Iberostar Selection Paraiso Lindo and Maya, Riviera Maya | Family Vacation Review

Iberostar Playa Paraiso Golf & Spa Resort, located in Puerto Morelos, is approximately 29 miles from the Cancun Airport.  This mega-resort is actually 5 resorts in one. It includes Paraiso Delmar & Beach, Paraiso Lindo & Maya and Paraiso Grand. Because of the close proximity to the airport, once you arrive in Cancun, your vacation starts practically right away.  One of the reasons we chose this resort for our family vacation is the location, and another is the Star Camp for kids ages 4-17. We knew the kids would be entertained by the wave pool, lazy river, game room, and water park, and the adults would enjoy swim-up bars, specialty restaurants, swimming pools, private beach, and nightly entertainment. This all-inclusive resort, located in Riviera Maya, Mexico, between Cancun and Playa Del Carmen, has something for everyone. Iberostar Paraiso Lindo reviews are varied, but after staying there multiple times with both family and as a couple, I can assure you it is a good deal for the money.

Over the past few years we have been vacationing here, we’ve noticed that Iberostar has continued to make improvements. The Star Camp has been updated, waterslides have been added to the resort, and a beautiful two-story glass front fitness center was built. We felt this resort already had one of the nicest fitness centers of all of the resorts in which we have stayed, now, it is even better. The impressive-looking new fitness center has state-of-the-art equipment and machines, a cycling studio, and multisport rooms for yoga, Zumba, kickboxing, and more. If you want to stay in shape while on vacation, you will be able to do that here.  We’ve only stayed in the Iberostar Paraiso Del Mar in the past but have walked the grounds of the other parts of the resorts. In addition, we attended a couple of sales tours which enabled us to see other parts of the resorts like the Grand and home sites. While we are not fond of sales tours, we decide to do tours here during prior trips and received credit to visit the Isla Mujeres and have 2 massages at the spa on another visit.

Iberostar Selection Paraiso Lindo Lobby

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Because we wanted to have access to the waterslides, wave, pool, and lazy river, we decided to upgrade to the Lindo this time rather than stay at the Del Mar.

Day 1 | The Iberostar Lindo in Riviera Maya with the Family

On the first day at the resort, we woke up before sunrise, grabbed a coffee and sweet roll at the Star Cafe, then made our way to the gym, where we dropped off my son for his workout, and I toured the second floor to see where they have aero yoga classes, which is yoga using silks suspended from the ceiling. We took a walk to the beach and watched the sunrise.

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Iberostar Star Cafe

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We walked back to the buffet for breakfast. After toasting with a mimosa, I had a delicious vegetable omelet and fresh fruit. The coffee was good. Found front-row seats at the wave pool in the sun because the temperature was still rather chilly. Probably the coldest we’ve had since we started coming to Mexico. It warmed up throughout the day and was very comfortable.

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When the kids finally woke up, they joined us at the pool and had their floaties inflated at the towel stand. Chloe (age 10) was rather shy joining the Star Camp kids. No one spoke English except for the instructors, there were more boys than girls today, and the only other girl was quite younger than her. Matthew (age 13) amused us by wearing all three floaties at one time and running around the pool. He found a rather large iguana under a bridge at the Lindo pool and spent at least an hour observing it. Bob became friends with the bartender Raul at the wave pool. By the way, this is the only wave pool we’ve seen in Riviera Maya. Scott had never had a mudslide, so Bob had Raul make one for him. He liked them so much that he had another, and another, and…well, he is on vacation. Chris came back from his massage at the spa relaxed but sore. The deep tissue massage was fantastic, but as those who get that type of massage know, you need to breathe through the pain to get the best results from it.

Star Camp at the Iberostar, Riviera Maya

One of the reasons we chose the Iberostar in Riviera Maya is because we feel they have one of the best programs for children ages 4-17. Camp usually starts at 9:30, but the teenagers start at 11 am. There are activities all day long, and the children can participate as little or as much as they would like. Most all-inclusive resorts have activities for kids, but the Iberostar kids club has a pleasant atmosphere that our kids love.

From 9:30 am to 10:30 pm, Star Camp kids are supervised by a professional and engaging staff. When you arrive at the resort, you will check in at Star Camp, telling them your room number, the length of your stay, contact details, and any important information you need them to know about your child(ren), for example, allergies. Once you are registered, you can have your children participate as much or little as you choose. You can sign them in and out throughout the day. 

The Star Camp headquarters is a beautifully designed space, open and airy inside, filled with everything kids love, and it has an outdoor playground, which is made with recycled plastic. The children are separated into 3 groups according to age. Inside there is a room for Monkeys (ages 4-7), Dolphins (ages 8-12), and Eagles (ages 13-17).  The Monkey room has an indoor climbing structure, puzzles, crafts, and more. The Dolphin Room has a mini-trampoline, climbing wall, video games, and an area for making crafts. The teenagers have a designated hammock area with reading nests and a place where they can enjoy smoothies and juices. There are basketball nets, a ping-pong table, air hockey, and a variety of sports video games. They can even try out their DJ skills or “bust a move” on the dance floor.

The kids are busy all day moving around the resort with smiles on their faces enjoying the company of other children their age and the exciting activities that the staff cooks up for them.  Speaking of cooking, kids can take part in a baking challenge, play capture the flag, float down the lazy river, and explore escape room challenges. In the theater at night, little tykes and teenagers alike show off their talents by warming up the audience before the live show with a special performance.  Each night is a different theme, and the kids get to play dress-up with a variety of costumes. 

Iberostar Lindo Beach

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We decide to make our way to the beach for lunch. On our way, we could see the sand, surf, and aquamarine water awaiting us. It was like a commercial for a Caribbean vacation. We were dazzled by the beauty of it. We each grabbed some food at the concession stand and snack bar and then made our way to the picnic tables in the sand under the palapas. The beach area was crowded, and the loungers were all taken, but Lauren spotted a few open and made a beeline for them. We found a few more for everyone. Scott and Matthew swam in the sea while the rest of us lounged and relaxed. There were a few vendors selling jewelry and cigars, but they didn’t bother us.

One was wearing a funny apron, so we called him over to see it up close. Well, we had a few laughs when he showed us all of them. Each one had a string attached and a surprise underneath. Use your imagination. Hint it was a male body part made out of fabric. We didn’t buy anything, but we had a good laugh. The waitress was attentive, bringing our group drinks, but now it was time for a toast of tequila. More laughs. We apologized to those around for being so loud, then went back to the wave pool to see Raul for a bit before going back to the room to get ready for dinner.

Trattoria Olivetti: That’s Italian!

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Italian cuisine at the Trattoria Olivetti was surprisingly good. Years ago, we didn’t feel the Italian food was up to par in Mexico, but this was fantastic. Lasagna, pasta, and a delicious chicken with mushrooms. We couldn’t resist the decadent chocolate cake for dessert. So good! Guys can wear Bermuda shorts at this restaurant, so for those who want to be a little more casual, this is your place. Service is a little slow, but I imagine if you were in Italy, you would dine at a relaxing pace and enjoy a conversation with your companions like we did. We were tired, so we went back to our room, but later the kids went to the circus show in the theater. 

Day 2 | Iberostar Paraiso Lindo and an Upgrade to Maya

The guys went to the beach this morning to watch the sunrise and then had breakfast. My son-in-law Scott surprised my daughter Lauren by upgrading their room to the Maya because the double room here at the Lindo is small for their family, and they have room service. The beds are only full size, not queen, so sleeping quarters are tight for two adults, a teenage boy, and a preteen young lady. All Lindo standard rooms have air conditioning, flat screen tv, a private balcony, a hair dryer, toiletries, refrigerator, and either two double beds or a queen bed.

The kids were excited to go to the Star Club today. So excited that my grandson left the room before it opened for his age group, so he came back to the room and waited for it to start at 11. We hung out by the wave pool, soaking in some sun and enjoying drinks from the bar.

Iberostar Mall

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We took a tram to the Mall to have tacos, burritos, and nachos at Taki-to for lunch. Afterward, we stopped by the crepe shop for a strawberry crepe and ice cream. It’s rather cool and windy today, so after a short walk on the beach, we decided to retire to our rooms to rest up for this evening.

Peacocks at the Iberostar

I took a video of the peacocks that roam around freely on the property. One male spread his tail feathers in a spectacular display. 

El Rancho Steakhouse

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Tonight’s dinner was at the El Rancho steakhouse, which did not disappoint. We started with a Caesar salad that was prepared tableside by our waiter. The salmon and grilled vegetables were perfectly prepared, followed by a chocolate brownie with nuts. I ended my meal with a coffee and Bailey’s. 

We stopped by the theater in time to groove to the Boogie Nights performance. Listen to some Donna Summers tunes, Village People hits, and Disco’s fan favorite, Funky Town, among others. 

Day 3 | Walk Around Del Mar Pool and a Beach Day

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We had breakfast early and then went for a walk around the Delmar pool. We remembered that there was a little restaurant by the beach where we liked to have lunch, so we took the gangs there around 1 pm. We decided to spend the afternoon at the beach today. The waves were high, and it was windy, but the temperature was close to 80 degrees, so it was fantastic. The combination of sun and clouds, cool sand, and sparkling aquamarine water made this a perfect day to relax seaside. We had an attentive waitress that kept our group hydrated and happy. 

Bob and Chris went on a 2 ½ hour beach hike down to Maroma Beach. The hike was easier in the past because there were more beach areas in which to walk. One of the abandoned buildings looked like it was now a working resort. 

El Tapatio for a Mexican Dinner

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Tonight we ate at the El Tapatio, a Mexican restaurant located in the Maya section of the Iberostar Resort. Ronaldo, our waiter, made fresh guacamole at the table, and we devoured it in minutes. Our delicious entrees included shrimp fajitas, taquitos, salmon cooked in banana leaves, enchiladas, tacos, and tasty black beans. We had lots of laughs, told stories, and finally posed for a family photo. Too tired to go to the show, we made our way to our room and slipped into a deep sleep. 

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Day 4 | Pool Day at Delmar, Archery, and Test Run on Waterslides in Lindo

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After breakfast, we made our way to the Delmar pool. There were plenty of chairs to choose from, so we planted ourselves near the water volleyball and water basketball hoop. The activity team asked Scott and Matthew to play basketball, and Lauren found a hammock on an island in the pool to enjoy some alone time. Chloe spent her time with the Star Club. 

We had lunch at the small buffet close to Delmar Beach. Good pizza, grilled veggies, salad, steamed veggies with a side of cream sauce if you wanted it, good Mexican food, sandwiches, fruit, and desserts.

Iberostar Waterslides and Archery

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Afterward, we made our way to the archery range, where Lauren kept up her bullseye streak. Yes…we have photographic evidence. Bob decided today was his day to experience the waterslides. We need to go back with the rest of the gang before leaving. There is a pirate ship with lots of water activity nearby for the wee ones too short for the waterslides. 

Dinner at Under the Sea

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Dinner at Under the Sea was remarkable. We started with fresh salads, squid, guacamole, and chicken wings for appetizers, salmon, coconut shrimp, and marinated beef skirt for our entrees. We finished the meal with vanilla sponge cake with amaretto sauce and a chocolate crust biscuit. The group preferred the vanilla sponge cake and didn’t care for the chocolate dessert as much.

Michael Jackson Impersonator

This evening we watched the Michael Jackson show in the Lindo theater. Songs included Thriller, Bad, Billy Jean, Dangerous and more. The choreography and costumes were spot on. 

Day 5 | Beach Day and Pool Day at the Lindo

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The beach has become a favorite spot for all of us, so we decided that we were ready for another day in the sand, soaking up the sun and listening to the crash of the waves. By noon we were ready to go back to the pool and cool off. We found a few chairs at the Lindo pool, set down towels and belongings, then made our way into the chilly but refreshing water. The DJ was playing all of our favorite upbeat songs, and the waterfall pool bartenders were serving up cool drinks in the shade or the sun at the swim-up bar. We played a rousing game of monkey in the middle with the kids and continued our exercise by walking the length of the pool a couple of times. We thought we were going to scuba in the pool, but after a late lunch at the Italian restaurant by the pool, we decided we had enough sun for the day and went to our rooms to rest before dinner. 

Japanese Habachi Restaurant

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Dinner was at the Japanese Hibachi restaurant in Beach. The show was fantastic, and the food was delicious. We started with a sushi plate, dumplings, and a mini salad, then soup. The main course was fried rice, pork, chicken, beef, and fish, all cooked to perfection. Dessert was a selection of 3 mini sweets. The kids enjoyed it so much they asked if they could eat there again tomorrow night. 

There was a fire show in the Lindo Beach at 8:30, so we walked there for some exercise, but we decided to walk back to the room before it started. We’ll get the scoop tomorrow on the show from the rest of our group who stayed to enjoy it. SCOOP: The fire show was fantastic! They were so happy they waited to see it.

Day 6 | Lindo Pool with DJ and Swim-Up Bar

We spent most of the day at the Lindo pool after a relaxing breakfast at the buffet by the beach end of the pool. We sat outside and enjoyed our Lattes, mimosas, omelets, and baked goods. There’s green juice and lots of fresh fruit for the health-conscious. 

Today was our Covid test at the convention center, an on-site short walk from our room. The test was fast and easy. We were all negative, thank goodness! 

Scuba Lesson in the Iberostar Lindo Pool | PADI Certified Scuba Center

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Chloe decided to spend the day with her group from the Star Club. Lauren and Matthew took a free scuba lesson in the Lindo pool and did well. The instructor was patient and supportive because it can be uncomfortable to learn how to breathe correctly for scuba. They were pros by the end of the lesson.

After our morning swim, some of us decided to have lunch on the beach one more time. The waves were calmer, so jet skiers, parasailers, and other water sports took place on the sea today. We went back to the pool to watch them play volleyball and others activities while we gathered in the pool. The DJ was rocking, and it was a party! We all had smiles on our faces! 

Lemon and Spices

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After a short rest in our rooms before dinner, we dined at Lemon and Spices, the Greek Restaurant. We enjoyed hummus, Greek salad, Calamari, chicken kabob, beef tenderloin, and fish for two prepared at the table. Bellies full, we made our way back to the lobby for one last stop at the Star Cafe for specialty coffee and baked goods. We scheduled our luggage pick up and then went back to our rooms to pack. 

An Overview of our Week at the Iberostar

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We were there for seven days, from Saturday to Saturday. We arrived on Saturday in time to have lunch at the buffet so our vacation started immediately. After lunch, we took a walk to the Iberostar Paraiso Del Mar pool to hang out while waiting for check-in. After check-in, we took a walk to the Mall to visit our favorite taco place in the resort. Since our flight was at 7:30 that morning, we were tired from the early morning wake-up and traveling. On our last day, we didn’t get picked up from the resort until after 8:15 am, so we had plenty of time to have a leisurely breakfast and take a walk around the beautiful lobby one last time. This time of year, there have been flight delays because of Covid and the weather, but we were lucky only to have a 50-minute delay. The issue was trying to get picked up by Globe Parking. We use them all of the time because their service is great. Today, many flights came in simultaneously because of the cancellations over the past few days due to weather, so they were overwhelmed. After a chilly departure, we made it home by 6:30 after picking up food for dinner. This is the only Iberostar resort we have stayed in, but other travelers told us that the other Iberostar hotels are just as nice.

Book Your Travel

When traveling to Riviera Maya, we always book with our travel agent Jim Lucente. Rest assured that you will know the latest Covid protocols and will have the added layer of a professional that you can contact directly with any questions or concerns.  I highly recommend that you contact Jim Lucente, owner of Lucente Travel at 412-299-7699 or email him at jim@lucentetravel.com to book your all-inclusive vacation. 

If you prefer to book online, you can book here or compare reviews at Tripadvisor. If you prefer, you can make your reservation directly with the Iberostar Resort.