Tourism leaders in Destin-Fort Walton Beach are planning a trip to Canada as Florida continues to see fewer Canadian visitors.
Canadian Visits to Florida Continue to Decline
According to VISIT FLORIDA, about 721,000 Canadians visited the state during the second quarter of 2026. That marks a 4% decrease compared to the same period last year.
The first quarter also showed lower numbers, with approximately 958,000 Canadian visitors traveling to Florida.
The continued decline has prompted tourism officials across Northwest Florida to strengthen outreach efforts in one of the state’s most important international markets.
Destin-Fort Walton Beach Plans Canadian Outreach
The Destin-Fort Walton Beach tourism team plans to travel to Canada to promote the Emerald Coast as a welcoming destination for winter travelers.
The effort follows similar initiatives across the Panhandle, where tourism organizations continue marketing to Canadian snowbirds who traditionally visit Florida between November and March.
Officials hope direct engagement will help maintain interest in the destination ahead of the upcoming winter travel season.
Inflation and Travel Trends Influence Tourism
Tourism leaders say several factors may be contributing to the decline in Canadian travel, including inflation and changing international travel patterns.
Despite the statewide decrease, Northwest Florida destinations continue promoting their beaches, outdoor recreation, and mild winter climate to attract returning visitors.
The Canadian market remains an important part of the region’s tourism economy, especially during the winter months when many seasonal visitors travel south.
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