Jungle Meets Ocean: A Luxurious Escape to One&Only Mandarina

Accommodations

The resort features 105 secluded villas and treehouses, each designed for ultimate privacy and connection to nature. Every accommodation includes a private pool, open-concept indoor-outdoor living spaces, and sweeping views of either the lush jungle or the Pacific Ocean. Many of the treehouses soar up to 40 feet above the forest floor, offering an unforgettable, immersive canopy experience. Interiors are thoughtfully crafted with floor-to-ceiling glass, rich local materials such as Cumaru wood and clay, and artisanal details inspired by the Cora and Huichol cultures. At the pinnacle of this extraordinary resort are its private homes and residences, some offering up to 10 bedrooms. These exclusive sanctuaries combine the intimacy of a private estate with the five-star amenities and personalized service of a luxury resort—redefining the meaning of elevated living.

The main beach area

Culinary landscape

One&Only Mandarina invites guests on an exceptional culinary journey through a collection of distinct dining venues, each thoughtfully designed to reflect the region’s rich flavors and natural beauty:

• Carao: Set dramatically on the resort’s southern bluff, this adults-only restaurant delivers modern coastal cuisine cooked over an open flame, all served beneath a canopy of jungle foliage with panoramic ocean views.

• Alma: An open-air garden-to-table concept, Alma celebrates seasonal ingredients with standout dishes like epazote ravioles and wood-fired specialties, all in a vibrant, relaxed setting.

• Jetty Beach Club: Located on a secluded stretch of beach, this laid-back yet sophisticated venue offers fresh grilled seafood, craft cocktails, and direct ocean access. An overwater jetty and beachfront fire pit add an unforgettable touch to sunset dining.

• Treetop Bar: Hidden high within the jungle canopy, this whimsical bar is perfect for a sundowner. Enjoy inventive cocktails and light bites while taking in sweeping views of the surrounding rainforest and ocean beyond.

Main resort pool

Hibiscus tea at the beach club

Wellness and activities

Wellbeing at One&Only Mandarina is woven into every element of the guest experience, with ancient indigenous traditions and the natural environment forming its foundation:

• One&Only Spa: Tucked within a serene volcanic rock garden and shaded by majestic Higuera trees, the spa offers six private treatment rooms and a menu of deeply restorative therapies. Guests can experience mud baths, traditional temazcal ceremonies, and exclusive Tata Harper rituals such as the Sensorial Reset and Mystique Herbal Codex, all designed to harmonize body, mind, and spirit.

• Fitness and Yoga: The resort’s wellness offerings extend to a cutting-edge gym seamlessly integrated into the landscape, along with an open-air yoga palapa that invites mindfulness and movement in harmony with the surrounding jungle.

Beach club

Nature and Adventure

• A variety of immersive outdoor activities allow guests to connect with Mandarina’s diverse terrain. From biking and zip-lining to archery, paddle-boarding, and equestrian trail rides, there’s adventure for every pace. Guided excursions through estuaries and flatlands, along with kayaking and paddleboarding, provide intimate access to the area’s rich ecosystems.

• KidsOnly Club: Thoughtfully designed by Oscar-winning set designer Brigitte Broch (Moulin Rouge, Romeo + Juliet), the KidsOnly Club is an enchanting 42,000-square-foot jungle wonderland. Complete with treehouses, climbing walls, a butterfly sanctuary, amphitheater, and interactive play zones, it’s a dream destination for younger guests to explore and create unforgettable memories.

Who is this hotel for

This resort caters beautifully to every type of traveler. During our stay, we saw families with children of all ages, couples on romantic escapes, and groups of friends enjoying quality time together. Larger families or friend groups can opt for spacious private residences, while honeymooners and couples can retreat into secluded treehouses for a more intimate experience. For those who prefer not to walk or navigate stairs, the resort offers convenient golf cart transportation throughout the property—making it surprisingly accessible without compromising its sense of adventure and privacy.

View from the main pool

In a nutshell

Though One&Only Mandarina has only been welcoming guests for about five years, it feels timeless—like it has always belonged to this breathtaking stretch of coastline. The resort has truly come into its own, offering an experience that goes far beyond luxury accommodations. From the warmth of the service and the exceptional cuisine to the cloud-like beds and tranquil ambiance, every detail feels deeply considered. The design of the property is a masterclass in harmony with nature—minimally invasive and thoughtfully integrated into its dramatic surroundings. Guests can enjoy two distinct beaches: a serene, sheltered cove with soft sand just below the resort, and a more expansive, wild beach at the Jetty Beach Club, where the Pacific surf brings exhilarating energy. I arrived at Mandarina eager to explore, and left feeling like I had just spent time among old friends—welcomed, inspired, and entirely at ease.

Getting here: The resort is about one hour north of Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR). I will arrange your transfer in advance for a seamless arrival experience. The scenic drive along the coast is part of the journey.

Explore before sunset: Make the most of daylight hours to fully appreciate the resort’s stunning jungle and ocean views. The dramatic clifftop settings and natural beauty are best experienced before dark—about 70% of the property’s charm comes from these vistas, so plan activities and pool time accordingly.

Embrace the jungle-beach setting: This isn’t your typical beach resort—it’s a unique blend of lush rainforest meeting pristine Pacific coastline. Pack accordingly with comfortable walking shoes for trails, reef-safe sunscreen, and both beachwear and resort casual attire.

Allow enough time: With such an extensive property and varied activities, plan for at least 3–4 nights to truly experience everything the resort offers without feeling rushed.

Best time to visit: The dry season (November–April) offers the most reliable weather, though the resort’s jungle setting means occasional rain showers can occur year-round, adding to the tropical ambiance.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Punta Mita page.