Global interest in travel to the Caribbean is experiencing a remarkable surge, according to Expedia’s inaugural Island Hot List. Searches for island getaways worldwide have climbed by 30% year-over-year, offering travel advisors valuable insights into booking trends and increasing demand across various destinations.
Top Caribbean Destinations
Three Caribbean locations have emerged among the top 10 for overall travel searches: Aruba, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. In the year ending May 18, search interest increased by 15% for both Aruba and Jamaica, while the Dominican Republic saw a 10% boost. Expedia highlights distinct selling points for each destination: Aruba boasts year-round sunshine, the Dominican Republic is celebrated for its adventurous offerings, and Jamaica is known for its rich cultural experiences.
Aruba’s Sunshine and Serenity
Aruba continues to draw travelers with its consistently dry climate and abundant sunshine, making it an ideal choice for those looking to avoid the Caribbean’s rainy season. September is particularly favorable due to its low crowds and advantageous rates.
Eagle Beach, which has earned multiple accolades in TripAdvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards, was named the No. 1 Beach in the Caribbean, No. 2 in the 25th Anniversary Awards, and No. 3 Best Beach in the World. This stunning beach stretches two miles and is renowned for its soft white sand, calm waters, and picturesque sunsets, alongside a multitude of activities like swimming, snorkeling, and Jet Skiing.
Dominican Republic: Beyond Punta Cana
The Dominican Republic is gaining attention beyond the popular Punta Cana, particularly the rugged Samana Peninsula, which is establishing itself as a prime destination for experience-driven travelers. This year marks the 270th anniversary of Santa Barbara de Samana’s founding by Spanish settlers from the Canary Islands.
Samana combines a rich history with vibrant biodiversity. Over 60% of the peninsula is covered in lush forests, while Samana Bay serves as a sanctuary for humpback whales. Attraction hotspots include Los Haitises National Park, home to ancient Taino cave art and dense mangrove forests.
New accommodations like Ocama, a boutique villa hotel overlooking Rincon Bay, provide high-end travelers with private villas that include full kitchens and pools. Additionally, the Dominican Republic is enhancing flight connectivity, with American Airlines set to launch daily seasonal flights from Philadelphia to Santo Domingo on December 18.
Jamaica: Cultural Vibrancy
Jamaica is shifting its image from a purely beach destination to one that showcases its rich culture, which is leading to a 15% year-over-year increase in travel interest, particularly in December.
Fueling this interest is the Jamaican Tourist Board’s new campaign featuring Usain Bolt, the island’s global tourism ambassador. In this campaign, Bolt shares how his Jamaican upbringing has influenced his life and champions the island’s unique energy and cultural richness. This initiative, which began in July, will run across various digital and international platforms.
Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, emphasized the importance of enhancing visitor experiences through more attractions and immersive activities. The island aims to be recognized for more than just all-inclusive resorts, opening new avenues for travel advisors to promote culinary tours, music festivals, and mountain retreats.
Other Growing Destinations
While Aruba, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica lead the way in travel interest, other Caribbean destinations are also witnessing growth. St. Thomas has reported a 30% increase in searches, while Turks and Caicos has seen a 10% rise in interest.
As travelers increasingly seek diverse experiences in the Caribbean, including local culture and adventure, the data from Expedia underscores an optimistic trend for the region’s tourism. For travel advisors, understanding these emerging patterns is crucial for guiding clients toward their next dream getaway.
