Hurricane Sandy blew the roof off of the Empress in 2012, and during the building's repair process, Pettibone gave Paradise a number of upgrades, including a new dance floor, video displays and laser lights. In the wake of the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, Paradise and other Asbury Park nightlife venues implemented new security measures, and local law enforcement increased its presence around all queer establishments in the area. In 2017, Paradise was the host venue of the Mr. and Miss Gay United States pageant. Like other bars, clubs and restaurants, Paradise was ordered to close at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in New Jersey. Traditionally a prime location for Pride festivities, it instead held a virtual celebration in June 2020. Paradise was able to reopen its tiki bar and pool area for outdoor service in the summer.