Perhaps you are planning for an upcoming tropical trip and are wondering which are the safest Caribbean Islands? We would be glad to help you with our extraordinary list of vacation ideas and travel tips. The fact is that most tropical regions have become a lot safer in recent times. However, the reality is that petty street crime may occur, but it is rare.. Henceforth, if you are planning a visit, you have nothing to worry about.
Safest Caribbean Islands to Consider
The Caribbean islands can be quite safe, especially if you go to the right places. It’s good to know that the British Overseas Territories tend to be the safest amongst the others. The general rule here is that the smaller or richer the nation, the safer it is. When you click on an affiliate link and buy something, we receive a small commission, no extra charge for you. The following definitive guide will answer some of the most common questions and let you know the safest Caribbean Islands.
Home to beautiful beaches, spectacular Spanish architecture, and soaring mountains – the Dominican Republic is well-known for its geographic diversity. With that being said, this gem starts off this list of the safest Caribbean Islands. Visitors will find a lot to discover and limitless tourism attractions on this large island. Surprisingly, the risk of natural disasters in the DM tends to be higher than in some of its surrounding islands. Being the third most populated island, the risk of terrorism is very minimal. You can rest assured that most of Punta Cana and other popular tourist areas are relatively secure. However, if you take a trip off the beaten path, the odds would increase that you are putting yourself in danger. Subsequently, the US State Department suggests exercising caution in these situations. As you may imagine, hurricanes also play a major role here, as well as earthquakes, floods, droughts and more.
It might be over-obvious to say to avoid drug dealers on your travels, for many reasons. But at the same time, it’s good to know that the legal system takes drug offenses very seriously in this country. All in all, profound experiences and cherished memories await in the Dominican Republic. So, give it a chance.
Where to Stay
From pretty mangrove lagoons to rocky cliffs and powder-white beaches, you are bound to have a great time in the DM. If you’re looking for awesome places to stay, check out the following: AC Hotel Punta Cana, which is nestled directly in downtown Punta Cana. Westin Puntacana Resort Club, which rests on 3-miles of white-sand beaches and is part of a 15,000 acre reserve. JW Marriott Hotel Santo Domingo plays host to the Vertygo 101 Lounge & Bar, showcasing panoramic views of the city. Finally, Renaissance Santo Domingo Jaragua Hotel offers an unparalleled location and a luxurious beachfront pool unleashing divine sea views.
It may be no secret that the reggae land of Jamaica is one of the best tropical islands to visit. In fact, as we countdown the safest Caribbean Islands, it’s tourist hotspots are incredibly safe, as well as resort areas. There should be nothing to worry about, as gang violence does not affect the tourist sections. Just don’t trust people that you don’t know, and you will do fine. When you think of Jamaica, you tend to think of the warm weather, swaying palm trees, and hospitality welcome. However, some consider this nation the capital of weed. On that note, possession of fewer than 2-ounces of cannabis, without a medical prescription/recommendation, is punishable by a fine but not incarceration. Moreover, 70% of all crime in Jamaica is linked to the drug trade. The U.S. Department of State warns against traveling to troubled spots like downtown Kingston, Grants Pen, and Standpipe.
Be sure you travel in groups or take taxis in these specific areas that have high crime rates. And this can be especially during the night. In addition to the natural beauty of the country, the food is just as good and worth trying. Jamaican Jerk Chicken is the specialty, and if you have the opportunity to experience it, you will see why. You get to have an unforgettable time in the country. You will get to learn about the culture and sample the cuisine. It does not get better than this.
Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) are another British Overseas Territory that draws in about a million visitors annually. Consisting of around 40 low-lying coral islands in the Atlantic Ocean, it is also one of the safest Caribbean Islands to explore. Compared to most other countries in the region, it has a very low crime rate. Crystalline turquoise waters and white-sandy beaches are the trademarks of this pleasurable place of real estate. Whereas, every island and cay in this archipelago can be considered a destination on its own. There are around 30,000 residents, which means that TCI is just the place to escape from the mundane. As a matter of fact, there are minimal hurricanes that you need to be concerned about. Unlike many Caribbean countries, TCI has one of the lowest annual rainfall averages in the entire region. Subsequently leading to a higher percentage of sunny days and fantastic weather.
Providenciales, also known as “Provo,” is the gateway of the island. This area is lined with rich resorts, great shops and restaurants, and plenty of tourism ideas. Moreover, it should come as no surprise that protecting the tourist industry is a major government priority. It is also deemed among the safest islands because it rarely experiences bad seasonal weather. As a bit of a warning, the vast majority of crime will occur on the main populated island of Providenciales. It’s good to know that crime against tourists can occur, and staying in a hotel or resort will reduce this risk. Thefts tend to be the most common crime committed against vacationers, so keep your eyes open.
Where to Stay
Looking for some of the best places to stay in the TCI? Try The Palms Turks and Caicos, Grace Bay Club, and West Bay Club. Situated on its own private island, tranquility has no boundaries at COMO Parrot Cay. It spotlights 1,000 unspoiled acres and four-miles of pristine white-sands, in addition to beach houses and private residences. Meanwhile, Beaches Turks & Caicos is the capital for everything family here, featuring its very own Pirates Island Water Park. Adding to its charm, discover a 12-mile beach and five spectacular villages. They will represent the architecture and ambiance of France, Italy, the Caribbean and the Key West.
Considered one of the safest Caribbean islands, Anguilla offers a laid-back vibe and is still a British territory, not an independent nation. Anguilla’s local charm combined with luxury tourism and breathtaking locations, all add up to an unforgettable stay. Moreover, the brilliant coastline boasts miles and miles of white-sand beaches that will set your mind free. Experience an endless array of water sports, glass-bottom boat tours, horseback riding, and kid-friendly activities such as swimming with dolphins. Despite the rise in tourism numbers year by year, Anguilla still manages to retain its easygoing charm. The US Department of State reports that crime rates in Anguilla are some of the lowest on the islands. However, you should take standard precautions nevertheless, as many small related crimes have been reported. Responsible for the defense, the Royal Anguilla Police Force is regularly updated to all the current events.
Believe it or not, hurricanes can be more of a threat here as opposed to local crime. And for the weather-related concerns, consider the time of year that you’re planning to visit. A popular hiding spot for many celebrities, the tiny island is so small that there is no public transport. Tourists can rent bicycles to see the entire island in just one day’s bike ride. The island also has a low-key nightlife and many friendly restaurants where you can head to enjoy delicious regional food.
Where to Stay
An exciting stay awaits you at the following resorts. At Four Seasons Anguilla, you can fill your days with relaxing pool time, water sports and exotic dining experiences. Discover a laid-back experience at Turtle’s Nest Beach Resort, featuring just 21 condos in the heart of Meads Bay. From wellness journeys to vibrant island cuisine and Caribbean seaside adventures, escape the everyday at Malliouhana. Lastly, Zemi Beach House, LXR Hotels & Resorts is nestled on Anguilla’s tranquil Shoal Bay. This extraordinary escape spotlights four outdoor pools, including an adult-only infinity pool and private cabanas.
According to travel site Oyster.com, St. Martin is considered one of the safest Caribbean Islands. This breathtaking island is ruled by the French and the Dutch. Visitors can find the two island colonies in the same 37 square-miles. For centuries, both nations have welcomed foreign visitors, traveling freely between both sides. The French side of the island is more laid back and flourishes a very sophisticated vibe. It also serves the tastiest French food that you will find in the entire region. In addition, Saint Martin plays host to a number of popular party beaches. If you are looking for something more fun, you can cross over to the Dutch side. Sint Maarten is home to the buzzing capital of Philipsburg and spotlights an array of nightclubs, restaurants, and chic boutiques. Dive into sea life at any one of the 35 dive sites or enjoy the top-notch snorkeling.
The US State Department has no advisories about traveling here but advises that you should take precautions against petty crime. Subsequently, you should be warned that one of the biggest crimes will be by passport theft. Because of this, it is recommended to carry a driver’s license and a photocopy of your passport with you. Meanwhile, you can leave the physical passport back at your hotel safe. You can go a step further and make two photocopies of all your travel documents back at home. Perhaps leaving them with friends and family members, just in case the documents become lost.
Where to Stay
Embrace scenic accommodations that dish out a kaleidoscope of ambiance. Embracing a contemporary Caribbean style, the adults-only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort sets the stage for a truly memorable getaway. Be razzled and dazzled by an all-inclusive entertainment program, butler suites, a range of classes and three beachfront à-la-carte restaurants. Meanwhile, Esmeralda Resort is highlighted by 50 rooms and suites, spread across 14 luxurious villas. The all-inclusive Divi Little Bay Beach Resort is represented by a breathtaking beach, refreshing pools, fun activities and delicious dining.
Well-known as a party playground for the rich and famous, St. Barths or Saint-Barthélemy (officially,) is incredibly safe, as there is very little to no crime here. A sure bet for the safest Caribbean islands, this charming country boasts a very proud murder rate of zero. It is so safe that most locals and visitors even leave their car and house unlocked for this very reason. As always, follow general advice to exercise common sense and take basic precautions. Generally, things like being aware of your surroundings and try to avoid walking at night. Probably the greatest danger to travelers here should be overexposure to the sun and the seasonal hurricanes. Additionally, St. Barts is the most expensive and one of the more exclusive islands in the Caribbean. This is a piece of paradise where the elites park their yachts and high-speed boats.
Believe it or not, this tropical haven also is home to the shortest airport runway in the world. There are two ways only to arrive here – either a small prop plane or by ferry. It’s good to know that the natives deeply care about their colorful coral reefs and animal preservation. Being a French Overseas Territory, it is obviously a very liberal place to be. The swanky marinas, pristine beaches, designer boutiques, and luxurious hotels draw in the richest of the rich. Just keep your belongings close to you at all times, and you’ll be just fine on this volcanic island in the northwest Caribbean.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for the best hotels to stay at while visiting, try the luxurious Eden Rock – St. Barths. Considered one of the top 100 hotels in the world, the one-of-a-kind vacation played host to numerous Hollywood characters. Find exhalation in exquisite oceanside living spaces, harmonious spa treatments and delectable dining. Meanwhile, Le Sereno will exceed expectations by offering only 39 suites, in addition to three spacious four-bedroom villas. Beautifully set on a white-sand shoreline, Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa is a boutique stay. With just 44 rooms and suites and two luxury villas, they are represented by a tranquil Caribbean style.
Encompassing three islands in the western Caribbean Sea, the Cayman Islands is full of big encounters and little escapes. The largest island, Grand Cayman, is the most known and plays host to George Town, the capital city and a popular port for cruise ships. The two other islands include Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. Another British Overseas Territory, the region is considered a major world offshore financial hub for wealthy individuals and international businesses. The country is home to several stunning beaches and the most luxurious hotels as well. Of which, the famed Seven Mile Beach incorporates the two perfectly. For the most part, as far as crime, there is nothing to worry about when in the Cayman Islands. According to the U.S. Department of State Cayman Islands are very safe and barely experience any criminal activity affecting tourists.
As a matter of fact, the stable economy and relative wealth of the country helps keep it afloat. Robberies occasionally occur and it is recommended to always keep your doors and windows locked. It might be the reason why many rich people set up a base here. Cayman Islands also has one of the lowest homicide rates in the entire world. Moreover, it is also considered one of the safest Caribbean islands to travel to. It’s no secret that these islands are a haven for all travelers. And that’s in addition to being a major player in popular tourist attractions like Stingray City and the Crystal Caves.
Where to Stay
If you are looking for the very best places to make the perfect stay, we suggest the following. Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa features an exclusive beachfront area, as well as an amazing spa and three dining destinations. Find luxury at its best at Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman with elegant suites and reimagined culinary experiences. Beautifully situated on prime beachfront, revel in the good life at Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort and Spa. This dream escape offers relaxing island-inspired designs, numerous water sports and a sparkling pool with a swim-up bar. Finally, Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort is home to crystal-clear waters and gorgeous sunsets. We also have an entire article dedicated where to stay on Seven Mile Beach.
Nicknamed the “Land of 365 Beaches,” Antigua and Barbuda is part of the Leeward Islands chain. Precisely where the northeastern Caribbean Sea meets the western Atlantic Ocean. The islands are best-known for their welcoming people, tropical rainforests, pink and white-sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. The charm also lies in its small population, creating a perfect getaway for those who seek a peaceful private retreat. Antigua is an ideal place to try expeditions like zip-lining, hiking and trekking. Add to that, the breathtaking waters are perfect for water activities such as kayaking, canoeing, snorkeling and sightseeing tours. Not a high-risk factor for visitors, Antigua and Barbuda are considered one of the safest Caribbean islands. The level of petty crime is pretty moderate in the island chain. Subsequently, it’s a good idea to lock up any valuables and to always watch your back.
Although there are some robberies and murders on the main island of Antigua, attacks on tourists are extremely rare. There may be some parts of St. John’s where it may be a bit risky for you and your family. More or less, it’s always recommended to visit isolated beaches in a group, rather than on your own. Once you step foot on the island, discover a world of splendor and beauty, forgetting all your worries at home.
Where to Stay
Some of our favorite places to stay on the two islands include all-inclusive stays. Jumby Bay Island offers a private island paradise, while Cocobay Resort is well suited for couples in love. Overlooking the spectacular sea, Hermitage Bay features luxurious accommodation, wellness programs and dining facilities. The adults-only Verandah Resort & Spa is superbly situated on 30-acres of palm-studded beach, showcasing luxury suites and villas. Ideal for families, Royalton Antigua Resort & Spa is the ideal backdrop for your dream vacation. This all-inclusive hotel plays host to various water sports, full-service spa, a casino and a variety of restaurants and bars. Voted the “World’s Most Romantic Resort” year after year, Sandals Grande Antigua is home to pleasure seeking couples. Boasting six pools and six whirlpools, experience unlimited fine dining at eleven restaurants and seven bars, including swim-up bars.
Easily considered one of the safest Caribbean Islands, Barbados is not only free from crime, but it’s also very budget-friendly. As you can imagine, tourism plays an important role, drawing well-over a million visitors every year. In fact, you will find generous locals who will welcome you and show you around. Part of the British Commonwealth, the tropical island is filled with stunning pink sand beaches and turquoise waters. More to the nation than just picturesque beaches, the delicious cuisine is a must-try, including the delicious flying fish dish. The US Department of State places Barbados on its safe travel list. Most visitors traveling will be staying in resorts and will be very unlikely to run into serious crime. Theft will be the most common crime for tourists. You should keep in mind that camouflaged clothing is illegal and the rule is taken very seriously on the island.
And as always, it’s a good reminder to stay sensible when you are out, especially at night. Bridgetown, the capital, is generally safe during the daytime. However, be very careful at night, especially if you are alone. When driving, use extra caution on the smaller roads which may be marked with informal signs. Another good point is that Barbados is part of the ABC island chain. Subsequently, this means that the island is outside the hurricane belt, leaving you safe from those very destructive storms. All in all, Barbados is home to countless beaches, tons of activities and attractions, and culinary options delighting every taste. Make it your choice today.
Where to Stay
When booking a stay in Barbados, you will have plenty of accommodation options such as private resorts and vacation rentals. Our favorite hotel picks for this scenic island consist of the following. Conveniently located, Courtyard Bridgetown features a 24-hour fitness center, an outdoor pool and deck, along with delicious alfresco dining. Meanwhile, the 5-star Fairmont Royal Pavilion boasts beachfront rooms, attractive suites and villas, on top of al fresco fine dining. Hilton Barbados Resort incorporates two white-sand beaches, two outdoor pools, full-service spa and world-class dining. Dive into all-inclusive luxury at Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados. Combined together, experience unlimited fine dining at 21 restaurants, as well as fourteen bars, including rooftop and swim-up bar. And this will be in addition to a total eleven pools and six whirlpools, and a 4-lane bowling alley.
1. Virgin Islands
The Virgin Islands is an archipelago of 90-some small islands, islets, and cays in the West Indies. Providing more of an upscale and sophisticated vibe, it is one of the safest Caribbean Islands. The islands are divided up into two sections, the U.S. Virgin Islands (UVI) and the British Virgin Islands (BVI.) These regions are very well-known for their scenic beaches, turquoise waters and magnificent national parks. VI’s is also a big boating port of call, where sailboats can make stops between popular cruise ports. Leading up to a very low crime rate, penalties for a crime can be very severe across these two regions. The murder rate was last recorded at 2 per 100,000 back in 2006, all making it a very safe destination. So safe in the fact that it is not at all considered risky wandering through the streets alone at night.
The largest island in the British Virgin Islands is Tortola. Moreover, this city is also considered one of the safest islands in the entire Caribbean region. Unfortunately, the more densely populated cities of the U.S. Virgin Islands tend to be a bit riskier. The US State Department has no advisories about traveling to these two destinations. However, they advise that you should take precautions against petty crime. Be warned that one of the biggest crimes is passport theft. Because of this, it is recommended to carry a driver’s license and a photocopy of your passport with you. All while leaving the physical passport in your hotel safe. So, no matter which you chose, the picturesque views and the luxurious resorts combine to make the Virgin Islands a fantastic place to visit. The best news is, if you are American, you don’t need a passport to visit the U.S. side.
Where to Stay
There are a number of recommended places to stay in the U.S. section. The colorful Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove is perched on a picturesque hillside with secluded beach. Choose from two and three-bedroom villas, a dynamic infinity pool, fitness center, and a poolside restaurant. Westin Beach Resort & Spa at Frenchman’s Reef offers world-class resort experience. This lovely place presents a signature spa, dockside water sports, beachfront pool and restaurants with ocean-inspired dishes. Set magnificently on 30 spectacular acres, Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas invites you to elevate your stay with them. and finally, on the British side, book a memorable stay at Westin St. John Resort Villas. This sprawling escape features either a studio, one, two and three bedroom villas, and a luxury townhouse.
Safest Caribbean Islands: The End
Best Online Travel Deals hopes you feel inspired by our incredible look at the safest Caribbean Islands. We inspire for you to have a worry-free vacation while visiting these safe and suggested places. You will not regret your trip at the very least. If you are interested, we also have an article on the best beaches in the Caribbean. Be sure to check it out.
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