The Ultimate All-Inclusive Experience: A Week at Joia Bavaro by Iberostar Punta Cana
- BFree Adventures
- Feb 2
- 6 min read
Updated: Mar 24
As someone who often finds solace in the sun and sea, choosing a vacation destination can be a thrilling yet daunting task. Recently, I had the pleasure of escaping to paradise at the Joia Bavaro by Iberostar in Punta Cana, and let me tell you—it was nothing short of a dream come true. Allow me to take you on a journey through my great experience at this exquisite all-inclusive resort.Iberostar Grand Bavaro officially changed its name to Joia Bavaro by Iberostar in July 2024. The rebranding gives the resort a fresh new vibe, while keeping the same top-notch luxury and service that guests love. It's all about a new chapter, focusing on creating a relaxing, adults-only getaway that's perfect for anyone looking for an elegant escape in the heart of Punta Cana.
Location:
Joia Bavaro by Iberostar is ideally located on the stunning shores of Punta Cana, offering easy access to white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The resort is just a 25-minute drive from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), making it a super convenient spot for travelers wanting quick access to both relaxation and adventure.
1. Arrival and First Impressions
Picture this: you’ve just landed in the Dominican Republic, and after a quick (but thrilling) ride from the airport, you’re greeted by the stunning facade of Joia Bavaro by Iberostar. The first thing you’ll notice is the grand entrance and the lush, manicured gardens. It's like stepping into a tropical dream. Nestled on the stunning Bavaro Beach, the property exudes a sense of elegance and tranquility. The towering columns, lush gardens, and the sparkling blue water in the distance set the stage for what would be a spectacular stay.
The entrance hall at Joia Bávaro by Iberostar is truly a sight to behold, with its grand castle-like architecture, stunning statues, and intricate ornaments that immediately set the tone for a luxurious stay. As you step inside, the bold colours of the lobby, paired with a plush red carpet, create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The check-in area feels welcoming and cozy, making you feel right at home from the moment you arrive. It's the perfect blend of elegance and comfort!
The check-in process was smooth and welcoming. The staff greeted me with refreshing drinks and a warm smile, making me feel right at home from the very start.
The welcome drink at Joia Bávaro by Iberostar is a refreshing blend of lemon, ginger, and a hint of cinnamon, creating a perfect balance of zesty, spicy, and soothing flavors to start your stay on a vibrant note.
I was quickly escorted to my suite, and I couldn't wait to explore my temporary haven.
The Suite: A Luxurious Sanctuary
JOIA Bavaro by Iberostar features 272 suites, including 12 oceanfront suites with stunning Caribbean Sea views, 19 swim-out suites with direct pool access, and 241 suites offering either garden or sea views.
The rooms at Joia Bavaro by Iberostar are amazing. As soon as I walked in, I was hit with this spacious, beautifully decorated space. The bed was super comfy with soft, luxe linens—perfect for a good night's sleep. Plus, the terrace had stunning views of the lush gardens and the Caribbean’s clear blue waters.
I really appreciated the thoughtful design of the room at Joia Bávaro by Iberostar, especially the second door between the bedroom and living area. It provided an added layer of privacy and peace, blocking out any noise from the hallway. The thick, plush red carpet in the corridor was another nice touch, effectively muffling sounds from footsteps, high heels, or housekeeping carts, ensuring a quiet, restful stay.
The marble bathroom was equally impressive, complete with a whirlpool tub, a separate rain shower, and double vanities. The thoughtful amenities, including plush bathrobes and high-end toiletries, added a touch of luxury to my stay.
And let’s not forget the views: Whether you’re looking at the ocean or the lush gardens, every morning you’ll wake up to a postcard-perfect scene.
Swimming Pools: Relax and Unwind
Joia Bavaro offers a variety of pools designed to cater to different preferences, whether you’re looking to take a peaceful swim, or lounge under the sun. The main pool is expansive, featuring a serene environment with clear, sparkling waters and plenty of space for both relaxation and recreational activities. There are also swim-up bars for easy access to refreshing cocktails while you float and bask in the tropical sunshine. The pools are surrounded by lush landscaping, adding to the sense of privacy and seclusion, perfect for those looking to relax in style.
Dining: A Culinary Adventure
The dining options at Joia Bavaro by Iberostar were a gastronomic delight. Each meal was an adventure, and I was eager to explore the variety of restaurants available. From elegant à la carte dining to casual buffet options, the resort offered something for every palate.
Joia Bavaro has a super inclusive buffet Bella Vista that’s got something for everyone. The main restaurant serves up a wide range of international dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients that really bring out the flavors of the Dominican Republic. You’ll find everything from Caribbean and Mediterranean to Asian-inspired meals. Whether it's breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the buffet is always fully stocked with options to keep you fuelled for whatever the day brings. And if you have any dietary restrictions, no worries—there are plenty of vegetarian, gluten-free, and other special options to choose from.
The hotel also has a second buffet, La Perla, which offers a more relaxed, beachfront dining experience with beautiful ocean views. It’s a smaller, intimate spot serving fresh, flavourful dishes, perfect for a casual lunch by the beach. If you're looking for a laid-back vibe, La Perla is a great choice.
À La Carte Restaurants:
El Galeon Restaurant has the charm of an 18th-century galleon, with a stunning entrance that sets the tone. Inside, you’ll find a fascinating collection of antique artifacts displayed in beautiful windows, along with old barrels that add to the ambiance. The entire space feels like you’re stepping aboard a historic ship, complete with elegant stairs that evoke the feel of being at sea.
El Tourbillon is a charming French restaurant with a unique clock-themed décor. Every detail is inspired by timepieces, from the various watch and clock brands adorning the ceiling to the intricate designs on the chairs and floor. It’s a delightful setting where time truly takes center stage.
The Japanese restaurant is beautifully decorated in a traditional style, with intricate wood carvings and majestic dragon sculptures at the entrance. Inside, you’ll find impressive wooden doors, adorned with elegant carvings that add to the authentic and serene atmosphere.
The restaurant also boasts several teppanyaki tables, offering a unique dining experience where guests can enjoy the art of cooking right before their eyes.
La Tentazione Italian restaurant has a lovely fresco on the ceiling, along with columns, statues, and paintings that transport you to ancient Rome. The entire décor is beautifully done to give you the feeling of being in Italy from bygone times.
The Spa Experience
You can’t visit Joia Bavaro by Iberostar without hitting up the spa. It’s basically a peaceful oasis. I went for a full-body massage, and honestly, I’ve never felt so relaxed and pampered. The vibe was super calming, and the therapists were amazing—definitely an experience to remember.
The Beach: Paradise Found
The beach at Iberostar Grand Bavaro is a slice of heaven. The sand is soft and white, and the clear blue waters are perfect for a swim. There are plenty of loungers so you can always find a spot to relax and enjoy the view.
Bottom Line:
If you're after an all-inclusive resort that’s got luxury, comfort, and just the right amount of adventure, Joia Bavaro by Iberostar in Punta Cana should definitely be on your radar. From the second you arrive until you (sadly) have to leave, you’ll be treated like royalty, have tons of fun, and get totally spoiled. It’s the kind of vacation that leaves you with a golden tan, a happy belly, and memories you’ll never forget.
Ready to see more? Check out my videos and explore the amazing details of Joia Bávaro by Iberostar with the links below!
Such a stunning hotel! Reading this wonderful review makes me want to pack my bags and go! 😊✨