Costa Rica, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, Cuba, and others in facing significant declines in Canadian visitors in 2025, impacting Caribbean tourism due to shifting travel preferences and economic factors.
While these destinations have long been popular with Canadian travelers, a combination of rising costs, changing vacation habits and competition from other regions has led to noticeable drops in visitor numbers. The Dominican Republic, despite maintaining its status as a top Caribbean destination, saw a 5.1% decrease in Canadian stopover visitors, a trend mirrored in countries like Cuba, which experienced an 18% decline. As the Caribbean tourism sector adjusts to these challenges, it will need to explore new strategies to revive interest and attract more visitors, particularly from the Canadian market.Dominican Republic: The Jewel of the Caribbean
The Dominican Republic is a cornerstone of Caribbean tourism, attracting millions of travelers each year, including 983,719 stopover visitors from Canada in 2025. Although this marks a slight 5.1% decrease compared to 2024, the country remains a popular destination for Canadian tourists due to its all-inclusive resorts, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. Known for its lively music scene, historic sites, and warm hospitality, the Dominican Republic offers an ideal mix of adventure and relaxation. From the colonial charm of Santo Domingo to the tranquil shores of Punta Cana, it’s no surprise that the Dominican Republic remains a top Caribbean hotspot for Canadians.
Jamaica: Irie Vibes Await
Jamaica remains
an iconic Caribbean destination, despite a slight 1.5% drop in visitors, totaling 289,859 Canadians in 2025. Known for its vibrant
culture, reggae music, and laid-back vibe, Jamaica offers an unforgettable
experience for travelers. The island’s beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters,
and rich history make it a perennial favorite. Visitors flock to Montego Bay
for its luxury resorts, explore the lush landscapes of Ocho Rios, and immerse
themselves in the island’s lively music scene. Whether savoring jerk chicken,
enjoying the warmth of its people, or dancing to reggae rhythms, Jamaica
continues to captivate Canadian tourists year after year.
Costa Rica: Pura Vida Paradise
Costa Rica,
often referred to as the “rich coast” due to its pristine biodiversity,
continues to draw Canadian tourists, with 231,525 visitors
recorded in 2025. Despite a small decline of 1.6%, the country’s
allure remains undiminished. Costa Rica is a haven for nature lovers, offering
everything from volcanoes to rainforests and stunning beaches. Whether it’s
hiking in Arenal, zip-lining through Monteverde’s cloud forests, or enjoying
the laid-back vibe of the Pacific Coast, the country’s commitment to
eco-tourism and conservation has earned it a global reputation. Costa Rica’s “Pura
Vida” way of life, meaning pure life, is reflected in its relaxed atmosphere
and adventure-filled opportunities.
Barbados: Sun, Sand, and Rhythm
Barbados is a
Caribbean paradise known for its stunning beaches and lively culture,
welcoming 62,543 Canadian visitors in
2025. Despite a slight 1.1% decrease
compared to last year, the island remains one of the top Caribbean
destinations. From the powdery sands of Crane Beach to the cultural richness of
Bridgetown, Barbados offers a vibrant mix of natural beauty, history, and
entertainment. With a reputation for being the birthplace of Rihanna, Barbados
is also famous for its calypso and reggae music, rum distilleries, and
festivals like Crop Over. Visitors to this island can expect perfect weather,
warm hospitality, and a wide array of activities, from water sports to cultural
tours.
Cuba: A Caribbean Powerhouse
Cuba, with its vibrant culture and rich history, continues to be one of the top Caribbean destinations for Canadian visitors. In 2025, the country saw 596,644 stopover visitors, marking a significant decline of 18% compared to the previous year. Despite this, Cuba remains a magnet for travelers seeking beautiful beaches, colonial architecture, and iconic landmarks like Havana’s Malecón. The country’s affordability, the warmth of its people, and its unique blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences make it a cultural haven. As travel recovers, Cuba’s resilient tourism industry is poised for a comeback, offering a captivating mix of history, music, and tropical relaxation.
Antigua and Barbuda: Twin Islands of Serenity
Antigua and
Barbuda, with its 365 pristine beaches, continues to captivate visitors from
Canada, despite a 12.9% drop in 2025. Known for
its peaceful atmosphere and clear, turquoise waters, Antigua and Barbuda offer
a tranquil escape for travelers. The islands provide a blend of luxury resorts,
secluded beaches, and historical sites, such as the UNESCO-listed Nelson’s
Dockyard. With a rich maritime history and a culture deeply rooted in African
heritage, Antigua and Barbuda also host vibrant annual events like Antigua
Carnival. For those looking to unwind in paradise, this twin-island destination
is the perfect place for relaxation, adventure, and discovery.
Caribbean Visitor Trends: A Decline in 2025
The Caribbean region has experienced a noticeable
decline in Canadian stopover visitors in 2025 across several destinations.
Anguilla saw a slight dip of 0.8%, welcoming 3,449 visitors from Canada between
January and September. St. Vincent followed with a 2.3% decrease, recording
8,610 visitors during the same period. Bonaire also experienced a decline of
3.5%, with 4,400 visitors by November. Grenada, with 13,787 visitors, saw a
more significant drop of 9.8%, while Saint Lucia faced a substantial 14.3%
decline, hosting 22,714 visitors by September. Dominica faced the sharpest
decline of all, with a dramatic 36.5% drop in visitors compared to the previous
year, bringing in only 809 Canadian travelers through June. These numbers
indicate a challenging year for the Caribbean’s tourism sector, reflecting the
broader trend of reduced travel.
|
Region |
YTD 2025 |
YTD 2024 |
% Change |
Period |
|
Anguilla |
3,449 |
3,478 |
-0.8% |
Jan-Sep |
|
St Vincent |
8,610 |
8,812 |
-2.3% |
Jan-Sep |
|
Bonaire |
4,400 |
4,559 |
-3.5% |
Jan-Nov |
|
Grenada |
13,787 |
15,279 |
-9.8% |
Jan-Oct |
|
Saint
Lucia |
22,714 |
26,514 |
-14.3% |
Jan-Sep |
|
Dominica |
809 |
1,275 |
-36.5% |
Jan-Jun |
Dominican Republic joins Jamaica, Costa Rica, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, Cuba, and others in facing significant
declines in Canadian visitors in 2025, impacting Caribbean tourism due to
shifting travel preferences and economic factors.
Conclusion
Dominican Republic joins Jamaica, Costa Rica,
Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, Cuba, and others in facing significant declines
in Canadian visitors in 2025, which has affected Caribbean tourism. While the
Caribbean remains a popular destination, factors such as shifting travel
preferences, economic pressures, and increased competition from other regions
have led to fewer Canadian travelers. This decline underscores the need for
Caribbean destinations to adapt their strategies to attract tourists, focusing
on offering unique experiences and addressing changing market demands.
Tags: Dominican Republic, Caribbean’s tourism Cuba, Costa Rica
