When the final tallies come in, more than 35 million people will likely have visited the Caribbean as overnight guests in 2025 — around 4 percent more than the previous year, and about 3 percent more than in 2019. That’s along with another 38 million arriving on a cruise ship.

In other words, travelers continue flocking to the Caribbean — and it’s easy to see why. The world’s most dynamic travel destination just keeps improving: stunning, vibrant cities and towns; breathtaking beaches; myriad remarkable hotels; the most delicious food on earth; and the world’s most fascinating tapestry of cultures. And that’s what we’re here to honor.

We launched the Caribbean Travel Awards in 2014 as the world’s premier celebration of Caribbean travel, showcasing the greatest places to stay, the best places to eat and drink, the best ways to enjoy the Caribbean and, most importantly, the people who work every day to make this region what it is.

This year is the 12th annual edition of the Caribbean Travel Awards, which are nominated and selected by our editors — the world’s top Caribbean travel experts. This year’s awards cover 41 different categories of Caribbean travel, led by Caribbean Destination of the Year.

The Caribbean Travel Awards have emerged as the region’s most meaningful measure of travel distinction, celebrating the destinations and experiences that shape the future of Caribbean travel,” said Alexander Britell, editor and publisher of Caribbean Journal.

Congratulations to all of this year’s winners!

Caribbean Destination of the Year
St Maarten/Saint Martin
It’s two different countries, but one magnificent Caribbean destination. For the first time, the Caribbean Destination of the Year is actually two places in one: Dutch St Maarten and French Saint Martin, the twin paradise that has been reaching new heights with surging visitor arrivals, thanks to a world-class culinary scene, booming airlift and one of the most diverse, rich hotel products in the region. St Maarten is one of the true capitals of the region, the keystone of the northeastern Caribbean, and its vibrant, dynamic character, its easy accessibility and its abundant friendliness have made it the 2026 Caribbean Destination of the Year.