Looking for the safest Caribbean islands? These are the safest islands (for families, couples, and solo travelers) and the best places to stay in each one!
Due to the beautiful weather, laid-back ocean vibes, and great activities, the Caribbean is a region that I find myself returning to time and time again. However, not all Caribbean islands are created equal in terms of safety, and it definitely pays to know the particular risks of each island and take precautions.
That said, no matter where you travel in the Caribbean, common sense security practices will go a long way in making sure you stay safe.
Remember to plan your trip around hurricane season, be cautious when flashing around valuables, don’t leave your personal items unattended, stay near well-lit and populated areas at night, purchase travel insurance (we use World Nomads), and know the local emergency numbers to call in case of any issues.
Chances are, you’ll have a great time in the Caribbean if you stay aware of the possible dangers. After traveling extensively in this part of the world, we’ve gathered this list to help you choose the safest islands to visit!
Table of Contents
The Safest Caribbean Islands in 2021 (And Where to Stay!)
Aruba
Located outside the hurricane belt just off the coast of Venezuela, Aruba is an extremely safe destination that pretty much guarantees excellent weather no matter when you visit.
Getting around Aruba is simple in that the island is compact and modern. Plus, between the beaches, adventure activities, and cultural experiences you won’t run out of things to do!
In regards to safety, use common sense in Aruba and don’t leave your belongings unattended or flash around valuables. Other than that, be sure to stock up on sunscreen, as those UV rays are pretty intense.
Where to Stay in Aruba
For a luxury stay in Aruba, I highly recommend the Renaissance Aruba Resort, while if you’re looking for something more affordable check out Talk of the Town Beach Hotel.
Read more: 10 Best Things To Do In Aruba
Turks & Caicos
Technically located in the Atlantic, the Turks & Caicos islands are still considered to be a part of the Caribbean.
In terms of both overall crime and crime against tourists, Turks & Caicos ranks as one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. Made up of an archipelago of 40 islands, you can expect a wide range of activities on Turks & Caicos including whale watching, kiteboarding, snorkeling, sailing, having a barbecue, and checking out the local history.
It’s important to note that the majority of people reside on the main island of Providenciales, and as such most of the crime does happen there, although it’s still very safe. South Caicos, North and Middle Caicos, and Salt Cay report very little crime against tourists.
Also, be aware that Turks & Caicos doesn’t have any widespread public transportation, so take caution when getting around. Although there are taxis, always be sure to confirm the price of the ride before you get in the vehicle as the drivers might try to hike up the fare once you get to your destination.
In addition to the taxis, you’ll also spot minibuses, or “jitney’s”, although they’re mostly for local workers and are best avoided. I find the easiest way to get around is by renting a car.
Where to Stay in Turks & Caicos
Point Grace Resort & Spa is a beautiful luxury accommodation that won’t disappoint, while La Vista Azul Resort is a great mid-budget location in Turtle Bay.
Read more: 10 Best Things To Do In Turks and Caicos (Providenciales)
Cayman Islands
Located in the western Caribbean Sea, the Cayman Islands are made up of Grand Cayman (the largest, main island), Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman, and has everything from luxury villas to secluded beaches.
You’ll find relaxing resorts and awesome scuba diving On Grand Cayman, great fishing on Cayman Brac, and diverse wildlife such as Iguanas and Red-footed Boobies on Little Cayman.
While crime against tourists in the Cayman Islands is rare, watch out for large cruise-ship crowds, as they’re rather busy and pickpocketing can happen. Additionally, if you plan on spending time in the water, watch out for Scorpionfish and Jellyfish, which will give a painful sting if you touch them and tend to disguise themselves quite well.
Where to Stay in the Cayman Islands
For a luxury stay on Grand Cayman, the Kimpton Seafire Resort is highly rated, while Sunshine Suites Resort is great for a mid-range stay.
St. Maarten
A beautiful Caribbean Island governed by both the French and the Dutch, St. Maarten is a luxurious destination where you’ll find excellent shopping, nightlife, beaches, lagoons, and mountains. While it may be a very small island, what it lacks in land mass it makes up for in beauty and activities.
St. Maarten is also a very safe island to visit, with crimes against tourists relatively low. Nevertheless, passport theft, petty theft, and car break-ins have been reported, so be sure to keep your eye on your valuables, lock up what you’re not using in a safe, and don’t leave anything of value in cars.
Where to Stay in St. Maarten
Princess Port de Plaisance is a gorgeous luxury resort in Philipsburg, while Sea View Beach Hotel or Alicia’s Inn are great if you’re traveling on a budget.
Barbados
A Caribbean cultural mecca, Barbados has incredible food, history, music, great surf, and lush nature. Whether you’re into discovering the UNESCO-affiliated capital of Bridgetown, lounging on the beaches, or dancing the night away, Barbados has a scene for you. Plus, the people here are notoriously friendly.
While violent crimes against tourists are rare, have your guard up against petty theft, especially when in crowded areas, and if you want to enjoy some nightlife, plan on going with a group to avoid potential theft.
Where to Stay in Barbados
Accra Beach Hotel is a beautiful high-end accommodation option in Bridgetown, and All Seasons Resort is a great mid-range option.
St. Lucia
No matter how many times I visit St. Lucia, it never fails to wow me. Not only does the island have a picture-perfect coastline, it’s filled with lush nature and mountains that tower over the sea. When in St. Lucia, I recommend visiting Pigeon Island National Park, Castries Market, Tet Paul Nature Trail, and the luxurious Sulfur Springs.
In terms of safety measures to take on St. Lucia, try to avoid walking alone in isolated areas or at night, take taxi precautions, and if you rent a car, don’t go offroading unless you have a 4×4 as roads tend to be narrow and rough at times.
Also be aware that wearing camouflage in St. Lucia is banned, as it’s thought of as imitating military personnel.
Where to Stay in St. Lucia
The Landings Resort & Spa, Ti Kaye Resort & Spa, and Anse Chastanet Resort are all beautiful luxury properties. For something more mid-budget, check out Coco Palm.
Read more: St. Lucia Travel Guide & Packing Tips
Anguilla
One of the most idyllic, laid-back islands in the Caribbean, Anguilla is about 12 miles north of St. Maarten and is mostly a luxury destination where water-sports reign.
Expect a lot of snorkeling, scuba diving, glass-bottomed kayaking, water-skiing, and sailing on your visit. The island is also known for its live music – whether you’re into reggae or something a little softer, you’ll find a nightlife spot.
Due to the high standards and precautions taken by locals, crime against tourists is very low. On your trip to Anguilla, your biggest concerns will be to not travel there during hurricane season and to confirm the price with taxi drivers before you get in the car, as there is no public transportation.
Where to Stay in Anguilla
Zemi Beach Resort & Spa is a top-rated luxury option in Anguilla, while Carimar Beach Club is great for mid-budgets.
Martinique
A beautiful, natural island that’s part of the Lesser Antilles, Martinique is a heavily French-influenced destination with azure waters, palm trees, and rugged volcanic regions. However, while the island is definitely known for its beauty, it also has amazing cultural experiences and dining.
When in Martinique, hike to Mount Pelee, a volcano that will give you awesome views of the ocean, scuba dive at Diamond Rock, and laze around on Les Salines beach.
Fun fact, in 2016 Martinique was designated the safest destination in the Caribbean by the Caribbean Tourism Quality Index. Yet, while Martinique is fairly safe, be sure to exercise normal precautions. Also, as a note to keep in the back of your mind, it’s best not to be alone in areas such as Fort-de-France after dark, as muggings have happened in the past.
Where to Stay in Martinique
Le Cap Est Lagoon Resort & Spa is a highly rated luxury option in Martinique, while Karibea La Valmenière Hotel is a great middle of the road property in Fort-de-France.
St. Barts
Only 18 miles off the shore of St. Maarten, St. Barts is a high-end destination known for its designer boutiques and picturesque beaches. On the island do some designer shopping, head to a beach club, laze around on beautiful Colombier Beach, head into the capital city of Gustavia, or try out some water sports.
While there are no specific precautions to take against violent crime or petty theft, exercise normal precautions in protecting yourself from any incidents. Honestly, besides potential one-off occurrences, the biggest things to look out for on St. Barts is protecting yourself from bug bites and the harsh rays of the tropical sun.
Where to Stay in St. Barts
Le Sereno and Hotel Christopher Saint Barth are beautiful luxury options in Gustavia.
Bonaire
While Bonaire is well-known for its sustainable tourism efforts and laid-back vibe, it’s also known for being a very safe island. The island is pristine and offers so many awesome activities such as caving, horseback riding, sailing, hiking, and of course, diving. In fact, Bonaire is world-renowned as being a top diving spot!
To keep yourself safe on Bonaire, be aware that break-ins and robberies have been reported, so always make sure to lock your doors and keep valuables safely stowed away.
Additionally, when you’re in the water beware of the fire coral and sea urchins as they’re super painful to step on and will put a damper on your trip.
Where to Stay in Bonaire
Ocean View Villas, Kas Hamaka, and Bridanda Apartments Bonaire are all great apartment options in Bonaire. If you’re looking for a great dive resort, then check out Courtyard by Marriott Bonaire Dive Resort.
Read more: Bonaire Travel Guide + Packing Tips
Caribbean Packing Essentials
Sun Protection: I don’t recommend heading to the tropics without a sun hat (or baseball cap), a pair of quality sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen.
Water Gear: I never go to the Caribbean without a swimsuit, quick-drying towel, rash guard, snorkel set, and a cover-up. Also, because of the stinging fish and urchin hazards, you’ll want a pair of rubber-soled water shoes.
Bug Protection: Bug spray, and light long-sleeved clothes for the evenings are musts in the Caribbean.
Read More:
How to Choose the Right Caribbean Island for Your Vacation
15 Affordable Tropical Destinations For Every Budget
How to Pack for a Sailing Trip
7 Experiences Every Traveler Should Have in St. Lucia
All this topic, helped. We’re hoping to retire, but have been researching to find the”right” place. Thank you.
Ty for all of this info we travel to the Caribbeans frequently. Grand Cayman and St Martin are prob our 2 fav at the moment anyways. Wanted to retire there but my wife said FL is a better option for the convenience of traveling to other parts of the world at a cheaper rate and hurricane season and the target and grocery options are better in the states.
I’ve been to most of those islands too. STJ is by far the safest of those on that list…
I have been to many of these islands . We have done the research and found that some of the carribean islands are better to be left off your list to visit. This is a great list Christy. Only place I would add is the U.S. Virgin island of St John. Beautiful island .
Enjoyed this list! However, I was expecting Grenada to be on it – it has low crime rates, incredibly friendly people and some of the most beautiful beaches
I am surprised that Grenada isn’t in the list, I visited Grenada the people are friendly, beautiful beaches and very laid back!!! I had a great time there.
Though it did not make the list I believe Curacao is pretty safe. Never had any issues there. I would still exercise the same cautions you would anywhere else
Dominica is very safe to visit.very friendly and all green. It’s developing slowly after the hurricane it has improved tremendously.lots of rainforest this is why it’s call the nature island give it a try experience for yourself
Thanks for the mention of the Cayman Islands, it is indeed safe. Lived here all of my life and spent a good part of my youth in the water but I have to say I have never heard of scorpion fish! And getting stung by a jellyfish is rare.
For locals our biggest issue is neo-colonism where we have to exceed European standards to make it in our own country.
Looking to permanently move to a Caribbean island and your list really comes in handy.
Dominica is much safer than St. LUCIA for instance. One of the lowest crime rates of all of the countries in that area.
I traveled to the beautiful Dominica in 2011. Is this no longer a safe place to travel? It was among the safest back then.
Hi Ali. I actually don’t know too much about Dominica so there’s still a chance it’s a safe place to go!
Been to Curaçao and most recently St Thomas/St John no incidents whatsoever.
You just made me dream with this post! I am so in love with this part of the world!