A Secluded Resort in Mexico’s Jungle
I’m thrilled to share a full, detailed review of my recent stay at One&Only Mandarina—a resort that truly embodies the rising trend of wellness-centered vacations and is just a quick flight away from several major US airports. Nestled in the heart of the jungle, this luxurious property seamlessly integrates nature into its design. During construction, sustainability was at the forefront, and any tree that was cut down has since been replaced. From the moment I arrived, it was clear why this resort has become a bucket list destination for so many since its grand opening in 2020. Be sure to read until the end for a list of exclusive promotions currently being offered!
One&Only is part of an impressively expansive compound with the world-class Mandarina Polo & Equestrian Club and soon-to-be Rosewood Mandarina, scheduled to open early 2025 (plus, expect exciting announcements from other top brands soon).
Arrival and Check-In Experience
The most convenient way to reach One&Only Mandarina is by flying into Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) and arranging a transfer through the resort. Navigating PVR was a breeze, and upon exiting the terminal, it was easy to spot my driver holding a One&Only sign. Although the resort’s instructions were slightly confusing, simply looking around helped me locate my driver without any trouble. The journey itself was smooth and safe, enhanced by thoughtful touches like a choice of cold beer, kombucha, or water, alongside complimentary snacks and a cooler filled with refreshments. Thanks to a newly constructed highway, the drive now takes only 45 minutes, reducing the original travel time by half.
As one of the busiest airports in Mexico, we recommend upgrading your arrival experience by utilizing our premium Hotel Plus concierge assistance service. We can assist with pre-arranging your roundtrip transfers to the hotel and also add VIP Fast Track to expedite your travel through customs and immigration. This package also includes:
- Meet and Greet at the gate
- Assistance with luggage collection
- Porter service
- Personal escort to your resort vehicle
As I arrived at One&Only Mandarina, the experience began with the resonant sound of a majestic gong—a striking piece of art that greets guests at the entrance. The moment is both ceremonial and welcoming, setting the tone for the rest of the stay.
The check-in process was easy, and it was located in a stunning open lobby with jungle views. My luggage was whisked away and awaited me in my room when I got there via a golf cart. I was directed by a member of the reservations team to change the time zone manually on my phone because the location of the resort switches back and forth between time zones, and I was given fresh mango juice grown on the property with the option to add mezcal or tequila. They then added my phone number to my personal WhatsApp group with my dedicated host, which is how I communicated with the resort and requested rides for the rest of my stay.
One of the first things you’ll notice about One&Only Mandarina is the sheer expanse of the resort. Depending on your villa’s location, it may take up to 10 minutes to reach your destination by escorted buggy. However, the journey is anything but mundane—the well-paved roads meander through the jungle and ascend the hillside, with each twist and turn unveiling another picture-perfect view worthy of a frame. What truly sets the resort apart is the remarkable design of its 105 villas. Each is a secluded, stand-alone retreat, expertly built into the rugged rock face of the coastal rainforest.
Room Types at One&Only Mandarina
The room types at One&Only Mandarina are categorized as:
- Treehouses
- Cliff Villas
- Grand Villas
- Signature Villas
Every One&Only resort proudly showcases a Villa One, their most iconic and photogenic accommodation. At Mandarina, Villa One sets the standard with a stunning sunken outdoor living room, three luxurious bedrooms, and accommodations for up to eight guests.
During my stay, I had the pleasure of experiencing both the Ocean Treehouse (villa 131) and Panoramic Ocean Treehouse (villa 210). The contrast between the views was immediately striking. While both offer views of the Pacific Ocean, the Ocean Treehouse presents the sea in the distance, whereas the Panoramic Ocean Treehouse immerses you in stunning 180-degree, close-up ocean views. Falling asleep to the soothing sound of the waves was a treat, making it impossible to feel stressed here. My favorite morning ritual was brewing a coffee with the in-room Nespresso and savoring it on my balcony overlooking Jetty Beach Club.
Please note that children must be 10+ years old to stay in the treehouse accommodations since they are perched so high off the ground.
Pro Tip: When booking through us, you receive priority for room upgrades with the highest success rate compared to any other booking tool, including Amex FHR. However, if you want a specific view guaranteed, we always recommend booking the room type you desire to avoid any disappointment. It’s important to note that even for repeat clients, the resort cannot guarantee the same room each time. While we can make strong requests, the view from Villa 210 will differ slightly from another Panoramic Ocean Treehouse due to the resort’s expansive layout and commitment to complete privacy, meaning no two villas share the same view.
Each of the 105 villas at Mandarina has a private pool or plunge pool—take full advantage of it! The pools are heated to a comfortable temperature, which you can adjust to your liking. And don’t miss the outdoor bathtub surrounded by lush jungle—a perfect way to (literally) soak in nature’s tranquility.
I had the privileged opportunity to tour some of the other accommodation types and, of course, took plenty of notes!
One-Bedroom Cliff Villa
The entry-level option for families with two children (under 12) features a queen sofa bed in the same bedroom, creating a cozy yet shared space. The design is intentionally open, with no separation between the bathroom and bedroom, although the WC does have a private door for added discretion. The villa offers a plunge pool surrounded by lush palms and greenery, providing a tranquil, nature-immersed setting. A skylight above brings in natural light, which can be closed for complete darkness when needed. Guests can enjoy both outdoor and indoor showers, with the indoor shower offering a door for privacy.
Villa Banderas
Villa Banderas is a versatile 2-bedroom option, perfect for families. During the low season, the second bedroom can be closed off, transforming it into a 1-bedroom suite with a living room and sitting area. The master bedroom boasts a spacious pool with a lovely ocean view, providing a serene retreat. The second bedroom features two queen beds, ideal for accommodating a family of five. For added convenience, a third child can comfortably sleep on the pullout sofa, ensuring no one has to share a bed. This villa effortlessly blends luxury with family-friendly functionality.
RV13 (Private Home)
I saved the best for last! I had the opportunity to tour RV13, one of the private Signature Villas at the resort. These villas, though individually owned, maintain the same elegant decor found throughout the property. Each villa features a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities, and most include the services of a private chef (with labor included, though food and beverage costs are extra). The villa also has a dedicated golf cart and driver for easy transportation around the resort. The average nightly rate for a four-bedroom villa typically ranges from $8,000 to $9,000.
Activities Options
I was consistently amazed by how beautifully the resort integrates with its natural surroundings. The spa, in particular, is a true marvel, set amidst towering trees that make you feel completely immersed in the jungle. Javier, my masseuse, was exceptional, providing a deeply relaxing experience. Even on days when I didn’t have a treatment scheduled, I took full advantage of the spa’s amenities, including the steam room, sauna, and cold plunge. The complimentary mud experience is an absolute must. Set outdoors in a co-ed area, it involves applying mud from a large bowl, letting it set for about 15 minutes, and then rinsing off using handheld showers—all while being surrounded by the jungle.
Pro Tip: the spa is very popular, so it’s best to book your treatments at least a week in advance!
One experience not to miss is the Temazcal, a traditional steam bath rooted in ancient civilizations. It’s more than just a treatment; it’s a spiritual practice meant to purify both mind and spirit, traditionally performed by a shaman. If you’re interested, it’s also best to arrange this in advance.
The resort’s amenities extend far beyond the spa. A 10-hole short golf course, scheduled for completion by the end of 2024, features replicas of famous holes from legendary courses like Augusta National, Pebble Beach, Royal Melbourne, and Pine Valley. For families, the kids’ club is a massive 40,000-square-foot area with nature trails, a butterfly farm, a jungle greenhouse, and an obstacle course. It’s complimentary for kids ages 4-11, with additional programming for those 12 and up. Kids aged 7 and older can enjoy the zipline, which, while not as thrilling as those in Costa Rica, is still a fun activity.
The Mandarina Experiences area is another highlight, featuring two synthetic grass tennis courts, two Har-Tru tennis courts, two pickleball courts, a half-court basketball court, archery, horse stables, a polo field, and a riding ring. This area will eventually be shared with the Rosewood Mandarina when it opens. I visited the Argentinian Steakhouse, which operates during the polo season from November to May. Polo matches are held most Fridays and Saturdays, and with over 50 horses living at Mandarina, it’s clear they are well cared for—some are so pampered that they don’t even want to ride anymore!
For those interested in more hands-on experiences, the resort offers a variety of cooking and mixology classes, which would be a delightful way to spend an afternoon.
Pools:
The resort features a total of seven pools spread throughout the property, including an adults-only infinity pool, each offering unique experiences and stunning views.
Beaches:
One&Only Mandarina offers two distinct beaches. Jetty Beach Club, exclusive to One&Only guests, is tucked within a bay, offering a serene atmosphere with minimal air movement. In contrast, Canalan Beach Club is situated on a more open stretch of coastline that will eventually be shared with the upcoming Rosewood Mandarina, ensuring a refreshing breeze throughout the day.
Pro Tip: Make sure to watch the sunset from one of the pools or beach each night during your stay.
Dining
The dining experience at One&Only Mandarina, while exceptional, comes with a premium price tag, particularly when compared to the Four Seasons. For reference, I spent approximately $150 on an appetizer, one drink, and a main course.
Treetop Bar
Start your evening with a pre-dinner cocktail here, where the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean provide the perfect backdrop.
Alma
This is the main venue for breakfast, which is complimentary when you book through us, saving you around $80 per person per day. The menu features Pan-American and Mediterranean cuisine. While it is gluten-free friendly, you’ll need to request options, as they are not marked on the menu. My favorites were the avocado toast and the fresh fruit smoothies, both bursting with the farm-to-table freshness that’s a hallmark of the resort.
Jetty Beach Club
Located right on the edge of swimmable waters, this casual dining spot offers an inviting atmosphere with oversized beds and cabanas. The menu is a culinary journey, featuring everything from a generous plate of oysters to the catch of the day, which might include snapper or amberjack. The signature tacos, filled with soft shell crab and avocado mousse, are not to be missed. The restaurant is open for lunch from 12 pm to 5:30 pm and for dinner from 6 pm to 11 pm, Thursday through Saturday.
Allora
For seaside Italian fare, head to Allora at Canalan Beach Club. This open-air restaurant offers traditional Italian dishes in a relaxed beachfront setting. The atmosphere is both sophisticated and casual, making it a unique dining experience at Mandarina. Allora is open daily for lunch from 11 am to 6 pm and for dinner from 6 pm to 11 pm.
Carao
Carao is Mandarina’s most popular dining option and is a must-visit during your stay. The restaurant is open to all ages, though the pool area is reserved for adults (18+). The menu, crafted by celebrity chef Enrique Olvera, is inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Oaxaca and the modern Mediterranean. The setting, influenced by the Mexican thatched roof Palapa, enhances the experience, making it more than just a meal. Dishes like roasted palm hearts, aged fish, and smoky octopus zarandeado are designed to leave a lasting impression. The dress code is relaxed during the day, but in the evening, elegant resort attire is recommended.
Pro Tip: You will need to coordinate with your host via WhatsApp to arrange reservations for dinner each night.
Know Before You Go!
- Summer Travel Advisory: If you’re visiting during the summer and are sensitive to heat, it’s important to note that none of the restaurants have air conditioning. While fans are provided, and personal fans are available upon request, it can still be quite warm. Most bathrooms, however, are equipped with strong AC, as are the spa, fitness center, and guest rooms.
- Beach Experience: While the beach is swimmable, it’s quite small compared to the expansive beaches in Punta Mita and Cabo. If you’re daydreaming of a long stretch of sand for leisurely walks, this may not align with your expectations.
- Wildlife Awareness: The property is home to approximately 80 crocodiles, with about 25 of them monitored via trackers. Your host will likely mention “Jimmy,” a particularly mischievous croc known to frequent the beaches. The beach is closed whenever he’s nearby, but it’s wise to remain cautious. As this resort is nestled in the jungle, encountering wildlife is part of the experience. All animals are federally protected, and their populations can increase after heavy rains as they migrate toward the ocean.
- Time Zone Quirk: One&Only Mandarina sits between two time zones, causing your phone to switch back and forth. The resort observes what would be considered Mountain Time during this season (two hours behind Eastern Time). During non-Daylight Savings Time, it’s likely just one hour behind Eastern Time. Part of the welcome process includes guidance on how to lock your phone to PVR time.
- Transportation: Getting around the resort requires relying on your host, as the property isn’t walkable unless your villa is adjacent to a restaurant. My villa (210) was conveniently close to the spa, allowing for one walkable destination. However, many guests enjoy walking the winding roads during cooler months as a form of exercise, though it was simply too hot to do so in July. While the transportation service was generally reliable, there were occasional delays.
- Spa Bookings: The spa is highly sought after, and for good reason. To secure your desired time slot and treatment, it’s best to book at least a week in advance. Our team can assist with these arrangements.
- Dining Reservations: Advance reservations are strongly recommended. Carao usually requires booking a day ahead, while Alma, Allora, and Jetty Beach Club can accommodate same-day reservations.
- Golf: A 10-hole short course, featuring replicas of famous holes from Augusta National, Pebble Beach, Royal Melbourne, and Pine Valley, is set to be completed by the end of 2024.
- Service Excellence: The entire resort team—from housekeepers and butlers to golf cart drivers and chefs—works tirelessly to ensure a fantastic guest experience. The staff takes great pride in delivering top-notch service, especially in the dining venues. All communication is managed via WhatsApp or your in-room telephone.
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is from November to April. I visited during the rainy season, and while I personally enjoyed the nightly storms that added to the natural ambiance, the days were notably humid. This is also the best time to whale watch and watch a famous polo match down at the equestrian club.
- Ideal Stay Duration: 4-5 nights.
- Wildlife Encounters: The resort is also home to Coati (Coatimundi), curious creatures known to open unlocked sliding doors and raid mini-bars, especially for chocolate. The GM mentioned that in some villas, they often sneak in through the bathroom’s sliding door, making quite a mess. My butler diligently ensured all doors were securely locked whenever I left the room.
- Connected, Yet Disconnected: Despite being a wellness-focused resort encouraging privacy and disconnection, communication is handled exclusively through WhatsApp, requiring you to keep your phone close, which can be counterintuitive.
- Who Will Love Mandarina? Couples seeking a wellness-inspired retreat in a stunning natural setting; families with Kids’ Club-age children (4-11) or younger (with a nanny); couples on milestone celebrations; and those on a babymoon or honeymoon. It’s not ideal for families with teenagers or college-aged kids who might find it too quiet. Treehouses are suited for kids aged 10+ due to their elevated design, while Cliff Villas offer a secure environment.
- Special Mention: I want to express my heartfelt thanks to Roberta, one of the managers. She is an invaluable resource with deep knowledge of Mandarina. She went above and beyond to ensure our stay was exceptional. I also want to express my warm thanks to Thuy, the Leisure Sales Manager, for kindly hosting us and offering a personal touch to every part of my stay.
"I Am Ready To Experience One&Only Mandarina. Now What?"
Through our Hotel-Only service, we can book your stay for the exact same rate you find online, with the added benefit of booking your stay with us. We charge zero fees through this service; it is completely complimentary!
When you book with us, you will be a VIP guest and receive exclusive amenities:
- Upgrade on arrival (STA)
- Daily full breakfast for two guests per bedroom served in the hotel’s own Alma Restaurant
- 100 USD resort credit
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out (STA)
Plus, you don’t want to miss these promotions:
- Book a three-night stay and receive the 4th night complimentary
- Book a seven-night stay and receive the 6th and 7th night complimentary
- Valid for stays in Treehouse, Ocean Treehouse, Panoramic Ocean Treehouse, Cliff Villa, Ocean Cliff Villa, Panoramic Ocean Cliff Villa, and Villa Banderas Jungle View.
- $1,000 resort credit for 5 nights
- $1,000 resort credit for 3 nights
- $2,000 resort credit for 5 nights
Offers based on availability and blackout dates apply. Offers cannot be combined with other promotions or packages. Valid for Travel Now Through 17 Dec 2024
Pair Your Stay!
There are wonderful resorts to choose from in Punta Mita that you could split your stay with.
You could pair your stay at Susurros del Corazón, an Auberge Resorts Collection. Susurros del Corazón captures the essence of Punta de Mita, blending vibrant design, culinary delights, wellness, and local experiences. The resort features 59 rooms, cliffside residences, and four standalone casas, with highlights including two restaurants, three pools with ocean views, a comprehensive spa, and a range of daily activities for all ages. Contact us to learn more about our stay.
Another nearby 5-star compound located in Punta Mita is Naviva, a Four Seasons Resort. Angela from Team O was able to visit this tented adults-only sanctuary resort, which is conveniently connected to Four Seasons Punta Mita. Just 15 luxury bungalows spread across the 48-acre property ensure exclusivity in a calm, meditative hideaway in the Mexican jungle.
For more information on current rates or to start planning your next adventure, email us at [email protected] or fill out a Travel Request Form. If you’re still exploring your options, we have several resources to help you, including our complimentary booking tool, a Preferred Hotels Map, and detailed blog posts. Angela from Team O has also visited One&Only Mandarina and details her stay on our blog. Let us help you curate your journey to One&Only Mandarina today!
