From swim-up suites to sweeping views of Eagle Beach, JOIA Aruba by Iberostar delivers understated, adults-friendly luxury perfect for a romantic escape. In this review, I share why the island’s newest five-star resort stands out for its design, dining, amenities, and genuinely relaxing vibe.
Highlights:
- All-suite accommodations with luxe swim-up and sea-view rooms
- Standout dining, from Caribbean-inspired cuisine to rooftop cocktails
- Prime Eagle Beach location with spa, pools and thoughtful romantic touches
Editor’s Note: The writer was hosted.
JOIA Aruba Beach Resort
As someone who’s reviewed hotels for more than five years now, I still enter every new property with the same excitement as the very first one I reviewed. That said, there was one place I was dying to visit in the Caribbean: the brand-new Iberostar hotel in Aruba.
Even better, I was invited to experience it as a romantic getaway with my partner, Andrew.
Bags in tow, we took the quick four-hour flight to Aruba and checked into the new five-star property right by Eagle Beach. A few minutes later — key in hand and wristbands attached — we were ready to head to our swim-up suite.
The next four days were a dream, and here’s why I think JOIA Aruba by Iberostar is the new “it” resort worth visiting.
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Overall Impressions: An Oasis in Aruba
JOIA Aruba is a massive property featuring 240 suites, including both swim-up suites (each with a semi-private pool) and sea-view suites. The hotel has sweeping views of Eagle Beach from almost every window, making it a must for beach lovers.
It carries a strong maritime theme throughout, featuring coastal design elements, turquoise blue walls, and rattan-inspired furniture designed to bring the feel of the Caribbean Sea indoors.
Beyond the striking decor, the hotel stands out for its delicious local fare at onsite restaurants, daily and weekly events, and some of the friendliest staff I’ve ever encountered. Both my partner and I agreed that we left JOIA feeling truly relaxed and sated.
Pros:
- Beach access
- All-inclusive available
- All rooms are suites
- Friendly staff
- Multiple dining options
- Great location
Cons:
- Pricey if you don’t book in advance
- Swim-up suites are limited and sell out quickly
SheBuysTravel Tip: Make sure to book the swim-up suites. The sea-view suites are lovely, but there’s nothing like drinking your morning coffee while watching the sunrise from your own semi-private pool.
Accommodations: Plush Beds Hidden by Privacy Curtains
Some of the 240 suite-style rooms feature a semi-private pool; others have a whirlpool bath. If you pick the whirlpool bath, the hotel also provides all the bath salts and relaxing ingredients necessary for the perfect soak.
Every suite includes a balcony, with room options ranging from double-queen to king suites. I suggest opting for the swim-up suites, as there are only a few available, and it truly feels like having your own private pool. It’s also a nice touch when you’re traveling as a couple, as it gives you far more privacy than the regular pools.
Is JOIA Aruba All-Inclusive?
No. But you can also choose the all-inclusive option for an additional charge. This includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the hotel and extends to bar services as well — whether that’s a well-mixed cocktail or a glass of wine.
Each menu clearly highlights what’s not included, so pay close attention lest you order something with an extra cost.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Book in advance to secure up to a 40% discount. Rooms can be pricey, with standard lodging ranging from $500 to $1,000 per night, and the all-inclusive option costing around an extra $250 per person, per night.
Dining: Cuisines from Around the World
JOIA Aruba by Iberostar boasts two themed restaurants and four specialty bars. I had the pleasure of dining at all of them, but here are the three that stood out:
Bucatini
- Dress code: Smart Casual
- Cuisine: Italian
This Italian restaurant serves one of the creamiest, most decadent tiramisus I’ve ever tasted, but its true draw is the lavish breakfast buffet available to hotel guests. From local delights like pastechi (a fried pastry with various fillings) and frituras (traditional fried foods) to made-to-order omelets, a mimosa bar, and dozens of freshly made pastries, it’s the best way to start your day. There’s also a wide range of seating, including private, canopy-like enclosed areas that make dining feel intimate.
Marea
- Dress code: Smart Casual
- Cuisine: Modern Caribbean
With direct views of Eagle Beach, this specialty restaurant offers a menu sure to tantalize your taste buds. The menu is fresh and innovative, with a heavy focus on Caribbean flavors and seafood. Options include ceviche made with local fish, baby back ribs with a honey-pineapple glaze, and crispy coconut panko shrimp. The ribs were my personal favorite — a welcome reprieve after a day spent at the beach.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Marea can get packed in the evenings; book a table if you’re visiting on weekends.
Zima Rooftop Bar
- Dress code: Smart Casual
Conveniently located next to the adults-only infinity pool, this rooftop bar is a must if you’re traveling as a couple. Swing by for a cocktail, which is delivered straight to your daybed or poolside spot so you can soak up the sun with a drink in hand. Alongside classic cocktails, the menu features crafted drinks like Sea & Sand (tequila, Kahlúa, and coconut cream) and Incazteca, made with sweet and savory ingredients including grape juice, mezcal, and yellow chili. In the mood for a cigar? Both Zima and the lobby bar offer an extensive cigar selection.
SheBuysTravel Tip: If you’re doing all-inclusive, make sure to check that your spirit of choice is included.
Amenities: An Adults-Only Pool and Full Spa
In addition to three pools — including an adults-only option and one reserved for elite Iberostar members — the resort features a full-range spa offering massages, facials, and other treatments. The highlight of the spa is the wet room, which includes a relaxing jacuzzi, a cold plunge pool, and a larger wading pool for cooler days. There’s also a relaxation room, perfect for curling up with a good book and a tall glass of iced lemon water.
Beyond wellness amenities, the resort has a fitness center and access to a professional 18-hole golf course nearby. There are also plans to open a casino, though no opening date has been announced.
As for the rooms, you can expect amenities that most five-star hotels offer, including turn-down service and room service options.
Other amenities include:
- Coffee maker
- Smart TV
- Air conditioning
- Free Wi-Fi
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe and slippers
- Magnifying mirror
- Minibar
What’s Nearby: One of the Best Beaches in the World
Eagle Beach — often ranked as one of the best beaches in the world — is located directly across the street from the hotel. Once you’re on the beach, the hotel offers complimentary chairs and umbrellas for guests. If you enjoy water sports (like my boyfriend and I do), there are kiosks along the beach offering jet skiing and other activities.
The hotel is also affiliated with the Tierra del Sol Golf Course, located about five miles away. Other nearby attractions include the Butterfly Farm and the Bubali Bird Sanctuary, both within a 40-minute walk along Eagle Beach.
Safety Features
As a woman, I felt perfectly safe throughout my stay at the hotel. Of course, having my partner there made it easier, but I never once felt like I couldn’t roam the property alone.
A concierge was always available for urgent needs, and hotel services stayed just a call away in case of emergencies.
Even though we stayed in a swim-up suite and I initially worried about security and locking mechanisms on the patio doors, I never felt uneasy. The blackout curtains ensured privacy, and each room includes a safe for valuables.
Aruba, in general, is a pretty tourist-heavy town, which makes it rather safe.
Getting There and Parking
Since we’re New York–based, we took a four-hour flight to Aruba. From there, JOIA offers free transfers to the hotel if you book online — a great perk worth taking advantage of. We had a shuttle as invited guests, but I’d recommend booking online to secure complimentary transportation to and from the airport.
Free parking is also available at the hotel if you choose to rent a car during your stay.
Closing Thoughts: Worth a Visit
If you’re looking for a beautiful five-star resort with delicious local fare, an attentive staff, and accommodations that feel both comfortable and luxurious without being over the top, is for you.
It’s not the cheapest resort out there, but booking in advance and opting for the all-inclusive package ensures you’ll get the most out of your trip.
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