Safest Places to Visit in the Caribbean

The Caribbean is a region of endless beauty, offering sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant cultures. For travelers seeking both relaxation and security, some islands stand out for their low crime rates and welcoming environments. Here’s a guide to four of the safest Caribbean destinations, perfect for a stress-free getaway!

1. Curaçao

Quick Facts about Curaçao

• Safety Matters: Curaçao is known for its relatively low crime rates, making it one of the safer Caribbean destinations.
• Multilingual Charm: Dutch, Papiamento, English, and Spanish are widely spoken, making communication a breeze.
• Currency Info: The official currency is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), but US dollars are widely accepted.
• Natural Beauty: Curaçao boasts colorful architecture, stunning beaches, and vibrant underwater reefs, making it a haven for divers and snorkelers.
• Rich History: This island’s capital, Willemstad, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing Dutch colonial architecture and cultural significance.

How to Get to Curaçao

• From the US: Direct flights are available from major cities such as Miami, New York, and Charlotte.
• From Canada: Flights are offered from Toronto and Montreal.
• Airlines: Carriers such as American Airlines, JetBlue, and Air Canada fly to Hato International Airport (CUR).

Must-Visit Local Attractions in Curaçao

Willemstad: This colorful capital city is renowned for its charming pastel-colored buildings, unique shops, and historical landmarks like the Queen Emma Bridge. It’s easily accessible by taxi, public transportation, or on foot from many hotels.

Klein Curaçao: A small, uninhabited island perfect for day trips, featuring pristine beaches, a historic lighthouse, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. You can reach it via organized boat tours.

Christoffel National Park: Offering hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and stunning views from Mount Christoffel, the island’s highest peak. A rental car or guided tour is the best way to access the park.

Where to Stay in Curaçao

1. Luxury: The Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort offers breathtaking ocean views, a private beach, and a championship golf course for a premium experience.
2. Mid-Range: The Acoya Curaçao Resort, Villas & Spa provides spacious accommodations with modern amenities, a pool, and proximity to local attractions.
3. Budget-Friendly: The Bed & Bike Hostel offers affordable yet comfortable lodging, perfect for travelers looking for a social atmosphere close to Willemstad.

Where to Eat in Curaçao

• Kome Restaurant: Located in Pietermaai, this popular spot offers a mix of local and international flavors in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
• The Pier: Situated in Marie Pampoen, this waterfront restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and Caribbean dishes with stunning ocean views.
• Plasa Bieu: A must-visit for authentic local cuisine, this open-air market in Willemstad serves delicious traditional dishes in a relaxed, safe setting.

2. Turks & Caicos

Quick Facts about Turks & Caicos

• Safe and Serene: Providenciales, the main island, is known for its low crime rates, making it one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean.
• Language and Ease: English is the official language, ensuring easy communication for English-speaking visitors.
• Dollar Delight: The US dollar is the official currency, so tourists don’t need to worry about currency exchange.
• Natural Beauty: Turks & Caicos is famous for its pristine waters, offering some of the Caribbean’s top diving and snorkelling spots, perfect for exploring vibrant marine life.
• Rich History: The islands have a rich history, with the Tainos as the first known inhabitants, arriving around 750 AD.

How to get to Turks & Caicos

• From the US: Direct flights are available from cities including Miami, New York, Dallas, Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Boston, and Philadelphia.
• From Canada: Direct flights are available from Toronto and Montreal.
• Airlines: Major airlines like American Airlines, Delta, and Air Canada provide frequent flights to Providenciales International Airport (PLS).

Must Visit Local Attractions in Turks & Caicos

Grace Bay Beach is renowned for its powdery white sands, warm Caribbean waters, and protective off-coast barrier reef that shields it from strong Atlantic swells, making it ideal for sunbathing, snorkelling, and various water activities. To get there, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use hotel shuttles if you stay nearby. Frequently referred to as the “world’s best beach,” Grace Bay Beach offers stunning surf and sand, making it a must-visit destination for any traveller.

The Bight Reef, also known as Coral Gardens, is one of the top snorkelling spots in Turks and Caicos, located on the central north coast of Providenciales near Grace Bay. Easily accessible from the beach, it’s ideal for snorkelers of all skill levels. You can reach the reef by taxi, rental car, or even by walking if you’re staying nearby. The reef is home to a variety of marine life, including colourful fish, green turtles, hawksbill turtles, and southern brown stingrays.

Where to stay in Turks & Caicos

1. Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Turks & Caicos. Located on Grace Bay Road, this high-end resort offers pristine white-sand beaches, culinary delights blending local ingredients and global influences, and rejuvenating spa experiences. It’s perfect for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and luxury resort amenities.
2. Mid-range: The Shore Club Turks and Caicos on Long Bay Beach is an excellent choice. This resort features four swimming pools, five restaurants and bars, a wellness center, and a complimentary kids club. Its secluded beach location offers a stunning, private retreat just minutes away from Provo’s town center.
3. Budget-Friendly: Sibonné Beach Hotel is a great option. Located on Grace Bay Beach, this charming hotel offers cozy accommodations, a beachfront restaurant, and easy access to the beautiful beach. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Turks & Caicos without breaking the bank.

Where to eat in Turks & Caicos

• Coco Bistro: Located in Providenciales offering a magical dining experience under the stars, surrounded by coconut palms. Known for its fresh local cuisine and prime location in a safe tourist-friendly area, it has become a favorite spot for visitors. 
• Mango Reef: Found in Turtle Cove Marina, Turks and Caicos, diners can enjoy fresh seafood and international favourites while sitting on a deck over the water. The restaurant is renowned for its pleasant and safe dining experience, making it a popular choice. 
• Margaritaville Grand Turk: Located at the Grand Turk Cruise Center in Cockburn Town, offers a fun, lively dining atmosphere with the Caribbean’s top-rated swim-up bar. The restaurant’s white sand and turquoise waters attract many cruise ship passengers, and its safety is well-regarded. 

3. Martinique

Quick Facts about Martinique

• Safety and Tranquility: Martinique has low crime rates, offering tourists a peaceful and safe getaway.
• French Flair: As a French overseas region, French is the official language, adding a European vibe to your Caribbean trip.
• Euro Ease: The Euro is the official currency, making it convenient for European travellers.
• Cultural Richness: Known as the birthplace of Zouk and home to poet Aimé Césaire, Martinique offers a vibrant cultural experience.
• Natural Wonders: The island features the towering Mt. Pelée volcano and beautiful beaches, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

How to get to Martinique

• From the US: Direct flights from major cities such as New York and Miami are available.
• From Canada: Direct flights are available from Montreal.
• Airlines: Major carriers such as Air France, Air Canada, and American Airlines operate flights to Aimé Césaire Airport (FDF).

Must Visit Local Attractions in Turks & Caicos

Saint-Pierre Beach, located near Le Carbet, is a serene spot with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, known for its unique black volcanic sand, a remnant of Mount Pelée’s 1902 eruption. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel in the clear waters, making it an ideal place for a relaxing day by the sea. To get there, you can drive or take a taxi from nearby towns, as the beach is easily accessible by road.

Plage des Raisiniers, located in the charming town of La Trinité on Martinique’s northeastern coast, is a serene beach with light brown sand and calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation. The beach is lined with trees providing natural shade, making it ideal for a peaceful day by the sea. You can easily reach the beach by car or taxi from nearby towns. Its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque setting make it a great spot for families and anyone looking to unwind in a beautiful coastal environment.

Where to stay in Martinique

1. Luxury: The B&B Hotel Fort De-France. Located in Fort-de-France, this high-end hotel offers modern amenities, an outdoor swimming pool, and a beachfront location. Guests can enjoy a sun terrace, free WiFi, and a delicious buffet breakfast, making it perfect for those seeking comfort and elegance.
2. Mid-Range: The Karibéa Le Squash in Fort-de-France is an excellent choice. This hotel features comfortable rooms, a pool, and a convenient location close to popular attractions like Ft. St. Louis and Schoelcher Library. It’s ideal for travellers looking for a balance of value and convenience.
3. Budget-Friendly: The Hotel Bakoua Martinique is a great option. Located in Les Trois-Îlets, this charming hotel offers cozy accommodations, a beachfront location, and a beautiful tropical garden. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Martinique without breaking the bank.

Where to eat in Martinique

• Le Zandoli in Schoelcher: a romantic restaurant that offers breathtaking sea views alongside a refined dining experience. It is praised for its serene and secure environment, making it a perfect spot for couples. 
• Le Babaorum: located in Fort-de-France, is a family-friendly restaurant that offers a beautiful waterside view. It is popular for its safe atmosphere, making it a frequent choice among both locals and tourists. 
• Le Petibonum: located in Le Carbet, this beachfront restaurant that offers a relaxed vibe and serves delicious Creole cuisine. Known for its welcoming and safe environment, it is a highly-rated spot for those seeking a casual, yet satisfying, dining experience. Patrons often praise both the food and the stunning beachfront location.

4. Aruba

Quick Facts about Aruba 

• Safety First: Aruba has one of the lowest crime rates in the Caribbean, making it an ideal spot for a worry-free vacation.
• Multilingual Marvel: Most Arubans speak four languages—Dutch, Papiamento, English, and Spanish—so you’ll easily find someone to communicate with.
• Currency Convenience: While the official currency is the Aruban Florin, US dollars are widely accepted, making transactions easy for American visitors.
• Sunny Paradise: Aruba enjoys more sunny days than any other Caribbean island, making it a perfect destination for sun-seekers.
• Cultural Melting Pot: With over 90 nationalities, Aruba is a lively mix of cultures, offering a rich and diverse travel experience.

How to get to Aruba

• From the US: Direct flights from major cities such as New York, Miami, and Atlanta are available.
• From Canada: Direct flights are available from Toronto and Montreal.
• Airlines: Major carriers like American Airlines, Delta, and Air Canada offer regular flights to Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA).

Must Visit Local Attractions in Aruba

Palm Beach in Aruba is a bustling 2-mile stretch of white sand, perfect for water sports, sunbathing, and enjoying the lively beach scene. It’s easily accessible by taxi, public bus, or car, with plenty of parking available nearby. Many hotels and resorts also offer shuttle services. It’s a top spot for visitors with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops along the shore. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning sunsets, Palm Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Aruba’s best beach life.

Arikok National Park covers nearly 20% of Aruba and features hiking trails, unique geological formations, and historical sites, including caves with ancient Arawak petroglyphs and stunning island views. To get there, you can drive, take a taxi, or join a guided tour, as the park is easily accessible by road from most areas of the island. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers, the park offers a perfect escape into Aruba’s rugged landscapes and rich history.

Where to stay in Aruba

1. Luxury: The Courtyard by Marriott Aruba Resort. This high-end resort offers modern amenities, a stunning pool area, and direct access to Palm Beach, perfect for those seeking comfort and elegance.
2. Mid-range: The Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort features spacious suites, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to Eagle Beach, making it ideal for families and couples.
3. Budget-Friendly: The Coconut Inn in Noord offers cozy accommodations, a refreshing pool, and a complimentary breakfast. It’s a great value option just a short drive from Palm Beach and other attractions.

Where to eat in Aruba

• The Flying Fishbone: Located in Savaneta, offering a unique beachside dining experience. Tables are placed in the water, creating a memorable ambiance alongside an extensive wine and cocktail list. Diners can enjoy spectacular sunsets while dining in a safe and welcoming environment. 
• Water’s Edge Restaurant & Bar: Located on J.E. Irausquin Blvd in Oranjestad. This restaurant features stunning ocean views, fresh seafood, daily live music, and outdoor seating right on the beach. Known for its friendly and safe atmosphere, it’s a popular choice among tourists and locals alike. 
• Windows On Aruba Restaurant: Also situated in Oranjestad on J.E. Irausquin Blvd, provides a top-tier dining experience with a focus on accommodating various dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.

Please note that while we suggest safe destinations, any destination can become quickly unsafe due to extreme weather or changing political situations. Please always check  for travel advisories issued by the government to ensure your destination is not affected. Now that you know some of the safest places in the Caribbean, it may be time to book your trip.

Photo Credits: Pixabay Photos. E&Os excluded.