Bahamas, Trinidad and Taboga among several Caribbean destinations with rising safety alerts

With the U.S. government reissuing its travel advisory for Haiti as the country adds a terrorism indicator to its Level 4: “Do Not Travel” status, the U.S. Department of State has recently elevated travel advisories for a number of Caribbean destinations, including the Bahamas and Trinidad and Tobago.

The State Department cited sharp increases in violent crime and security risks, including armed robberies, assaults and instances of kidnapping, even in areas traditionally considered safe for tourists, People Magazine reported.

Among the hotspots, the Bahamas has retained a Level 2 advisory, with renewed warnings for Nassau and Freeport, especially the “Over the Hill” region, where reports include sexual assaults linked to waterborne activities and unregulated rental properties lacking security protections, according to the Bahamas advisory.

Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago is at Level 3 “reconsider travel” alert after a state of emergency was declared in December 2024 and extended into 2025. The state of emergency ended April 13, according to the Trinidad and Tobago advisory.

Port of Spain has been flagged for elevated violence, gang activity and targeted kidnappings affecting U.S. citizens and permanent residents. U.S. government personnel face strict travel restrictions within specific neighborhoods.

The updates reflect a widening trend: The Caribbean, long considered a haven for American tourists, is being reassessed through the lens of regional instability, the advisories say.

Below are some of the safest Caribbean destinations

Aruba

Maintains a Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) advisory from the State Department. It ranks at the top of Travel + Leisure’s Caribbean Island Safety Index Top 10 for 2025 due to low crime, minimal hurricane risk and high-quality healthcare infrastructure.

Barbados

Also rated Level 1 and number two on the Caribbean Island Safety Index, Barbados is praised for consistently low crime in tourist zones, strong public safety measures and reliable medical facilities.

Grenada and Curaçao

Both receive Level 1 advisories, with minimal violent crime, scenic resort areas and enhanced security infrastructure. Grenada has eco-resorts and a peaceful atmosphere. Grenada ranks third and Curaçao ranks fourth on the Caribbean Island Safety Index.

Antigua & Barbuda, Anguilla, Saint Lucia, St. Kitts & Nevis, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and the British Virgin Islands

All hold Level 1 designations, featuring dependable tourist safety, peaceful environments and transparent advisory ratings. Antigua & Barbuda rank fifth on the Caribbean Island Safety Index.

Cayman Islands (Grand Cayman)

Listed as Level 1, this territory stands out for its really low violent crime rate, strong tourist protections and excellent healthcare, making it a top choice for secure travel, according to Nomad Capitalist.

Puerto Rico

As a U.S. territory with a Level 1 advisory, Puerto Rico benefits from U.S. standards with infrastructure and medical care. Tourist areas generally remain safe despite some localized property crime. It stands at number six on Caribbean Island Safety Index.