14 Awesome International Destinations Southwest Flies To [That Might Surprise You]

Southwest Airlines began as a low-cost carrier in 1967 in San Antonio, Texas. For 12 years, Southwest only operated routes within Texas. Thanks to the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978, Southwest started servicing more of the U.S. in 1979. Now, Southwest is one of the largest and most popular airlines in the country, with both domestic and international routes.

While you may have flown Southwest Airlines within the U.S., you may not have considered the carrier for international travel. You should, though. The airline serves several destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.

On a Southwest Airlines international flight, you’ll get all of the same benefits you’re used to — 2 free checked bags, open seating, no change fees, and great customer service. Plus, if you have the Southwest Companion Pass, you can use it on international flights.

Now that you know you should be looking at Southwest for your next international flight, the question is: where do you go? Here are 14 exciting international destinations that Southwest flies to that might surprise you — plus some great hotel redemption options for each location!

Flying Internationally on Southwest Airlines

Flying internationally on Southwest Airlines is much like flying domestically. You’ll still find the same open seating and unique boarding process. Plus, you’ll still be able to check 2 bags for free.

However, there are a few differences between flying domestically and internationally on Southwest Airlines:

• When flying internationally, you can still check in online but will have to visit a Southwest Airlines ticket counter (or kiosk) to show your passport and get your boarding passes. You must check in at the counter at least 60 minutes before your scheduled departure time or you may not be permitted on your flight. If you’re traveling from Aruba (AUA), you need to check in at the airport at least 75 minutes before your scheduled departure or you won’t be able to board the plane.
• Your boarding position can still be secured online, however, this isn’t always the case. This may be a time when you consider paying for EarlyBird Check-In.
• Curbside check-in isn’t available for itineraries containing an international leg.

Hot Tip: If you want to speed up your travel and breeze through security and customs, consider applying for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. You can get these benefits complimentary with select credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® and The Platinum Card^® from American Express.

1. Aruba

Airport: Queen Beatrix International Airport; Aruba (AUA)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 3 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: U.S. departure gates change daily

Priority Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: No

Nonstop Flights From:

Why Go to Aruba?

Aruba is a favorite vacation destination for many, located just 60 miles off the northern coast of South America. As part of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao), it’s located outside the hurricane belt, so you can travel during hurricane season without worry.

Where To Stay

There are plenty of great hotels and resorts on the island of Aruba. You can try the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort for as few as 44,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night or opt for total luxury at The Ritz-Carlton Aruba starting at 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. Remember, when making an award booking through Marriott Bonvoy, your fifth night is free!

If you have Hilton Honors points, try out the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino. You can get a standard award room here for 80,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Hot Tip: Now that you know you can fly Southwest Airlines to the Caribbean, check out some of the great Caribbean resorts that you can book with points.

2. Bahamas

Airport: Lynden Pindling International Airport; Bahamas (NAS)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 3 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: U.S. terminal; gates C41 to C45

Priority Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: No

Nonstop Flights From:

Why Go to the Bahamas?

If you’re looking for a beach destination that’s very close to many U.S. cities, the Bahamas is it. The Bahamas is a nation comprised of over 700 islands and lies just 50 miles off the coast of Florida.

Where To Stay

One of the most well-known hotels in Nassau is The Coral at Atlantis. Did you know that this property is actually part of the Marriott family and you can use Marriott Bonvoy points to book it? Rooms start at around 44,000 points per night.

Another option if you’ve got some World of Hyatt points to burn is the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar. This sprawling family-friendly resort in Nassau boasts 8 pools, golf courses, tennis courts, water sports, a casino, and access to Baha Bay waterpark. Rooms at this Category 5 property cost 17,000 to 23,000 points per night.

3. Belize

Airport: Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport; Belize City (BZE)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 3 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: Terminal 1; gate 2

Priority Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: No

Nonstop Flights From:

Why Go to Belize?

Belize is a Central American country that offers everything from Mayan ruins to world-class snorkeling and scuba diving. Since the official language is English, travelers from the U.S. will find it an easy destination to navigate.

Where To Stay

Located 15 minutes from the airport on Ambergris Caye is the Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club, Curio Collection by Hilton. This Curio Collection property can be booked starting at 52,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

If you’ve got some Marriott Bonvoy points to spend, check out Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection, a luxury beachfront resort that also happens to be the first and only Marriott in Belize. Room prices start from around 47,000 points per night.

Hot Tip: If you would prefer to book a hotel right along with your Southwest flight, check out Southwest Vacation Packages. You’ll be able to book your entire vacation in 1 spot.

4. Cayman Islands

Airport: Owen Roberts International Airport; Grand Cayman Islands (GCM)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 3 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: Main terminal; gate 8

Priority Lane: No

Self-tagging: Yes

Nonstop Flights From:

Why Go to Grand Cayman?

Grand Cayman is part of the Cayman Islands, a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean Sea. Be sure to visit one of the island’s most famous tourist attractions — Stingray City. This shallow sandbar attracts throngs of visitors who congregate with the friendly stingrays that inhabit this area.

Where To Stay

When in Grand Cayman, why not opt for luxury and stay at The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman. This swanky hotel can be booked from 82,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. You may also consider the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa which can be booked from 70,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

5. Liberia, Costa Rica

Airport: Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport; Liberia (LIR)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 2 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: Main terminal; gates change daily

Priority Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: No

Nonstop Flights From:

Why Go to Liberia, Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is becoming a popular tourist destination for good reason — it’s full of jungles, rainforests, rustic beaches, and fantastic wildlife. It’s also a hot spot for eco-tourism because of Costa Rica’s green initiatives.

Where To Stay

If you are looking for a great hotel redemption, check out the Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort which is located an easy 30-minute drive from the airport. This Hyatt property feels like a boutique jungle resort and is a great way to get lots of value from your World of Hyatt points — a night here only costs 17,000 to 23,000 points!

Hot Tip: If you’d prefer something a little more unique, check out these boutique hotels in Costa Rica.

6. San José, Costa Rica

Airport: Juan Santamaria International Airport; San José (SJO)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 2 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: Main terminal; gates change daily

Priority Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: No

Nonstop Flights From:

Notes: Customers are not permitted to check more than 2 bags, oversized bags, or cardboard boxes. This rule does not extend to wheelchairs and strollers.

Why Go to San José, Costa Rica?

San José, Costa Rica is the capital of the small Central American nation. While you may not think to visit San José for a vacation, you should reconsider — this centrally located city is a great base to start your journey around the country.

Where To Stay

If you plan on spending some time in San José, check out the Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen. This property is located minutes from the San José airport and starts at 31,000 points per night.

Hot Tip: Get there on points, too — check out our detailed guide on how to fly to Costa Rica using points and miles.

7. Cuba

Airport: José Martí International Airport; Havana (HAV)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 3 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: Terminal 2

Priority Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: No

Nonstop Flights From:

Notes: Customers are not permitted to check more than 2 bags, oversized bags, or cardboard boxes. This rule does not extend to wheelchairs and strollers.

Why Go to Cuba?

Traveling to Cuba got a lot easier in 2016, but it’s still very complicated.

There are now 12 travel categories that allow U.S citizens to enter Cuba including things like family visits, journalism, educational activities, support for the Cuban people, and athletic competitions. Travel for purely tourist activities is still prohibited.

Where To Stay

There aren’t a lot of chain hotels in Cuba that you can book with points. If you are traveling to Cuba, it might be a good idea to look at some of the smaller, boutique hotels. Use a website like Kayak or Tripadvisor to search for a hotel that will suit your needs or check out the hotels you can book through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal or American Express Travel.

8. Dominican Republic

Airport: Punta Cana International Airport; Punta Cana (PUJ)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 3 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: International terminal; gates change daily

Priority and Express Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: Yes

Nonstop Flights From:

Why Go to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic?

Punta Cana is known for its gorgeous, white sand beaches and clear, warm water. There are plenty of resorts to choose from, offering everything from a family-friendly atmosphere to a relaxing adults-only vibe.

Where To Stay

There are lots of great hotels that you can book with points in Punta Cana. If you’re interested in all-inclusive options, check out Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana (adults-only) and Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana (family-friendly). These resorts are available for only 21,000 to 29,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

9. Jamaica

Airport: Sangster International Airport; Montego Bay (MBJ)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 3 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: Main terminal; gates change daily

Priority Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: Yes

Nonstop Flights From:

Why Go to Jamaica?

Jamaica is a popular destination for families looking for a laid-back Caribbean vibe with white sand beaches and clear, blue water.

Where To Stay

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort, check out the Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa. This 400+ acre resort features a large beach, a waterpark, a spa, and a golf course and can be booked for as few as 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

There are also plenty of boutique hotels in Jamaica if you’re looking for something a little smaller and more unique.

Hot Tip: If you’re using your Southwest Companion Pass on an international flight, the taxes will be higher than on a domestic flight. For a domestic flight, the taxes will be $5.60 each way. For an international flight, they will be about $65 to $75 one-way.

10. Los Cabos, Mexico

Airport: San Jose del Cabo International Airport; Los Cabos (SJD)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 2 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: Terminal 2; gates change daily

Priority Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: Yes

Nonstop Flights From:

Why Go to Los Cabos?

Los Cabos, Mexico is a tourist destination at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula. It’s comprised of 2 main areas — Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, though collectively the area is known commonly as simply “Cabo.” The area is known for its wonderful marine life including whales, sea lions, and dolphins, plus the iconic rock arch in the Sea of Cortez called El Arco de Cabo San Lucas.

Where To Stay

There are plenty of options to book a hotel with points in Los Cabos. If you have Marriott Bonvoy points, check out the JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa where nights start at 53,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

Hyatt fans have options for every budget. You can stay at the Hyatt Place Los Cabos for only 5,000 points per night (standard rates) or go for luxury at a high-end resort, The Cape, a Thompson Hotel, where rooms go for 25,000 Hyatt points per night (standard rates).

Hot Tip: Don’t forget about resort fees when booking hotels with points. Marriott and IHG will charge resort fees on reward bookings. However, if you book a Hyatt or Hilton hotel with points, the resort fee will be waived.

11. Cancún, Mexico

Airport: Cancún International Airport; Cancún (CUN)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 3 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: Terminal 4; gates change daily

Priority and Express Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: Yes

Nonstop Flights From:

Why Go to Cancún?

Cancún may be known as a party town, but there are plenty of options for families, too. It’s a great destination for a quick getaway because it’s easy to get to and has lots of hotel options within close proximity to the airport.

Where To Stay

The JW Marriott Cancún Resort & Spa is a luxurious hotel located right on the beach in the heart of Cancún. The beach and pool are fantastic and very family-friendly, plus the food is great. Rooms at this resort are available starting at 43,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

If you’ve got IHG One Rewards points to spend, check out the InterContinental Presidente Cancún Resort, located on the north end of the hotel zone. A night here costs 34,000 to 40,000 IHG One Rewards points, or you can opt for a points-and-cash option.

There are also plenty of boutique hotel options in Cancún if you prefer something a little more unique and intimate.

12. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Airport: Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport; Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 3 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: Terminal B; gates change daily

Priority Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: Yes

Nonstop Flights From:

Why Go to Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta is another popular vacation spot in Mexico, known for having beautiful beaches and a lively old town area. It’s positioned on the same latitude as Hawaii, giving it a similar climate.

Where To Stay

While there are lots of hotels to book with points in Puerto Vallarta, Marriott Bonvoy offers the most choices. Try the Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta, or Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center, both starting at 31,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night, or stay at the high-end W Punta De Mita, located about 1 hour northwest of Puerto Vallarta, starting at 52,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Hot Tip: Yes, you can fly to Hawaii on Southwest Airlines, too! Currently, the airline flies to and between 4 Hawaiian islands — Maui, Kauai, Oahu, and the Island of Hawaii.

13. Cozumel, Mexico

Airport: Cozumel International Airport; Cozumel (CZM)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 90 minutes ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: Terminal 1; gates 1 to 6

Priority and Express Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: Yes

Nonstop Flights From:

Why Go to Cozumel?

Cozumel is an island off the coast of the Mayan Riviera and offers tourists phenomenal beaches, water sports, tropical weather, and 3 cruise ship piers. It’s also a prime scuba diving location.

Where To Stay

If you’ve got Wyndham Rewards points to spend, consider Cozumel Hotel & Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham. You can book a room for only 15,000 points per night. This family-friendly resort also comes with a free breakfast buffet each morning.

Another option is The Westin Cozumel. Rooms go for 32,000 to 42,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night, making this a good option for a 35,000-point Marriott Bonvoy free night certificate.

Hot Tip: You can use your Southwest Rapid Rewards points to purchase an international flight. It works just like using your points to purchase a domestic flight. 

14. Turks and Caicos

Airport: Providenciales International Airport; Turks and Caicos (PLS)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 3 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: Main Terminal; gates 1 to 9

Priority Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: Yes

Nonstop Flights From:

Why Go to Turks and Caicos?

Turks and Caicos is a British Overseas Territory that claims to have 350 days of sun per year. It has some of the best beaches in the world and the island boasts the third-largest barrier reef in the world, so it’s a top spot for scuba divers. Because English is spoken and the U.S. dollar is used, it’s an easy trip for Americans who may not want to step out of their comfort zone.

Where to Stay

There are a few options for booking hotels with your points in Turks and Caicos.

First, there’s Point Grace Resort and Spa. This luxury resort, near Grace Bay, is part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World which has a partnership with World of Hyatt, allowing guests to book it using Hyatt points. As a Category 8 property, it will cost between 35,000 and 45,000 points per night.

Another luxury option is The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos where prices start at about 112,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Hot Tip: So, you love Southwest Airlines, but aren’t sure which credit card will be the best for you? Check out this guide to the best credit cards for Southwest Airlines flyers.

Bonus: Puerto Rico

Yes, technically Puerto Rico isn’t an international destination. But, it’s a Caribbean destination that many people don’t realize they can get to using Southwest Airlines. Keep in mind, that U.S. residents do not need to show a passport to travel to Puerto Rico.

Airport: Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport; San Juan (SJU)

Suggested Time of Arrival: 2 hours ahead of scheduled flight

Terminal and Gate: Concourse D, Gates 7 and 8; Concourse C, Gates B 3,5,7

Priority and Express Lane: Yes

Self-tagging: Yes

Nonstop Flights From:

Why Go to Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory located close to the U.S. mainland in the Caribbean. Unfortunately, the island suffered significant damage from Hurricane Maria in 2017 and Hurricane Fiona in 2022. While much of the island still hasn’t recovered, the tourism industry is still humming and welcoming guests.

Where To Stay

If you want to get really local and help support small businesses, consider booking an Airbnb or a boutique hotel. However, if your heart is set on using your points to book, there are lots of options.

Try the Caribe Hilton for 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night or opt for luxury at the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, starting at 82,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

If you’re looking for more budget-friendly accommodation, you can book the Courtyard San Juan Miramar for only 22,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Another great choice is the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico, a Category 4 World of Hyatt property that can be booked using a Hyatt free night certificate!

Final Thoughts

Southwest Airlines isn’t just for domestic flying! Southwest flies to many international destinations in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America.

You’ll experience the same great Southwest benefits on these flights as you would on any other Southwest flight — 2 free checked bags, open seating, no change fees, and great customer service.

So, when you’re ready to plan your next vacation, consider one of these great Southwest Airlines international destinations!

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