WANDER WITH ONE&ONLY

Riviera Nayarit travel guide

Plan your Mexican adventure with extraordinary experiences across Riviera Nayarit’s land and sea.

Immersed in Riviera Nayarit's coastal rainforest, One&Only Mandarina is the gateway to exhilarating adventures in Mexico. The Pacific shoreline is a wild-at-heart playground of dramatic landscapes. From jungle hikes to surfing and private boat tours into the blue, every experience invites you to connect with nature, culture and yourself.

Soulful surf safaris

One&Only Mandarina offers some of the best surfing in Mexico, with excursions tailored to every level. Guided by the resort's surf pros, build confidence in the calm waters beside our Jetty Beach Club before embarking out on a surf excursion to explore Nayarit’s stunning coastline in search of secluded breaks.

Explore the Pacific

Our ocean vessels bring the Pacific’s wonders to life. Sail out to watch humpback whales from December to March, when the pods play in the Bay of Banderas. Avid anglers can join local fishermen from El Montéon to catch fresh roosterfish and dorado, while diving promises a window into the underwater world. Explore incredible volcanic reefs and colorful shoals or gain dive certification. Snorkel sets and paddleboards await for discovering this marine paradise.

Uncover secluded shores

Out at sea, the uninhabited Islas Marietas, a recognized National Park, reveal more magic. Board a traditional panga boat and complete the journey with a refreshing swim ashore. Unwind on the islands’ hidden beaches and snorkel over the dazzling coral reef.

Through the canopy

Paths less travelled

The coastal rainforest surrounding One&Only Mandarina is a haven for land-based adventures beside ancient trees and alive with native wildlife. Head off on invigorating hikes, bike rides and jungle tours in Riviera Nayarit. Traverse meandering trails, pausing to pay homage to La Abuela, an iconic Higuera tree that’s more than 500 years old. Challenge yourself on high-ropes and zipline courses through lush vegetation with thrilling ocean views.

Magical towns

Enjoy private tours of Riviera Nayarit’s cultural heritage, taking in vibrant local towns. In Puerto Vallarta, stroll the lively Malecón oceanfront promenade and spot sculptures including The Boy on the Seahorse. Inland, San Sebastián del Oeste, a “Pueblos Mágicos” (Magical Town of historic significance) is nestled in the mountains. Wander among baroque bell towers, colonial ruins and flag-festooned alleyways.

A revitalizing retreat

Embark on a transformative journey of rediscovery within the sanctuary of One&Only Spa. Spiritual Journeys draw from ancient practices to restore balance. Guided by inspiring practitioners, experience body massage and breathwork, sound therapy, skincare or steam rituals, soundtracked by the rainforest’s rhythms.

Horseback adventures

Follow forest trails from Mandarina Polo & Equestrian Club past fields and organic gardens, down to the ocean. Our equine experiences are an unforgettable way to explore the rugged landscape. Seasonal polo matches provide a front-row seat to the remarkable riders in action, as you unwind with a cocktail and canapés in the shadow of the Sierra Madre.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Your Riviera Nayarit escape

Riviera Nayarit stretches along Mexico’s Pacific coast, about an hour north of Puerto Vallarta International Airport. It is a year-round destination with a warm tropical climate. Visit from November to May for dry, sunny days, or come between December and March to see humpback whales in the Bay of Banderas. The summer months bring lush rainforest, warm seas and bigger surf. The local currency is the Mexican peso, and cards and US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Spanish is the main language, though English is commonly spoken throughout the region’s resorts. Whether you’re surfing secluded breaks, exploring the Islas Marietas or riding through the jungle at One&Only Mandarina, Riviera Nayarit offers an exceptional Mexican Pacific escape in any season.