Joia Bávaro by Iberostar

My husband and I had the most amazing time at Joia de Bávaro last week! The resort was absolutely beautiful, the service was top-notch, and every moment felt like paradise. From the delicious food to the peaceful pools and stunning beach views, it was the perfect romantic getaway. We’re already dreaming of going back!

I do not recommend this resort. The only highlights of our stay were Alejandra, Renaldo, and Maria, who went above and beyond to assist us—truly the best part of our experience. Unfortunately, the resort has several major issues: • Dietary Restrictions Ignored: I’m vegan and was excited by the advertised options, but there was constant miscommunication. I was asked about allergies multiple times, yet still received incorrect meals. For example, I ordered the vegan burger and was given beef—staff later said they were out of the vegan option. On another occasion, the vegan poke bowl arrived with tuna. This is where Maria and Alejandra stepped in and was WONDERFUL. • Unpleasant Beach Experience: The beach was filled with vendors who repeatedly approached us, making it hard to relax. They do not care how many times you stay no or are sleeping. Also, the adults-only beach was not enforced—children were there the entire time. • Outdated Rooms & Incomplete Cleaning: Rooms are worn, with poor paint jobs, especially in the bathrooms. Housekeeping was decent, but patios and swim-out areas were not cleaned. • Pool & Bar Quality: The pool had visible green buildup and missing tiles. The bar offerings were below average. The coffee shop was a nice touch, but not enough to make up for the rest. • Timeshare Pressure: Staff (Ramon) posed as concierge on arrival but were actually pushing a timeshare presentation. Once we attended, they disappeared and never followed through with scheduling golf or massages like stated. Ramon even told us that he gets $60 USD for getting us to attend the presentation. Beware of him, he is only concerned about helping himself out. The resort feels more focused on upselling than guest care. It’s overpriced and lacks attention to detail. Thanks again to Alejandra, Renaldo, and Maria—they were the only redeeming part of our stay.

Honestly the greatest experience I’ve had in resort in a while. The staff is very attentive to all your needs and want to make your sure your trip is very memorable. Hundred percent coming back to this resort. Ask for Fritzner, he will make your trip 10 times better.

I started out wanting to type so much about this property to give the most descriptive review posible but, it was just too much with too much to say (all mostly positive) When I left this resort, I felt as if I was leaving family behind. The staff, expecially the Star Friends (Maria, Boom Boom, Gato, Black Boy, Happy Feet and Isabella), which is the sports and entertainment staff are the hardest working people I have ever met. They make you feel as if you are the most important person in the world. They take the effort to learn your name and where you are from from the minute they meet you and they remember it throughout your stay. Also the swim up bar staff, (Leonardo, Angela, Dionis aka Carlton from the Fresh Prince of Bellair) remember your favorite drink and often have another ready for you without hesitation. Trust me when I say that there cannot be anywhere better to stay in Punta Cana. I have made some friends for life there and look forward to the day when I can go back.

Absolutely Fabulous! Special thanks to our butlers Valentin and Junior for catering to our every need. The staff were all amazing, especially Yary, Javiella, Garcia, Smiley, Jenny, Jessica and LeBron. Shout out to Maria in room service for going above and beyond.