As someone who has traveled extensively around the Caribbean, I can say that there are some incredible places to visit, fascinating cultures to experience, and hidden gems to be discovered.
A question that always arises when talking about this region of the world is safety, with many people wondering just how safe the Caribbean is and which islands are among the safest to visit.
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- Anguilla
- Grenada
- Cayman Islands
- Antigua & Barbuda
- British Virgin Islands
- Saint Martin/Sint Maarten
- Barbados
- Curacao
- Saint Lucia
- Turks & Caicos
The short answer is that most of the Caribbean is safe, with a few exceptions like Haiti, Trinidad & Tobago, and parts of Puerto Rico, yet much of this stunning region is safe to visit.
Amid the turquoise seas, Anguilla emerges as one of the safest islands in the area, while The Cayman Islands is well known for its low crime rates and political stability, but there is more to add to the list.
In this article, we will delve into the safest Caribbean islands so you can consider which destination suits your next vacation. As we explore these islands, it will become evident that these paradise destinations boast extraordinary landscapes, sought-after weather, and relaxed lifestyles and prioritize the safety and well-being of locals and visitors.
So, let’s get going!
The 10 Safest Caribbean Islands
1. Anguilla
Anguilla is often considered a holiday destination for those seeking a relaxed, stress-free vacation. In addition, it also boasts a low crime rate and a high reputation for safety.
If you have not heard of Anguilla, it is part of the British Overseas Territories, which makes it a top destination for British sunseekers. Still, it is popular with many nationalities worldwide seeking a paradise destination.
Regarding safety, Anguilla is regarded as one of the safest islands in the Caribbean, so it is no wonder it can welcome up to 30,000 visitors monthly. According to the United States Government, the advice is to follow standard precautions, with Anguilla being listed as Level One.
At the same time, the British Government reiterates that crime is low, but sensible precautions should be followed. One of the reasons for this low-level crime rate is that the island boasts an excellent standard of living, great healthcare, and increasing life expectancy rates, with a population of under 16,000 people, it is hard to get away with crime in this tight-knit community.
Regarding staying safe while visiting Anguilla, many government sites advise that you don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuable items, avoid beaches or unknown areas, and lock doors and windows at night.
As you can see, Anguilla is undoubtedly one of the safest Caribbean Islands, so if you have yet to visit this incredible region of the world, add Anguilla to your bucket list.
2. Grenada
If you are planning a vacation to the Caribbean and are concerned about the area’s safety, you might want to consider Grenada, one of the safest Caribbean islands.
If any crime occurs on the island, it is generally nonviolent and opportunistic, according to the British Government’s travel advisory section. It is advised to avoid walking on the beach at night, choose secure accommodation, and only use licensed taxis to get around the island.
In general, you should exercise normal precautions when visiting Grenada, according to both the United States Government and the Government of Canada, who both regard the island as low risk for travelers.
The island, which is well known for its spices, eco-resorts, and environmental practices, is a popular choice for visitors, especially those interested in nature, cultural festivals, and a local experience since it is a less visited island than its neighbors.
The island known as The Spice of the Caribbean has something to suit everyone, whether it’s a family holiday, a romantic escape, or a real Caribbean adventure, so the fact that it is a safe destination ticks all the boxes.
I have to admit that this island is an excellent choice for those who want to take the most basic safety precautions while being surrounded by kind people and awe-inspiring nature.
3. Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands is one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Caribbean, primarily because it is known for its high standards, excellent resorts, and overall safety.
It welcomes so many tourists that it is common for over two million people to visit the island annually, with that number rising. Luckily, the island’s location, on the western side of the Caribbean, protects them from being struck by the prevalent hurricane season in the Atlantic between June and November.
In terms of safety, the Cayman Islands is regarded by many governments as being a safe area to visit, with the United States Government advising travelers to take normal precautions as part of the Level One ranking.
The British Government also advises travelers to take normal precautions regarding The Cayman Islands as a safe destination. It also warns travelers to store valuables in a safe in their hotel and take care of their belongings as they would anywhere else.
As you can see, most oversee governments agree that the Cayman Islands are among the safest Caribbean Islands to visit. You will be pleased to know that some governments don’t even issue a warning like New Zealand, while the island has also been promoted as a perfect island for relocation.
Knowing that the world’s wealthiest people want to move to this paradise island shows that there is not much to worry about regarding safety, but as usual, always keep your belongings and valuables in a safe place.
Suggested Reading: Islands With The Clearest Water In The Caribbean
4. Antigua & Barbuda
While petty crimes like pickpocketing or theft can happen in Antigua & Barbuda, there is no need to worry about your safety on this glorious island, and petty crimes like this can occur almost anywhere in the world.
While some Caribbean islands hide aspects of danger behind the image of pristine beaches and crystal-clear water, Antigua & Barbuda does the opposite, which takes the stress away when visiting.
According to the Government of Canada travel advisory, Antigua & Barbuda is a low-risk area where standard precautions should be taken. At the same time, the US Government puts the island at a Level One and advises travelers to take normal precautions, too.
The island is an independent nation that is a part of the Commonwealth and is known for its stunning Caribbean coastline, friendly people, and rich history.
Antigua & Barbuda is one of the most visited islands in the region because of its excellent infrastructure, abundance of resorts, and low crime, and it welcomed over 169,000 holidaymakers in 2021.
When we think of danger and safety, we tend to think of crime, yet one thing to take care of when visiting this region is the hurricane season.
In Antigua, the hurricane season lasts from June to November, with the highest risks being between mid-August and mid-October, according to the British Met Office. This is something to be aware of when planning a trip to Antigua and any other island in the Caribbean.
Suggested Reading:Â Antigua or Barbados: The Honest Comparison You Need
5. British Virgin Islands
This group of islands comprises four larger islands and 50 smaller ones. It is a British Overseas Territory and is often considered a very safe place for tourists.
While almost all visits to the island are hassle-free, standard precautions should be taken as you would in any area of the world. Among the countries that regard the British Virgin Islands as safe for visitors, Canada ranks the islands as low risk. The UK and the United States, all of whom advise standard precautionary measures.
The Government of the British Virgin Islands states that crimes against tourists are relatively low. Still, precautions should be taken, especially to avoid leaving valuables unattended, avoid unlit areas at night, and avoid traveling with large amounts of cash.
It is worth noting that there is also a low risk of natural disasters here, but it is best to avoid visiting during the hurricane season regardless.
While the overall rate of crime is low, it is not nonexistent, and some serious incidents like armed robbery and drug-related crime can happen, which is why it is always advised to be aware of your surroundings and carry a phone with roaming capabilities just in case.
While these crimes can happen, they rarely involve visitors, making this one of the safest Caribbean Islands to plan a vacation.
6. Saint Martin/Sint Maarten
Saint Martin is an autonomous country belonging to the Kingdom of the Netherlands and is often called Sint Maarten since, historically, one-half of the island was French and one was Dutch.
While this island continues to be used to smuggle illegal drugs from South America to North America, crime-related incidents nearly never involve tourists or happen in tourist regions of the island.
Since crime can happen on this island, many governments advise travelers to be cautious by being aware of their surroundings, avoiding certain areas at night, and never agreeing to carry a package that belongs to someone else.
With this aside, Saint Martin is regarded as one of the safest Caribbean Islands and continues to be visited by plenty of international tourists each year – 249,000 in 2021 alone.
The Canadian Government places Saint Martin at a low-risk level for travelers, with the advice to be aware of petty crime, fraud, and violent crimes that can occur occasionally.
The United States Government advises travelers to take normal precautions, while the Centre for Disease Control states that there are no notices in place regarding travel health. So, while crime can happen in Saint Martin, many places on the island are safe and secure, so by sticking to well-lit and busy tourist areas, you can stay safe in Saint Martin.
7. Barbados
Barbados is well known for being the homeland of pop star Rihanna, but it is also world famous for its incredible beaches and rich heritage. This is a popular travel destination for international travelers from the US, Canada, and Europe, with many cruise ships docking in Bridgetown to allow passengers to explore the island’s beauty. You may consider a trip to Barbados and wonder if it is a safe island and what to watch out for.
You will be happy to hear that the United States Government ranks Barbados at Level One, the lowest risk level, meaning you should take normal precautions. There are a few things to note, however.
Due to petty crime, it is best to avoid crowded areas, especially during the festival season, and areas you are unfamiliar with, and the Government of Canada advises travelers to be aware of demonstrations that may take place and be mindful of spiked food or drinks.
While keeping these normal precautions in mind, you can enjoy a safe and stress-free vacation to Barbados, where many attractions await you, including Historic Bridgetown – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The best time to travel here is between December and April, and it is worth noting that hurricane season occurs on the island between July and November.
Suggested Reading:Â Barbados or Bahamas: An Honest Comparison
8. Curacao
Crime against tourists visiting the Dutch island of Curacao is relatively low, and many governments, including the United States, the British Government, and the Government of Canada, regard this Caribbean Island as a low-risk area.
The island is famous for its vibrant culture, colorful houses, and fantastic coastline, which makes it a popular destination for couples and families. Still, there are a few things to be aware of when visiting Curacao, just like anywhere else.
When visiting this Dutch Caribbean Island, it is advisable to be aware of pickpockets in busy areas, take measures to avoid the minor risk of muggings and be vigilant regarding scams, which can be shared among travelers.
In terms of natural disasters, hurricanes generally pass by the north of the island between June and November but are never more than a tropical store; however, it is best to visit outside of this season to avoid any risks.
Concerning women’s safety, Curacao, like many of the islands listed here, is very safe for solo female travelers, but as always, it is best to avoid unlit areas or uncrowded areas at night, as you would elsewhere.
It is worth noting that the Dutch Caribbean islands are often used to traffic drugs from South to North America, so never take possession of unknown parcels and keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
9. Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia is one of the most beautiful Caribbean islands you can hope to visit, not just because of the pristine beaches and quaint towns but also because the island is among the lushest.
Because of the mountainous regions and narrow roads, one thing to be aware of if you plan to explore the island by car is the dangerous switchbacks and roadside drains at night. In terms of overall safety, St Lucia is said to be one of the safest Caribbean Islands to visit, according to many leading government sites.
The United States Government regards Saint Lucia as a low-risk country to visit and advises travelers to exercise normal preventive measures. Still, it is worth being aware that pickpocketing and theft can occur, as on the other islands listed here.
As always, it is advised not to carry large amounts of cash, avoid areas you are not familiar with, and be cautious in busy touristy areas where these kinds of petty thefts are more prevalent.
If in doubt, leave valuables in a secure hotel safe and avoid wearing expensive jewelry publicly to prevent risks.
Overall, Saint Lucia is home to very friendly and helpful people and a myriad of changing landscapes, including lush green mountains, waterfalls, beaches, and hot springs. It is a very safe place to visit.
As always, it is best to avoid visiting the island between June and November, which is hurricane season in the Caribbean; despite hurricanes only occurring occasionally in Saint Lucia, you never know.
10. Turks & Caicos
Situated southeast of the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos is a popular Caribbean island with 430,000 visitors in 2021.
It is a trendy destination for luxurious holidays and is renowned for its excellent thriving marine life and crystal-clear waters, which make it a haven for scuba divers and romantic holidays.
But how safe is Turks & Caicos, and what should you be aware of if you plan to visit this paradise on earth?
Turks & Caicos is a relatively safe place for tourists to visit, especially if they stick to the tourist areas. Still, the United States government urges travelers to exercise a higher level of caution than other islands listed here.
It is worth noting that the highest levels of crime occur on the island of Providenciales, where local medical care and crime investigation are limited, so if you plan to visit Turks & Caicos, consider visiting Grand Turk, North Caicos or Middle Caicos, where crime is less common.
Most crime in Turks & Caicos involves residents and rarely involves tourists, but it is advisable to take care no matter which part of this region you visit.
Many tourists visit Providenciales since it has plenty of hotels and excellent diving spots, so if you choose to visit here, do not carry large amounts of cash or ‘look expensive,’ do not use ATMs at night, and leave valuables in hotel safes when going out.
Suggested Reading: Bahamas vs Turks And Caicos – An Honest Comparison