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Fred and I recently took a kid-free weekend to celebrate our birthdays, and thanks to our travel advisor, Kate Johnson, we discovered the perfect tropical retreat: One&Only Mandarina in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico. Just an hour’s drive from Puerto Vallarta International Airport, this secluded resort offered the tranquility and luxury we were seeking.

Arrival & Accommodations

Set amidst 80 acres of coastal rainforest, One&Only Mandarina features 105 standalone villas and treehouses, each designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Our villa provided stunning treetop views of the Pacific Ocean and came equipped with a private plunge pool, offering an intimate connection with nature.

Culinary Delights

The resort boasts several exceptional dining options so each evening, we dined at a different restaurant, savoring the diverse flavors and ambiances.

  • Carao: Helmed by renowned chef Enrique Olvera, this cliffside restaurant offers contemporary Mexican cuisine with panoramic ocean views.
  • Alma: An open-air, garden-to-table restaurant serving dishes prepared over wood-fired ovens, set amidst lush landscapes.
  • Jetty Beach Club: A beachfront venue providing casual dining options with a focus on fresh seafood.

Relaxation & Recreation

Mornings began with a hearty breakfast buffet at Alma, followed by leisurely hours alternating between reading on the beach and lounging by the resort’s five pools. The variety of pools—including two at Jetty Beach Club, an adults-only pool at Carao, and two more at Alma—ensured a fresh setting each time.

Our spa experience was a highlight. The One&Only Spa, nestled within a natural volcanic rock garden, offers treatments inspired by indigenous and pre-Hispanic traditions, including a temazcal ceremony—a traditional Mexican sweat lodge experience. The spa also features a vitality pool, mud bath, and separate areas for men and women with cold plunge pools, saunas, and steam rooms.

Service & Surroundings

The resort’s service was impeccable, with attentive staff ensuring our comfort throughout our stay. The lush greenery and cliffside beaches evoked memories of Hawaii and Costa Rica, offering a unique blend of jungle and ocean vistas. Instead of a traditional hotel building, the resort comprises individual villas perched on stilts, providing privacy and breathtaking views.

Final Thoughts

One&Only Mandarina provided the perfect setting for our birthday celebration—a harmonious blend of luxury, nature, and exceptional service. It’s a destination we wholeheartedly recommend for anyone seeking a rejuvenating escape.  

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