23 Safest Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024 (2024)

All the Caribbean islands are perfect for a vacation, but there are some which stand apart from the others, especially for those who are looking for a safe place to travel after seeing off the worst of Covid 19.

Chances are you will have a great stay no matter where you go, still, the list gathered here will help you to decide which are the safest Caribbean islands to visit in 2023. That said, it is important to remember that common safety procedures will go a long way in making your vacation more enjoyable.

List of Safest Caribbean Islands 2023

Anguilla

If you are looking for the safest Caribbean vacations on a secluded island, away from the crowded and bustling beaches, then Anguilla will be just what the doctor ordered. Having a population of just 15000 individuals and a total length of sixteen miles, all the attractions here are at an arm’s length of each other.

A two mile stretch of pristine sand, known as Shoal Beach, is a favorite among the regulars. Lined with bars and restaurants, guests here can enjoy the most of fine ocean view dining.

Anguilla is home to several marine parks and it’s reef system has abundant marine and coral life. Divers will simply love the number of historic shipwrecks as well, especially at the Stoney Bay Marine Park where the wrecks of an eighteenth century Spanish galleon can be explored.

Click here to book best hotels at lowest rates in the Caribbean Islands.

Jamaica

There is hardly a guide book that does not devote many pages to Jamaica. After all it has everything from stunning beaches, luxury accommodation, jungle experiences and access to the vibrant culture and fantastic food.

While Boston Bay or the Seven Mile Beach will find mention on the lips of any guide, the Frenchman’s Cove on the north-east side of Jamaica are more relaxed and inviting.

This low-risk island is popular with those looking to enjoy reggae music, street performers, festivals and carnivals on white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.

Saint Barts

Surprisingly, Saint Barts (or Saint Barthelemy) is not only considered to be the most expensive and exclusive island in the Caribbean but also the safest. And this despite the island being a magnet to the rich and famous who flock here in the small prop planes from all over the world, enjoying yacht charters.

With regards to safety, locals of Saint Barts are known to often keep their cars and even the homes unlocked. Common sense and general safety precautions are all that need to be heeded.

The French speaking nation with its capital at Gustavia, is known for high end restaurants, designer shops and historical landmarks like the White House, whose exhibits showcase the island’s Swedish colonial era.

The Cayman Islands

After being off-bounds to international leisure travel for most of the pandemic, the Cayman Islands can be regarded as a favourable destination to visit in 2023, both in terms of serenity and safety.

The three island nation imposed the strictest of restrictions of all the Caribbean countries, until it recently opened its borders for tourists.

Visitors can now look forward to enjoying a cold Caybrew on the inviting sands of the Seven Mile Beach next year.

Curacao

Curacao is no doubt tiny by island standards, but what it lacks in size it makes up with beauty. The Grote Knip beach on the north side has made it to one of the best Caribbean beaches list a number of times.

For divers there are a plethora of great spots to East Point and Jan Theil Bay, apart from the hundreds of others you will find scattered all over Curacao.

Even though Curacao is small, its remoteness makes it perfectly safe and a perfect destination to seriously consider for 2023. Surely, one of the best Caribbean island to visit this year.

Cuba

Said to be the most colourful of all the islands in the Caribbean, Cuba deserves this special accolade because of its interesting history and the well-preserved past.

Here vintage cars do the street rounds and colonial buildings are juxtaposed with the palm trees lining the beach giving the island an old world feel, unlike other flashy Caribbean countries.

Attractions here include the Varadero Beach which is connected with the mainland by a drawbridge. The country is totally safe and draws many tourists to its many grand restaurants and hotels.

Barbados

If you are wondering which Caribbean island is the safest to travel to, then Barbados will almost always pop up as a popular choice. Tropical scenery apart, what attracts people to Barbados is the happiness and security of its citizens. Low incidence of self-harm and a culture that values social connections are reasons enough to head this paradise in 2023.

After decades of reclaimed self-determination, Barbados managed to get their own head of state after removing Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II as it’s monarch.

Since the Bajan pride is riding the crest of popularity, it is the perfect time to sample the islands fabulous cuisine, natural attractions and plenty of sunshine.

Click here to book best hotels at lowest rates in the Caribbean Islands.

Aruba

While it is not easy to pick a secure Caribbean island destination for 2023, there are some things to consider to include Aruba in a must visit list. This is because the island is a happy home to constant sunshine due to the warm trade winds.

As Aruba was once a part of the Dutch kingdom, the military defense were strong. With the result, the island has one of the lowest crime rates in the Caribbean, unlike other similar places.

Apart from the different landscape and beaches, visitors can take a jeep tour through the Arikok National Park. Also, the locals are renowned for their friendliness, making a trip to this Caribbean island worthwhile.

Psst.. Know the drinking laws in Aruba before you go ;p

Antigua

While petty crime does increase during carnival times, Antigua is generally considered to be a safe island to visit right now. With bright and colorful buildings, a number of great beaches and historical sights, Antigua should be on the top of the list for a safe vacation in 2023.

Some British influence can still be seen in the Nelson’s Dockyard, the only Georgian Naval dockyard in the world, but the luxury yachts anchored in the harbor are reminiscent of Antigua’s glamorous side and it’s incredibly friendly people.

Best Caribbean Islands to Visit for a Safe Trip – As per Travel Experts

I have gathered some fellow travel bloggers and avid travellers to add to this list based on their own personal experiences of safest islands to visit in the Caribbean.

When you are looking for the safest tropical places to travel to, be sure to include these Caribbean islands to your itinerary. You can be assured of a fun filled vacay whilst you soak up Vitamin Sea –

Cozumel – By Annie from Your Friend the Nomad

I recently visited Cozumel after spending three months traveling around mainland Mexico. Though I never felt truly unsafe in Mexico, I instantly felt a sense of peace and safety rush over me when I arrived in Cozumel.

I arrived on the ferry after dark and felt completely secure walking to my hotel, and throughout my stay, frequently walked through the main city center at night without any sense of danger or discomfort.

Cozumel is not only one of the safest places to visit in the Caribbean, it’s also one of the most appealing. The reefs around Cozumel feature some of the most brilliant snorkeling and scuba diving in the world, and the island itself has Mayan ruins you can explore when you’re not at the beach.

Cozumel’s beaches are pristine and diverse, with calm turquoise blue water on one side, and striking waves on the other. One of the best things to do on Cozumel is rent a scooter and explore the island’s hidden beaches and other sites. Driving around the island only takes a few hours, though you’ll want to add extra time for all the stops.

Driving in Cozumel is also shockingly seamless. The roads are in incredible shape and I’ve never felt more safe on a scooter than I did in Cozumel. While you have to worry about potholes and unruly drivers in most parts of Mexico, you will rarely encounter either on Cozumel.

One last perk of Cozumel is that it is incredibly affordable compared to most Caribbean islands. Overall, Cozumel’s incredible infrastructure, friendly locals, and welcoming atmosphere make it feel much safer than most places in the Caribbean and Mexico. And its unique charm, natural beauty, and enticing history makes it a Caribbean island you can’t miss!

Bonaire – By Stella Jane from Around the World in 24 Hours

Bonaire is one of the safest and prettiest Caribbean Islands to visit. One reason for that is the locals are so friendly. Especially if cruise ships are in town, you can expect to find the arts and crafts market open, with tons of locals selling beautiful handmade products and delicious food. All the merchants will be happy to give advice about how to get around Bonaire safely, whether or not you buy something.

This is especially useful for solo travelers. Sometimes solo travel can feel dangerous in a big city where the locals don’t want to stop and help a stranger. But no visitor to Bonaire needs to be nervous about asking a local for advice.

Another reason that Bonaire is safe is that it is full of peaceful nature. While Bonaire does have a capital city, Kralendijk, most travelers will spend their time relaxing on the beautiful beaches, marveling at the unique pink sand and flamingos, or enjoying scuba diving because Bonaire is one of the most popular diving destinations in the world. No pickpockets to worry about when you’re underwater admiring the sea creatures!

A final reason that Bonaire is safe is the weather! One danger to worry about when traveling around the Caribbean is hurricane season. However, Bonaire, like its neighboring islands Aruba and Curacao, is outside of the hurricane alley, so you don’t need to worry about hurricanes disrupting your safe vacation.

Turks and Caicos – By Kylie from Between England and Everywhere

A Caribbean island that I have visited and felt safe in was Providenciales in Turks and Caicos. The Turks and Caicos Islands are a British Overseas Territory and the official language is English (so no language barrier!). I was traveling solo and felt completely safe during my trip. I stayed in Grace Bay at an Airbnb and wandered into town alone, along the beach to the evening market, and even walked an hour to the south side of the island by myself.

I never once got wolf-whistled or unwanted attention, there were no beach sellers pestering you for business, and the taxis to and from the airport are regulated, so no chance of jumping into a scam taxi.

I also worked several day trips into my Turks and Caicos itinerary. The guides were all amazing and went out of their way to make solo travelers feel comfortable, even offering to drop me wherever I wanted to go after finishing the tour. Obviously, when traveling solo, it’s still important to trust your own judgment and intuition in situations.

Roatan – By Madison from Madisons Footsteps

With a plethora of exciting outdoor activities and a safe and welcoming local community, Roatan, Honduras is a great choice for vacationing as a solo female traveler.

Whether you enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, relaxing on the beach or dancing the night away at one of Roatan’s many beach bars – Roatan is the Caribbean island for you. As a bonus, it also comes at a fraction of the cost of the rest of the Caribbean!

But you may be wondering: is Roatan safe?

Safety is always a priority when traveling solo and Roatan is no exception. In the touristy parts of the island – namely the west side – there is an extremely low crime rate and a bustling community made up of both expats and locals. The island’s main export is tourism – so the locals do their part to make tourists feel appreciated and safe during their vacation.

Before moving to Roatan as a solo female expat in 2021, I had some serious safety concerns about living in Honduras. I was told by residents the island that it was extremely safe, but I had to see it to believe it. The second I touched down, I was immediately comforted by the welcoming expat community and friendly locals. It didn’t hurt that the west side community is small, so everywhere I went I was greeted by familiar faces.

The biggest threat to tourists on Roatan is petty theft, so keep an eye on your belongings. As always, keep an eye on your drink, don’t walk home alone at night and always lock your doors before bed. If you follow normal safety protocols, you’ll be perfectly safe during your Roatan vacation!

British Virgin Islands – By Catherine Xu from Nomadicated

When it comes to safety, the British Virgin Islands (BVIs) consistently top the lists as one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. In fact, when you look at the rate of violent crime, it’s among the lowest in the world!

One of the reasons for this could be the small population of around 30,000 people spread out across 16 inhabited islands. It creates a close-knit community where everyone knows one another.

If you’re a solo traveler, you’ll find it incredibly easy and quite common to hitchhike around the island or hear stories of people getting invited on a sailboat to sail the BVI’s with strangers. From the gorgeous baths of Virgin Gorda to hidden gems on uninhabited islands, every local warmly welcomes you to experience the beauty of their country.

While violent crime is extremely rare, it’s always a good idea to take precautions against petty theft, particularly on Tortola. This island, where the capital is located, is the largest and has the highest population.

As most other Caribbean islands, the BVIs are also prone to hurricanes, with the season usually running from June through November.

Grenada – By Lavina D’Souza of Continent Hop

Grenada is one of the safest islands to visit in the Caribbean. The locals are friendly and the natural aroma of nutmeg floats through the air, making this island one of a kind. It is home to beautiful beaches, golden sand, rivers and waterfalls.

Grenada is heaven for beach lovers and the clear waters are great for diving or snorkelling. You can just laze around these beautiful beaches and have the time of your life. The best time to visit Grenada is between January and May. This is when there is little to no rainfall so you might want to keep this in mind before planning your trip.

Although you may doubt your safety in Grenada, it has low crime rates compared to other islands. It has a good atmosphere and the people are lovely.

That being said, smaller crimes such as pickpocketing do occur. You should definitely be vigilant with your belongings and must not leave your luggage unattended.

I would recommend using cards instead of carrying cash as that is a much safer option.

If you are travelling solo, book your hotels in advance and check if they match all your requirements. Do not share your details with anybody. For extra safety, avoid using ATMs once it’s dark as it can turn out to be risky.

Make sure your food and drinks are safe to consume and of good quality as seafood poisoning is a common phenomenon here.

It is also good to carry water and snacks when you’re travelling alone. While swimming, make sure you do it in the safe zones that are marked as not all waters are safe and some do not come with lifeguards.

Overall, Grenada is a wonderful place and if you take good precautions, you will definitely enjoy your time here.

St Lucia – By Megan From Traveller’s Elixir

I’ve traveled to various Caribbean islands over the years, among these St Lucia stands out not only for its stunning natural beauty but also for the sense of safety and tranquility that can be found in every corner of this Caribbean gem.

From the moment I set foot on the island, I was greeted by warm smiles and genuine hospitality. I recall a day when I decided to explore the charming town of Soufrière. As I strolled through the bustling streets, locals went out of their way to offer directions and share stories about their beloved town. Their openness and kindness melted away any apprehensions I might have had about the island.

The island’s commitment to safety is also evident through its low crime rates and strong community bonds. Whether I was walking along the beaches at sunset or hiking up the Gros Piton trail, I felt completely at ease. Even when venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden waterfalls and secluded coves, I always felt secure.

Whilst the island is generally safe, if you’re traveling alone, it’s wise to exercise the same caution you would in any unfamiliar place – keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying flashy valuables.

San Andrés – By Adam McConnaughhay from Cartagena Explorer

San Andrés is a tiny island located east of Nicaragua. Due to some quirky historical treaties, it belongs to Colombia and is without a doubt one of the lesser known safe Caribbean islands to visit.

For such a tiny island, there’s actually quite a bit to do. You can rent a golf cart and explore the island easily, stopping at a number of beaches and swimming holes around the island. Be sure to stop and get sprayed by the Hoyo Soplador blowhole at the southern tip of the island, and take a boat or swim out to the tiny Rocky Cay where the tiny bar serves some of the best piña coladas anywhere on the island.

A half or full day tour to nearby Johnny Cay island is also a must, and the natural aquarium and reef just off the island is terrific for snorkeling. There are also very affordable introductory diving classes available on San Andrés.

With a relatively small population, violent crime is virtually unheard of, and San Andrés is very safe. Solo travelers will likely prefer staying around the downtown area known as the North End, which is where the best beach of Spratt Bight is located as well as many of the best San Andrés hotels. This area is also where most restaurants are.

There are a few hostels such as the Dreamer Beach Club and Viajero on the North End. On the less crowded west side of the island, you’ll find Republica Hostel. There are lots of guest houses, called Posadas, and apartment style lodgings all around the island too.

Buses along the east side of the island are fairly quick, easy, and cheap, but they are a bit fewer and far between on the west side of the island. Taxis are much more expensive here than elsewhere in Colombia as well, so keep that in mind when deciding where to stay.

San Blas – By Victoria from GuideYourTravel

Nestled off the Caribbean coast of Panama lies a hidden gem that beckons travellers seeking tranquillity and adventure: the San Blas Islands. With pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, these islands are a dream come true for any wanderer. As a solo traveller, my journey to this picturesque haven was not just about exploring its natural beauty but also about immersing myself in a culture that radiates warmth and safety.

From the moment I set foot on the islands, the genuine hospitality of the Kuna indigenous people enveloped me in a sense of security. Their tight-knit community and rich traditions foster an environment where visitors are embraced as friends rather than strangers. This familial atmosphere reassured me that I was in a place where respect and harmony prevailed.

The Kuna’s self-governance contributes significantly to the feeling of safety on the islands. Their commitment to preserving their heritage and land has led to low crime rates, making solo exploration an absolute joy. Wandering through vibrant markets, indulging in local cuisine, and embarking on snorkelling adventures felt like second nature in this welcoming haven.

For fellow solo travellers, here are a few tips:
Engage with locals by learning basic Kuna phrases – a small effort that goes a long way.
Opt for established accommodations and inquire about reputable guides for water activities.
Respect local customs, such as seeking permission before taking photos, to nurture the goodwill that makes this destination unique.

Puerto Rico – By Daria from Discovery Nut

Puerto Rico is a popular destination in the Caribbean famous for its diverse landscapes that range from incredible golden sand beaches to mountains, waterfalls and the El Yunque tropical rainforest, the only rainforest in the United States Parks National System.

Puerto Rico boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. From the golden sands of Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island to the vibrant shores of Isla Verde, you can enjoy a variety of beach activities, from swimming and sunbathing to water sports like surfing and snorkeling.

Vieques Island off the coast of Puerto Rico is famous for its bioluminescence, a natural phenomenon which occurs when microorganisms in the water emit a blue-green glow when disturbed. Experiencing the magic of bioluminescence during a night kayak tour is an unforgettable experience.

Whether you are a culture buff or adventure enthusiast, you will have plenty to do on the island. The capital of Puerto Rico, San Juan, boasts plenty of history and culture and the island is full of opportunities for adventure from diving and snorkeling to hiking, kayaking, and zip-lining. To appreciate the beauty of the island, you should rent a car and take a road trip around the island.

I visited Puerto Rico by myself and always felt safe, and even when I went hiking and stayed late on the road. The locals in Puerto Rico are welcoming and friendly and are always ready to help you.

Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so U.S. citizens don’t need a passport to travel there. English is widely spoken, making it convenient for English-speaking travelers.

Caye Caulker – By Joanna from The World in my Pocket

Caye Caulker is a wonderful island in the Caribbean, that belongs to Belize. The island is easy to reach by water bus, from Belize City, in about one hour. The entire island of Caye Caulker is pedestrian only. There are no cars on the island, except for a few golf carts. If you want to move faster, you can always hire a bike, but you will have to pedal on the sand, as there are no real roads on the island. However, the motto of the island is “Go Slow”, which is embraced by everyone here.

Caye Caulker is a relatively small island, which you can walk in about 20 minutes. It is a very safe destination, especially if you are travelling on your own. There are several hostels and hotels on the island, and the main touristic activities involve the water. Snorkelling in Caye Caulker is nothing less of spectacular, with several spots in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve where you can see corals, nurse sharks, sting rays, eels, turtles, and sometimes even manatees.

Make sure to stop by the Split for a beer with a view – here is where the island was split in two by a violent storm, years ago. On this spot there is now a very popular beach bar.

Isla Mujeres – By Dan fromBackpacking Latin America

“Known in English as the ’island of women’, Isla Mujeres (in Spanish) is one of the safest islands to visit in the Caribbean and sits just off the coast of Cancun.

This is an island filled with white sand beaches, so if you want to enjoy the Caribbean sea without the hustle of the bustle of the Cancun strip you’ll love Isla Mujeres.

It is here you can visit the Underwater Museum of MUSA where you’ll find various stone statues sitting on the sea floor. What made me feel safe here is the fact there is just the right amount of local-to-tourist ratio on the island. Also, because there are new boats arriving each day, it somehow feels safer walking around as a new tourist on the island.

If traveling solo, you can go on a tour and meet likeminded people to explore with. Playa Norte is where all the action is with restaurants, bars and shops all within walking distance. Then if you want to get close to a tranquil paradise as possible, Playa Lancheros is the best option.”

US Virgin Islands – By Ashley Jansen of Jetset Jansen

The US Virgin Islands are some of the easiest islands to travel to in the Caribbean. They are US territories so there are many direct flights from the states. Because they are popular tourist destinations, visiting is very safe. Any crime on the islands rarely involves tourists.

The three islands: St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix, receive many visitors each year and there are many tourist areas. Though you should always be aware of leaving things visible in your car, you won’t feel uncomfortable walking around here.

Of the three islands, St. John has the least amount of crime and is the safest to visit. It also has the lowest population and more than half of the island is made up of the Virgin Islands National Park. St. Croix is the largest of the three islands but the least visited. Though it has a higher crime rate, it rarely impacts tourists. It’s still safe to visit and there are a lot of things to see in St. Croix.

St. Thomas is the most popular island to visit. It has upscale shopping, lots of restaurant options and is a hub for Caribbean cruises. It’s more commercialized and because of its popularity, you’ll feel safe exploring the island.

The US Virgin Islands have a lot of beautiful places to see and they are a great option to visit on your Caribbean vacation!

Isla Holbox – By Hannah and Adam from Getting Stamped

Isla Holbox, situated along the Northern Coastline of Mexico, emerges as a wonderful choice for travelers, primarily due to its exceptional safety.

The island feels safer as there is a relatively low number of tourists compared to the bustling Riviera Maya. Isla Holbox is known for its tranquil and laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for exploration.

The unique feature of no cars (except work vehicles) allowed sets it apart from other areas in the Yucatan Peninsula, making it a perfect place for pedestrian exploration.

The entire region exudes a cozy, small-town vibe, with people gathering in the town center (pueblo) for dinner and socializing. The tight-knit community ensures that everyone looks out for one another and extends the same welcoming treatment to visitors.

No matter how safe a destination is, it is always a good practice to be aware of your surroundings, follow local guidelines, and take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Beach bums always look for safe tropical vacations and are vary of the worst Caribbean islands to visit.

Here’s a helpful video I found for safe Caribbean islands to visit and other tips to navigate island life –

Our list of safest Caribbean islands is jotted on this map to get an idea of distances between all –

FAQ’s

More and more people are asking about the safest Caribbean island 2023to travel to now. We hope this guide has given give you a quick overview of where to escape.