Finding the right all-inclusive resort can be hard. Is the food going to be okay? How do you decide with so many different resorts? After an amazing eight-night stay at JOIA Paraíso by Iberostar, an adults-only haven nestled along the pristine coastline of Riviera Maya, Mexico, I’m so excited to say why this one is an amazing choice!
Formerly Iberostar Grand Paraíso, this top-tier all-inclusive resort offers a luxurious beachfront escape with diverse dining, exceptional service, and extensive amenities. Looking back on my recent visit, I’m excited to share the incredible details of what makes JOIA a standout destination in Riviera Maya.
Understanding the Iberostar Paraiso Complex
One thing about JOIA Paraíso by Iberostar is that it actually sits on an entire complex of five properties. JOIA, formerly Iberostar Grand, is the top, ultra lux adults only property of the five.
What makes this unique though, is that you still have access to all of the other resorts meaning 20 restaurants, a dozen pools, two spas, and a large beachfront to enjoy.
Read more about the Iberostar Paraiso complex. [Stay tuned]
Location and Accessibility
JOIA Paraiso’s prime spot on the Riviera Maya is the best of both worlds—secluded enough to feel like a tranquil escape, yet close enough to all the action when you’re ready to explore. The resort is about 30-40 minutes from the Cancun airport making it secluded enough for a tranquil escape while also easy enough to get to. If you want to escape the hotel zone, this is a great spot. Plus Playa Del Carmen isn’t too far away if you want to explore.
Checking In at JOIA Paraíso
Our check-in process at the front desk was smooth and effortless. We were greeted with refreshing welcome drinks from one of the resort’s best bars. Sipping on a chilled cocktail while soaking in the beauty of the open, airy lobby was the perfect way to start our stay.
JOIA Paraso’s architectural design is a stunning homage to traditional Mexican aesthetics. The grand entrance invites, with its impressive exterior hinting at the elegance beyond. As I stepped through the entrance and entered the lobby, it felt like I crossed the barrier into a different dimension. The open-air space was vast and airy, with high ceilings. My eyes were instantly drawn upward where the intricate European-style dome painting came to life with its vibrant colors and exquisite details.
The resort decor is a masterclass in understated luxury. Neutral tones, elegant furnishings, and natural materials seamlessly blend with the lush tropical gardens surrounding the property, making the indoors feel like an extension of the stunning Riviera Maya landscape.
Want to see what a typical day looks like here at JOIA Paraíso? Get a closer look at my experience by checking out the full story on my Instagram.
Accommodations: Pool View Suites and Oceanfront Villas
JOIA Paraíso is all about luxury, offering suites and villas that feel more like private retreats than hotel rooms. We stayed in an Oceanfront Butler Corner Suite, which felt like our own oasis. The spacious layout featured a central bathtub, separate shower, two sinks, and a king-sized bed—perfect for couples. The highlight was the private patio with stunning Caribbean views, ideal for sipping morning espresso or unwinding in the whirlpool.
What truly set our stay apart was the butler service. Available for oceanfront suites and villas, it added a personal touch, from drawing baths to setting up the hot tub. A simple WhatsApp message took care of everything, making us feel pampered at every turn. Waking up to the beach just steps away was the ultimate treat.
Restaurants and Dining
JOIA Paraíso doesn’t just feed you; it takes you on a culinary journey, catering to every taste and dietary preference. The resort features five themed restaurants and the Bellavista buffet, offering a variety of international and local dishes—all included in your all-inclusive package. After nine days of dining, we never grew tired of the constantly changing themes, and the desserts were absolutely irresistible!
Bellavista Buffet
Buffets can be make or break for all-inclusive resorts, but not for Joia Paraiso! They always knew how to mix things up! We had breakfast there almost every day and I always found something new to eat to keep things fresh.
Lunch and dinner were always a treat. I actually liked eating there for dinner and I kept going back because each night was a different theme!
Themed Restaurants at JOIA Paraiso
For dinner, we explored all the themed restaurants. At Legado, we savored classic Mexican dishes like Pibil and tacos. L’Atelier offered elegant French cuisine, while Haiku, a Nikkei fusion spot, wowed us with sushi and teppanyaki. Venecia served authentic Italian flavors, and Ember, an oceanfront seafood and steakhouse, was a standout.
Even by the pool, we could order everything from waffles to fresh fruit, delivered right to us. Plus, we had access to restaurants at nearby Iberostar resorts, including Greek, Mediterranean, and Brazilian steakhouse options.
Bars at JOIA Paraiso
For those who love a good drink with a view, JOIA Paraíso delivers. The resort has multiple bars and lounges, including a swim-up bar, a beach bar, and a chic lobby bar. One evening, we stopped by the lobby bar for a quick drink and tried the El Mirador Old Fashioned and a Spritz—both were delicious and expertly crafted.
Are you ready to embark on your own culinary adventure? Learn about all the best restaurants and dining options available here! [Stay tuned]
Beach and Pools at JOIA Paraíso
JOIA Paraíso has three pools (and that’s not even counting all the pools you have access to at the other resorts).
The main pool, located right by the beach, is the perfect mix of lively energy and laid-back vibes.
For a peaceful experience, the large quiet pool—surrounded by elegant Greek-style columns and featuring tucked-away hot tubs—is an oasis of calm. It became our go-to spot when we wanted to unwind in peace.
The third pool is the indoor spa pool, which exudes tranquility and is perfect for those looking to recharge in a serene setting.
And then, of course, there’s the beach just steps away from the resort. The beachfront location feels like a dream come true, with soft sand, turquoise waters, and endless opportunities for fun. I really appreciated the abundance of seating options by the beach at JOIA Paraíso. Unlike many resorts where you have to rush to claim a spot, there were always plenty of pool and beach chairs available throughout the day.
If you’re looking for something extra special, the Balinese beds are free and offer an even more luxurious lounging experience. It was so refreshing not having to wake up early to reserve a spot, and we always found a perfect place to relax, making our days feel effortless.
Activities at JOIA Paraíso
A highlight of our stay was the Starfriends, the resort’s incredible activity coordinators. They made every moment fun and engaging, whether it was a dance lesson, cooking class, or just chatting by the pool. They quickly learned our names and made us feel like friends.
For sports lovers, the resort offers tennis courts, beach volleyball, beach soccer, and water volleyball—perfect for staying active with a beautiful seaside backdrop.
JOIA Paraíso also shines with its theater, hosting weekly shows and daily entertainment. From live music and themed nights to stunning performances, there’s always something exciting to enjoy. One night, we were captivated by a fire show, followed by a high-energy rock concert and the Mistik show, blending Mexican storytelling with mesmerizing choreography.
Curious to discover more about the incredible experiences? Click here to explore all the best things to do during your visit at JOIA! [Stay tuned]
Fitness and Wellness
For those wanting to stay active or relax, JOIA Paraíso has it all. The spa is a standout feature, with complimentary access for guests. Its grand Roman Bath entrance leads to a tranquil sanctuary, offering a self-guided hydrotherapy circuit targeting different areas of your body. The spa also includes a Turkish bath and a pool with a retractable roof, perfect for swimming in any weather.
For added relaxation, the steam rooms and saunas are located in the locker rooms (separate for men and women). For fitness, there’s a Fit and Fun Gym with equipment for all levels, plus morning yoga, kickboxing, Pilates, and other classes to keep you active and refreshed.
Impressive Sustainability Efforts of JOIA Paraiso
During my stay at JOIA Paraíso by Iberostar, I was truly impressed by their dedication to sustainability. The resort has eliminated single-use plastics, offering refillable water jugs and reusable glasses. They also protect the natural landscape, including mangroves, which help prevent dune erosion.
Their sustainability efforts go beyond that—an on-site reef team is actively restoring the coral, and they use AI to minimize food waste. They’re also committed to sustainable seafood and protecting sea turtles. It felt great to support a resort that truly cares about the environment.
To learn more about their sustainability initiatives, click here. [Stay tuned]
Tips for a Smooth Stay at JOIA Paraiso
If you’re planning a stay at JOIA Paraíso, here are a few tips to make the most of your overall experience.
Plan Ahead: Before you book, take some time to visit their website. You’ll find a weekly schedule of activities, shows, and restaurant menus that can help you understand what’s available during your stay. Remember that these offerings might vary depending on the season, so booking a few months in advance is a great way to get an idea of what to expect—even if some details change closer to your trip.
Download the App: Downloading the JOIA Paraíso app is a must! It’s a handy tool to access information regarding all the resort’s schedules, activities, restaurant reservations, and dining options at your fingertips. During my stay, the app became my go-to for checking daily updates and planning what to do next.
Stay Flexible: While planning ahead is helpful, some of the best moments at JOIA Paraíso happen when you go with the flow. Whether it’s spontaneously joining a yoga class or catching an evening show you hadn’t planned for, the resort has a way of surprising you with unforgettable experiences.
Get to Know the Starfriends: Your on-site entertainment team are some of the most fun people. They genuinely care about you having a good time and even as an introvert, I’m so glad I let them convince me to join in on some of the activities I was initially hesitant about.
JOIA Paraiso By Iberostar Review: FAQs
How far is JOIA Paraíso from Cancun International Airport?
JOIA Paraíso is located about 36 kilometers (around a 30–40-minute drive) from Cancun International Airport, making it a convenient destination for travelers arriving from around the world.
Can I find vegan or vegetarian options at JOIA Paraíso restaurants?
JOIA Paraíso offers a variety of dining options with menus catering to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.
Are there activities for solo travelers at JOIA Paraíso?
From relaxing by the beach to enjoying the spa and from attending yoga or fitness classes to joining in on group activities like cooking classes or dance lessons, there’s always something to keep solo travelers entertained and engaged. Solo travelers can also take cultural tours, visit ancient Mayan ruins, explore nearby cenotes, or try thrilling adventures like ziplining and diving.
Are there any special celebrations or events hosted at JOIA Paraíso?
JOIA Paraíso hosts various themed nights, live entertainment, and special events throughout the week. In addition, it hosts daily cooking classes, dance lessons, and yoga sessions. They even offer your wedding celebration beside crystal-clear waters and famous barrier reefs.
JOIA Paraiso By Iberostar Review: Final Thoughts
JOIA Paraíso by Iberostar truly sets the gold standard for luxury all-inclusive resorts. From the moment we arrived, the worries of everyday life were replaced by the warmth of the Riviera Maya sun and the heartfelt hospitality of the staff. Even during our stay, when the resort was nearly at full capacity, the excellent service and attention to detail remained impeccable—a testament to their commitment to creating unforgettable experiences.
What also truly impressed me was JOIA Paraíso’s dedication to sustainability. They prioritize eco-friendly practices, with refillable water stations and reusable glassware throughout the property. Their efforts in preserving the mangroves and actively restoring the reef demonstrate a genuine commitment to environmental stewardship.
JOIA Paraiso is the kind of place where you can do as much or as little as you like and still feel like your vacation was tailor-made for you. I left feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and already dreaming of my next visit.
If you’re looking for a slice of paradise that also cares for the environment, look no further than JOIA Paraíso by Iberostar.
Last Updated 5 hours ago by Jessica Serna | Published: January 21, 2025
What do you think?