restaurant; gorgeous interiors and vibe, with an open-air kitchen. Loved it.

• Barra Peñasco: Cliff-top speakeasy above the ocean with sunset swings.

• Toppu: Intimate Japanese and Latin fusion with panoramic views over the property.

• Allora: Beachside Italian located at the shared beach club with One&Only.

A huge bonus: guests can dine at One&Only Mandarina’s restaurants too—just hop on a buggy and sign to your room.

The amenities

There’s no shortage of ways to unwind or explore:

• Beachfront infinity pools (some family, some adults-only)

• A gorgeous indoor and outdoor kids’ club

• Asaya Spa, a jungle sanctuary of treatment rooms and hydro spaces

• State-of-the-art fitness center (truly the kind of gym you want to use on vacation)

• And if you want more action, the wider Mandarina development offers horseback riding and equestrian center, hiking and nature walks, ziplines in the jungle canopy, kayaking and paddleboarding, whale-watching (seasonal), golf and outdoor courts

There’s truly no need to leave unless you want to.

Kids' Club

Location

Rosewood Mandarina is around an hour from Puerto Vallarta International Airport via a new highway. It’s also about 30 minutes from Sayulita—a colorful surf-meets-boho beach town that makes for a fun half-day out.

One&Only Mandarina vs. Rosewood Mandarina

I’m obsessed with both resorts. Service at each is faultless—complete with personal butlers via WhatsApp for anything you need. But there are key differences when it comes to walkability, accessibility, style and overall vibe, beach access, and suitability for families. If you’re torn between the two (or considering alternatives in nearby Punta Mita), I can help you decide which one fits your travel style, family setup, and budget.

Why book with me

I specialize in luxury travel in Mexico and as a Rosewood Elite travel advisor, I can secure exclusive perks for your stay at Rosewood Mandarina, including:

• Complimentary daily breakfast

• Resort credit to use during your stay

• Complimentary room upgrade if available

• Flexible early check-in/late check-out whenever possible

• Personalized VIP welcome

Plus, I help plan everything from transfers and dining reservations to activities and off-property excursions, so your trip is seamless from start to finish.

The best time to travel to this part of Mexico is between November-through April/May. The weather is hot, sunny, humid and pleasant. From June to October, it is the tropical rainy season. However, this doesn't necessarily mean it is a bad time to travel, as the jungle is particularly green and lush during this time, the ocean is super transparent and clear, and rates are lower. The rain usually falls in the afternoon/evening for a few hours, and days are still hot and humid. September/October is particularly humid and this would be my least favorite time to be in the area.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Mexico page.