St Kitts Travel Is Now Surpassing Pre-Pandemic Levels
Hiking Mount Liamuiga. Riding the Scenic Railway. Exploring the rainforest. Savoring farm-to-table freshness. St Kitts is lush, vibrant, and dynamic. And it’s leading the island to new tourism highs, Caribbean Journal has learned.
St Kitts is seeing strong momentum in its tourism sector in 2025, with significant growth in arrivals, expanded airlift, and increasing international visibility.
The destination welcomed 46,641 stayover visitors in the first quarter of the year, a 15 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024.
That figure also surpasses pre-pandemic levels, according to data from the Ministry of Tourism.
The peak season, spanning late 2024 through early 2025, saw a total of 78,077 arrivals, continuing the upward trend and underscoring the destination’s growing appeal.
More flights, more seats
Air connectivity is also set to improve this winter.
Air Canada will be resuming service to St Kitts beginning November 15, operating a 201-seat Airbus A321 through April 25. The larger aircraft replaces the previously used A319 and adds 65 additional weekly seats from the Canadian market.
“We’re not just growing numbers—we’re building a tourism industry that is resilient, inclusive, and proudly Kittitian,” said Marsha T. Henderson, St Kitts’ Minister of Tourism. “Together, with our public and private sector partners, we are raising the bar and raising our people. Every new flight, every satisfied visitor, every local business empowered—that is the future we are working toward.”
Tourism officials say the destination’s recent performance is the result of ongoing collaboration across public and private sectors, aimed at building a more resilient and inclusive industry.
The Cruise growth continues
Kitts is seeing continued strength in its cruise sector.
From October 2024 through April 2025, the island welcomed 748,056 cruise passengers, an 8.4 percent increase over the previous season and a huge boost for Basseterre’s Port Zante.
Hotel guide
Are you planning a visit to St Kitts? Here are five of our favorite places to stay.
Park Hyatt St Kitts
This 126-room luxury resort sits on Banana Bay with views of Nevis across the channel. The Park Hyatt blends modern design with Caribbean accents, anchored by a signature spa, two beachfront pools, and a focus on culinary experiences. It’s the island’s leading luxury resort.
St Kitts Marriott Resort
Located on Frigate Bay, the St Kitts Marriott is the island’s largest resort, offering more than 350 rooms and suites, multiple dining concepts, and direct beach access. It’s also steps from the Royal St Kitts Golf Club, one of the top championship courses in the region. Rooms at $251.
Royal St Kitts Hotel
A longtime favorite for extended stays, the Royal St Kitts Hotel features apartment-style accommodations with full kitchens, two pools, and multiple on-site dining options. It’s located just minutes from both Frigate Bay and the island’s main business district. Rooms at $291.
Sunset Reef St Kitts
This boutique, seven-suite property in Old Road Bay offers a secluded, high-end experience with ocean views and private terraces. It’s known for its personalized service and eco-conscious design, catering to travelers seeking a quieter escape. Rooms at $744 if you book direct.
KOI Resort St Kitts, Curio Collection by Hilton
Set on Half Moon Bay, KOI brings a sleek, modern aesthetic to the island’s resort scene. The hotel includes a beachfront infinity pool, a full-service spa, and its signature KOI Restaurant, blending Asian-inspired cuisine with Caribbean flavors. Rooms at $180.
