JOIA Aruba by Iberostar

With its easy access from the states (it’s a quick three-hour flight down from Miami) and heavy commercialization and tourism infrastructure, Aruba has become a go-to Caribbean destination for American travelers. Because of that, the island surely isn’t hurting for hotels, with a two-mile strip of high-rise resorts (Hiltons, Hyatts and what have you) joining beach bars, bustling night clubs and more along the popular Palm Beach on Aruba’s northwest coast. But if you want some modern island luxury set slightly away from the tropical hullabaloo, the JOIA Aruba by Iberostar—which opened on Eagle Beach in January 2025—is a stunning, stand-out option for your next vacation. 

Occupying the top tier of the Iberostar brand, JOIA caters to adult travelers and celebratory couples looking for privacy and sophistication, as opposed to the mid-tier Iberostar Selection properties, which accommodate mostly families and more relaxed couples. (Unlike its JOIA brethren, however, the Aruba location is not officially adults-only; however, during our multi-night stay, we only came across a few children on the property, and there are specific spaces set aside just for adults, including a designated adult-only infinity pool.)

What are the rooms like at JOIA Aruba by Iberostar? 

Adding to the overall high-end vibe, the JOIA Aruba by Iberostar is an all-suite resort, with 240 spacious accommodations ranging from 592 feet (the entry-level King Suite) to 1,313 square feet (the massive Royal Suite). I stayed in the Master King Suite, clocking in at 1205 square feet—a.k.a. far larger than most of the apartments yours truly has rented in New York City—a one-bedroom, two-bathroom layout with space for a separate living room, a private balcony equipped with an outdoor hot tub, and personalized butler service available throughout the stay. 

But that kind of opulence is a standard throughout all of the room options: The majority of them are equipped with ocean views, private terraces, spa-style bathrooms and pillow menus (for personalized comfort), all wrapped up in the breezy elegance of sandy neutrals and sea-blue accents. Ground-level suites offer semi-private access to pool areas straight from the patio. Accessible accommodations allow for mobility configurations and wider clearance, all while maintaining the luxury features of every other guestroom. 

What is the food like at JOIA Aruba by Iberostar?

There are three main restaurants on the property: the Italian-accented Bucatini, open for international buffet breakfast by day and fresh pastas and risottos by night; Marea, a specialty restaurant serving modern Caribbean cuisine; and GAIA House of Grill, a glamorous chophouse centered on premium cuts of meat and fresh seafood. 

There are also a handful of casual dining options onsite where you can get coffees, cocktails, appetizers and light bites, including the Star Café, the swim-up Tortuga Bar, the vibrant Lobby Bar and, most vibey of all, the Zima Rooftop Bar—if it’s a scenic sunset cocktail and chill DJ beats you’re after, this is the spot. 

The JOIA Aruba does have an all-inclusive add-on that typically runs around an extra $250 per person, which covers breakfast, lunch and dinner at most of the on-site eateries as well as standard bar services. Unlike many of the island’s other all-inclusive packages, JOIA’s lets you order à la carte from restaurant and bar menus, so you don’t have to do all the buffet all the time. It’s a great option for those who truly want to turn their brain off when it comes to figuring out where to eat for your next meal, though Aruba itself has one of the best culinary scenes in the Caribbean, so you might not want to completely hitch all of your meals to the hotel’s wagon. 

What are the facilities like at JOIA Aruba by Iberostar?

For swimming and sunbathing purposes, guests have a trio of distinct pools at their disposal, including that aforementioned adult-only infinity pool with breathtaking views of the whole property and nearby Eagle Beach. 

There’s more aquatic relaxation to be found at the on-site Spa Sensations, which features a hydrotherapy circuit comprising cold plunges, jacuzzis, steam rooms, experience showers and more, along with seven treatment rooms. 

If you’d rather work up a sweat than tap into some Zen, the fitness center is equipped with high-end TechnoGym machinery and daily instructor-less workouts including morning HIIT sessions and sunset beach yoga. For even more sportiness, head over to the Tierra del Sol, Aruba's only 18-hole professional championship golf course located about five miles away from the JOIA Aruba—hotel guests receive special perks like discounted green fees, club rentals, and complimentary golf carts.

And speaking of perks, because of Iberostar's alliance with IHG Hotels & Resorts, guests can combine the hotel's premium offerings with the benefits of IHG One Rewards. Members can redeem points for Reward Nights through IHG's website or mobile app while enjoying member benefits at participating Iberostar properties.

As of press time, an on-property casino was also in the works. 

What’s the area like around JOIA Aruba by Iberostar? 

The JOIA Aruba by Iberostar is located on Eagle Beach, which, with its calm, crystal-clear waters and soft white sands, is a quiet, serene reprieve from the energy and bustle of the more populated Palm Beach. 

That does mean that there’s generally less going on on this side of the island, but if you’re more taken with nature than nightlife, you’ll have plenty to do. The Arikok National Park (about a twenty minute drive from the JOIA) is well-worth a visit, a stunning, cacti-filled reminder of the island’s semi-arid, desert-like climate. There are also numerous local animal sanctuaries nearby, including the Butterfly Farm, home to hundreds of exotic butterflies in a lush, rainforest-y setting. 

Why should you book a stay at JOIA Aruba by Iberostar? 

If it’s refined relaxation and a stunning island setting you’re after, you’ll find both at the JOIA Aruba by Iberostar, blending luxury hospitality with beachside serenity.

Address: J.E. Irausquin Blvd 230, Eagle Beach, Oranjestad, Aruba.

Price per night: From around $530 per night for a standard double room

Closest airport: Queen Beatrix International Airport (9.7 km)

Book now: via Booking.com

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