Canadians are flocking to Aruba right now. The island welcomed 41,754 visitors from Canada in the first half of 2025, according to newly released data from the Caribbean Tourism Organization. That represents an 8.2 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024 – and it’s one of the highest growth rates from Canada for any destination in the Caribbean this year.
The growth reflects a broader strengthening of travel demand from Canada to the Caribbean, buoyed by expanded airlift and steady winter sun interest. Aruba’s combination of reliable air service, year-round warm weather and established tourism infrastructure continues to make it one of the most popular destinations for Canadian vacationers.
The country has long been a strong source market for Aruba — and the latest numbers suggest that demand is not slowing down.
That momentum has been reinforced by added lift from WestJet, which increased its Toronto–Aruba service to five weekly flights during the peak summer season and announced a 33 percent capacity increase for 2025. That expanded schedule reflects a strategy to meet growing Canadian demand, particularly during key vacation periods.
Hotel investment is also keeping pace with the rising airlift. New properties like the soon-to-open Iberostar Aruba are drawing interest from Canadian travelers familiar with the brand from other sun destinations, while the island’s established resort corridor continues to evolve with new amenities and upgrades.
Together, more flights and fresh hotel inventory are setting the stage for a strong winter season, solidifying Aruba’s position as one of the leading Caribbean getaways for Canadian travelers.
It’s also a testament to Aruba’s all-around growth, with the Dutch Caribbean hotspot seeing growth from a number of markets beyond its traditional wheelhouse in the US — including Latin America.
Caitlin Sullivan
2025-10-19 20:25:00