Bahamas, St Maarten, Belize Top Fastest-Growing Caribbean Destinations for Canadian Travelers 

Where Canadians Are Flocking in Surging Numbers, From the Bahamas to Belize

Canadian travel to the Caribbean is back — and in some places, booming. New data from the Caribbean Tourism Organization shows a major rebound in Canadian visitor arrivals last year, with several destinations posting double-digit gains, Caribbean Journal has found.

From island classics to eco-luxury escapes, these are the five fastest-growing Caribbean destinations for Canadian travelers.

The Bahamas is number one 

The biggest jump came in the Bahamas, which saw a 50.3 percent increase in Canadian arrivals — the highest of any destination reporting data. 

With expanded flight service and renewed interest in both Nassau and the Out Islands, the Bahamas saw its strongest Canadian travel numbers in years.

St. Maarten recorded a 21.6 percent increase, reflecting its growing popularity as a dynamic dual-nation destination. Direct service from Canada and a packed events calendar helped boost arrivals to this culinary and beach capital.

In Belize, Canadian travel surged by 19.6 percent, part of a broader rise in interest in the country’s rainforest-to-reef experiences. The country continues to grow its footprint among adventure travelers and those seeking boutique, nature-driven stays.

Barbados, Dominica also climbing in Canadian demand 

Barbados also saw solid momentum, with a 13 percent increase in Canadian visitors. With its polished hospitality scene, world-class beaches, and nonstop flights from Toronto and Montreal, the island remains a consistent draw.

Rounding out the top five was Dominica, which posted a 13.1 percent gain. The Nature Island’s growing eco-tourism sector and new airport development have brought it closer than ever to North American travelers — and Canadian interest is growing fast.

Together, these numbers reflect a renewed appetite for Caribbean travel among Canadians — and a clear shift toward destinations offering both accessibility and distinct experiences. As the region enters 2025, tourism officials say the Canadian market remains one of the most important and fastest-growing sources for Caribbean arrivals.

The most-visited destinations by Canadians 

While some destinations are growing quickly, others continue to dominate in total volume. In 2024, the Dominican Republic remained by far the most popular destination for Canadians, welcoming 974,276 visitors from Canada — driven by the country’s broad array of all-inclusives and direct connections to cities across the country.

Cuba ranked second, with 860,877 Canadian visitors. Though the country saw an 8.1 percent year-over-year decline in arrivals, it remains a staple destination for Canadians, thanks to its affordability, charter packages, and extensive resort zones like Varadero, Holguín, and Cayo Coco.

Jamaica took third place, attracting 399,833 Canadians last year. With strong all-inclusive brands, cultural appeal, and growing airlift, Jamaica continues to draw repeat travelers across both the leisure and romance sectors.

Barbados and the Bahamas rounded out the top five, with 121,263 and 87,142 Canadian visitors, respectively — the latter buoyed by its record-setting growth.

As Canadians look ahead to 2025, the data shows a mix of enduring favorites and rising stars — and a Caribbean market that remains among Canada’s most beloved escapes.