Home » Latest Travel News » San Juan Joins Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, New York, Newark, Atlanta, and Other Cities in Welcoming the Most Caribbean Visitors to the US Last Year: Everything You Need to Know
Published on
January 29, 2026
San Juan joins Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, New York, Newark, Atlanta, and other cities in welcoming the most Caribbean visitors to the U.S. last year. As a key gateway between the Caribbean and the U.S., San Juan has become an essential hub for Caribbean tourists traveling to the mainland. The city’s strategic location, coupled with direct flight connections to major U.S. cities, has significantly contributed to the rise in Caribbean arrivals. Alongside Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, New York, Newark, and Atlanta, which continue to attract significant numbers of Caribbean tourists, San Juan benefits from its strong cultural ties, ease of access, and growing tourism infrastructure. With Caribbean visitors seeking both leisure and business opportunities, these cities continue to capitalize on their proximity to the region, ensuring sustained tourism growth. The ongoing appeal of these cities as cultural and travel hubs underscores their dominance in the U.S. tourism market for Caribbean nationals.
San Juan, PR: A Direct Connection Between the Caribbean and the US
San Juan, Puerto Rico, continues to be a significant source of Caribbean tourism to the U.S., with 46,678 visitors arriving in 2025. As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico offers seamless travel to the mainland for Caribbean nationals, and it plays an essential role as a bridge between the Caribbean and the U.S. mainland. Tourists from Puerto Rico frequently visit the U.S. for business, leisure, and family visits, and San Juan serves as a major airport for connecting flights to various U.S. cities. The direct connection to major airports like Miami, New York, and Orlando makes San Juan a natural launching point for Caribbean tourists. Visitors from Puerto Rico often travel to the U.S. for shopping, entertainment, and cultural experiences, benefiting from the ease of travel and the shared language. The popularity of Puerto Rico’s vibrant arts scene, festivals, and cuisine in U.S. cities also strengthens the cultural bond, encouraging greater tourism between Puerto Rico and mainland U.S. destinations.
Fort Lauderdale, FL: A Rising Star for Caribbean Travelers
Fort Lauderdale has become a favorite destination for Caribbean tourists, welcoming 207,020 visitors in 2025. Known for its sunny beaches and bustling port, Fort Lauderdale offers a laid-back yet vibrant experience for visitors from the Caribbean. The city’s cruise port is one of the busiest in the world, serving as a launch point for many Caribbean cruise lines. This accessibility makes it a convenient and appealing option for tourists looking to experience both the beauty of Florida and the Caribbean. In addition to its pristine beaches, Fort Lauderdale is home to lively entertainment districts, high-end shopping, and a growing cultural scene that resonates with Caribbean visitors. The city’s proximity to Miami also makes it a popular choice for travelers seeking a more relaxed atmosphere while still being close to a metropolitan hub. The growing presence of Caribbean cultural events and festivals in Fort Lauderdale further cements its place as a top destination for Caribbean travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Orlando, FL: The Caribbean Family Adventure Hub
Orlando is one of the most popular U.S. destinations for Caribbean families, with 98,682 Caribbean visitors arriving in 2025. Orlando’s world-famous theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, continue to be major attractions for Caribbean tourists, especially families. The city has long been a dream destination for Caribbean children and adults alike, offering an array of family-friendly activities and entertainment options. For many Caribbean families, Orlando represents an affordable yet unforgettable vacation experience, with accessible flight routes from several Caribbean islands. In addition to the theme parks, Orlando also boasts a thriving arts scene, shopping outlets, and outdoor activities that appeal to Caribbean visitors. As tourism from the Caribbean continues to grow, Orlando has made significant investments in promoting itself as a multicultural destination, with special events, promotions, and amenities catering to Caribbean travelers. The city’s ability to provide world-class entertainment alongside warm hospitality ensures that it remains a top destination for Caribbean families seeking a fun-filled holiday experience.
Advertisement
Advertisement
New York, NY: The Caribbean’s Gateway to the US
New York City has long been a vibrant melting pot of cultures, and its appeal to Caribbean tourists continues to grow, with 289,770 visitors arriving in 2025. As one of the most diverse cities in the world, New York attracts Caribbean travelers with its rich cultural offerings, shopping experiences, and diverse food scene. The city’s extensive network of Caribbean restaurants, festivals, and cultural events, such as the West Indian Day Parade, plays a crucial role in drawing visitors from the Caribbean. Additionally, New York’s proximity to Caribbean islands makes it a prime entry point for Caribbean nationals traveling to the U.S. for business, leisure, or family visits. The city’s world-renowned attractions, including Times Square, Central Park, and Broadway, continue to captivate Caribbean tourists seeking an urban adventure. With direct flights to and from major Caribbean destinations, New York remains the dominant city for Caribbean tourism in the U.S., and its continued efforts to cater to Caribbean cultures ensure it will remain a top destination in the years to come.
Newark/Teterboro, NJ: A Strategic Hub for Caribbean Tourists
Newark and Teterboro airports saw 77,356 Caribbean tourists in 2025, benefiting from their strategic location in the New Jersey/New York metropolitan area. Newark Liberty International Airport, a major international hub, offers direct flights to numerous Caribbean islands, making it a convenient entry point for travelers. Caribbean visitors often choose Newark as their gateway to the U.S. due to its proximity to New York City, one of the world’s most iconic cities, and the ease of travel to nearby attractions. New Jersey itself also boasts a vibrant Caribbean community, with Caribbean-owned businesses, restaurants, and cultural events that make visitors feel at home. The city’s diverse offerings, from shopping in Jersey City to enjoying events in Newark, cater to Caribbean tourists seeking both cultural immersion and the conveniences of modern urban life. Additionally, with affordable accommodation options and easy access to Manhattan, Newark and Teterboro continue to attract Caribbean travelers looking for a convenient and affordable U.S. destination.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Atlanta, GA: A Hub for Caribbean Travelers Seeking Southern Hospitality
Atlanta welcomed 44,048 Caribbean visitors in 2025, benefiting from its role as a key hub in the Southeastern U.S. Known for its rich history, diverse culture, and southern hospitality, Atlanta attracts Caribbean travelers seeking a blend of culture and modern amenities. The city’s international airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, is one of the busiest in the world, offering frequent flights to and from major Caribbean destinations. Many Caribbean tourists choose Atlanta for its central location, ease of access, and vibrant cultural experiences. Atlanta’s historical landmarks, such as the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and its bustling arts scene, offer significant cultural value for Caribbean visitors. Additionally, the city’s growing reputation for business, tech, and entertainment ensures a steady influx of Caribbean professionals and travelers. With a diverse population and a welcoming environment, Atlanta continues to rise as a top destination for Caribbean visitors seeking both leisure and business opportunities.
San Juan joins Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, New York, Newark, Atlanta, and other cities in welcoming the most Caribbean visitors to the U.S. last year. These cities offer convenient travel, rich culture, and strong connections, driving significant tourism growth.
Conclusion
San Juan joins Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, New York, Newark, Atlanta, and other cities in welcoming the most Caribbean visitors to the U.S. last year. These cities’ proximity to the Caribbean, direct flight connections, and vibrant cultural offerings continue to make them prime destinations for travelers from the region. San Juan, as a major gateway, plays a crucial role in facilitating easy access to the mainland U.S., while cities like Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and New York provide a mix of entertainment, business opportunities, and cultural experiences that resonate strongly with Caribbean visitors. The ongoing success of these cities highlights the strength of Caribbean tourism to the U.S., driven by both accessibility and the appeal of diverse, dynamic destinations. As tourism continues to grow, these cities are well-positioned to remain key players in attracting Caribbean travelers.
