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Riviera Maya’s Best: JOIA Paraíso by Iberostar Review

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. 

Aerial view of a coastal resort

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.

Aerial view of a sandy beach

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.

Lush palm trees framing a beautiful ceiling fresco in a dome

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 Bella Vista 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!

Bella Vista 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.