Soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant local culture—the Caribbean Islands have everything needed to relax from the stress of work and life.
Though idyllic and a popular choice for US travelers, a few Caribbean Islands aren’t necessarily safe to visit. Based on data from the US Department of State, at least four Caribbean islands should give travelers pause when planning their vacation.
Luckily, most of the Caribbean is extremely safe—more than 10 other islands receive “Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions” status, the lowest the State Department offers.
Skip these 4 Caribbean Islands on your next beach vacation, and visit one of these 10 safe ones instead:
Skip: Jamaica
Jamaica is often cited as a classic Caribbean destination for its sprawling resorts and beaches. Still, you might be surprised to hear that this much-talked-about destination isn’t as safe as it seems.
The US Department of State gives Jamaica a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” advisory, citing crime, weak law enforcement, and faulty medical services as cause for concern. Several areas of the country are listed as “Level 4: Do Not Travel.” If you choose to travel to Jamaica, stick to spending your vacation at a resort, avoid walking alone at night, and stay away from public transportation.
Safe: Barbados
Barbados’ ultra-soft beaches and stunning blue waters make the country an easy alternative to Jamaica. Though the culture is not quite the same, you can experience many of the same activities in both countries, like going on a rum distillery tour or snorkeling.
Barbados is safe to travel to, receiving a “Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions” status.
Skip: Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival is the biggest and most well-known in the Caribbean. The extravagant event, as well as the country’s cuisine and beaches, is a major draw for international tourists.
Unfortunately, Trinidad and Tobago struggles with several serious safety concerns, giving it a Level 3 travel advisory. Should you vacation in Trinidad and Tobago, use extra caution when at ATMs, avoid walking at night, and do not resist thieves.
Safe: Grenada
Known as the “Spice Island” of the Caribbean, Grenada boasts sweeping views and a long history of chocolate and spice production.
Aptly named “Spicemas,” carnival in Grenada is a 10-day affair with monarch competitions, food, and two days of parades. Unlike Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada has a Level 1 travel advisory, making it a safe option for experiencing the festival.
Skip: Haiti
It’s no secret that Haiti is in active conflict. Receiving a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory, the situation in the country has reached such a boiling point that in July 2023, the US Department of State ordered family members of government employees and non-emergency personnel to depart the country immediately.
The remaining employees aren’t allowed to walk around Port-au-Prince, use public transportation, visit banks or ATMs, drive at night, or travel without prior approval and specific security protocol.
Safe: Dominican Republic
Despite being on the same island, the Dominican Republic is safe for tourists and offers many of the same blue waters, eye-catching scenery, and things to do that Haiti does. There are plenty of beautiful beach resorts for a relaxing vacation in the country that doesn’t involve danger.
Skip: Cuba
Safety has improved in Cuba in recent years, making it relatively okay from an imminent danger standpoint. Still, the country has been devastated by an authoritarian government and sanctions that cause locals to struggle immensely, leading to frequent robberies.
This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t travel to Cuba altogether—visiting the country is like seeing a time capsule. If you choose to go, keep a low profile, leave your valuables at home, and stay aware of your surroundings. Consider bringing essential items to donate to churches and charities, such as hygiene items, clothing, toys, and the like.
Safe: Puerto Rico
Vibrant Puerto Rico isn’t without a few safety issues. Still, tourist destinations such as the ritzy resort neighborhood of Condado and historic Viejo San Juan (Old San Juan) in San Juan, along with El Yunque National Forest, are widely safe for travelers.
The Spanish-speaking nation is home to indulgent food, the Bacardí rum distillery, an emerging art scene, and amazing nightlife.
Safe: Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia’s Gros and Petit Piton are its most instantly recognizable landmarks. These rock formations, surrounded by lush jungle, can be seen from several points on and around the island.
Stroll the local market in Castries, relax on a black sand beach, or learn more about the island’s heritage at Morne Coubaril Estate.
Safe: Saint Barthélemy (St. Barths)
If there’s any proof that Saint Barthélemy is one of the Caribbean’s safest destinations, it’s the A-list crowd that swarms beach clubs and massive mansions on the island during peak season.
Synonymous with luxury and filled with designer boutiques and flashy restaurants, there’s hardly a better Caribbean island to see and be seen on.
US Virgin Islands
The US Virgin Islands are one of the best getaways for American tourists looking for a safe vacation. Composed of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, the trio of islands offers some of the most incredible beaches in the region, like Trunk Bay in Virgin Islands National Park.
Better yet, Americans don’t need a passport to visit any of these islands, as flights are considered domestic from the mainland US.
Safe: Sint Maarten
Differentiating between Sint Maarten and Saint Martin can be confusing. Located on the same island, the difference in names reflects the Dutch colony and French territory, respectively. Regardless of which half you choose, this island is undeniably safe for travelers, receiving a Level 1 travel advisory.
Safe: Turks & Caicos
Turks & Caicos’ crystal waters have been attracting international tourists for decades. Scuba a 14-mile barrier reef off the coast of Provo, or soak up the sun on Grace Bay Beach’s fine white sand.
Though Turks & Caicos is safe overall, especially at large resorts, the country’s capital city of Providenciales struggles with some crime. Avoid walking the inner city at night.
Safe: Bonaire
The ABC Islands, comprised of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao, are three islands in the Leeward Antilles with Dutch ties.
Bonaire is the least visited of the island trio, but not for its lack of scenery. The small island is home to gorgeous beaches and plenty of water sports like snorkeling. The island’s most unique attraction might be its salt pyramids, which create a pink beach.
Don’t miss out on snorkeling in the Caribbean
The Caribbean islands are home to beautiful reefs and incredible displays of aquatic life.
10 Destinations for the Best Snorkeling in the Caribbean
No passport, no problem
You don’t need an expensive international getaway for a relaxing beach vacation. There are tons of inexpensive beaches in the US that are only a domestic flight away.
11 Stunning US Beach Vacations So Cheap You’ll Want to Visit Them All
Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
