New rooms and recreation areas
The sister resorts have been closed since May 15 for refurbishment, with the closure scheduled to run through November 30. Travel agency Voyages Aquaterra says guests with reservations during that period were moved to Iberostar Selection Paraíso Lindo with an upgrade.
Along with renovating every room, the resorts are introducing oceanfront Swim-Up Rooms with direct pool access and Caribbean views. The second new category is Family Suites, described by Travel Counsellors as One Bedroom Family Suites with more space for parents and children.
The work extends to redesigned reception areas and modernized common spaces, while retaining the complex's jungle setting. Outside, the renovated sun deck includes a new infinity pool facing the Caribbean, a Jacuzzi, waterslides and a splash pad, according to Travel Counsellors. New padel courts are also being added.
Shared facilities and a family focus
Guests staying at either property can use the facilities at both. The complex is 37 miles from Cancún International Airport and five minutes from Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen.
The beach overlooks the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world's second-largest coral reef. The on-site Dressel Divers center offers guided dives and daily excursions for beginners and experienced divers.
Both hotels belong to the WestJet Vacations Family of Five or More collection, which serves larger and multigenerational families. At Tucán, the Star Camp children's program accepts ages 4 through 17. Voyages Aquaterra highlights its inclusion of teenagers as uncommon along this stretch of coast and a consideration for families with teens.
Previously known as Iberostar Tucán, the property now carries the Iberostar Waves Tucán name following the company's regrouping into four ranges: Waves, Selection, Grand and JOIA. Waves is its beachfront segment for families, couples and groups of friends.
More dining venues and bars
The all-inclusive dining expansion combines refurbished buffets and themed restaurants with several new options: Star Café, an ice cream shop, a taqueria, and quick-service stations serving pizza and burgers.
A Fun Bar is also joining the lineup. Separately, Iberostar says the complex is adding two bars with panoramic views of the pool and ocean.
Reopening promotion's booking window has ended
Iberostar's reopening promotion required bookings by October 31, 2026, a deadline that has now passed. It covered stays from December 1, 2026, through October 31, 2027, offering discounts of up to 45%, an additional 10% through Iberostar's website, booking changes included and up to US$500 in Resort Credits.
The promotion's maximum 45% discount applied specifically to Iberostar Waves Tucán and Iberostar Waves Quetzal.
Three December reopenings across the company
The two Riviera Maya hotels are among three Iberostar properties scheduled to return in December 2026. The reopenings come as Iberostar advances a €1 billion investment plan through 2028 for new hotels and renovations. PAX News reported on October 22 that the company's global sales rose 7% in the first nine months of 2026, while its average daily rate also increased 7%.
The third property, JOIA Rose Hall by Iberostar in Montego Bay, Jamaica, is due to reopen in December after work on all 295 suites. That renovation also includes the lobby and reception areas, pools, gardens and new dining concepts. An exact reopening date has not been announced.
