High-profile hot spots like Aruba, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Puerto Rico may dominate conversations about tourism in the Caribbean, but several of the region’s smaller destinations are now among its fastest-growing locales when it comes to arrivals, according to Caribbean Travel Trends 2026, a recent industry report.
The study — created by Amadeus and the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) — found that traditionally less-visited markets are increasingly fueling regional growth. Based on analysis of travel demand between April 2025 and March 2026, researchers found that the region’s biggest high-volume destinations remained essentially flat, while “second-tier” destinations recorded an increase in demand of 2%.
The statistics are especially striking when looking at top performers individually. Dominica, for example, led the region with 22% year-over-year growth, followed by Guyana at 19%, Sint Maarten at 18%, Saint-Martin at 12% and St. Vincent and the Grenadines at 10%.
While these destinations still welcome far fewer total visitors than their larger neighbors, the recent surge — supported in part by improved air connectivity and growing arrivals from source markets like Latin America, according to the report — illustrates the potential appeal of less-crowded, off-the-beaten-path getaways.
Despite their relatively small sizes, the Caribbean’s fastest-growing destinations offer a variety of experiences, with opportunities to connect with indigenous cultures, explore rainforests, savor unique culinary programs and indulge in top-of-the-line luxury. Here’s a quick-reference guide to what’s drawing travelers.
Dominica
The Caribbean Travel Trends Report notes that Dominica’s tourism growth is a sign of increased demand for nature- and adventure-focused travel, and the island has several new ways to connect clients with such activities.
Travelers can enjoy a variety of adventures in Dominica.
Credit: 2026 Discover Dominica AuthorityG Adventures, for example, recently introduced its first Caribbean land itinerary, the eight-day Dominica: Waterfalls, Volcanic Peaks & Kalinago Culture tour. Part of the operator’s upscale Geluxe Collection, the program includes rainforest hiking and snorkeling, as well as visits to hot springs and the Kalinago Barana Aute cultural center, which showcases Indigenous traditions in one of the region’s few living native communities. Multiple departure dates are available, as are private, guided itineraries.
Travelers seeking a decidedly upscale stay on the island, meanwhile, can check into the 131-room InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, which offers easy access to the tropical forest, coral reefs and wetlands of Cabrits National Park. The hotel, which offers a variety of guided excursions, features an 18,000-square-foot spa and a new restaurant called Saltwood, which debuted this year with a menu of local and international dishes.
Still in the works are the Dominica Cable Car, a new aerial tramway that will link the Roseau Valley to Boiling Lake when it opens later this year, and a new international airport scheduled to debut in 2027.
Guyana
This small nation may be located in South America, but Guyana’s long coastline — as well as its membership in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), a political and economic organization for the region — ties it closely to nearby islands.
Guyana offers abundant nature-focused activities, with attractions including Kaieteur Falls, the world’s largest single-drop waterfall based on volume of water. Located in the nation’s Amazon rainforest, the falls are reached by small-plane excursions. Local companies like Wilderness Explorers stage single- and multi-day tours that can also include visits to the Iwokrama Rainforest Reserve and the Rewa Eco-Lodge –– run by the local indigenous community –– to spot giant river otters, anteaters and caimans.
The capital city of Georgetown, the gateway for international visitors, is home to a growing hospitality scene that’s well positioned for pre- and post-expedition stays. Among the newest properties are the AC Hotel Georgetown Guyana, which opened in January 2026 near the airport, and the Four Points by Sheraton Georgetown, which debuted in April.
Saint-Martin and Sint Maarten
A big part of this island’s appeal lies in its two-country ambiance. Clients can easily blend the excitement of Dutch Sint Maarten (think: casinos, nightlife, shopping, yachting and the legendary low-flying aircraft at Maho Beach) with the relaxed vibes of French Saint-Martin (quiet beaches, boutique hotels and excellent dining).
Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ resort arrivals have grown 25% year over year.
Credit: 2026 SandalsFoodies will find even more to love on the island thanks to St. Maarten Flavors, a recently extended culinary program with activities throughout the year, including cooking classes and tastings. Among the island’s newest attractions, meanwhile, is the Pelican’s Nest Sky Deck, a 59,000-square-foot rooftop entertainment complex that opened in June at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, with mini-golf, rock climbing and other activities.
The island’s extensive air connectivity — including its frequent flights to nearby smaller islands like Anguilla and St. Barthelemy — has also contributed to its growing popularity, according to the Caribbean Travel Trends Report.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
The archipelago of St. Vincent and the Grenadines makes it easy to create an island-hopping itinerary with a variety of activities. On the main island of St. Vincent, vacationers can hike rainforest trails, visit black-sand beaches, explore waterfalls and admire the dramatic La Soufriere volcano. Other islands — including Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mayreau and the Tobago Cays — provide picturesque settings for sailing, relaxing on silky white sand and indulging in luxurious accommodations.
Among the most upscale properties is the Mandarin Oriental, Canouan, which has a spa, multiple restaurants and special programming for children. The destination’s largest hotel is the all-inclusive Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, which will debut 20 new Rondoval Butler Villas with private pools and rooftop terraces on Nov. 1. Resort arrivals have grown 25% year over year, according to Sandals –– more evidence of the archipelago’s increasing popularity.
