What’s the difference between Rosewood and One&Only Mandarina
Mandarina is one of Mexico’s most exclusive and unique resort destinations, and after experiencing it myself, I can't wait to tell you all about it. It’s tucked along the coast about 45 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, where the jungle spills into the Pacific Ocean. And believe me when I say, that combination has created pure magic.
There are two luxury resorts within the community: "Rosewood Mandarina" and "One & Only Mandarina". Though they share the same dramatic backdrop and coastline, the experiences they offer are distinctly different. I've now stayed at both and did a deep dive into what sets them apart, so you can figure out which one is the best fit for your next luxury escape.
Below is everything you need to know about each resort and Mandarina's beautiful neighborhood.
We have a strong relationship with both resorts, which means we can get you VIP perks like daily breakfast, a $100 resort credit, and top of the list for an upgrade. Depending on the season, there are often promos and extra perks we can add in too. Always reach out before you book so we can make sure your stay is as special as possible.
Overall Vibe
One&Only Mandarina
Sleek, architectural, and modern. One&Only feels like a modern-day jungle sanctuary where it's elevated, stylish, and designed for privacy. It's ideal for couples, design lovers, or those craving a more curated kind of luxury.
Rosewood Mandarina
Warm, organic and elevated. At Rosewood, Nayaritan luxury oozes throughout the property. It effortlessly blends into the landscape and right onto the beach with terracotta tones and locally sourced details at every turn. The vibe is refined authenticity - perfect for families seeking luxury, multi-gen trips, or events where connection and comfort are key.
Rooms & Layout
One&Only
Treehouse-style villas with dramatic views and total privacy
Cliffside and jungle-view accommodations only. no beachfront rooms
Incredibly private but more spread out, often requiring golf carts
Wildlife note: Coatis roam freely, adorable, but they can sneak into open rooms
Rosewood
Beachfront suites available where you can walk right out with your toes in the sand
Entry-level rooms are exceptionally spacious - starting at 1000sq ft with massive outdoor spaces.
Easy to get around by foot or bike, especially if you're not in the mountain villas
Lower hillside rooms lack privacy compared to One&Only
Spa & Wellness
One&Only
Spa set high in the treetops with a peaceful jungle vibe
Full hydrotherapy circuit including steam rooms, cold plunge pools, and whirlpools
Signature clay treatment detoxifies and refreshes the skin
Offers tailored therapies and holistic wellness experiences
Ideal for travelers focused on relaxation and renewal
Incredible views.
Rosewood
Offers a range of options including restorative treatments, conventional massage therapies and traditional temazcal ceremonies..
Layout feels disjointed but the overall atmosphere is calming
Expansive fitness center with plenty of floor space and a great variety of modern exercise equipment
Dedicated yoga studio for classes and personal practice
Cold plunge, sauna & steam room.
Dining
One&Only
Carao by Enrique Olvera serves inventive Mexican with sweeping ocean views
Alma offers garden-to-table dining nestled in the treetops, with seasonal menus and stunning design
Jetty Beach Club delivers fresh seafood and cocktails with toes-in-the-sand vibes
Stylish and chef-focused energy throughout, from sleek cliffside cocktails to chic poolside lunches, it's great for foodies who appreciate bold flavors and global inspiration.
Rosewood
Buena Onda (means "Good Vibes") is rooted in local flavors and offers open-fire cooking right on the beach. Go here for amazing seafood and tapas.
La Cocina serves authentic dishes all day, anchored by a traditional comal and wood-fired oven. Don't miss their Pistachio croissant for breakfast!
Toppu isn't open yet, but will be their highest-end restaurant blending both Japanese and Peruvian cuisine in an high-altitude, view-forward venue overlooking both mountains and ocean.
Dining at Rosewood feels warm, unfussy, and delicious with a strong connection to the region’s culinary heritage.
Beach & pool Scene
One&Only
Private cove beach that feels remote and intimate
Pool areas are elegant and tranquil but can be a far walk from most villas
No rooms directly on the beach
Rosewood
Long, expansive, walkable beach with loungers right on the sand
Beachfront suites make it incredibly easy to move between room and ocean
Pools are easy to access with a relaxed, family-friendly beach club vibe
For Families
Both resorts have incredible kids clubs. Immersive, beautifully designed, and full of nature focused programming. From toddlers or teens, these hotels offer thoughtful experiences that let kids explore while adults relax.
One&Only KidsOnly
KidsOnly is set in a massive jungle treehouse village with hanging bridges, slides, climbing walls, and nature trails.
A dedicated butterfly house and insect zone encourages hands-on exploration of local species and culture.
The club includes an outdoor amphitheater, jungle cinema, nursery, game room, and arts-and-crafts studio.
Daily themed activities like scavenger hunts, piñata parties, and Huichol-inspired crafts are tailored to different age groups.
Older kids can connect through sports, beach adventures, creative sessions, and social hangouts designed just for teens.
Rosewood Explorers Program
Rosewood Mandarina’s curriculum-based Explorers Club introduces children to a nature- and culture-rich adventure inspired by the “Journey of Tunuri and the Blue Deer,” weaving storytelling with real-world discovery.
Their brand-new Explorers building has everything from library to a paint shop and a theatre complete with a lighted stage and costumes so kids can present what they learned to their parents.
Kids can participate in guided forest walks and scavenger-style outings, deepening their connection with local ecosystems and wildlife
The club incorporates sustainability-focused activities and local cultural excursions—such as art workshops with regional artisans and lessons rooted in Huichol heritage.
Their program balances learning and play, with fossil searches, cultural field trips, environmental lessons, and interactive challenges
Discover Mandarina
Regardless of where you stay, we love Mandarina because you have access to a wide array of outdoor experiences:
Polo Matches (season runs October–May) - Catch thrilling matches at Mandarina’s world-class polo grounds, featuring international players and special events throughout the season.
Zip Lining - They have an adrenaline-pumping zip line course that offers sweeping views of the Pacific and lush rainforest below.
Horseback Riding - Saddle up for a guided ride through jungle trails, mountain terrain, or directly along the sand at sunset.
Fishing Excursions - Head out with expert guides for deep-sea or coastal fishing, with opportunities to catch mahi-mahi, snapper, and tuna.
Jungle Trails - Explore miles of scenic trails that wind through the rainforest and coastline, perfect for hiking, biking, bird watching, or a guided nature walk.
Golf - Challenge yourself on Mandarina’s Greg Norman-designed 10-hole short course, known for its dramatic elevation changes and ocean views. Each hole replicates a famous hole at renowned courses across the globe.
Surfing - Join a guided surf excursion to nearby breaks like Sayulita or La Lancha, ideal for beginners and seasoned surfers alike.
Paddleboarding & Kayaking - Glide across Mandarina’s calm bays and coves with a paddleboard or kayak, often joined by turtles or dolphins offshore.
Wellness - Both resorts offer traditional spa services, open-air spa treatments, temazcal ceremonies, and sound baths inspired by indigenous traditions.
Farm Visits - There is a working organic farm nestled in the hills near the property that you can tour!
Jungle Cinema or Stargazing - Book an outdoor movie night under the stars or a guided stargazing session from a secluded mountain viewpoint.
Pros & Cons Summary
Rosewood Mandarina
Pros
✔ Beachfront suites with direct sand access
✔ Oversized entry-level rooms
✔ Incredible Fitness Center (one of the best I've seen at any property)
✔ Easier to navigate by bike or foot
✔ Warm, event-friendly layout and vibe
✔ Better room product overall
✔ Strong sense of place with local design touches
✔ Great for families with younger kids
✔ Food quality and creativity is exceptional
Cons
✘ Spa layout is underwhelming
✘ Lower hillside rooms offer less privacy
✘ Less dramatic views compared to One&Only
✘ Fewer wow-factor moments in design and arrival experience
One&Only Mandarina
Pros
✔ Treehouse villas with ultimate privacy
✔ Design-forward, striking architecture
✔ Exceptional spa with hydro circuit
✔ Cliff bar and great dining scene
✔ Better for couples or design lovers
✔ More immersive jungle experience
✔ KidsOnly Club is one of the best in Mexico
✔ Feels more secluded
Cons
✘ No beachfront accommodations
✘ Layout is very spread out (golf cart required)
✘ Coatis roam freely and can sneak into villas
✘ Can feel less accessible for guests with mobility issues
Mandarina is truly one of Mexico’s most luxurious and activity-rich resort communities! It’s where the jungle meets the ocean in a way that feels both untouched and elevated; like nature turned up a notch.
If design, privacy, and a next-level spa are calling your name, One&Only Mandarina is your vibe.
If you’re after beachfront access, roomy suites, and a more laid-back, grounded feel, Rosewood Mandarina delivers.
Either way, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty, treated to effortless Mexican hospitality, and probably planning your return trip before you even check out (I am).
Reach out to us to book your stay. We’ll take care of the VIP perks and all the details to make your trip unforgettable.