WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao has firmly established itself as a top destination for American travelers, with visitor numbers soaring to new heights. Once overshadowed by its traditional European market, the island has seen a dramatic shift in tourism trends, fueled in part by the arrival of Sandals Resorts in 2022 and increased air connectivity from the U.S.
Record-Breaking Growth in U.S. Arrivals
Following a record-breaking year in 2024, Curaçao started 2025 with a 20% year-over-year increase in arrivals, welcoming 73,289 visitors in January alone. The most significant surge came from the United States, with 17,708 American tourists visiting the island—an impressive 30% increase compared to the same month last year.
Boost in Airlift and New Hotel Openings
The island’s growing popularity among U.S. travelers is driven by improved airlift. The return of Delta Airlines in late 2023 after a long hiatus has significantly enhanced direct access. Additionally, Curaçao continues to expand its hospitality sector, catering to the increasing demand from North American visitors.
New accommodations include the Dreams Curaçao’s exclusive hotel-within-a-hotel, where standard rooms start at $1,038 per night, and the recently opened Rif All-Inclusive Resort near Willemstad, with rooms starting at $318 per night in March, according to Google Hotels.
Curaçao’s Growing Appeal to American Travelers
Curaçao’s rise as a sought-after destination for U.S. travelers isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s about culture, charm, and a unique Caribbean experience. Even before Sandals put the island on the radar, Curaçao was known for its vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere and warm hospitality.
Now, thanks to what many call the “Sandals Effect”, the island has gained the visibility it needed to capture the attention of the American market. As more visitors discover its pristine beaches, rich history, and diverse culinary scene, Curaçao’s momentum in the tourism sector shows no signs of slowing down.
With increasing flight options and luxury accommodations, the island is poised for continued growth as a premier destination for U.S. travelers.
