Staying at Iberostar Selection in Cancún: My Unsponsored Review of the All-Inclusive Resort
With its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and endless sunshine, Cancún is the ultimate destination for a relaxing getaway. John and I had been craving a beach vacation—the thought of sinking our toes into soft, warm sand and sipping margaritas by the ocean had been on our minds for months—and with a quick 3.5-hour direct flight from Chicago, Cancún felt like the perfect destination for us. We knew we wanted an all-inclusive resort—after all, nothing beats the convenience of unlimited food, drinks, and entertainment. But with so many options in Cancún, choosing the right one felt overwhelming.
After plenty of research, we decided on Iberostar Selection Cancún, a 5-star, all-inclusive resort known for its beachfront location, impressive amenities, and exceptional service. From the moment we arrived, we felt like we had made the right choice. Whether we were lounging by the ocean, indulging in endless dining options, or simply unwinding under the sun, our stay at Iberostar Selection Cancún was exactly the kind of escape we needed.
If you’re considering a trip to Cancún and wondering if this resort is worth it, keep reading for my honest, unsponsored review of Iberostar Selection in Cancún!
Why Choose Iberostar Selection Cancún for Your Vacation
With so many all-inclusive resorts in Cancún, choosing the right one is no easy task. For travelers looking for a stress-free beachfront escape, narrowing down options based on key amenities is essential. The top priorities we had for this trip included all-inclusive dining and drinks, oceanfront views, a swim-up bar, direct beach access, close proximity to the airport, and a commitment to sustainability.
Iberostar Selection Cancún checked all of our boxes—and more. Known for its exceptional service, stunning beachfront location, and eco-friendly initiatives, the resort consistently receives glowing reviews.
Another major advantage? The value. Traveling during the off-season (we were there in September) often means significant savings, and this trip was no exception. A 5-day, 6-night stay, including roundtrip flights, came in at just over $1,000 per person—an incredible deal for a high-end, all-inclusive experience.
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Ready to book your stay? Save more by bundling your flights and resort stay for the best deal! Click below to check prices and availability on Expedia.
Please Note: We traveled to Iberostar Selection Cancún in 2021 during the off-season, when travel demand was lower due to ongoing COVID concerns. Because of this, we were able to book our stay at an incredible value. Prices have understandably increased since then, but even at today’s rates, the resort still offers an exceptional experience for the cost—especially considering the quality of the food, amenities, and service. If you’re looking for the best deal, consider traveling during the off-season when prices tend to be lower!
How to Get to Iberostar Selection Cancún
Iberostar Selection Cancún is located in the heart of the Hotel Zone, a lively area known for its all-inclusive resorts and stunning beaches. The only way to reach the Hotel Zone from Cancún International Airport is by car, and travelers have several transportation options to choose from.
Private car services and taxis are readily available, but for those looking to save money without sacrificing convenience, a shared shuttle is a great alternative. Booking a shuttle in advance ensures a seamless arrival experience.
From personal experience, both USA Transfers (for a private transfer) and BD Experience (for a shared shuttle) offer exceptional service. A private transfer is the quickest and most direct option, while a shared shuttle is more budget-friendly but comes with a slightly longer wait time, as it makes multiple stops along the way.
The drive to Iberostar Selection Cancún is quick and easy—just 15 minutes from the airport. Along the way, travelers can catch a glimpse of Playa Delfines, one of Cancún’s most beautiful beaches, located just a short walk from the resort. Thanks to the resort’s prime location, guests can start their vacation almost immediately after landing!
Book a private transfer to the Cancún Hotel Zone now
Exploring the Property
Stepping into Iberostar Selection Cancún felt like a dream. From the moment of arrival, the resort’s open, airy design and tropical landscaping set the tone for a relaxing getaway. After checking in and briefly stopping by the room, the first order of business for me was to get a margarita in hand (because is it really a trip to Mexico without one?) and start exploring the resort.
The resort’s layout is unique—the best way for me to describe it is that it’s a fidget-spinner-shape. The main foyer acts as the center, with three wings branching off in different directions. Directly across from the front desk is the exit to the resort’s main pool area and beach.
Many of the restaurants are conveniently located in the main building, either on the ground floor or mezzanine level. The resort also features a convention center, which, at the time we were there, served as the location for COVID testing required for reentry into the U.S. (which was offered free of charge for guests staying five or more nights).
One of the most convenient aspects of the resort was the on-site travel company representatives, making it easy to book excursions without the hassle of researching online. A day trip to Chichén Itzá and a cenote was a must, and booking directly at the resort made the process easy.
The entire property felt clean, modern, and luxurious, exceeding expectations for a stress-free, all-inclusive vacation. Whether we were lounging by the pool with a cocktail, enjoying the beachfront views, or indulging in the on-site dining, Iberostar Selection Cancún delivered on everything expected from a top-tier all-inclusive experience.
Room Review
When booking the trip, there was an unexpected perk—a free upgrade from a Garden View to an Ocean View room. Even though most of the trip would be spent outside enjoying the resort, the decision was a no-brainer. Waking up each morning to the sun rising over the water was an experience that never got old. While any view in Cancún would have been stunning, I’m so glad we made the choice of room that we did.
The room itself was modern, clean, and comfortable, with thoughtful amenities that made the stay even better. The mini-fridge was fully stocked daily with sodas and sparkling water, and guests could request a restock once per day. In the bathroom, the resort provided refillable bottles of soap, lotion, and shampoo/conditioner—a nice eco-friendly touch—and the quality of the products was surprisingly great.
One of the best perks? 24-hour room service, something that felt like a true luxury to us. It wasn’t until the last full day, after an incredible snorkeling adventure, that we finally put the room service to the test. Returning to the room, exhausted and a little seasick, we ordered food and enjoyed a quiet lunch in the comfort of the balcony’s breeze—it was the perfect way to wind down on our last afternoon in paradise.
For those looking to elevate their stay, Iberostar Selection Cancún also offers oceanfront suites with private swim-out pools—a tempting splurge for anyone wanting a more exclusive and secluded experience.
Dining at Iberostar Selection Cancún
The food and dining experiences at Iberostar Selection Cancún completely exceeded expectations! After staying at other all-inclusive resorts, I was blown away by the quality of the food, even at the buffet-style restaurant, and the exceptional service we received throughout our stay.
Upon arrival, the concierge helped us make reservations at the resort’s five sit-down restaurants, ensuring we had a spot at each of them during our stay. With five restaurants, one buffet, and eight bars, there was no shortage of options to explore.
Here’s a rundown of the dining options:
- Antiguo Laguito Buffet: The buffet serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering a wide variety of dishes to suit every taste.
- American Bistro: As the name suggests, this restaurant serves classic American dishes, but with a delightful twist! It’s a great casual dining option for familiar comfort food.
- El Maguey Mexican Restaurant: This oceanside spot offers a delicious variety of Mexican dishes for lunch and dinner. (Note: We didn’t get to dine here because we attended a Mexican Fiesta to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day instead, but I highly recommend checking it out!)
- Trattoria La Horma: An Italian restaurant with a menu that will have you craving more. Be sure to leave room for dessert—they’re a must-try!
- Naga Hibachi Japanese Restaurant: A fun hibachi-style dining experience that offers a great variety of sushi and other Japanese dishes. Don’t hesitate to try the sushi—it’s fantastic!
- La Parrilla Rotisserie: The resort’s upscale “steakhouse,” where we enjoyed some of the finest cuts of meat for dinner.
We visited the buffet multiple times and ate at four out of the five sit-down restaurants during our stay. The best part? Everything was included (except for tips, which we were happy to give). While we didn’t make it to El Maguey, the Mexican Fiesta celebration for Mexico’s Independence Day was an unforgettable experience, and we got our fill of authentic Mexican dishes, including elote (Mexican street corn)—my favorite bite of the trip!
When it came to drinks and snacks, here is a preview of some of the spots around the resort:
- Las Olas Beach Bar: Perfect for grabbing a drink by the beach. Pro tip: there’s a bathroom conveniently located just behind it!
- Carey Snack Bar: Poolside and always serving up a delicious array of snacks like burritos and sandwiches, plus refreshing cocktails.
- Starcafé: The in-house coffee shop was our go-to for specialty coffee drinks, pastries, and sandwiches, especially in the mornings.
- Las Palmas Lobby Bar: Some of the best margaritas were served here—we couldn’t resist stopping by often!
- La Perla Pool Bar: Of course, we spent a lot of time in the pool, and the swim-up bar made it easy to stay “hydrated” with cocktails right at our fingertips.
The dining experiences were truly top-notch, and we left feeling like we had tasted a bit of everything the resort had to offer!
The Main Pool
The main pool at Iberostar Selection Cancún is where much of the action happens, and it quickly became our go-to spot for relaxing and unwinding. The resort also features a couple of jacuzzis and a water park for kids, making it a great spot for everyone to enjoy. But for adults, the large, inviting pool is where we spent the majority of our time.
One of the highlights of the pool area is the swim-up bar, where we enjoyed plenty of refreshing cocktails. Every day, the resort offered a variety of poolside activities, such as water polo, bingo, and even a fun obstacle course, keeping things lively and engaging.
The pool area overlooks the beach and ocean, offering stunning views that made our poolside lounging extra special. We were also able to check out beach towels from a small building near the pool, with the option to exchange them for fresh towels throughout the day—super convenient!
But if you’re planning to spend a lot of time near the pool, be prepared to share the space with some local wildlife! I dubbed the time between 1-3 p.m. as “Iguana Time,” since that’s when the Mexican spiny-tailed iguanas would make their appearance. The resort did a great job educating guests about respecting wildlife, with plenty of signs reminding everyone not to feed the animals. And while we definitely adhered to this advice (please never feed wild animals—it can harm them and the ecosystem!), we couldn’t help but chuckle at the bold iguanas, who weren’t shy about hopping onto the lounge chairs and eyeing our snacks! It was pretty funny to see some guests a little wary, but John and I thought it was awesome to witness these creatures up close. They definitely added some fun!
The Coral Level Upgrade: For those looking to take their experience to the next level, the Coral Level upgrade offers an enhanced stay with added perks like exclusive access to private areas, premium services, and luxurious amenities. Guests who opt for the Coral Level enjoy an extra touch of indulgence during their time at the resort. If you’re seeking extra relaxation and privacy, this upgrade might be worth considering!
Meet the Locals!
The resort is home to plenty of Mexican spiny-tailed iguanas, and you’ll often spot them basking in the sun near the pool or scurrying across the walkways. They’re completely harmless (though a little bold when it comes to snacks—so don’t feed them!). Keep an eye out for these cool creatures during your stay!
Beach Access
Iberostar Selection Cancún boasts direct access to a stunning, sandy beach, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the Caribbean. The moment we arrived, I couldn’t wait to dip my toes in the water. The beach offered breathtaking views of the vibrant turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, and I could have easily spent hours simply sitting, listening to the waves, and soaking up the sun.
The resort provides plenty of lounge chairs and beach umbrellas along the beach, creating an ideal spot to relax. We made it a point to spend some time on the beach every day—whether we were lounging in the sun, dipping our toes into the waves, or admiring the native sea birds that flew by.
Protect the Reef!
Please be mindful of wildlife when enjoying the beach and consider using reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen to protect the delicate marine life and coral reefs in the area.
Read more about why you should travel with reef-safe sunscreen
Entertainment & Amenities for All Ages
Iberostar Selection Cancún offers much more than just a relaxing atmosphere by the pool or delicious meals—it’s a full-on entertainment hub! Every night, the resort puts on a different themed show in their spacious theater, showcasing some seriously impressive talent. From dazzling performances to live music, the entertainment kept us thoroughly entertained each evening.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. During the day, there’s always something happening around the resort! From soccer ball kicking contests and beach volleyball games to pool-side Zumba classes, bingo, water polo, and even ‘bags’ tournaments, there’s never a dull moment. For sports enthusiasts, the resort has tennis courts, basketball courts, a regulation FIFA soccer field, and even an 18-hole golf course!
For those looking to stay active, Iberostar Selection recently reopened its gym, complete with weights and exercise equipment (though I’ll admit, we didn’t spend too much time working out on this trip!). The gym even offers a great view of the beach, so you can enjoy a little “sweat with a view.”
If you’re in need of some serious relaxation, the resort also features a spa, perfect for pampering and unwinding. And for families traveling with kids, there’s Star Camp, a poolside kids’ club offering fun and educational programming, so parents can enjoy a little time for themselves!
For those looking to stay connected, the resort provides WiFi access throughout the property. The connection was strong enough for us to keep in touch with loved ones back home and share a few photos while we were away. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or family-friendly activities, Iberostar has it all.
Iberostar’s Sustainability Efforts
What truly stood out during my stay at Iberostar Selection Cancún was the resort’s dedication to sustainable practices. As someone who is deeply passionate about sustainable actions and conscious consumption, I was thrilled to see that Iberostar had made significant strides in minimizing its environmental impact.
Traveling responsibly can be tricky, especially when heading to international destinations, but Iberostar made it incredibly easy for us to enjoy our vacation with a clear conscience. For starters, the resort is 100% single-use plastic free—a massive win for the environment! Instead of plastic water bottles, each room is equipped with two tempered glass bottles that can be filled from convenient stations scattered throughout the property. The water was filtered and completely safe to drink! By eliminating plastic waste, Iberostar helps to reduce 420 tons of plastic annually, which would otherwise pollute the beautiful oceans we travel to see.
Their commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop with plastic reduction. Iberostar also promotes responsible seafood consumption and is actively working to protect the coastal ecosystems that surround their properties. In 2020, they took a giant leap forward by opening two coral nurseries, contributing to reef restoration efforts. I was truly in awe of Iberostar’s dedication to building a circular economy, sustainably sourcing seafood, and preserving the delicate coastal habitats.
It’s clear that Iberostar Selection Cancún is not just a destination for relaxation and luxury, but also a leader in eco-tourism. To learn more about their sustainability initiatives, click here to read about Iberostar’s ocean conservation efforts.
Top Excursions from Iberostar Selection Cancún
One of the highlights of our trip was the opportunity to explore beyond the resort, and Iberostar Selection Cancun made booking excursions incredibly easy. We booked two amazing trips through the hotel concierge: a guided tour to Chichen Itza paired with a refreshing cenote swim, and a snorkel trip to explore the vibrant coral reefs.
The Chichen Itza tour was a must-do—standing at the base of this ancient wonder was awe-inspiring. Afterward, we cooled off with a dip in a nearby cenote, the perfect way to unwind after a morning of history. The snorkel trip, on the other hand, gave us the chance to discover the colorful underwater world of the Caribbean—we saw tropical fish, corals, stingrays, and sea turtles! Both experiences were seamless and well-organized, and the hotel’s concierge team made the process simple and stress-free. If you’re looking to explore the region, booking through the resort is a great way to ensure you make the most of your time in Cancun. However, if you’d rather plan out your itinerary ahead of time, Viator is my go-to resource for most excursions.
Book your Chichen Itza and cenote swim tour now
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Final Thoughts
Iberostar Selection Cancún truly exceeded all expectations. From the impeccable service to the stunning surroundings and sustainable practices, it was the perfect place to unwind and recharge. If I had the chance to return, I’d definitely consider upgrading to the Coral Level for a more exclusive experience. If you’re looking for a clean, relaxing, and high-quality resort for your next beach getaway, I highly recommend Iberostar Selection Cancún!
Ready to Experience Paradise?
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