Curaçao’s September 2025 Stayover Arrivals Surge by 8% Over 2024

Published on October 20, 2025

Curaçao, the Caribbean gem known for its picturesque beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history, is seeing a significant surge in tourism. In September 2025, the island welcomed 53,671 stayover visitors, marking an 8% increase compared to the previous year. This uptick highlights Curaçao’s growing popularity as a leading vacation destination in the Caribbean, reflecting both the island’s appeal and the broader trends in global tourism.

Curaçao’s Rising Popularity in the Caribbean

The island’s tourism performance in September shows a positive trajectory for the region. With its vibrant history, stunning landscapes, and unique blend of Caribbean and Dutch influences, Curaçao has steadily become a preferred destination for travelers. The growth in stayover arrivals signals that more and more tourists are choosing to spend extended periods on the island rather than opting for short trips or day visits.

Curaçao’s tourism recovery and expansion stand in contrast to the broader Caribbean tourism trends, as some neighboring regions experienced declines. Despite these challenges in other parts of the Caribbean, Curaçao has managed to attract increasing numbers of tourists, bolstering its reputation as a must-visit destination.

Impressive Growth Across Key Markets

The rise in visitors was especially notable in North America, South America, and Europe, with each region contributing to the overall increase in stayover arrivals. In particular, North American travelers, primarily from the United States, made up a significant portion of the influx.

North America:

In September 2025, Curaçao saw a 13% increase in arrivals from North America, with 14,283 visitors arriving from the region. This growth underscores the island’s popularity with U.S. travelers, who have increasingly chosen Curaçao for its unique cultural offerings, relaxed atmosphere, and proximity to the United States.

South America:

South American tourists have also been drawn to the island, contributing an 11% increase with 14,516 visitors. This rise is largely attributed to Curaçao’s increasing popularity in countries like Colombia and Venezuela, where the proximity to the island and its affordable travel options make it an appealing destination. The South American market has been growing rapidly, and Curaçao continues to capitalize on this regional demand.

Europe:

For European travelers, the Netherlands remains the top source market for tourism in Curaçao. The island’s Dutch heritage makes it an attractive option for Dutch travelers, and in September 2025, Curaçao saw 17,693 Dutch visitors, representing a 3% increase from the previous year. Many of these visitors prefer the island’s relaxing beaches and high-end resorts, as well as its proximity to Europe.

The number of European visitors, particularly from the Netherlands, is expected to keep rising, especially with the increasing number of direct flights from major European cities.

Diversified Demographics: A Growing Trend Toward Longer Stays

One of the key trends revealed by the September 2025 figures is the length of stay for visitors. On average, visitors stayed for 8.3 nights, a clear indication that tourists are opting for longer stays and more immersive experiences. This extended stay duration signals that Curaçao is not just seen as a quick stopover but as a full-fledged vacation destination where travelers can enjoy not only the beaches but also the cultural activities, historic sites, and local cuisine.

The ability to enjoy a wide range of experiences—from outdoor adventures and water sports to cultural immersion and relaxation—has made Curaçao a more attractive option for families, couples, and even solo travelers looking for a more fulfilling holiday experience. With a diverse range of activities on offer, the island can cater to all types of travelers, from adventure-seekers to those simply wanting a peaceful retreat.

Cruise Tourism Continues to Thrive

Curaçao also continues to be a popular stop for cruise ships, with 592,013 cruise passengers arriving between January and September 2025, reflecting a strong recovery in the cruise industry. This is part of the island’s strategy to appeal to a broader market, offering both land-based stays and cruise tourism experiences.

Although cruise tourism experienced a temporary dip during the pandemic, the sector is rebounding and continues to be a major contributor to the island’s tourism economy. The return of large cruise ships to Curaçao’s shores brings thousands of tourists who spend a day or more exploring the island’s attractions, shopping, dining, and immersing themselves in local culture.

Looking Ahead: Sustainability and Growth

As Curaçao’s tourism continues to grow, there’s a concerted effort to ensure the sustainability of the sector. The island’s tourism board has been focusing on eco-friendly initiatives and efforts to preserve its natural resources. This includes promoting sustainable tourism practices, such as supporting eco-tourism, conservation of marine life, and maintaining the pristine quality of Curaçao’s beaches.

The tourism sector’s success is not just driven by the numbers, but by a commitment to ensuring that growth is sustainable for both the local economy and the environment. There’s a growing emphasis on eco-friendly accommodations, sustainable tours, and reducing the environmental footprint of tourism.

Conclusion: Curaçao’s Bright Future in Tourism

Curaçao’s steady rise in tourist arrivals, particularly during the September 2025 period, is a testament to the island’s ability to attract a diverse range of travelers from around the world. The 8% increase in stayover arrivals is an encouraging sign for the future of the island’s tourism industry, signaling that its growth is both sustainable and resilient.

With an increasing focus on sustainability, cultural tourism, and luxurious yet affordable travel experiences, Curaçao is set to remain a favorite vacation destination for travelers from across the globe. As the island continues to build on its success, Curaçao’s position as a premier Caribbean destination for years to come looks secure.