Inside Rosewood Mandarina: 19 Photos That Capture This Luxury Mexico Resort

My goal was simple: to experience and photograph what makes this corner of Riviera Nayarit so special. Whether it was joining a local chef for a tortilla-making class, ziplining above the treetops, or horseback riding along the beach, the story of Mandarina unfolded one hour, one photograph, one unforgettable detail at a time.

My day started around sunrise, when the sky blushes pink over the Pacific. Paddling out as the first light hit the water, I felt the serenity that makes an early wake-up completely worth it. I watched the coastline slowly come alive with fishermen setting out and birds gliding overhead.

After an early morning on the water, breakfast at La Cocina was a reward. The spread celebrates local flavor, from handmade chilaquiles with just the right kick to tropical fruit still glistening with dew. 

The chef also insisted I try the layered acai bowl, with local honey and fruits. But the chilaquiles ended up being my favorite, perfectly crisp and layered with spice. This was the kind of meal that slows you down and reminds you to savor a morning far from the usual routine.

Midmorning brought the scent of sea and sun-warmed leather. Guided by Mandarina’s skilled equestrian team, we traced the shoreline as waves curled at our horses’ hooves. 

Beyond the beach, the path winds around Mandarina's pastures, stables, and private polo fields, a nod to the region’s deep equestrian culture and the sport’s growing presence in Mexico.

At Rosewood Mandarina’s open-air cooking class, we each took turns pressing and toasting our own tortillas, layering them with smoky chiles and bright lime. I didn’t realize how much I was craving this kind of community experience – laughing with fellow guests, trading tips with our chef, and tasting the results of our handiwork. It was an intimate connection to the culture through food, hands-on learning, and shared joy. I carried it home with me, eventually teaching family and friends how to make tortillas as we did in Mexico.

The afternoon light spills gold across Mandarina’s executive golf course. Designed to follow the land’s natural flow, it’s both scenic and challenging. I’m not a serious golfer, but between the mountain views and ocean breeze, this round was easily one of the most memorable parts of the day.

Back at the villa, time seems to slow in the best possible way. The suite blends contemporary design and coastal warmth with open-air terraces, sunlight pouring through every corner, and my favorite detail: a private plunge pool in each suite.

I couldn’t resist taking a break here, snacking on refreshing fruits and banana bread, alternating between the water and a linen-draped lounger, and nearly losing track of time.

High above the treetops, Mandarina’s zipline course offers a completely new perspective of the property, with rainforest stretching in one direction, and the expansive ocean in the other. The rush of wind and the sound of birds echoing through the canopy felt exhilarating.

As the afternoon light began to fade, I paused by the infinity pool, its edge seemingly spilling into the Pacific below. From here, the view stretched endlessly; waves crashed against the shore as the sun slipped lower on the horizon. It was a fleeting moment that encapsulated the beauty of Mandarina.

Buena Onda’s laidback, barefoot ambiance pairs perfectly with a Spanish-inspired menu celebrating the sea: freshly caught fish, flame-grilled vegetables, and bright Mediterranean flavors. Lanterns flickered in the evening breeze as our chilled glasses of wine caught the last light of day.

Must be of legal age to consume alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly.

After my first day at Rosewood Mandarina, I fell into the rhythm of sunrise surf, rainforest adventures, dinners under the stars, and everything in between for the remainder of my stay. Those who crave adventure and ease can find both at Rosewood Mandarina, as I did; it's a special place that left me feeling renewed.