The Safest Caribbean Islands 2026 (RANKED) 

The Caribbean Islands offer a diverse range of locations for tourists, with beautiful sandy beaches, dense rainforests, and an all-around good vibes culture. However, there are some instances of crime in the Caribbean Islands, which can lead tourists to wonder which nations are safer than others.

Using crime rate data and the Global Peace Index (GPI), we look into the safest Caribbean islands and the islands that are deemed more dangerous.

If you’re travelling to the Caribbean or are planning a move to one of the islands, contact Expatriate Group for travel insurance or international health insurance that’s designed to give you peace of mind whilst you’re abroad.

The Cayman Islands are widely regarded as one of the safest places to live and visit in the Caribbean, and has the lowest Crime Index and highest Safet Index according to Numbeo. It has a small population of around 70,000, and the islands benefit from low crime rates, well-maintained infrastructure, and a strong focus on community safety. Tourist areas, residential neighbourhoods, and popular beaches are generally very secure, which makes it a popular choice for expats and travellers alike.

Natural hazards are limited on the Cayman Islands. Although it is located in a hurricane zone, modern building standards and emergency preparedness reduce the risk of serious disruption.

St Lucia is also widely seen as one of the safer Caribbean islands. It has a small population of around 200,000, and the local community is friendly and welcoming, which makes it easy for visitors and expats to feel at home. Most stays are trouble-free, although it’s sensible to remain aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas after dark.

The island’s natural environment adds to its appeal without compromising safety. Its dormant volcanoes are harmless, and while hurricane season from mid-May to November can occasionally cause disruption, the modern infrastructure and emergency systems helps to minimise risks.

Grenada, known as the “Spice Island,” is considered one of the safer destinations in the Caribbean. With a population of just over 110,000, it has a close-knit, friendly community that welcomes both tourists and expats. Violent crime is rare, and most visitors experience a trouble-free stay, although standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night, are recommended.

The island’s natural hazards are limited. Grenada can be affected by hurricanes between June and November, but due to its small size and well-prepared infrastructure disruption is usually minimised.

Barbados is seen as one of the safer Caribbean islands, attracting around a million visitors each year and having the third lowest Crime Index and third highest Safety Index on Numbeo. The local community is friendly and welcoming, which makes it especially popular with families and expats.

While most areas are safe, some popular spots, including parts of Bridgetown, have seen occasional petty crime. Visitors are advised to take standard precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas and keeping valuables out of sight.

Antigua and Barbuda are considered among the safer Caribbean destinations, with a small, welcoming population and a relaxed island lifestyle. Tourist areas and expat communities are generally secure, and most visitors enjoy trouble-free stays. Standard precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas after dark, are recommended.

Natural hazards are minimal, although the islands can experience hurricanes during the season from June to November. Despite this, well-prepared infrastructure and emergency services help reduce risk.

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a small island nation regarded as one of the safest in the Caribbean. Crime rates are low, and most visitors enjoy trouble-free stays. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, so it’s sensible to keep valuables secure and out of sight.

The islands are in the hurricane belt, with the season running from May to November. Whilst most storms are minor, it’s important to stay informed during this period.

Cuba is generally seen as a safe destination for tourists, with low levels of violent crime in most areas. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur, particularly in crowded tourist spots and Havana’s Old Town, so visitors are advised to stay vigilant and keep valuables secure.

Natural hazards include hurricanes from June to November, though popular tourist areas and resorts are well-prepared. With its rich culture, historic architecture, and welcoming local communities, Cuba offers a safe and rewarding Caribbean experience for visitors and expats who take sensible precautions.

Puerto Rico is regarded as being generally safe for tourists, particularly in popular destinations such as San Juan, Vieques, and Culebra. Whilst crime does exist, it is mostly limited to petty theft, and visitors can reduce risk by avoiding isolated areas, staying aware of their surroundings, and securing valuables.

The island is also prone to hurricanes between June and November, but modern infrastructure and emergency preparedness help minimise disruption. With its vibrant culture, historic towns, and natural beauty, Puerto Rico offers a safe and accessible Caribbean experience for both short-term visitors and long-term residents.

The Dominican Republic is a popular Caribbean destination; it comes in at number 80 in the world on the GPI, but safety can vary depending on the area. Tourist hotspots such as Punta Cana and La Romana are generally safe, and have a strong police presence and well-developed infrastructure. However, some urban areas can experience higher levels of petty crime. Visitors are advised to remain aware of their surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and steer clear of isolated areas after dark.

Natural hazards include hurricanes from June to November, although resorts and major towns are usually well-prepared for storms.

The Bahamas is a popular Caribbean destination, although some areas carry a higher risk of crime. Downtown Nassau, in particular, can see incidents of robbery and petty crime, so visitors are advised to be cautious, especially after dark.

The islands are also in the hurricane belt, with the season running from June to November. Despite this, many of the outlying islands have lower crime rates and are considered much safer. The Ministry of Tourism has strengthened safety measures, including increased CCTV coverage and improved regulations around boating and tourist activities.

Jamaica is lower on the list of safest Caribbean islands due to its high murder rate, which ranks among the highest globally. Crime, including gang activity and shootings, is generally concentrated in certain areas, so tourists in resorts and popular destinations are usually not directly affected.

Hotels and resorts maintain good security, but visitors can still be targeted for robberies or pickpocketing, with occasional incidents turning violent. It’s advisable to avoid carrying valuables, stay aware of your surroundings, and follow local safety guidance to reduce risk.

Trinidad and Tobago has a higher crime rate compared with many Caribbean islands, particularly in certain urban areas. Violent crime, including robberies and occasional gang activity, is more common, so visitors are advised to exercise caution, avoid isolated areas, and keep valuables secure.

The islands are generally safe in tourist hotspots and resort areas, where security is more robust. Hurricane season runs from June to November, but serious disruptions are relatively rare. With awareness and sensible precautions, Trinidad and Tobago still offers vibrant culture, beaches, and natural beauty for those visiting or considering expat life.

Haiti is considered one of the higher-risk Caribbean destinations due to higher crime rates, including theft, robbery, and occasional civil unrest. Visitors are strongly advised to take precautions, avoid isolated areas, and remain vigilant, especially in urban centres.

Natural hazards, including hurricanes and earthquakes, can pose additional risks, and infrastructure in some areas may be limited. Travel to Haiti is generally safer in well-known tourist zones or with guided tours. For those prioritising safety, careful planning and local guidance are essential when visiting.es, and is seen as one of the least safe Caribbean islands. Haiti is currently in an unpredictable and volatile security situation. There are often demonstrations and protests which can turn violent, and visitors are advised to avoid crowds and large gatherings.

There are high crime rates in Haiti, especially for violent crime, including murder, assault, and robbery. There have also been many instances of kidnappings of foreign nationals, who will be released for a ransom. Public transport is generally seen as unsafe. Visitors are advised to be extra attentive when withdrawing money from ATMs and to always be aware of their surroundings.