Safest Caribbean Islands and Ones To Avoid in 2024

While the Caribbean Islands are generally a very safe destination, high-profile incidents can quickly leave travellers wondering what lurks beneath its sun-and-fun veneer. British Overseas Territories tend to be the safest among the others. According to research, though, the fear of crime in the Caribbean Islands is generally overblown. Therefore, we bring you a list of the safest Caribbean Islands, allowing you to relax and enjoy your trip without unnecessary worries. With so many beautiful destinations to choose from, you’ll find the perfect island that meets all your safety expectations in no time.

Safest Caribbean Islands and Crime Rates

Statistics show that violent crime rarely touches the 28 million or so tourists who visit the Caribbean every year. Reports of violence are mainly confined to inner-city areas which see few tourists. Like many vacation destinations, petty street crime does occur. Furthermore, valuables left unattended at Caribbean beaches, in rental cars or hotel rooms are vulnerable to theft. By staying vigilant and following local advice, you can further enhance your safety. Remember, the safest Caribbean islands are those where tourists remain aware of their surroundings and take common-sense precautions.

What About Hurricanes?

You’d have to have had your head in the sand if you hadn’t heard about recent hurricanes affecting the Caribbean. And it’s no secret that the region is prone to rain and storms – but that doesn’t make it unsafe to visit and should not spoil your Caribbean vacation. Knowing when and where to travel can make all the difference. The safest Caribbean islands often have robust infrastructure and preparedness plans to handle storms, ensuring that tourists remain safe even during hurricane season.

Bad weather in the Caribbean is typically confined to hurricane season which lasts from June to November. But the risk of storms generally peaks in an even smaller window, roughly from August through October. Statistically speaking, even if you travel at this time of year, the odds are excellent that you’ll enjoy a hurricane-free vacation. But of course, it pays off to take precautions and be aware that there are some risks. Travellers can often find great deals during this season, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious visitors.

Which Caribbean Island Is the Safest?

There is no „safest“ Caribbean island, but research shows that some destinations do have higher crime rates than others. So, which ones are the safest Caribbean islands to visit? The answer often lies in local crime statistics and visitor experiences. 

Montserrat

Nicknamed “The Emerald Isle of the Caribbean” both for its terrain and the heritage of its inhabitants, Montserrat is a British territory in the Leeward Islands. It is considered one of the safest islands in the Caribbean, with its last recorded murder occurring in 2013. The island’s tranquil environment and friendly community make it a perfect destination for those seeking peace and security. Whether hiking its lush landscapes or enjoying its serene beaches, Montserrat promises a safe and memorable experience

St.Barts

St. Barts is short for Saint Barthélemy. This Francophone island is a French overseas collectivity. Known as a party place for the rich and famous, it is also dubbed safe due to its murder rate of zero. This makes it one of the safest Caribbean islands, perfect for those seeking luxury and safety. The island’s exclusive resorts and pristine beaches attract discerning travellers who value both glamour and peace of mind.

The British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands consist of Tortola, the largest and most inhabited island, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, Josh Van Dyke, and over 50 smaller islands and cays. The murder rate was last recorded at 8.2 per 100,000 back in 2006, making it a very safe destination for travellers.  Visitors can enjoy the stunning natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere of these islands. With plenty of outdoor activities and a strong focus on visitor safety, the British Virgin Islands are a top choice for a secure Caribbean getaway.

The Cayman Islands

Another British Overseas Territory, the Cayman Islands, is widely known as a financial haven for wealthy individuals. The islands are very safe for travellers, with a murder rate that is fairly low and comparable to that of the United States. Therefore, families and solo travellers alike can enjoy the island’s attractions without undue concern for their safety.

Bonaire

Bonaire, part of the ABC islands and a special municipality of the Netherlands, is known for its safety. Unlike most Caribbean islands, Bonaire is located outside of Hurricane Alley and years go by without a single homicide on the island. However, in May 2017, two murders occurred within 24 hours, to the shock and horror of both travellers and locals alike. Despite this anomaly, Bonaire remains one of the safest Caribbean islands, particularly favoured by divers and nature enthusiasts for its pristine marine 

Antigua and Barbuda

A sovereign state in the Americas and British Commonwealth, Antigua and Barbuda is nicknamed the “Land of 365 Beaches” and maintains a​ very low crime rate. The islands offer a safe and picturesque setting for visitors seeking relaxation and adventure. The friendly locals and vibrant culture add to the appeal, making it a top choice among the safest Caribbean islands.

Martinique

This overseas region of France is located in the Lesser Antilles. While Martinique has the highest murder rate of the islands on this list, the murder rate was still low at 2.8 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants, recorded in 2009. Despite this, Martinique remains one of the safest Caribbean islands for tourists who stick to well-known areas and exercise common precautions. The island’s unique blend of French and Caribbean cultures offers a rich and engaging travel experience.

Barbados

Considered one of the safest Caribbean islands for families, Barbados is an independent British Commonwealth nation. Each year this island welcomes around 1 million visitors. The tourism industry is a huge part of the island’s economy. Moreover, the locals are said to be some of the friendliest in the entire Caribbean.

Barbados is generally a safe place to travel but there are certain things to be aware of. For instance,  it’s illegal to wear any kind of camouflaged clothing in Barbados, and they take this rule very seriously. Ensuring you follow local regulations will help you enjoy a trouble-free vacation.

Anguilla

Like many of its neighbouring islands, Anguilla has experienced a growth spurt over the past few decades, evidenced by the rise of swanky hotels and upscale villa resorts. While this British Overseas Territory relies on its luxury tourism (the rich and famous frequently travel to Anguilla), it hasn’t lost any of its laid-back charm and iconic Caribbean beaches. Crime rates in Anguilla are some of the lowest in the Caribbean, but you should take standard precautions nevertheless. This balance of luxury and safety makes Anguilla one of the safest Caribbean islands for a relaxing getaway.

The Turks and Caicos

Some of the safest Caribbean islands for families due to their soft sandy beaches. What’s more, the Turks and Caicos are surrounded by gentle seas and have warm year-round temperatures. The region’s rainfall level is low compared to some of its counterparts, and hurricanes are few and far between. This British Overseas Territory is comprised of 40 islands and cays – only a handful of which are inhabited by 30,000 local residents. This number is a stark contrast to the half a million tourists who arrive by plane each year.

The Most Dangerous Caribbean Islands

On the basis of crime rates, some of the least safe Caribbean Islands to visit include Puerto Rico, Haiti, and Trinidad and Tobago. However, it’s important to note that most crime in the Caribbean is an internal problem, primarily linked to inner-city neighbourhoods far from tourist resorts. Therefore, if you plan to venture beyond well-known areas, ensure you conduct thorough research and avoid areas with known safety concerns.