20 Safest Caribbean Islands You Should Know
Travelling is an activity that everyone desires. It is fun and exciting to explore new places. Welcome to the breathtaking tropical paradise of the Caribbean Islands. Each Safest Caribbean island offers the travellers its unique charm and allure.
However, a question that might be on everyone’s mind is: Are Caribbean islands safe to travel to? If you find yourself pondering this question, then you are not alone. Travellers often find themself in a dilemma about whether they should visit this place or not.
As you go through this article, you will learn a lot about the Caribbean Islands, the Safest Caribbean Islands how travellers can stay safe, and which islands should be avoided.
Perfect Time To Visit Caribbean Islands
As travellers, one of the first things we need to check is the weather of our destination. When planning a trip to the Caribbean, it’s crucial to stay informed about the weather, particularly during hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November.
The real risk of storms peaks between August and October. Outside of these months, you’re likely to enjoy sunny skies and warm, inviting waters.
Even during the peak months, the chances of your vacation being disrupted are relatively small, but it’s always good to be prepared.
Make sure to check the weather forecast regularly, and consider travel insurance for peace of mind. With a little planning, you can still have an amazing Caribbean getaway.
20 Safest Caribbean Islands
Since we know about the perfect time to visit the Caribbean Islands now, let’s focus on the 20 Safest Caribbean Islands that travellers can visit and enjoy their vacation to the fullest. Now, you must be wondering which are the safest Caribbean Islands to visit. Here are the majority of islands that are safe to visit for the travellers.
1. Montserrat
Montserrat is a small and one of the safest Caribbean islands. It is known for its lush green hills and stunning beaches. If you are planning to visit Montserrat, make sure to not miss its volcano, which is still active.
When you want to visit a peaceful island then Montserrat is the one. It is a place with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying nature and the slow pace of island life.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Montserrat is from May to September and travellers can enjoy outdoor activities and a lively atmosphere at that time.
- Top Accommodation: Gingerbread Hill
- Best Restaurant: Dip & Althea’s Kitchen
- Local Transportation: Visitors can travel with the help of taxi, bus and rental car
- Fun activities: There are many interesting tourist attraction points to visit in Montserrat such as Malvarrosa Beach, the City of Arts and Sciences, Oceanogràfic Aquarium, Bioparc Valencia Zoo, and Valencia Cathedral.
2. St.Barts
St. Barts, short for Saint Barthélemy, is a small and safe Caribbean island known for its luxury resorts, beautiful beaches, and vibrant atmosphere. St. Barts has serene scenery with sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green hills.
For luxury travellers, the island offers fine dining, high-end shopping, and a lively nightlife scene.
- Best time to visit: The best months to visit St. Barts are from November to April. These months are usually free from showers and travellers can enjoy sunbathing.
- Top Accommodation: Le Sereno
- Best Restaurant: Bonito
- Local Transportation: Travelers can rent a car to explore this beautiful destination, as no public transportation is available.
- Fun activities: Travellers can roam around the Town of Gustavia, spend time at Le Ti St Barts cabaret, and sunbathe in Gustavia.
3. The British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands is a group of islands in the Caribbean Sea. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, sandy beaches, and lush green hills. This island consists of around 60 other islands, many of which are uninhabited. This is one of the safest Caribbean islands to travel.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit the British Virgin Islands is between April and May.
- Top Accommodation: Wyndham Tortola BVI Lambert Beach Resort
- Best Restaurant: CocoMaya Restaurant
- Local Transportation: The local transportation of The British Virgin Islands is rental vehicles, taxis, public ferries, or private water taxis.
- Fun activities: Travellers can visit the top famous islands on The British Virgin Islands which are Anegada, White Bay, Smuggler’s Cove, and Cane Garden Bay. Here, travellers can enjoy snorkelling and sailing.
4. The Cayman islands
The Cayman Islands is a group of three islands that are located in the western Caribbean Sea. The three islands are:-
i.Grand Cayman: This island is known for its stunning Seven Mile Beach and offers luxury resorts and water sports facilities.
ii. Cayman Brac: This island features rugged terrain and dramatic cliffs. It is a perfect spot for hiking and birdwatching.
iii. Little Cayman: This is the smallest of the three islands. It is known for its pristine beaches and world-class diving sites, including the Bloody Bay Wall Marine Park.
- Best time to visit: According to the weather forecast, the best time to visit The Cayman Islands is April.
- Top Accommodation: Morritts Tortuga Club
- Best Restaurant: Bacaro
- Local Transportation: Public Bus is the local transportation of The Cayman Islands.
- Fun activities: The number one tourist attraction of The Cayman Islands is Stingray City where you can swim with stingrays. Travellers can also enjoy Snorkelling, paddle boarding, scuba diving, and horseback riding near the beaches.
5. Bonaire
Bonaire is a beautiful island located in the southern Caribbean Sea. It is known for its spectacular marine life. Travellers can also encounter colourful colonial architecture and try delicious local cuisine. It is one of the safest Caribbean Islands.
- Best time to visit: April to October are the best months to visit Bonaire because the islands would not be too crowded and the rates of hotels are not on top.
- Top Accommodation: Delfins Beach Resort
- Best Restaurant: Brass Boer Restaurant Bonaire
- Local Transportation: Taxis are the quickest means to navigate through Bonaire.
- Fun activities: Bonaire is known as one of the best scuba diving locations. If you are a snorkelling lover then this is the best place to do it. Additionally, travellers can also roam around Kralendijk.
6.Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda is located in the eastern Caribbean Sea and consists of two picturesque islands. Antigua is known for its 365 crystal clear beaches while Barbuda is famous for its untouched beaches, including the stunning Pink Sand Beach, and is known for being the safest Caribbean islands.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Antigua is from mid-December through April. During this time Antigua has pleasant temperatures and relatively little rainfall.
- Top Accommodation: Jolly Beach Resort and Spa
- Best Restaurant: Cecilia’s
- Local Transportation: The local transportation is buses, taxis, and rental cars.
- Fun activities: Travellers can enjoy beaches, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and witness the sea turtle nesting.
7. Martinique
Martinique is a beautiful island nestled in the eastern Caribbean Sea. It offers a captivating blend of French sophistication and Caribbean charm. This island is known for its diverse landscape and includes lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, and pristine beaches making it a perfect spot for hiking, exploring, and relaxation.
- Best time to visit: Mid-December to mid-April is the best time to enjoy the warm weather in Martinique.
- Top Accommodation: Hôtel Bambou & Spa Martinique
- Best Restaurant: La Luciole
- Local Transportation: Cab, bus, or rental car are the transport usually used by the public.
- Fun activities: Martinique is one of the best hiking places. Travellers can try many aerial activities, horseback riding, and touring in a buggy.
8. Barbados
This island is nestled in the eastern Caribbean and is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. The Island is blessed with fine white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
If you want to experience their culture and tradition, then what is better than enjoying their festivals and delicious cuisine?
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Barbados is between December and June.
- Top Accommodation: Dover Beach Hotel
- Best Restaurant: Champers Restaurant Barbados
- Local Transportation: The local transportation of Barbados is buses, minibuses, rental cars, and taxis.
- Fun activities: From hiking to taking jeep tours and visiting the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, there are many activities to do in Barbados.
9. Anguilla
Anguilla is another Caribbean gem that is known for its stunning white sand beaches and sky-blue waters. It’s perfect for relaxation and beach lovers. Travellers can also explore the island’s rich cultural heritage through art galleries and historical sites
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Anguilla is from December to April.
- Top Accommodation: Turtle’s Nest Beach Resort
- Best Restaurant: Jacala Beach Restaurant
- Local Transportation: Travellers can get around by taxi, rental car, or car service.
- Fun activities: There are many fun activities for travelers to enjoy, such as riding high-speed ferries, snorkeling, and going on a kayaking adventure.
10. The Turks and Caicos
The Turks and Caicos Islands are located in the Caribbean and are renowned for their azure beaches. There are over 40 islands and cays in The Turks and Caicos and they are known for being the safest Caribbean Islands.
- Best time to visit: April to June are the best months to explore The Turks and Caicos Islands as you can enjoy the sunny and warm weather.
- Top Accommodation: Royal West Indies Resort
- Best Restaurant: The Marine Room
- Local Transportation: Car, Jeep rentals, Taxis, scooter rentals, and ferries are some of the local transports used in The Turks and Caicos Islands.
- Fun activities: Visitors can also explore historic sites, indulge in fresh seafood cuisine, and experience the laid-back island life.
11. Aruba
Aruba, a stunning Caribbean island, is famous for its year-round sunshine and beautiful beaches with powdery white sand. This Dutch Caribbean gem offers a range of water activities like snorkelling, diving, and windsurfing
- Best time to visit: The most popular time to visit is during the dry season from December to April.
- Top Accommodation: Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino
- Best Restaurant: Papiamento Restaurant
- Local Transportation: The best way to navigate through Aruba is by buses and fixed-rate cabs.
- Fun activities: Take a boat trip to explore the beautiful beaches and scuba diving is the best way to enjoy your trip to Aruba.
12. Dominica
Dominica is one of the most famous islands of the Caribbean and is known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean ”. The island is full of lush rainforests, waterfalls, and volcanic hot springs. The people of Dominica appreciate their rich culture through music, art, and traditional cuisine.
- Best time to visit: February to April are the best months to explore Dominica.
- Top Accommodation: Fort Young Hotel and Dive Resort
- Best Restaurant: Islet View Restaurant & Bar
- Local Transportation: You can get around by bus, taxis, and rental cars in Dominica.
- Fun activities: Travellers can immerse themself in Kalinago Culture, visit the famous Boiling Lake, go Hiking, and Spend a day at Trafalgar Falls.
13. St. Lucia
St. Lucia is a picturesque Caribbean island full of lush rainforests, and stunning beaches. Travellers can learn about the island’s rich history and culture through its villages, colourful markets, and Creole cuisine
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Saint Lucia is between February and May.
- Top Accommodation: Harbor Club St. Lucia, Curio Collection by Hilton
- Best Restaurant: Big Chef Steakhouse
- Local Transportation: The primary mode of transportation is minibuses. However, Travellers can also book an Uber to go around.
- Fun activities: Travellers can visit the Pigeon Island national landmark, and explore the Botanical Gardens and Mineral Baths.
14. Curaçao
Curaçao is a vibrant island in the southern Caribbean. Travellers are attracted to this island for its colourful Dutch colonial architecture and beautiful turquoise waters.
The capital of this island is Willemstad which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an Island rich in cultural heritage, lively music scene, and flavorful cuisine, Curaçao offers a dynamic blend of history, adventure, and relaxation.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Curaçao is between January and May.
- Top Accommodation: Van der Valk Kontiki Beach Resort Curaçao
- Best Restaurant: Wok In The Clouds – Restaurant
- Local Transportation: Buses and Rental Cars.
- Fun activities: Some of the exciting activities travellers can enjoy include riding an ATV, experiencing Aquafari, taking a buggy ride, and trying an underwater walking tour.
15. Bermuda
Bermuda is an island in the North Atlantic Ocean and is renowned for its pink sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich maritime history. History lovers can explore historic sites like the Royal Naval Dockyard.
The island is loved for its colourful pastel houses and British influence creating a unique blend of old-world charm and modern luxury.
- Best time to visit: every day from June to September has perfect beach weather making these months the best time to visit Bermuda.
- Top Accommodation: Rosedon Hotel Bermuda
- Best Restaurant: Frog & Onion Pub and Restaurant
- Local Transportation: While buses are the primary transportation medium, travellers can also rent a taxi to navigate around.
- Fun activities: Visit the Bermuda aquarium, Go myth-busting at Buei, try kayaking, and go Sailing.
16. Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Kitts and Nevis, a twin-island nation in the Caribbean, offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Visitors can explore historic sites like Brimstone Hill Fortress, hike through lush rainforests, or relax on pristine beaches.
The islands are also known for their vibrant carnival celebrations, flavorful cuisine, and warm hospitality. With its stunning landscapes and rich heritage, Saint Kitts and Nevis promise an unforgettable Caribbean experience for travellers seeking relaxation and adventure.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Saint Kitts and Nevis is between February and May.
- Top Accommodation: St. Kitts Marriott Resort & The Royal Beach Casino
- Best Restaurant: Oualie Beach Restaurant
- Local Transportation: Taxis are the easiest way to go around.
- Fun activities: Visit the Central Forest Reserve, visit the Museum of Nevis History, walk around in St Kitts Eco-Park, and try Surfboarding.
17. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Another one of the safest Caribbean Islands is Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a stunning group of islands in the Caribbean and is renowned for its picturesque islands, secluded beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.
The islands showcase a rich cultural heritage, with vibrant festivals, traditional music, and delicious local cuisine.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit St Vincent and the Grenadines is between February and April.
- Top Accommodation: The Liming Bequia
- Best Restaurant: The French Verandah Restaurant
- Local Transportation: Minibuses and Vans are the local transportation of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
- Fun activities: Travellers can immerse themself in the underwater world, go around by hiking, admire the Historic Forts, and visit the Botanical garden,
18. Sint Maarten
Sint Maarten is a vibrant Caribbean island renowned for its stunning beaches, lively atmosphere, and influences from both Dutch and French cultures.
This Island offers its travellers fun shopping, delicious cuisine, and exciting water sports. The island presents us with a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit St. Maarten is from December to April.
- Top Accommodation: Hilton Vacation Club Royal Palm St. Maarten
- Best Restaurant: Al Pasha
- Local Transportation: The best way to go around is by rental cars.
- Fun activities: Ziplining, Watersports, and Boat Charters are some of the few activities to do in Sint Maarten.
19. St. Eustatius
St. Eustatius, commonly known as Statia, is a Caribbean island celebrated for its pristine diving sites, rich history, and relaxed atmosphere.
Travellers who would love to know about the island’s history can explore historic ruins, including Fort Oranje, which offers panoramic views of the island and surrounding seas.
- Best time to visit: January to May are the best months to explore St. Eustatius.
- Top Accommodation: BarrelHouse St. Eustatius
- Best Restaurant: The Old Gin House Restaurant
- Local Transportation: Private vehicles such as taxis and rental cars are the only way to travel around in St. Eustatius,
- Fun activities: Some fun activities to do In St, Eustatius are Scuba diving, visiting Quill National Park, and exploring Golden Rock Dive Center.
20. Grenada
Grenada, often nicknamed the “Spice Isle,” captivates with its picturesque landscapes, fragrant spice plantations, and stunning beaches in the Caribbean.
Visitors can explore historic forts, hike through verdant rainforests to cascading waterfalls, or dive into the clear waters to discover vibrant coral reefs.
The island’s capital, St. George’s, boasts charming colonial architecture and a bustling market where visitors can sample local cuisine and spices.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Grenada is from January to May.
- Top Accommodation: True Blue Bay Boutique Resort
- Best Restaurant: · Armadillo Restaurant
- Local Transportation: Buses and rental cars are a form of local transportation in Grenada.
- Fun activities: Explore chocolate-making at Belmont Estate, enjoy water adventures, and try hiking.
Which Islands Should The Travellers Avoid?
While the Caribbean Islands are usually a very safe travel destination, just like every other country, crimes can leave travelers wondering whether it is a safe place to visit or not.
Generally, British Overseas Territories tend to be the safest among the others but researching before the trip is the safest option. Therefore, here is a list of islands to avoid:
1. Haiti
Haiti is a beautiful island, however, it tends to face challenges such as natural disasters, political instability, poverty, crime, and health risks. Therefore, travellers should exercise caution and stay informed about local conditions.
Recently, Haiti has seen a growing humanitarian crisis as well which has caused a big jump in crime rates.
2. Trinidad and Tobago
Similar to Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago can be dangerous islands too due to high crime rates, road safety issues, susceptibility to natural disasters, and health risks. We advise travellers to exercise caution and stay informed about local conditions.
3. The Bahamas
The Bahamas has always been an extremely popular Caribbean destination, widely recognized for its allure. However, over the past few years, some of the areas have seen a jump in the rate of crime.
Unfortunately, the types of crimes increasing are mostly violent. Additionally, The Bahamas faces dangers like hurricanes, crime, and health risks. Therefore, travellers should stay informed and exercise caution.
Travellers can refer to the statistics presented by The Statista Research Department on Mar 1, 2024.
Things To Remember
No matter where you are travelling, it is always important to do some research before your trip and gather information about a few things that one should remember while travelling. Here are some points to keep in mind before travelling:
1. Health Precaution: You might need vaccinations or preventive measures for diseases such as Typhoid, Influenza, chickenpox, etc.
2. Safety Awareness: While many Caribbean islands are safe for travellers, it’s essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. It is better to avoid high-crime areas.
3. Travel Insurance: It’s advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances.
4. Water Safety: While many Caribbean islands have beautiful beaches and clear waters, some areas may have strong currents or hazardous conditions for swimming. Always check warning signs and swim in designated areas with a lifeguard.
FAQs
1. Which Caribbean island has the worst crime rate?
– Some islands that have faced challenges with high crime rates include Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and the Dominican Republic.
2. What is the safest and least expensive Caribbean island?
-Barbados and Grenada are generally considered safe and affordable Caribbean destinations.
3. Which Caribbean islands have travel warnings?
-Some Caribbean islands that have had travel warnings in the past include:
1. Jamaica
2. Haiti
3. Trinidad and Tobago
