safest beach countries to visit

12 Safest Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

A trip to a Caribbean island is like being transported to another world. You’re surrounded by peaceful and majestic waves, exotic flora, and gorgeous views. In a few short days, you forget all about school, work, and taxes.

But there’s one crucial step to remember in preparation for your trip; not all Caribbean islands are safe . For instance, the dual-island nation of Trinidad and Tobago is incredibly beautiful, but also a dangerous place with high crime rates .

No worries though, there are plenty of safe Caribbean Islands such as:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• The Cayman Islands
• St. Barts (Saint-Barthélemy)
• The British Virgin Islands
• Saint Lucia
• Turks and Caicos
• Sint Maarten (Saint-Martin)
• Saint Kitts and Nevis

These islands share two distinct wellbeing concerns:

• The hurricane season : In the Caribbean, the period between June and November is the rainy season. In this season, storms may quickly turn into catastrophic hurricanes. This makes June – November the worst time to visit the Caribbean .
• Insect-borne diseases : Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya are commonplace all over the Caribbean. To avoid them, make sure your lodgings are insect-proof and always carry an insect repellent with you.

Still, there are nuances in the safety restrictions that vary across the islands. How safe are the roads? Are the Caribbean islands LGBTQI-friendly? Should you worry about getting ripped off? Let’s find out.

What are the Safest Caribbean Islands to Travel?

1. anguilla.

The US Department of State puts Anguilla in Level 1 threat category, which means that there’s little to no threat present to tourists. The advisory deems it safe for tourists to proceed by exercising normal caution: staying away from non-central places during the night, not carrying too much cash on their person, drinking responsibly, and not petting or poking any wildlife, no matter how cute they seem .

Similarly, statistics show that there’s little crime on the island except for people dealing or using narcotics, but this is not common. The island, especially the tourist-condensed areas, is safe to walk around both during the day and night.

Anguilla is part of Barbados. According to the Barbados Country Security Report issued by the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) of the Bureau of Diplomatic Security, travelers should have no concerns about their safety.

Are you concerned about the drinking water quality in the country? According to the Barbados Country Security Report, the tap water in Barbados is potable.

Lastly, although same-sex practices are forbidden by law in Barbados as an act of serious indecency, there has been no official criminalization of LGBTQI relations in recent years. That said, public acts of affection might draw stares from the locals.

2. Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda is a sovereign island state located in the eastern parts of the Caribbean. According to the US Department of State , exercising normal caution is enough for safety on this island because it’s in the Level 1 threat category.

The country’s crime rating on Numbeo may be on the rise, however, these criminal activities typically occur in poverty-stricken areas, away from the beaches and tourist-condensed zones, so you have nothing to worry about.

In other words, crime on this particular island doesn’t target tourists.

If you have the means, the best way to get to it is certainly by a cruise ship. These ships bring you straight to the safest coasts of the island, such as the English Harbour or Jolly Harbour.

The safest way to travel and explore other beaches on the island is by ferries and water taxis.

The US Department of State urges tourists to be careful when they’re driving or walking on major roads. The roads of the island are in poor condition, drivers are unpredictable, and sometimes, animals wander onto the roads.

Not all taxis are registered in Antigua and Barbuda, and some unlicensed drivers try to extort money from tourists. So, whenever you take a taxi, check the driver’s license first.

In Antigua and Barbuda, same-sex relations between men are forbidden by law. However, this law doesn’t extend to LGBTQI tourists who have a marriage certificate. Still, there’s a chance that LBGTQI individuals might experience verbal assault and harassment if they engage in PDA (public displays of affection).

Bonaire is located in the Leeward Antilles section of the Caribbean. It’s a small island with a population of less than 23,000, a responsive police force, and enforcement guided by Dutch laws.

Although the island’s crime index of 37.50 seems relatively high for an island that small, the travel advisories have a relaxed approach.

The United States’ official travel advice suggests that there’s little to no crime in Bonaire. As such, the island is regarded as a Level 1 threat category, where you and your belongings will be safe as long as you don’t leave any valuables unattended.

According to Canada’s official travel advisory , the only real trouble you may face in Bonaire is petty crimes such as purse snatching and pickpocketing. So, the advisory urges its citizens to take normal security precautions.

Once you’re on the island, you can join boat tours and take taxis or minivans to explore. Taxis and minivans are typically safe means of transport. If you rent a car, make sure you’re careful when approaching turns and intersections because trees and vegetation on the island aren’t driver-friendly – they tend to cover traffic signs to cause whatever minor disturbance they can.

On a side note, there are two other islands in the same archipelago: Sint Eustatius and Saba. Both these islands are as safe as Bonaire, though they entertain fewer tourist attractions.

4. The Cayman Islands

Although Hollywood makes the Cayman Islands look like a hub for retired villains, it’s one of the safest tourist destinations in the Caribbean.

The US Department of State’s official travel advisory regards the islands under the Level 1 category, where taking normal precautions guarantees your safety. Similarly, according to Numbeo , the country has a low crime index of 32.45/100, and it’s safe to explore it day and night.

Additionally, according to the OSAC’s Cayman Islands Country Security Report , the overall crime rates have been decreasing recently. Plus, there are no criminal activity in the Cayman Islands targeting tourists.

Ferries are a great way to explore the islands, see pristine crystal caves, venture to the stingray city, go snorkeling or scuba-diving, or explore the beaches, coves, reefs, land, and the water that’s home to gorgeous starfish, and occasional shipwrecks .

However, the OSAC reports that every year, American citizens drown during scuba-diving sessions. The council’s report warns tourists that they should not show off in potentially dangerous watersports and always consult their instructors.

On another note, the road conditions on the Cayman Islands are fine, so you are at liberty to travel around by car, bike, or a rental vehicle. Plus, women and LBGTQI people don’t experience any problems.

Of course, all that comfort and safety comes with a price: the cost of living in the Cayman Islands is higher than the cost of living in the United States.

Grenada is another island country located in the West Indies territory of the Caribbean Sea. The island has so far seen French colonialism, British colonialism, and an invasion by the United States’ military forces. Despite all that intervention, the country is surprisingly stable and safe. It’s also breathtakingly beautiful.

Like all the islands we listed above, the US Department of State deems Grenada to be under the Level 1 threat category, meaning there are no safety concerns for tourists – as long as they don’t fall asleep on the side of the road because they drank too much and lost their whereabouts, which would be a safety concern anyway. Additionally, the island has a very low crime index of 20.94, and it’s very safe, both day and night.

However, the OSAC Grenade Country Security Report identifies St. George’s, the capital city of the country, as a low-threat location for crimes directed against US citizens. While you might want to avoid the city, the threat is only minimal, and you’re not likely to have any negative experiences.

Although Grenada has a fine public transportation system, the OSAC urges tourists to exercise caution if they take a bus or taxi during the night.

On a final note, same-sex relations between men are prohibited in Grenada. However, the OSAC reports that the government doesn’t enforce this particular law. There are no laws on same-sex conduct between women.

6. Montserrat

Like the Cayman Islands, Montserrat is a British Overseas Territory, but it doesn’t get as much hype as the former since Montserrat’s terrain is much more rugged, thus limiting tourism. However, Montserrat is also one of the safest Caribbean islands, if not the safest.

According to the US Department of State , the island is a no-threat territory under its Level 1 category. In recent years, no reports have been made concerning criminal activity against tourists.

The only problems highlighted in the official travel advisory are insect-borne diseases, such as Dengue and Chikungunya, that are commonplace all over the tropical zone. An insect-repellent can easily prevent infection.

In addition to official reports, statistics show that the country has little to no crime. Of course, the lack of a wider sample size affects the veracity of these reports.

Similarly, many travel websites and blogs claim that the latest homicide case in the country dates back to 2008. However, we couldn’t find an official report on that, so here’s hoping!

Yet, in 1995, a bigger and more natural threat shook the life of Montserratians, causing two-thirds of the population to flee to Britain: the dormant Soufriere Hills volcano erupted , rendering more than half of the country’s land inhabitable. In 2003 , there was another eruption that partially modified the island’s topography.

Nowadays, the government is building a new town, airport, and port away from the volcano, though more than half of the island is still an exclusion zone. So, if you visit Montserrat, make sure you observe the volcano from a safe distance.

7. St. Barts (Saint-Barthélemy)

According to a Jamaican news site , St. Barts has been voted as the safest island in the Caribbean.

The problem is that neither the US Department of State nor crime statistics websites such as Numbeo have this lovely island in their databases. Luckily, Canada’s official travel advisory confirms Jamaican reports that criminal activities are indeed scarce in St. Barts.

As there’s no public transportation system on St. Barts, you’ll need to rent a car or a scooter to get around. Although the roads are mostly in good shape and safe, they’re quite narrow, so drive carefully. Additionally, most of these roads run near cliffs and have sharp turns, mandating drivers to be extremely cautious.

The waves and the overall swimming conditions in St. Barts are less friendly than other popular destinations in the Caribbean. Riptides are common and waves can get violent, so pay attention to beach flags and enter the water only when the flag is green. If it’s red or black, stay away from the waters as these indicate violent waves or predator presence in the water. A yellow flag, on the other hand, means only experienced swimmers should swim.

8. The British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands neighbor the US Virgin Islands, to the east of Puerto Rico and the west of Anguilla. They consist of four main islands and fifty small ones, and unlike the US Virgin Islands which have a high crime index , the crime rate in the British Virgin Islands is quite low .

According to the US Department of State’s travel advisory , trips to the British Virgin Islands are completely safe. This British Overseas Territory is in the Level 1 threat category with no reported crimes targeting tourists except for petty ones such as pickpocketing.

As long as you don’t leave valuable items on the beach when swimming or carry too much cash on your person, you’ll be fine.

However, there are still some things that you need to be careful about when you’re on the British Virgin Islands.

For instance, the roads have very few signs, so exercise extra caution when you’re driving. Especially in the mountains, the roads are steep, have sharp turns, and run alongside cliffs with little or no barricade.

Additionally, local drivers are pretty unpredictable and reckless. If you just hop on a painted crosswalk, thinking that the driver will stop, you may be putting yourself in danger. In the backcountry, livestock have a habit of wandering on the roads. Of course, we’re not blaming them – but you need to be extra careful under the circumstances.

Although the road conditions are fine throughout the island, some roads (especially those on Tortola Island) get quite slippery at times. The country has no roadside assistance, so, to prevent any accidents, we recommend that you rent a four-wheel vehicle and not a scooter or a bicycle.

9. Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia has a worldwide reputation as one of the safest islands in the Caribbean.

The United States official travel advisory asks tourists to exercise only normal caution, which is the lowest threat category. Canada ’s travel advisory advises tourists to “take normal security precautions” and assures safety. The UK advisory urges people to “maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness” as they would in the UK.

However, staying safe in Saint Lucia, especially if you wander far from your lodgings, is a bit trickier than on the islands we talked about before. That’s because this island has a higher crime index (61.58) than the others, and it’s not safe to walk around towns, villages, and mountains during the night.

More alarmingly, the Canadian advisory establishes that crime has been on a dramatic rise. So, it’s best not to wander alone or drive around Saint Lucia after dark.

In addition, you should be vigilant when drawing money from an ATM because all the travel advisories we consulted attest that ATM frauds are common on this island.

When you’re mingling with the locals and listening to their troubles, you might start feeling sympathy towards their political cause as well. But here, political demonstrations occur on a regular basis, and they can get violent quite quickly. If you’re caught up in one, you might get arrested, too.

Lastly but not least importantly, St. Lucia isn’t an LGBTQI-friendly tourist destination. Same-sex physical affection in public spaces might result in verbal attacks, harassment, and assault, which makes its safety status increasingly doubtful.

10. Turks and Caicos

The case of Turks and Caicos’s eight main islands is the reverse of Saint Lucia. The US Department of State’s official advisory urges citizens to exercise increased caution, meaning – don’t leave the hotel area, restrict nighttime activities, and avoid contact with strangers. The country is in the Level 2 threat category.

However, the Numbeo crime index suggests that the Turks and Caicos archipelago is much safer than Saint Lucia.

Additionally, both Canada ’s and the United Kingdom ’s official advisories establish that most criminal activities on these islands occur away from tourist-condensed areas. However, these advisories also warn their citizens not to get too far away from their hotels and not to travel solo during the night.

One point that all these official travel guides emphasize is that you shouldn’t leave your drinks or food unattended, and you shouldn’t accept food or drinks offered by strangers. Spiked food and drinks are commonplace in Turks and Caicos.

LGBTQI people may visit Turks and Caicos with peace of mind because same-sex relations are legal in the country. In inland villages, showing same-sex affection in public might result in stares and verbal harassment, but it’s unlikely to go further than that.

11. Sint Maarten (Saint-Martin)

Sint Maarten is Dutch, Saint-Martin is French, and Saint Martin is how the rest of the world wants to refer to this island. The island is divided in two: one part belongs to the Kingdom of Netherlands, and the other part to France. But since most of the flights to the island land in the Dutch part, we’re going to stick to calling it Sint Maarten.

Similar to Bonaire, the other Dutch island on our guide, Sint Maarten falls in the Level 1 threat category according to the United States Department of State . Crimes against tourists are extremely rare on this island. And even when they occur, they’re “crimes of opportunity,” where, hypothetically speaking, the potential criminal sees that you have left your phone on the table and gone to the bathroom, and is tempted by how easy it is to swipe it.

The crime rates of the island support the official US report. Sint Maarten has a lower crime index than Bonaire at only 26.33 – the chance of encountering any kind of crime is assessed as low or very low .

In case you want to drive around the island in a rental, keep in mind that the roads are narrow and, during the night, dimly lit. Yet, as long as you’re careful, there is no risk in driving at night. You can also walk safely under the moonlight.

Like all the Dutch islands in the Caribbean, Sint Maarten is LGBTQI-friendly.

12. Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a two-island sovereign state that’s officially referred to as the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis.

According to the United States Department of State , Saint Kitts and Nevis only presents a Level 1 category of threat, meaning it’s safe unless you forgo all the normal security precautions you usually take in your everyday life. The worst crimes that can be potentially committed against tourists in these islands are petty ones such as larceny, pickpocketing, and purse snatching.

In addition, crime levels suggest that it’s very unlikely for you to encounter criminal activities. It’s completely safe to walk around during the day, and you’ll be fine as long as you don’t wander far from your lodgings by yourself during the night – even if you’re in dire need of a brooding walk around town.

However, according to the Canadian advisory , Saint Kitts and Nevis is not the best or safest Caribbean destination for swimming. The beaches don’t have any warning flags or signs, the dexterity and vigilance of rescue services are questionable at best, and the waves do get violent. So, unless you have full confidence in your swimming skills (or are with someone whose swimming skills are unquestionable), it might not be worth the risk.

If you drive on this island, slow down and be extra cautious when approaching turns and intersections. The roads aren’t in good condition, there’s little to no signage, and local drivers might be more reckless than you because they know the routes much better than you.

On a final note, same-sex relationships between men are forbidden in the country, while there are no laws regarding women. However, according to the US travel advisory, the enforcement of this law is rather relaxed .

Caribbean Safety Recap

There’s little or no criminal activity targeting tourists on these islands, the natural environment and road conditions are friendly in comparison to other islands, and the pirates of the Caribbean already looted these locations ages ago.

However, this doesn’t mean that they’re earthly replicas of paradise where you can relax, leave your valuables unattended, and accept questionable cocktails from strangers. On the contrary, you still need to take normal safety precautions such as carrying small amounts of cash on your person and using ATMs during the day; not straying further from your lodgings during the night; keeping an eye on your valuables, drink, and food at all times; and, of course, respecting the locals.

Additionally, the period between June and November is usually hurricane season in the Caribbean, where your safety depends on the mercy of the weather gods. And you need to make sure you have an insect-repellent with you. These tropical insects won’t know who they’re messing with.

Other Caribbean Islands:

• Bahamas Travel Safety Guide
• Nassau Travel Safety Guide
• Jamaica Travel Safety Guide
• Aruba Travel Safety Guide
• Curacao Travel Safety Guide
• Barbados Travel Safety Guide

Trinidad and Tobago Safety 2024: Trinidad and Tobago Safe to Visit

Cayman Safety 2024: Is Cayman Safe to Visit?

Dominican Republic Safety 2024: Is Dominican Republic Safe to Visit?

St. Lucia Safety 2024: Is St. Lucia Safe to Visit?

Do not understand why St. Vincent and the Grenadines was not included on this list.

Why! St. Vincent and the Grenadines is not a tourist destination. Crimes are high with many locals being killed senseless for no hood reason. The police department cannot solve any crimes.

Let’s solve the crimes in America then we can talk about other nations there are crimes throughout the states people are still visiting and living there are you telling people not to visit the other states in America ?

So you’re saying that because the backyard of America is dirty with criminal activities, that other Countries shouldn’t be worried or talking about how infested their backyards (Criminal situation) are with Criminal activities????? Pure nonsense, when you’ll understand the statistics of the Population of America and size of that Country and compare the amount of Criminal activities there with that of other Countries based on the population, then you can take.

Some of the information is incorrect Anguilla is not part of Barbados you get St Kitts nevis and Anguilla which are sister islands and Barbados is a completely different island.

Thanks for your comments, Mezepoo. The United Nations has Anguilla and Barbados covered together in the same administration zone, so we were referring to that. You make a good point, however, and we’re going to update the article shortly to better reflect the nuances here.

Turcs and Caicos on the safe list ??? Our favorite beach bar owners where gunned down last year Bonnie and Clyde style. Same Month criminals attacked the local police and had a shoot out.

Hi Johan, thanks for reading and providing your insights. It’s terrible to hear of the crime that you related. The US Government rates Turks & Caicos currently as a “Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution” destination. This means there is undoubtedly a significant level of crime in some areas of the country, but not a destination that is necessarily one that US citizens should avoid traveling. Our article is also relating the safEST locations in the Caribbean and we also wrote specifically that tourist need to exercise caution like not leaving their hotels for maximum safety.

The island with the safest crime rate .01% is Aruba which is also a tourist island but ultimately omitted from your list ?

Hi Bessie, thank you for reading. I’m not sure which statistic you’re mentioning, but we do have a dedicated page to Aruba travel safety right here that you can view here .

The picture you used for Montserrat isn’t a picture of Montserrat.

Hi Arturo, thank you for reading and catching this. We just corrected this!

Hello to you. The Commonwealth of Dominica was left out. It would be good to get information about Dominica as the people there are one of the most hospitable especially to strangers. You need to correct some of the information you have about certain islands. Thanks

Thank you for reading and the feedback, Margaret. We will keep this in mind for future articles.

What about the USVI,s

Hi Ellen, thank you for reading and your question. The US Virgin Islands didn’t make this list, but stay tuned for an article specifically on them soon!

Turks + Caicos hurricane season is June – November, peak month being September. Not May. And spiked food and drink isn’t common here.

Thank you for reading, Dale, and the feedback on your experiences.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This North American country tops the list of the safest countries for travelers

A new year means new destinations.

When looking at where to go, travelers will consider the usual factors such as weather, cost and available activities. This year, safety is also top of mind as more people want to go off the beaten path and take solo trips.

To help, travel insurance provider Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection just released its ninth annual State of Travel Insurance report, which includes the safest countries in the world for travelers.

"The definition of safe destination has evolved,” Carol Mueller, vice president at Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, told USA TODAY in an email. "In our most recent survey, travelers lean in on countries they believe as safe destinations they can move about freely without discrimination or harassment."

To determine the list, the travel insurance provider surveyed 1,702 people on their own travel experiences in different countries and also pulled data from third-party resources that evaluate safety concerns such as terrorism, weather emergencies, health measures and the safety of underrepresented groups. This included the  Global Peace Index  and the State Department’s own  travel safety ratings .

Learn more: Best travel insurance

While these countries are considered to be overall safe for people to visit, the company noted the report doesn't mean every part of the country is safe nor account for the possibility of natural disasters. And as always, don't let your guard down when it comes to petty theft against tourists.

'It's like your local bestie': This startup helps make solo travel as a woman feel safer

Read below to see the 15 countries determined to be the safest for all travelers.

The Great White North tops this year's list of safest countries in the world for travelers, thanks to its low violent crime and strict gun laws. Last year, the country, known for its high standard of living and political stability, made sixth on the list.

2. Switzerland

Known for its security and low crime rates, Switzerland made second place for the safest nations to visit. The country is known for its high quality of living and beautiful nature, such as Lake Geneva and Lake Zurich.

Besides having some of the best views of the dancing northern lights , Norway is also one of the safest places when it comes to crime rates, terrorist activity and violent demonstrations. According to the report, Oslo, the capital of Norway, was the country's safest area.

Those wanting to see Ireland's Cliffs of Moher or sip on some Guinness can rest assured in going through with those travel plans. The country had fewer homicides in 2022 than 16 U.S. cities, according to the report.

5. Netherlands

Last year, the Netherlands took the top spot for safest destinations to visit, and this year, it made fifth. Survey respondents repeatedly said they felt safe in the country and its capital Amsterdam. Just beware of the tourist tax increase as the city continues to crack down on reckless partiers.

6. United Kingdom

With a beautiful countryside and cities with low murder and theft rates, the United Kingdom is a safe bet for travelers. Unfortunately, the country is soon going to implement a fee to enter its borders .

7. Portugal

There's a reason digital nomads flock to this sunny coastal country, and it's not just the delicious seafood and wine. Portugal's cities are secure and orderly, and the rural areas are peaceful. In 2022, the country was determined to be one of the best places for solo female travelers too.

Last year, Denmark was the second safest country in the world for travelers, and its low crime rates continue to help it be a safe choice for travelers. The northern European country typically steals the spotlight for its happy residents and its politics.

Like its Nordic neighbor Denmark, Iceland is often regarded as the world's most gender-equal country and the safest country in the world when it comes to crime. To entice travelers even more, the country is home to otherworldly landscapes featuring glaciers, geysers, hot springs, waterfalls and volcanic terrain.

10. Australia

Rugged wilderness and cosmopolitan cities make Australia a desirable country for travelers, especially female solo travelers since the Land Down Under also has low homicide rates. In 2022, there were 377 recorded homicides, about half of what Chicago experienced, according to the report.

11. New Zealand

Although expensive, New Zealand is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore its coastlines, mountains, fjords and more, or for those who are big "Lord of the Rings" fans. With low crime rates, the country is also considered to be quite peaceful and great for female solo travelers.

Along with low crime rates, Japan offers travelers a blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. Think robot servers in restaurants amongst ancient shrines. In Japanese culture, politeness and orderliness are also highly valued, making it a safe place for travelers, solo or not. However, the report doesn't consider natural disasters, such as the earthquakes that recently shook the western part of the island nation.

Home to the City of Light, France has stood the test of time as one of the world's most popular destinations. Thankfully, for travelers, the country has relatively safe transportation (well, minus petty theft, which is common on the metro) and safety from disease epidemics, according to the report. However, violent demonstrations mean travelers should be cautious and check local media for updates.

Another popular European destination, Spain is known for petty theft like pickpocketing. Overall, the Mediterranean country has a low crime rating for how heavily touristed it is, the report said. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection recommends people especially watch out for passport thefts, so as always, travel cautiously.

This year, Brazil made the list of safe countries to visit. The survey respondents who identified as women, people of color and LGBTQ+ especially felt safe in the South American country, known for its beautiful beaches. However, Brazil's borders are notably dangerous for crime activity.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

• Visit Oyster on Facebook!
• Visit Oyster on Pinterest!
• Visit Oyster on Instagram!
• Visit Oyster on Twitter!
• Subscribe to stay up to date!

Yes, send me expert tips and deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

• Subtract one room 1 Rooms Add one room
• Subtract one adult 2 Adults Add one adult
• Travel Safety

The 11 Safest Travel Destinations in the Caribbean Right Now

See recent posts by Lilly LeClair

One of the most common questions we hear at Oyster.com is: "Is the Caribbean safe?" The answer is yes — but it depends where you're going. By and large, travelers are unlikely to experience any major incidents on their Caribbean vacation no matter where they go. However, murder and violent crime rates are higher on some islands than others. That's especially true if you're staying in urban areas on the larger islands (though even cities on smaller islands have their share of crime). LGBTQ travelers should also exercise caution, as local laws in certain nations outlaw homosexuality and create unwelcoming (and potentially dangerous) situations.

Caribbean countries Americans should avoid, due to their higher level status according to the U.S. Department of State include:

• Haiti (Level 4)
• Jamaica (Level 3)
• Trinidad and Tobago (Level 3)
• The Bahama (Level 2)
• The Dominican Republic (Level 2)

So what islands in the Caribbean are the safest? The list below includes those islands that are consistently rated among the most secure for tourists. They also happen to be some of the prettiest in the region, and you'll find that there's something for everyone on this list — from nature lovers to luxury travelers. Of course, it’s always a good idea to look for updated government-issued advisories before booking a vacation -- and follow standard safety precautions when in unfamiliar surroundings, especially at night. Read on for the safest destinations in the Caribbean right now.

Before you leave for your Caribbean vacation, don't forget to double check our Caribbean packing list .

Additional reporting by Kyle Valenta and Megan Johnson.

1. Cayman Islands

With its relative wealth, stable economy, and strong gun laws, the Cayman Islands is one of the safest destinations in the entire Caribbean. It consists of three islands to the west of Jamaica and is home to some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches. You’ll also find some of the world’s best scuba diving here, with notable spots like Bloody Bay Marine Park, Stingray City, and Keith Tibbetts shipwreck. Other attractions include a lovely nature preserve, turtle farm, and forested hiking trail to the island’s undeveloped center. The Cayman Islands also has one of the world’s lowest murder rates, far below that of the United States. In recent years, the island has also seen a drop in robberies and petty theft, according to the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service.

Perhaps a bigger concern in the Cayman Islands is the history of hurricanes during the summer. Luckily, it’s been spared the worst in recent years. Meanwhile, The US Department of State says: “The Cayman Islands are a relatively safe place with little criminal activity affecting tourists. Robberies occasionally occur and we recommend keeping your doors and windows locked.” In the end, though, you’d probably do exactly this in your hometown anyway, which is something to keep in mind before you worry too much about traveling abroad.

Cayman Islands Hotel Pick: Caribbean Club Luxury Boutique Hotel

The Caribbean Club sits on Grand Cayman’s famous Seven Mile Beach and features 37 spacious villas. All are exquisitely decorated and all have full kitchens plus large furnished balconies with ocean views. It also has one of the nicest stretches of beach along the Seven Mile shore, with white sand and calm waves, plus the hotel offers free cabanas. Luca, the restaurant, is one of the best on the island.

2. St. Barts (St. Barth)

St. Barts is one of the Caribbean’s must-visit destinations, and it’s perhaps no surprise that St. Barts (short for Saint-Barthélemy and also known as St. Barth) is quite safe, considering it is one of the Caribbean’s most exclusive islands. It pulls in the rich and famous in droves, many of whom appear on yachts in the capital’s harbor. For everyone else, there are only two ways to arrive on this small, volcanic island in the northwest Caribbean Sea — via a small prop plane from St. Martin or by ferry. Once you’re here, the island offers 22 white sand beaches, charming gingerbread-style cottages, designer shops, colorful beach bars, and luxury spas.

There are no advisories of any note issued by any governments for St. Barts, though you will find cautions against petty theft, which is an issue in any destination frequented by tourists. Keep your belongings close to you always, and utilize your hotel’s safe for valuable items.

Hotel Pick in St. Barts: Christopher St. Barth

Easily one of the most exclusive getaways on the island, the 42-room Christopher St. Barth balances an urban chic ethos with contemporary French design and tropical island vibes. The lush grounds house a Sisley Spa, a pricey ocean-front restaurant, and an elegant infinity pool overlooking the ocean. There’s no beach, but that doesn’t stop this from being the most popular hotel in St. Barts.

Part of the Netherlands Antilles, or the ABC Islands (as they’re also known), Bonaire is one of the safest Caribbean destinations year after year. In fact, murder is almost unheard of here, and U.S. Department of State advisories are few and far between for the island. Perusing a list of recent crimes from 2022 , you’ll find that attempted thefts and petty crimes are the only noted incidents, with violent crimes almost nonexistent. s.

Aside from incredibly low crime rates, what is Bonaire known for? You’ll find perfect beaches, clear water, sunny skies, and amazing snorkeling off of its shores. It is also less developed than its neighbor, Aruba , and has a more laid-back island-style pace of life without the influx of major resorts. Cruises do dock here, so it can get crowded in Kralendijk when they are in town. However, there are numerous small beaches all over the island where you can escape on your own almost private stretch of sand. And if you want to really feel like you’re getting away from it all, head to Klein Bonaire , an uninhabited island off the coast of Bonaire with stunning beaches and no development.

Bonaire Hotel Pick: Harbour Village Beach Club

As one of the more polished resorts on Bonaire, Harbour Village Beach Club has a lot to like. The 43 rooms, suites, and beach houses — many with ocean views — are spacious and decorated with details like hardwood furniture and clawfoot bathtubs. La Balandra, the resort’s nautically-themed restaurant, serves up decent fare and is especially nice at night, with the sea illuminated. The resort also has a dive shop, fitness center, and full-service spa.

4. Anguilla

Anguilla continues to retain its easy-breezy pace of life — one that’s especially great, as the island is consistently one of the safest in the Caribbean. The U.S. Department of State reports that Anguilla’s crime rate is relatively low, and as of 2024, there were no travel advisories for the island nation. Hurricanes are a threat here, so consider the time of year you plan to visit for weather-related concerns.

Yes, this British Overseas Territory depends on luxury tourism — the rich and famous, like Jennifer Aniston and Jimmy Buffet, frequently travel to Anguilla — but it hasn’t lost its charm or relaxed authenticity and appeals to a wide swath of travelers. There are miles of white-sand beaches (like Rendezvous Bay, overlooking neighboring Saint Martin island) and secluded coves reached by boat, such as at Little Bay. After a day in the sun, hit up great restaurants and a low-key nightlife with live music that spans from reggae to string bands.

Hotel Pick in Anguilla: Four Seasons Resort and Residence Anguilla

Pricing for Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla

5. British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands , or BVI, is the name given to an archipelago of more than 60 islands, some of which are protected national parks. It’s best known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rainforests. This is a big boating destination, where sailboats can make stops between the hubs of Tortola , a popular cruise port, and Virgin Gorda , where smaller boats can put down anchor and head for shops and restaurants in the village of Spanish Town. While the islands do sit within the hurricane zone — and were ravaged during the 2017 season — the recovery has been relatively swift and most of the tourist infrastructure is back in place.

Wikitravel reports that the British Virgin Islands have a much lower incidence of crime than many other Caribbean countries, and wandering about alone, even at night, is not considered particularly risky. Another reason crime is low: Penalties for possession and supply of narcotics can be severe. The British Government says: “Although most visits to the BVI are trouble-free, serious incidents, including armed robbery, do occur. You should take sensible precautions against petty crime.” Frommer’s states : “The British Virgin Islands are very safe. Crime is practically nonexistent on these islands. Minor robberies do occur on Tortola, with less trouble reported on Virgin Gorda.” So if you’re seeking the safest locale, we’d recommend spending the majority of your time on the latter. Unfortunately, the more densely populated cities and islands of the U.S. Virgin Islands are a bit more dangerous, so if safety is your top concern, ensure your passport is up to date and head to the British islands instead.

Hotel Pick in the British Virgin Islands: Rosewood Little Dix Bay

The Rosewood Little Dix Bay is a luxury property located just north of Spanish Town. The jungle-meets-ocean setting makes it one of the most romantic spots on this sparsely populated island, and the thick tropical grounds allow for utmost tranquility and relaxation. The hotel is directly on a beautiful sandy beach, and most units are just a couple dozen yards from the water. Expect chic contemporary interiors throughout the property.

6. Martinique

The French territory of Martinique is somewhat of a secret gem, especially considering that it’s one of the Caribbean’s most cosmopolitan destinations for those who prioritize gourmet beach cuisine, live music, and natural beauty. Here, you’ll find white-sand beaches and tropical rain forests — not to mention a live volcano that looks over the harbor town of St-Pierre . Visitors can choose between big luxury resorts, stylish small hotels, or private luxury villas. Caribbean magazine editor Ed Wetschler told Yahoo Traveler : “[Martinique] is for sophisticated travelers who want not just beach. They want history and culture, geography, and cuisine…It helps if you can speak French.”

As for safety, Frommer’s states : “Crime is hardly rampant on Martinique, yet there are still those who prey on unsuspecting tourists. Follow the usual precautions, especially in Fort-de-France and in the tourist-hotel belt of Pointe du Bout. It’s wise to protect your valuables and never leave them unguarded on the beach.” The U.S. State Department lists no active threats on the island , or anywhere in the French West Indies, though hurricanes can be a seasonal risk.

Hotel Pick in Martinique: Hotel Plein Soleil

Hotel Plein Soleil is a 16-room boutique hotel set amid beautiful gardens and with views of the Bay of Thalémont. Attentive staff caters to guests, though the vibe here is more suited for travelers who prefer to explore and be left to their own devices (rather than resort-goers who need every whim catered to). The five colorful Caribbean-Creole style villas often feature their own pools and terraces with kitchenettes. The main house holds a cool, carefully curated collection of the owner’s artwork. It’s not on the beach, but that’s never far away in Martinique.

7. Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe is a group of five islands in the Lesser Antilles for outdoorsy types who seek authentic culture and natural beauty. The two largest islands, separated by a river and accessed by bridges, resemble a butterfly: On the eastern side is Grande-Terre, where several uncrowded beach towns offer visitors long stretches of sand for relaxing and waters sports . On the west is the more mountainous Basse-Terre, which is home to Guadeloupe National Park, where visitors can hit the two-hour trail to see a spectacular active volcano. Another day trip: Ferry over to Les Saintes , recognized as one of the most beautiful bays in the world by UNESCO.

Guadeloupe rarely sees criminal activity and is rarely the subject of U.S. State Department travel advisories. But Lonely Planet says that occasional islandwide strikes can disrupt travel; the site also warns visitors to avoid the shady side of Pointe-à-Pitre.  The British Government also suggests that visitors avoid isolated areas, including beaches, after dark. The only mention of crime cited by the U.S. Department of State is “pretty street crime, including purse snatching” — which is common in every major tourist destination, from New York City to Paris.

Keep in mind that mosquito-borne illnesses, including dengue fever and Zika, persist here. Come armed with effective bug spray and follow common-sense mosquito protection regimens, and you should be fine.

Hotel Pick in Guadeloupe: La Toubana Hotel & Spa

This 44-room, 121-acre hotel is the top upscale option on  Guadeloupe . From its mountainside perch, the resort descends gradually to the ocean where a small beach cove is a favorite for families and couples. If the sea isn’t your favorite place to get wet, an infinity pool has stunning view of waves crashing against the cliffside below. It’s a Caribbean setting lifted straight out of a dream, and the rustic-luxe bungalows have enormous terraces — many with terrific ocean views.

If you’re looking for a vacation that’s free of the devastating potential of hurricanes, is incredibly user friendly, and safe, look no further than Aruba . This tiny island is one of our favorites in the region, and is blessed with everything from stunning natural scenery and beautiful beaches to casinos, all-inclusive resorts, and secluded boutique hotels . It also has broad appeal, drawing solo traveler, couples, families, and retirees.

Aruba is rarely subject to U.S. State Department travel advisories and currently has none. Part of the reason for this is due to economics. Unlike many other Caribbean islands here, the middle class is strong, and most of the island’s residents’ quality of life is relatively high. Good wages mean that less people are driven into poverty and, thus, petty crime and opportunistic crimes of desperation are kept to an absolute minimum. Of course, exercise the normal precautions you would when traveling anywhere, though you’ll likely have no problems here.

Aruba’s drier climate and southern location in the Caribbean also means it’s rarely hit with hurricanes. In fact, at the time of writing, the last glancing blow was by weak Hurricane Felix back in 2007. Despite being incredibly safe and easy to visit, check out our list of things you should know before traveling to Aruba , as some may be surprising.

Hotel Pick in Aruba: Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort Aruba

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort is an adults-only hotel at the southern end of Eagle Beach. Guest rooms are attractive and feature higher-end amenities. Of course, the beachfront setting it the highlight here, and there’s plenty around to see and do for travelers looking to explore.

Antigua is known for its low crime rates, making it a great choice for a relaxing and secure vacation. Antigua boasts stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and historical sites like Nelson’s Dockyard, a meticulously restored 18th-century British naval base. Besides its pristine beaches, Antigua also boasts a lush rainforest. Take a hike through the Fig Tree Drive, a scenic route lined with towering fig trees, or explore the Devil’s Bridge National Park, a volcanic rock formation with tide pools and a natural archway. 

Like many other islands, most crimes reported are petty theft, nothing to be overly concerned about, and something we should all be aware of when traveling. The U.S. Department of State considers it a low-risk destination. Like many Caribbean islands, police presence is strong in tourist-heavy areas, and Antiguans are known for their hospitality and friendliness.  

Hotel pick in Antigua: Curtain Bluff Resort

Curtain Bluff is an all-inclusive resort located on Morris Bay on the island’s southwest end. Their seventy-two rooms include beachfront rooms, blufftop suites, and their Hulford collection which includes plunge pools and unparalleled water views. Meals, watersports, beach lounges, yoga, and more are all included in your stay.

10. Curaçao

Curaçao is a stunning island in the southern Caribbean Sea, known for its rich cultural heritage, and beautiful beaches. It boasts a unique blend of Dutch and Caribbean influences, reflected in its colorful architecture, lively music, and delicious cuisine. There are a variety of stunning beaches, from secluded coves with calm waters perfect for snorkeling to lively stretches with restaurants and water sports activities. Playa Kenepa, also known as Playa Grandi, is a popular choice for its calm waters and sea turtles, while Knip Beach offers white sand and clear turquoise waters. 

Curaçao boasts relatively low crime rates, particularly violent crime. However, tourists are more likely to encounter petty theft, so keeping an eye on their belongings is important. Tourism is a major part of Curaçao’s economy, so the government and local businesses prioritize visitor safety.

Hotel pick in Curaçao: Sunscape Curaçao Resort and Spa

This 341-room resort has a large beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling and three pools for those who prefer poolside to beachside. There is an ever-popular swim-up bar and an on-site spa. Rooms and suites include garden views and ocean views. 

St. Lucia creates a diverse and dramatic backdrop for your Caribbean vacation, with its volcanic peaks dominating the landscape, the lush rainforests, hidden waterfalls, and volcanic black sand beaches. From snorkeling to exploring the rainforest, there is something for thrill seekers, and the crystal clear waters make it an ideal destination for those looking to laze on the beach. 

As beautiful as St. Lucia is, it is also relatively safe. Theft is the most common crime, especially during popular events like the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival (held April 30 to May 12) and Saint Lucia Carnival (held July 1-17). Authorities suggest taking precautions to ensure your safety, like not wearing expensive jewelry or leaving drinks unattended. While more serious crimes occur, if you take precautions- especially at night and in secluded areas – your stay should be uninterrupted by any major crime.

Hotel Pick in St. Lucia: Jade Mountain Resort

This adults-only resort offers breathtaking island views on the southwestern Caribbean corner of St. Lucia. The rooms of the hotel, dubbed “sanctuaries,” all feature private infinity pools with stunning ocean views. 

Other locations currently considered safe by the U.S. government in the Caribbean are:

• Barbados

• Bermuda

• Dominica

• Grenada

• Montserrat

• St. Kitts and Nevis

• St. Vincent and the Grenadines

• Sint Maarten

You’ll Also Like: 

• 12 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Aruba
• Is the Dominican Republic Safe to Visit?
• 15 Private Plunge Pools with Stunning Views

You Might Also Like:

All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Oyster may earn an affiliate commission.

Top Stories

• Travel Tips

Top 11 Las Vegas Hotels on the Strip for Every Type of Traveler

By Christina Vercelletto

• Tips & News

Escape to an Adults-Only Paradise: Win a Luxurious Trip to Hotel Three Sixty in Costa Rica

By Caroline Morse Teel

12 Best LGBTQ-Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts Around the World

By Lauren Dana

Which Bahamas Island Is Right for You?

By Kyle Valenta

The 16 Coolest Themed Hotel Rooms in the U.S.

By Gwen Pratesi

10 Safest Vacation Destinations In The Caribbean (5 Not Worth Considering)

While most Caribbean destinations all share exceptional shorelines and more than 300 sunny days per year, some aren't the safest.

Many think that nothing can go wrong in the Caribbean – after all, it is paradise on Earth, right? While most Caribbean islands all share exceptional shorelines and more than 300 sunny days per year, they are not all equally safe. And safety should always come first, don’t you agree?

The general rule is that the smaller or richer the nation, the safer it is (and you are more likely to spot celebrities as well). Those who are vacationing on the more populated islands with a fragile economy should take certain safety precautions, such as never leaving their valuables alone and avoiding walking alone at night.

We have listed 10 Caribbean destinations where you will definitely be out of harm’s way and added 5 you should skip due to higher crime rates and safety issues.

15 Saint Martin Or Sint Marteen: What's It Called?

One small Caribbean island, two countries with no border in between: the French St. Martin and the Dutch Sint Maarten are both extremely safe Caribbean destinations. The French side of the island is more laid-back and quieter than the Dutch side that is famous for its upbeat energy.

14 Safe And Sound In Antigua and Barbuda

And now the other way around: Two islands, one country. Antigua and Barbuda’s charm lies in its small population, which makes it a perfect getaway for those who seek a peaceful paradise retreat. The country only gained independence in 1981, making it a destination with heavy colonial influences still visible.

13 Experience The French Culture In Martinique

Lovers of all things French should definitely check out Martinique. Not only do visitors get to marvel at the fusion of French and Caribbean cuisine, but there are also so many annual festivals worth visiting. The highest point of Martinique is a picturesque volcano that hasn’t erupted in over a hundred years.

12 St. Barts: No Crime In Sight, Just Luxury

No wonder St. Barts is a popular choice among the rich and famous: the island guarantees privacy and complete safety – with the exception of having the shortest airport runway in the world. It is one of the most expensive Caribbean destinations and they deeply care about coral reefs and animal preservation.

11 Dive Into The Waters Of Bonaire

Not as widely known in the Caribbean, Bonaire is a Dutch territory with some of the best diving sites in the world. Most of the land and all the water surrounding this island are considered a national park. The island is also home to thousands of flamingoes. Bonaire is an environmentalist’s heaven!

10 Don't Miss Out On Kayaking On Cayman Islands

Are you into water sports? On the Cayman Islands, tourists can do it all: from paddle boarding and diving to kayaking in the mangrove forests. Don’t miss out on kayaking in the bioluminescent waters in the night. It is a truly magical experience.

9 The Dreamy British Virgin Islands

Sandy beaches, warm turquoise waters and high-end accommodation options: the British Virgin Islands are the quintessential Caribbean islands. There’s more than 50 of them! No wonder the British Virgin Islands is a popular sailing destination: that way, you get to see them all.

8 Everybody Loves Turks And Caicos For A Reason

It is almost impossible to come across a negative comment about Turks and Caicos. Especially popular among honeymooners, Turks and Caicos is home to numerous postcard beaches, big cave systems, and amazing seafood. The best news is that there are many budget-friendly hotels that won’t break your bank on Turks and Caicos.

Related: 15 Gorgeous Photos of Turks And Caicos Taken By Tourists

7 Explore The Versatile Beaches In Aruba

If beach-hopping is your thing, visit Aruba, another extremely safe Caribbean island. Whether you want to sunbathe in shallow waters, explore mysterious shipwrecks or brace dramatic oceanic waves, Aruba has you covered. Not many other Caribbean islands offer such a wide range of beach types.

Related: Aruba: A Guide To The Most Stunning Beaches

6 No One Can Harm You In Anguilla

Anguilla is (still) a British territory, not an independent nation. The island is so small there is no public transport, so tourists like to rent bikes and cars to go see the entirety of this island’s breathtaking shores. It is a popular hiding spot for many celebrities.

5 Don't Consider St. Kitts and Nevis: It Has An Ugly Side

If you think you will be treated like royalty in all of the Caribbean countries, you are wrong. While tourists are generally safe in St. Kitts and Nevis, it is by no means a care-free destination. Don’t carry crazy amounts of cash with you and don’t venture out at night.

4 It Is Best To Avoid Kingston While In Jamaica

Overall, Jamaica is a great and affordable Caribbean destination, but caution is advised if you happen to stay in Kingston, Jamaica’s capital city. Make sure you travel in groups and that you avoid areas with high crime rates, especially during the night.

Related: 10 Myths People Believe About Jamaica (10 Truths That Will Put You Off)

3 Crime Rates In Trinidad And Tobago Are Really High

Experienced travelers who like a good culture shock might find Trinidad and Tobago very interesting, but otherwise, it is best to skip it. Not only is petty theft very popular in urban areas, but you might also get robbed on roads. Some are more dangerous than others, but how is a tourist to know which one is which?

2 Crime Is Common Even In Tourist Areas In Belize

If you want to stay safe in Belize, don’t go out at night and stay in busy tourist areas only. Despite robberies, Belize is a popular destination, especially among adventurous backpackers. But if you are easily stressed and worried, it is best you skip Belize.

1 Ladies, Skip Barbados Or At Least Don't Walk Alone

No one should walk alone at night in Barbados, especially women who sometimes get stalked by the local men. Doesn’t really sound like a great Caribbean vacation. Not to mention the dodgy nightlife, armed robberies, and burglaries that are a part of life in Barbados.

Next: Family Vacation Spots In The Caribbean (For Spring Break)

When going on a tropical vacation, the last thing you want to worry about is your safety.

Vacations are for relaxing and rejuvenating the mind, body, and soul and should never put your safety at risk.

Unfortunately, things can happen anywhere in the world. You can’t live your life in fear, but you also can’t live in ignorance either.

When traveling, the best thing you can do is pay attention to your surroundings, make smart choices, use common sense, and do some research before leaving for your vacation.

If you stay at the resort, take the advice of the service staff at your hotel and avoid being alone at night.

You should be safe anywhere you go if you take precautions and make smart decisions.

However, even with some of the safest tropical vacations things can happen that are out of your control.

The list below details some of the safest tropical holidays in the world so that you don’t have to worry during your vacation and can instead focus on having fun and relaxing. 

If you’re someone that worries easily, then picking a safer location is an important part of the beach vacation decision-making. 

These spots are all over the world with some of them being in the Caribbean with low violent crime.

Top 12 Safest Tropical Vacations

1. Florida Keys

Located right in the US and the southernmost point in the country, the Florida Keys are a safe place to visit.

There are over 800 islands that make up the Keys, but only 30 are inhabited. Some of the most popular Keys to visit include Key West, Key Largo, Big Pine Key, Marathon, and Islamorada, but there are many to choose from.

These are some of the top beach getaways in the US.

They have a tropical, Caribbean-like vibe, and they’re covered in palm trees. These islands are great, safe places to visit and are perfect for your next vacation.

Especially if you decide you want to stay in the US. You can enjoy the world-class resorts, beaches, spas, pools, bars, snorkeling, diving, and water sports offered. 

It is a great safe tropical vacation without needing your passport .

Be sure not to forget any of these essential items for the Florida Keys .

2. St. Barts

The island of St. Barts (Saint-Barthélemy), located in the Caribbean, is a French-owned destination.

This is one of the safest Caribbean islands and one of the safest tropical destinations in the world, although one of the most expensive Caribbean destinations.

It has some of the lowest crime rates. However, it’s always important to pay attention to your surroundings, but in St. Barts, you won’t need to be on edge or concerned about your safety as you would in other locations.

The island mostly caters to luxury travel, and move over Cayman islands, St. Barts is the new hot spot.

The high-end luxury travel that it attracts is one of the reasons it’s a safer destination. When visiting St. Barts, you can expect a carefree, crime-free vacation that allows you to relax and rejuvenate fully.

This is one of the more expensive tropical vacations, but it’s completely worth it for the ability to not be stressed or worried. 

3. Anguilla

Another hot spot Caribbean island is Anguilla which is an independent British commonwealth nation. It is the perfect island for solo female travelers .

The United States has deemed the threat to be a level 1, which is the lowest possible score. This means you don’t have to worry much about your safety, but you should always be smart and aware of your surroundings.

It is one of the safest Caribbean islands, so if you are looking to not travel far from home, this might be the place.

Here petty crime is the only real concern, but if you leave your valuables at home or in your hotel safe, then you don’t have much to worry much about it. And when on their pristine beaches consider using a diversion safe to keep your valuables unnoticeable.

This island costs a bit more than some of the other Caribbean islands, but it’s worth the extra cost for your added safety. Living expenses are higher in Anguilla, too, which is something to consider. 

Hawaii is made up of eight major islands and hundreds of smaller islands. The eight major islands include Hawaii (The Big Island), Kahoolawe, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, Niihau, and Oahu.

All would make for great tropical vacations , and all are fairly safe. The best part is unlike the Caribbean islands, you never have to worry about hurricane season.

Maui is the most tropical, but all of the islands are awesome destinations.

Since they’re part of the United States, they’re easy to visit and much more accessible, making for a great and safe vacation destination.

These islands have everything you could want and need, from resorts to nightlife to adventuring, hiking, waterfalls, snorkeling, and more. They are also home to soft sandy beaches.

So if you’re looking for a safe place to visit that is tropical and in the United States, this is your place. 

4. Australia

The northern region of Australia is considered tropical, and there are two seasons, including wet and dry.

There are so many great places to visit in the northern part of the country, from The Great Barrier Reef to over 8,000 islands to explore.

Australia is a safe country and it’s stable and has a relatively low crime rate. You can also find some wonderful resorts in Australia.

The modern and contemporary “land down under” would make for the perfect vacation. It’s one of the most visited places in the world, and for a good reason. It’s absolutely beautiful. Australia is the sixth largest country in the world, so there is a ton to do and see. 

Another great thing is violent crime rarely touches this country, so you don’t have to worry.

5. Singapore

Singapore is characterized as being one of the cleanest cities in the world. It’s also one of the safest tropical places you can visit.

There is a very low crime rate, and citizens feel very safe and so do visitors. Travelers often feel safe alone on the streets at night, and relatively anywhere they go.

Of course, you should always take precautions, but this is one of the safest tropical places you can visit.

Law enforcement is strict, and laws are followed, making it a safe place for tourists. Singapore is a very modern country with modern facilities, infrastructure, clean water, electricity, and internet.

It has a diversified economy and is a rapidly growing country. It’s a very interesting country to visit and worth it if you get the chance. 

6. Costa Rica

In Central America, Costa Rica is a relatively safe country to visit. If you stay in the tourist areas near the beaches, you shouldn’t have much to worry about. It is a beautiful lush jungle county with pristine white sand beaches.

Costa Rica is a gorgeous country with great surfing conditions and a diverse landscape. There are tons of national parks, snorkeling opportunities, and beautiful beaches waiting to be explored.

In addition, there are many great resorts where you’ll feel safe and right at home. Costa Rica is worth your time. You’ll enjoy the turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and luscious greenery. 

Here the only thing you will have to worry about is small petty crime, but if you use common sense and keep your belonging safe and secure you will have nothing to worry about.

Greece is a wonderful country full of islands to visit. Plus, it is full of some of the oldest and richest history in the world.

Greece is made up of mainland Greece and many islands in the Mediterranean. If you love history, you will love exploring the Greek history of this country.

It is also known as a very romantic destination, and it’s popular among couples and honeymooners, but there are also plenty of great islands for solo female travelers to visit in Greece.

Any of the islands would make for the perfect tropical vacation, and Greece is a safe country. Of course, danger is everywhere, but if you’re smart, you’ll be fine. Visit Greece and enjoy the European vacation of a lifetime. 

8. Balearic Islands, Spain

Mainland Spain is not considered to have a tropical climate, but the Balearic Islands off the coast of Spain have more of a tropical atmosphere.

Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands, known for its beautiful coastline and beaches. However, there is also it’s neighboring island Ibiza that is a popular vacation destination among young Europeans.

The islands are fairly safe, but there is a risk of drugs since there is a dominant nightclub scene. The most important thing you can do is pay attention to your surroundings and not drink too much so that you can stay aware of what is happening around you. 

9. Saint Lucia

Located in the Caribbean, Saint Lucia is one of the safest Caribbean islands to visit, especially if you stay in a resort.

It’s known for the beautiful Pitons mountains as well as the reefs and beaches. You’ll find luxurious resorts on this island, and the Pitons are always making a dramatic backdrop everywhere you go on the island.

The interior of the island has rainforests, waterfalls, and a diverse landscape. Saint Lucia is a safe island for all visitors, especially families. 

It is also one of the best spots in the Caribbean islands to come for scuba diving. So if you are looking for more adventure in your travel, St. Lucis is one of the safest islands to visit with lots of water sport activities.

10. Corsica, France

Corsica is an island off the coast of France and is a popular tourist destination. It is also very safe. It’s one of the lesser visited Mediterranean islands.

It’s a mountainous island with a dense forest in the middle and a rich coastline on the outside. The coastal towns and cities have distinct Italian cultures even though the island is French.

Corsica is famous for being the birthplace of Napoléon Bonaparte. The island has many great restaurants and bars along the ocean and some of the clearest water for swimming and snorkeling. There are also plenty of tourist resorts to choose from to stay at right on the beach.

The safe island is a great tropical place to visit if you want to go somewhere unspoiled yet modern. 

Fiji is made up of 333 islands.

Viti Levu is the island that is home to the international airport, so it’s the easiest place to access in Fiji and a great, safe island to visit.

Fiji is surely a place people dream of visiting all their life, with only a handful of people actually making it there.

It’s well known for its over-the-water bungalows, turquoise waters, and powdery, white sand. The resorts are very safe and enjoyable. Fiji is a luxury destination that should be put on everyone’s list.

Tahiti is a part of French Polynesia and is most well known for Bora Bora which is the most famous island that makes up the Islands of Tahiti.

French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France with more than 100 islands included. Tahiti is a safe tropical destination for tourists.

Specifically, Bora Bora is a great place to visit. It’s a place people only ever dream of going to. It’s on most people’s bucket lists because of its luxury resort and stunning scenery combination.

It’s also known for its over-the-water bungalows and high-end amenities. Bora Bora is also surrounded by a ring of coral reefs, making it a great place to snorkel and dive.

It’s not one of the cheapest locations, but it’s worth saving up for. Plus, you won’t have to worry about crime here.

Conclusions on the Safest Tropical Vacation Destinations

There are so many wonderful safe tropical vacations around the world. Many of them are safe as long as you use common sense and pay attention to your surroundings.

Plan ahead, make smart choices and leave your valuables at home, you really shouldn’t have a problem anywhere you go.

It’s when you start acting careless that problems can occur. 

If you’re worried about your safety, there are enough safe places to visit that you can choose from so that you don’t have to stress about being put in danger.

Pick a place from this list, and you’ll feel safe during your trip. So get ready for a memorable, safe, and stress-free tropical vacation because it’s coming your way!

Related Content

Packing list for Tropical Vacation

Best Greek Islands for Solo Females

Best Tropical Vacations

Related Posts

Best Cuba Travel Tips and Advice

10 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit In October

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit In January

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The 15 Safest Countries to Travel to in 2024

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

No one wants to go on vacation only to be too afraid to leave their hotel. So, if you’re looking for the safest countries to travel to in 2024, plan your next trip around this list. 

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, a travel insurance provider, just released its annual list of the safest countries in the world . The rankings are created using an extensive methodology that includes surveying recent travelers, analyzing data from the Global Peace Index and the US State Department, and evaluating the GeoSure Global scores of the major cities in each country. These data points are used to calculate a weighted score reflecting each country’s safety. 

Berkshire Hathaway issues an important caveat alongside its safest countries list: “These ratings aren’t predictive—that is, just because we say Canada is safe that doesn’t mean it will rank in the Top 10 in the future. Also, it doesn’t account for the possibility of natural disasters, like the Canadian wildfires.” Inclusion on the list also doesn’t mean that “every part of the company is as safe as any other,” says the company. 

This is the ninth year that Berkshire Hathaway has released this study. Over the years, the company says the definition of a safe place to travel has changed over time. “A safe place was originally a place that’s largely free from terrorist activity. Then it became a place that was safe from disease outbreaks. Now it’s a place where all types of people can move about freely without discrimination or harassment.”

Canada rose from sixth place in 2023 to claim the title of the safest country to travel to in 2024. Canada was ranked highly for safety due to its low rates of violent crime. However, travelers are advised to watch out for wildfires, which have been a major issue in the country in recent years, causing diminished air quality and the potential for health problems. 

• Switzerland
• Netherlands
• United Kingdom
• New Zealand

Safety looks different for every traveler. The study also broke down the safest countries by a number of specific categories.

Safest Countries to Travel to (Safest From Violent Crime)

Safest countries to travel to (safety from terrorism).

5 Simple Ways to Make Travel Easier in 2024

Safest Countries to Travel to (Safety Transportation Safety)

Safest countries to travel to (health measures), safest countries to travel to (women’s/lgbtq/people of color safety), you might also like:.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Southwest Ireland: 8-Night Trip, Incl. Guinness...

Specialized Travel Services

Luxe, 7-Night Caribbean & Mexico Cruise...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The 34 best beaches in the world

By Lizzie Pook

There’s something about a good beach that enlivens the senses: the briny scent of salt in the air, the calming murmur of waves, the gentle nip of sand whipped up by the soft breeze. A favourite beach is like a favourite poem – individual, important and something that makes our hearts sing, and now more than ever we are dreaming of days spent wriggling our toes in the sand and wallowing in salty water.

Instead of the typical sandy spots dotted with sun umbrellas and gaggles of tourists, we've sought out spaces that you may have to venture a little further for, but that remain incredibly beautiful and very often crowd-free. From the most exquisite beaches in Europe to far-flung stretches in Asia, Africa and more, these are the best beaches in the world.

1. Palm Cove Beach, Australia

The combination of leaning palm trees on powdery sand makes Palm Cove Beach the epitome of a tropical paradise. The town itself, located in the tropical northeast of Australia , near the city of Cairns, the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, is home to only 2,000 people, so the sandy stretch is usually free of crowds. Keep an eye out for wildlife though – dolphins and whales can often be seen from the Palm Cover jetty.

2. Honopu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

The only (legal) way to reach remote Honopu is by water, meaning you have to swim from an offshore boat, or from neighboring Kalalau Beach, a quarter of a mile away (fins are a must). But given that the cayenne-coloured cliffs and smooth sands of this isolated spot provided the backdrop for Raiders of the Lost Ark and King Kong , the schlep is cinematically worth it. Since the valley is so isolated, it is also believed to be spiritual, and served as an ancient burial ground for local chiefs. Sleep over at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, a sunshiny retreat.

3. Breckon, Shetland

Wedged between two vivid emerald slabs of green pasture, Breckon is somewhat sheltered from the south-westerly winds that roll through these lands. That said, you’ll want to manifest pretty balmy temperatures to brave the often icy waters. It’s a beautiful spot with clear waters and perfectly powdery sands, but all is not as it seems on a clear summer’s day. Many boats have met their end along these shores – learn all about the treacherous sea at the local museum in Burravoe, which details harrowing accounts and displays fascinating artefacts that have washed up over the years.

4. Wategos Beach, Australia

The seaside town of Byron Bay may have started as a bohemian enclave but has since grown to become one of Australia’s prime addresses – Matt Damon, Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron all own houses here. And while any stretch of Bryon’s coastline is pretty, the ultimate spot is Wategoes Beach, a sheltered beach lined with screwpine trees and offering up calm swimming conditions. The beach is also home to a popular walk that leads up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse, a particularly scenic spot to be at during sunset.

5. Ora Beach, Indonesia

With a higgledy-piggledy 37,000-mile coastline (the world’s second longest), Indonesia has a glut of beautiful beaches. One of its finest is Ora, snuggled away on the north coast of sparsely populated Seram island. The area is known as Indonesia’s Little Maldives due to its agate seas and white-sugar beaches, but the island still retains something of a wild feel. Seram sits amid several tectonic plates, meaning that the surrounding landscape varies cinematically, from lush, bird-speckled tropical rainforest to ogre-like mountains .

6. Mona Vale Beach, Australia

Less than an hour's drive from Sydney , Mona Vale is the unsung hero of the famed northern beaches. It's technically two beaches separated by a large, sculptural rock. The main beach is a one-kilometre stretch of soft sand, perfect for walking, splashing in the rolling waves and watching the horizon for passing pods of dolphins. There's an ocean-fed lap pool with a children's pool next to it. Days on Mona Vale beach start early – joggers are here from 5am to watch the sunrise before breakfast at the Armchair Collective cafe, families start trickling in around 9am and set up umbrellas as a base camp for a day of boogie boarding, beach picnics and exploring the rockpool. The surfers are always the last to leave, forever holding on for one more wave.

7. Dune du Pilat, France

In the warmer months, Europe’s tallest sand dune, just an hour’s drive from Bordeaux , is cloaked in a constant, shimmering heat haze, giving the illusion that this sprawling French beach is scattered with gleaming treasure. The sand here, which forms peaks as high as 300 feet, is as finely milled as fresh flour, perfect for sausage-rolling your way down to the tussocky Atlantic shoreline and standing to gaze back at the pine forests behind the beach. The surrounding Arcachon Bay holds miles of beaches ripe for exploring, and you’ll find a jumble of huts nearby where fishermen set up tables to sell oysters, pâté and prawns. Book a night at Les Sources de Caudalie , an elegant country retreat.

8. Noosa Beach, Australia

Quite possibly the most beloved beach within easy reach of Brisbane, Noosa pairs designer boutiques and buzzing restaurants with a sprawling and serene white sand beach. The southern end of the beach typically offers up calm swimming conditions, as well as a classic surf club, while the northern end runs alongside Noosa National Park, which is home to a eucalypt forest and koalas.

9. Awaroa, South Island, New Zealand

Set deep in the heart of New Zealand’s glorious Abel Tasman National Park, Awaroa is hemmed in by clover-green native bush and seas that sparkle like freshly blown glass. Most visitors come here either by water – swooshing in on kayaks or small boats – or on foot, to ramble around the park’s lush forests. It has an important place in the hearts of the locals, who banded together to crowdfund the purchase of the privately held beachfront when it came up for sale in 2016, thus giving this pretty part of the planet the nickname the ‘People’s Beach’.

10. Die Plaat, Walker Bay Nature Reserve, South Africa

Don’t be surprised to spot the occasional southern right whale wallowing offshore at Die Plaat, a ruggedly beautiful swath of sand fringed by rocky limestone outcrops near Hermanus, South Africa’s whale capital. Chubby seals slouch on the rocky shoreline here, and you’ll find the ground littered with huge, pearlescent abalone shells. There’s history to be courted in these wind-whipped sands as well; the beach is home to Klipgat Cave, a bat-filled cavern where late Middle Stone Age people lived up to 85,000 years ago (keep your eyes peeled – you may even spot ancient tools on the ground). Stay at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, a 6,177-acre lodge.

11. Grand Anse, Grenada

You’ll find no shortage of beautiful beaches in Grenada, but tranquil, sheltered Grand Anse is one of the best. Two miles of milky-white sand on the western, leeward side of the island , it’s a short water-taxi ride from the capital of St George’s, and is overlooked by some of Grenada’s finest hotels. You won’t want for anything here, whether it’s goblet-sized G&Ts, market stalls or seahorses that swoosh around snorkellers.

12. Keem Bay, Achill Island, Ireland

It’s a windy road to Keem Bay, but the staggering cliff-top views are worth it. This sheltered inlet, on Achill Island in County Mayo, is almost unknown to visitors, but its clear malachite waters and soft biscuit sand make it a family-friendly spot – that’s also wonderfully crowd-free. Bring binoculars for spotting basking sharks; in warmer months you’ll find herds of ice-cream vans in the car park.

Read more about the best beaches in Ireland

13. Fakarava, French Polynesia

With its collection of easily accessible white and pink sand beaches, Fakarava – one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia – is one of the best snorkelling locations in the world, with consistently warm waters. While the sea is a safe haven for rare fish, fluorescent corals and ‘walls’ of sharks that pass close by the shore, the unblemished beaches have a claim to fame as the inspiration for Matisse’s bleu period. The artist spent three months in nearby Tahiti in 1930, and was enthralled by the lagoons’ infinite blues.

14. Marathonisi, Zakynthos, Greece

Better known as Turtle Island, the spotless white-sand islet of Marathonisi is a vital nesting spot for endangered loggerhead sea turtles, meaning visitors must stay within five metres of the water to avoid disturbing them. Fill your lungs with the pine-scented air before exploring the surrounding sea caves by snorkel or boat but be sure to bring supplies: you’ll find nothing on this Greek Island beach but seals, turtles and forests. Calm, smart design hangout Olea All Suite Hotel reflects Zakynthos's more relaxed side.

15. Praia do Sancho, Brazil

Found on Fernando de Noronha, an archipelago of volcanic islands between Brazil and Africa , Praia do Sancho is consistently voted one of the world’s best beaches. It’s also one of the hardest to access. Flights from mainland Brazil take about an hour, then you must hike, scooch down narrow rock tunnels and descend steep ladder steps to reach the golden palm-fringed sands. You have to pay an environment tax to get in, as the area is a National Park (head to the park’s offices, a 15-minute drive away), but once you’re there, its deserted shoreline, giant lumbering iguanas and fish-flecked shallows are worth the sweat.

16. Chesterman Beach, Vancouver Island, Canada

Another wild beauty, Chesterman’s wide stretch of smooth sand – dotted with huge driftwood logs and fringed by wolf-filled forest – is popular with die-hard surfers and windswept strollers when the tide recedes. It’s overlooked by the fantastic Wickaninnish Inn, an atmospheric place to shelter and keep an eye out for passing sea otters when bloated storm clouds roll in.

17. Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles

Possibly one of the most photogenic places in the world, Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue is the original Bounty advert beach, cloaked in pure white sand and strewn with hefty granite boulders. It is not, by any stretch, deserted, but visit in the early morning] and you’ll get there before the daytrippers from Mahé and Praslin. For your own pocket of paradise, walk southwards through the shallows past the first set of boulders. The bay opens up for added breathing space.

18. Seagrass Bay, Laucala Island, Fiji

Covered in a sultry tropical jungle and accessible only via guided walking tours or horseback safaris, the private island hideaway of Laucala is an unfathomably beautiful spot, home to some of Fiji’s rarest birds, hordes of marine life and spellbinding beaches. Seagrass Bay is the quietest and prettiest, but if its real adventure you’re after, head slightly further off-shore to get up close to the magnificent sea-life in a submersible.

19. Hidden Beach, Palawan, Philippines

It’s not quite so hidden any more, but this beach still makes its mark as one of the world’s best. Palawan is filled with pristinely beautiful spots, but Hidden Beach – surrounded by imposing limestone cliffs and with startlingly bone-white sand – is an idyllic spot from which to plunge into the turquoise ocean. Stay at El Nido hotels .

20. Ile aux Cerfs, Mauritius

Named for the cerfs , the stags imported from Java for hunting, Ile aux Cerfs in Mauritius has become something of a victim of its own famous beauty, much of it overrun with obtrusive crowds and pesky beach touts. But you need only hike half a mile down the beach and you’ll be rewarded with some incredible island sands that you can keep all to yourself. This place is popular for a reason.

21. Tortuga Bay, Santa Cruz Island, Galápagos

With ghost-white sand, black lava rock and gaggles of marine iguanas, Tortuga Bay is an almost surreal place. It’s two miles out of the main town of Puerto Ayora, and the hike can be hot and sticky, but once there allow yourself to be distracted by sharks patrolling the shallows, apple-red crabs scuttling across the sands and the swoop of blue-footed boobies coming into land, then cool off with a spot of breaststroke among the mangroves.

22. Turquoise Bay, Exmouth, Australia

Launch yourself into the crystalline waters of Turquoise Bay and you’ll be swimming within a few feet of the pristine Ningaloo Reef, a World Heritage-listed site that’s home to the largest congregation of whale sharks on the planet. A 40-mile drive from Exmouth on Australia’s Western coast, it’s a beach of blindingly white sands and impeccable snorkelling – you’ll descend to see rainbow corals, peaceful turtles and more than 500 fish species.

23. Pink Sand Beach, Barbuda

This endlessly photogenic, often empty beach is made from crushed corals that have been ground into fine silk-like sand. Barbuda, Antigua’s sister island, is less crowded than most of the Caribbean islands , meaning you may find you have this eight-mile swathe of sand – which glows candy-floss-pink in the sun – entirely to yourself. There are no public facilities per se, but you’ll find a few beachy cafes scattered alongside the surf for a cooling cocktail.

24. Playa Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

This popular family beach borders the wildlife-filled Manuel Antonio National Park, where three-toed sloths and white-faced capuchin monkeys emerge from the coastal rainforest to the delight of tiny beachgoers. It’s a 30-minute hike from the entrance to the park (keep your eyes peeled for howler monkeys crashing through the canopy), but once there you’ll find soft sands, excellent swimming and honey-hued sunsets. Book a room at Arenas del Mar , spread across 11 leafy acres of a nature reserve.

25. Gantheaume Point, Broome, Western Australia

With a backdrop of saffron-coloured cliffs and lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean , this rugged beach is one of the southern hemisphere’s most photogenic. Cast your eye across the robin-egg-blue waters and you might spot the snouts of rare snubfin dolphins breaking the surface, then turn back to the old lighthouse tower to see ospreys nesting in the framework. When the tide is at its lowest, a smattering of 125-million-year-old dinosaur footprints are unveiled, preserved impeccably in the amber-coloured reef rock.

26. Dolfynstrand, Namibia

Set on the edge of the Namib-Naukluft National Park – the oldest desert on the planet – and a 15-minute drive from seaside hub Walvis Bay. The primeval Dolfynstrand is not a soft-waves-and-sand-between-your-toes sort of place – instead there are eerie shipwrecks strewn on the sand and a stinking, snoozing seal colony up the coast. But given its remote location in one of the world’s most sparsely populated countries, any beachcombers are unlikely to have to jostle for space.

27. Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach, North Carolina

More of an unpolished gem than a screensaver beach, the wind-pummelled Ocracoke on the Outer Banks of North Carolina has been described as one of the USA’s wildest. Once the temporary home of Blackbeard the pirate and his fellow buccaneers, it rocks some seriously big surfing waves in the late summer, while more tranquil waters earlier in the year (plus changing facilities and ample parking) are ideal for salt-water-seeking families.

28. Rauðasandur Beach, Iceland

Glowering below the rocks of Iceland’s western fjords is the moody Rauðasandur Beach, distinguished by its copper-red sands, a result of billions of pulverised scallop shells. Reached by a winding gravel road, this is edged by formidable mountains and dramatic cliffs. But you’re unlikely to see another human here – only a tenth of Iceland’s visitors ever make it as far as the Westfjords.

29. Jibei Island beach, Taiwan

Found in Penghu County, among the remote western islands of Taiwan, Jibei is an almost untouched spot, out of reach of most city-going travellers. Getting here involves taking a boat from the North Sea Tourist Centre to the main part of the island, where there are plenty of watersports, sun umbrellas and wooden cabins for an overnight stay. But it’s the secluded, often deserted sandspit, a 15-minute walk away, that’s truly special. There are no man-made intrusions here – just the murmur of the ocean and a mile of untrodden sand.

30. Uig Sands, Isle of Lewis, Scotland

A busy day at Uig is when two people show up at once. Lying some 20 miles west of Stornoway on Lewis’s surf-battered Atlantic coast, this is a big, dramatic beach watched over by tussocky dunes and grizzled mountains. The beach itself is famous for being the place where a set of Viking chess pieces – dating back to the 12th century and made from the husks of walrus teeth – were unearthed, but it has a lot more going for it than just its history. The surrounding machair flower meadows erupt into bloom in June, and its enormous uninterrupted stretches of sand are a playground for kite-buggy enthusiasts. Check into the 19th-century country house Lews Castle .

We've rounded up the best secret beaches in Scotland

31. Benguerra Island, Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

Cast away in the protected Bazaruto Archipelago off the coast of southern Mozambique , Benguerra is a place where sandbars shimmer like nacre and leggy flamingoes pick their way delicately through the channels. A short sail by dhow east of the town of Vilanculos, the fine sand here is fringed by a two-mile-long coral reef, while migrating humpbacks and huge whale sharks pass majestically further offshore. The shot-silk waters are also home to the largest dugong population in the western Indian Ocean, and inland you’ll find congregations of crocodiles and all manner of bird species. But best of all, its marine reserve status means there’s only a handful of lodges on the island, so once the day-trippers depart, you’ll have the beach all to yourself. Stat at andBeyond Benguerra Island , a classy but unpretentious beach retreat.

Read more about the best beaches in Mozambique

32. Al Mughsail, Salalah, Oman

There’s something Mad Max -esque about Al Mughsail, with its unflinchingly white sand, parched frankincense trees and cinematic blow holes (especially impressive during monsoon season) which erupt every couple of minutes, shaking the earth and spewing out seawater with a deafening sound. Stretching for four unbroken miles and fringed with sheer limestone cliffs, the beach is lapped by gleaming turquoise water which can get a little choppy at times. That said, it’s a wonderful spot from which to watch fishermen pilot traditional dhows just offshore; catch them at dusk for the most dramatic photographs, when they are silhouetted against the treacly Omani sunset.

33. Playa Paraiso, Cayo Largo del Sur, Cuba

It’s likely that Playa Paraiso – stretching across a small island just off Cuba ’s southern coast – still looks much like it did in 1494, when Christopher Columbus sailed to Cayo Largo on his second expedition to the New World. Its sieved-flour sand and crystalline waters remain pristine, while the nearby reefs offer some of the finest diving in the Caribbean. Warm, calm waters make the beach ideal for paddlers and swimmers, while wildlife lovers should keep their eyes peeled for iguanas and giant sea turtles. Shade can be hard to come by though, and naturists head to the east end of the beach – so stay west if you prefer to keep things covered up.

34. Luskentyre, Outer Hebrides

At the end of a winding road on the wind-battered west coast of the Isle of Harris, you’ll find something to make your eyes pop. Luskentyre Beach is a paint splash of brilliant white, surrounded by almost impossibly azure water. On a sunny day, it’s so unerringly blue you may find it hard to believe you are at a beach in Scotland at all. But regardless of its paradoxically tropical feel, it’s at its most beautiful when eel-coloured storm clouds roll in and seas turn flinty, turning this dramatic landscape an eerie monochrome.

The 16 Safest Beach Towns in Mexico to Vacation

Traveling outside your own state can be a little unnerving, especially for newbie travelers. Traveling to Mexico can add one extra element of uncertainty, given the recent news stories regarding illnesses, assaults, and even deaths in Mexico resort towns. The scariest stories seem to rise to the top and get the most attention, giving you pause to book that next trip to Mexico. Wouldn’t it be nice to have the facts so you can really know where the safest beaches in Mexico are?

Where are the safest beach towns in Mexico?

Mexico also has its share of problems in terms of crime, but not every part of Mexico carries the U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisory Level 4 “do not travel” warning. There are high-crime areas that should be avoided and areas that don’t have high crime.

In this article, we’ll set aside the news stories and take a look at the numbers to put some perspective on safety in Mexico so you can make your own educated decision about traveling to Mexico.

After all, it would be a shame to skip one of the most affordable destinations around the azure Caribbean Sea based on misinformation.

You’ll also learn how to stay informed about traveling to Mexico and how to practice safety while traveling there if you decide to go. 

In life, all things are relative. The list above is no exception. The Mexican towns included in the list above are the “safest” compared to the other towns in Mexico.

How did I determine which Mexican beach towns to include in the list?

Three data sources were used to rate the safety of the towns and arrive at the safest Mexican beach towns, including:

• U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisory Level
• The National Travel & Tourism Office
• The Milwaukee Journal Sentinal’s Mexico Blackouts Investigation .

U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisory Level

The DOS (U.S. Department of State) established four travel advisory levels to convey the safety of travel to a particular country or part of a country. 

Only Mexican beach towns with level 2 assigned were considered for the list. (Level 2 is the lowest level assigned to any city in Mexico).

In some cases, one country can have several travel advisory levels assigned to different areas of the region. In fact, this is the case for Mexico. 

Below is the Travel Advisory map from the DOS website, depicting the varying advisory levels for Mexico. Note: Level 1: Pale Yellow Level 2: Bright Yellow Level 3: Orange Level 4: Red

Notice the varying travel advisory levels assigned across Mexico. In particular, the beach cities Puerto Vallarta (level 3), Acapulco & Mazatlan (level 4). These towns were not even considered for the Safest Beach Towns in Mexico list due to the higher advisory levels.

National Travel & Tourism Office U.S. Traveler Deaths

The NTTO (National Travel & Tourism Office) tracks and reports on the total number of U.S. travelers heading to Mexico each year, along with how many of the travelers died while traveling there.

The table below summarizes the numbers for the years 2019, 2018, and 2017.  I calculated the percentage of U.S. travelers who died while traveling to Mexico to help put the numbers in perspective.

Important information about the U.S. Travelers to Mexico numbers:

• The total outbound travel includes all travelers arriving via air, regardless of purpose (vacation, business, education, etc).
• The total outbound travel excludes the thousands that arrive via cruise ship.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s Mexico Resorts Blackout Investigation

In recent years, headlines captured horrific crimes committed in popular Mexican resort towns. Reported crimes include sexual assaults, illnesses, blackouts, attacks, and other serious injuries.

In 2019, The Milwaukee Journal Sentinal’s Mexico Resorts Blackout Investigation delved deep into this topic, listing the victim’s name, details of the incident, city, and even the resort where it occurred.

Many of the reports allege that people’s drinks were either drugged or contained tainted alcohol, resulting in extreme illness and blackouts.

If you review the article, you’ll learn that Mexico has had a long-standing problem with bootlegged liquor. In light of the recent incidents, the Mexican government has begun to take aggressive action toward shutting down these illegal operations.

Note: 2018 and 2017 Deaths reported by the Journal Sentinel were already included in the NTTO’s numbers.

The table below is a combined view of the NTTO’s death reporting and incidents included in The Milwaukee Journal Sentinal’s Mexico Resorts Blackout Investigation by Mexican town for travel years 2019, 2018, and 2017.

The 2019 Deaths were sorted, followed by 2018 Deaths and 2017 Deaths to arrive at the final list of the 16 Safest Beach Towns in Mexico 2020 .

What do the numbers tell us about the safety of beaches in Mexico?

First, let me say that anytime there is a death, it is tragic and heart-wrenching for the family. This article is in no way intended to minimize these occurrences and certainly not to minimize the emotional effects on the surviving families. Rather, the intent of this article is to only inform and put everything in perspective.

Let’s take another look at the overview statistics:

Here is what jumps out at me:

• The number of U.S. travelers to Mexico has increased each year for the past three years. In 2019, over ten million travelers visited. It bears repeating… over T  E  N    M  I  L  L  I  O  N travelers. That’s a ton of people!
• U.S. travelers dying in Mexico’s most popular vacation state, Quintana Roo (home of Cancun, Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, and Riviera Maya), is a tiny portion of the total deaths and is an extremely small number.
• Less than one-hundredth of 1 percent of all U.S. travelers have died while in Mexico, and a far smaller percentage have died in the popular beach areas of Cancun and Riviera Maya.

Crunch your own numbers.

You can get all the statistics at the National Travel & Tourism Office website under the “ outbound travel from the US ” section if you want to verify or do your own number crunching.

Safety tips before and while traveling to Mexico 

Most of these tips are common sense and apply no matter where you’re traveling.

• Always be aware of your surroundings – especially at night. Stay where there are more people present.
• Stay in pairs (minimum) at night. If someone forgot something in the room or wants to run out for a quick snack, take a friend with them.
• DO NOT go off with anyone you don’t know. This is just common sense, no matter where you are.
• Don’t wander out on the beach at night.  Even the resort staff warns of this. Frankly, it gets pretty darn dark, windy, and chilly out there at night. Best to avoid it.
• Don’t leave your drunken friends alone. Ladies with suppressed common sense are particularly vulnerable. Don’t let these friends out of your sight!
• Don’t go off-resort at night. Your resort has security measures that significantly reduce the chances of unsavory characters lurking.

Get notifications about Mexico

The DOS provides a variety of ways to stay informed about safety alerts and advisories they put out. After all, things can change between when you book your trip and when you actually depart.

In case of an emergency while traveling in Mexico

Enrolling in their STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) . It’s free, fast and easy.  Essentially, your trip is registered with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the area you are traveling to, so they’re aware that you’re traveling there and can reach out in case of emergency.

Know the U.S. Embassy or Consular in the area  of Mexico you’re traveling to

Make a note of the contact information for the U.S. Embassy or Consular you are traveling to. This is good advice regardless of the country you’re visiting.  Here’s the link for Mexico:  https://mx.usembassy.gov/

Should we stay or should we go?

I’ve been to Mexico over a dozen times with the family and on girl’s getaways, and no one ever felt unsafe or gotten sick. Who knows, maybe we’ve been lucky.  I can tell you we always exercise caution when traveling – regardless of the city or country.

If you’ve ruled out Mexico due to the scary headlines, hopefully, the information I provided gives you pause to reconsider. Don’t just focus on the scary headlines and write off the country entirely. Consider the numbers as a whole to put it into perspective. Then, travel to the areas that are safest.

The truth is, the Mexican beach climate is superb, the destination is absolutely gorgeous, with clear blue waters, and you can’t beat the cost of vacationing in Mexico .

To dismiss the opportunity to have a tropical beach vacation in a safe Mexican beach town robs you of a wonderful experience with your friends or family and robs the Mexican people of livelihood.

You need to decide for yourselves if the notion of traveling to Mexico feels unreasonably risky, and if so, are you willing to accept that risk?

If the trip will be less relaxing due to overwhelming thoughts and concerns of danger, it’s not worth it. Go somewhere else. There are plenty of other beautiful Caribbean islands to visit.

• REDUCES JET LAG – After a long-haul flight, we all want to arrive feeling fresh and alert and with NO-Jet-Lag you can. With over 8 million packs sold across the world, this is a proven successful jet lag product. These are a travel essential and will help to alleviate body stress and fatigue due to disruptions in the body’s natural clock rhythm.
• HOMEOPATHIC INGREDIENTS – Using a unique formulation our 5 main active ingredients are all plant based and have NO side effects. Our product is made in clean and green New Zealand and it can be taken with any other medication. Each pack contains 32 tablets, enough for 50 hours of flying!
• HOMEOPATHIC FORMULA – Consisting of 5 main active ingredients: Arnica Montana 30C (Leopard’s Bane), Bellis Perennis 30C (Daisy), Chamomilla 30C (Wild Chamomile), Ipecacuanha 30C (Ipecac), Lycopodium 30C (Clubmoss) our Homeopathic remedy is most effective when taken separately from food and drink. but this is not essential.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

You may interested in these articles

Grenada’s Blue Economy: All You Need to Know

Where is Grenada Located?

Visiting Fort Frederick in Grenada: All You Need to Know

What Is The Difference Between A Caribbean Key And An Island?

Leatherback Sea Turtle Tours in Grenada

What Countries Are in the Windward Islands?

Grenada’s Amazing Mountains & Volcanoes (Includes Map)

The Best Beach Bars in Grenada & Carriacou: Belly up!

Grenada Beach Rules: Don’t Get Caught with your Top Off!

1 thought on “the 16 safest beach towns in mexico to vacation”.

Hi I read your article showing 28 US citizens died in Mexico in 2018 but then I read in 2019 that a record high of 35,000 died in 2019! Yikes! That is a beyond HUGE jump! We were thinking of selling our condo in Punta Cana DR and retiring in playa del carmen instead so we wouldn’t be on an island or land locked if we needed to go to US for health care or wanted to leave due to a incoming hurricane. But after reading 35k deaths on 2019… I am rethinking it. Its a shame there are fewer and fewer places to feel safe….maybe we should just stay in our boring little town of Englewood Beach FL where avg age is 70 🙁

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• EN - English
• PT - Portuguese
• ES - Spanish
• How it works
• Become a Host
• Download the app

Top Destinations

• United States
• United Kingdom

What type of experience are you looking for?

• Non-Profit School
• Permaculture project
• Eco Village
• Holistic Center
• Guest House
• How Worldpackers works

Learn from the most experienced travelers of the community

Traveling with worldpackers, planning and budgeting for travel, make a living while traveling as a lifestyle, travel with worldpackers.

• Using Worldpackers
• Work exchange
• Social impact
• Plan your trip
• Women traveling
• Budget travel
• Solo travel
• Language learning
• Travel tips
• Get inspired
• Digital nomads
• Travel jobs
• Personal development
• Responsible travel
• Connect with nature

Top destinations

• South America
• Central America
• North America
• More destinations
• WP Life WP Life
• Exclusive discounts Discounts

The world's safest countries to travel to: top 13 destinations

Travelling should be enjoyable, relaxing and fun, not scary. That's why I'm going to tell you about some of the safest countries to travel to around the world.

Lauren Worldpackers Community

Apr 25, 2024

Travelling and exploring the world is one of the best feelings ever but hey, it can be intimidating! If you're a solo traveller (especially travelling alone as a woman ) or someone more vulnerable, you may have a few doubts about going on a trip which is understandable. 

However, travelling should be enjoyable for everyone and should be relaxing and fun, not scary. That's why I'm going to tell you about some of the safest countries to travel for a worry-free trip.

This doesn't mean these are the only places you can travel safely , but they may be a good place to start to find your feet and then you can venture out a bit more. 

So let's get into it. Here are 13 of the top safest countries to vist.

Safest countries to travel in the world

• Switzerland
• New Zealand 
• Rural UK 

Ranked as the world's  safest countries to travel to , Iceland is a top tier destination for a stress-free trip. 

With it's gorgeous mountainous hills, interesting  Nordic culture and friendly people, it truly is a travellers paradise and should definitely be on your bucket list. 

One of the best things to do in Iceland includes trying to see the Northern Lights. Due to the countries' low light pollution, the night sky comes alive with stars and the lights take centre stage with their mesmerising dance of green and blue colours, magical!

 Another must-do is going to a hot spring to take a dip in naturally heated water, whilst being surrounded by ice! 

Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Iceland  like this position to volunteer in a beautiful Guest House with all meals included. 

2. Switzerland

Home to a great quality of living, cleanliness and great chocolate, Switzerland is a great choice for those looking to find a peaceful trip away. 

It's ranked as one of the safest countries to visit in Europe , especially for female solo travellers. If you're a fan of snow sports or hiking, you must make sure to visit the Swiss Alps - they're so beautiful you'll be speechless! 

Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Switzerland  like this one to be a volunteer in an amazing mountain hostel  helping out with reception and housekeeping.

The Danes are said to be the happiest people on Earth, and with the great country they live in, it's easy to see why. The capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen, is probably one of the best places to visit as a solo traveller . 

Of course it has its more risky places like Norrebo, but as long as you stay vigilant, you're guaranteed to have a great time. 

One of the best things about Denmark is how cycle-friendly it is, meaning you can explore the country at your own pace and feel safe whilst doing so. 

Denmark is famously known for it's love of 'Hygge' (pronounced hoo-gah) which essentially sums up that cosy feeling you get when you sit by the fire with a warm drink, surrounded by good company. Wonderful. 

Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Denmark  like this awesome Camping accepting volunteers to prepare and serve food in exchange of accommodation, meals and many other amenities!

Before travelling to Denmark, you should read Copenhagen on a budget: a backpacker's travel guide .

4. New Zealand 

New Zealand has to be one of the most beautiful places on earth with the most luscious greenery, inviting coastal beaches and the kindest people. It's known as one of the most peaceful countries in the world, and also one of the least corrupt. 

Unlike its neighbour Australia, New Zealand only has a very small number of dangerous animals and insects in the country so you don't have to check your shoes every time you put them on! A great place for those who love the outdoors and a bit of adventure - bungee jumping anyone? 

Fun fact: Did you know about the ceremonial Haka dance of New Zealand's Māori people? If you didn't, it's a must-see. A performance of pure heart and soul.

Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in New Zealand  like this one to help an Eco Village with gardening where you can stay and explore nature for at least one week.

I'm sure it's no surprise that Canada is on this list. After all, it's well known for it's super friendly people, eh! 

I've heard Canada described as almost a wonderland that barely feels real, that's probably partly due to being one of the safest countries to travel to . 

The people there are very respectful of both native and travellers, so you can make yourself right at home. Full of incredible nature and beautiful wildlife, Canada is best for outdoor-lovers and adventure-seekers.

Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Canada  like this experience in the mountains where the hosts only need 12 hours per week of help and offer such good amenities to the volunteer.

Home to great food, warm weather and wonderful people, Spain is one of Europe's most loved tourist destinations. 

Spaniards are all about helping their community and being there for one another and in general, are very kind people. They love to have a good time and certainly know how to dance! So if you're looking for a fun-filled trip, Spain is a great idea. 

The country has a great variety of bustling cities, wonderful mountains and coastlines, but be cautious when visiting the busier cities like Barcelona as pit-pockets are quite common in some areas. Try traditional Spanish tapas, wash it down with some sangria and take a walk along the beach - bliss!

Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Spain  like this retreat needing help with web programming .

7. Portugal

For somewhere much cheaper, but just as amazing, Portugal is a great destination. With beautiful coastlines, fun cities and warm weather, it has become a very popular tourist destination but yet remains one of the safest countries to travel to. 

A good tip is to travel here outside of peak times to enjoy a quieter experience. Be sure to try the delicious Portuguese cuisine , relax on the beach or walk the streets of the cities like Lisbon and Porto. 

Portugal is a great place for younger travellers who want an enjoyable, safe trip but without the high price tag. 

Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Portugal  to have amazing experiences while helping with content and social media  in a hostel in Lisbon, for example.

Ireland is a fantastic country to visit with some of the friendliest people with plenty of good craic (banter) to keep you entertained. 

Visit the rugged coastlines and be taken aback by the scenery, walk the Giants Causeway in Belfast (Northern Ireland is in the UK, but for this blog's sake, we're keeping them together!) or find a good local pub in the heart of Dublin. It may not always have the best weather, but it has some great accents, beautiful views and a good spirit.

Top tip: whether you're in Northern or Southern Ireland, it's best not to bring up the other side of the country because of history. Most will be fine with it, but you don't want to get on the wrong side of somebody.

Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Ireland  to seer one of the most beautiful scenery in Europe while helping. This Guest House by the beach is looking for recepcionit, cleaners and housekeepers.

Japan is one of the safest Asian countries to travel to with it's highly respectful community and very low crime rates. 

It's fairy-tale-like gardens and futuristic high-tech cities make this country one of the most interesting to visit. 

It is important when visiting Japan that you respect their culture and abide by any rules when in public places, as they can be quite particular about this. Other than that, it is an incredible country to visit and is a must on your bucket list. 

Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Japan . There are available positions for every kind of taste. This one makes you experience country life while volunteer in a farm .

Discover Japan off the beaten path: 6 unique non-touristy destinations . 

10. Finland

A small, but wonderful country that has an amazing range of activities for all the adventurers out there. The Finnish people are also incredibly kind and welcoming, making the country one of the best places to travel alone . 

Another great thing about Finland and other Scandinavian countries is that they are role models in sustainability and eco-friendly living so if you're trying to be greener and learn more about how to help the planet then you won't be disappointed with a trip here. 

Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Finland . This host needs childcare, homecare and animal care and offers accommodation with all meals included.

11. Austria

Austria is not only very solo-traveller friendly and safe, but has some of the most beautiful scenery from vibrant forests, clear waters and snowy mountains that are truly mesmerising. 

The perfect place for anyone who likes to ski, hike or even just sight-see with its stunning architecture and art. Austria is also famously known for it's beautiful bodies of water so if you're a fan of wild swims, then this is the perfect location for you. 

Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Austria . This position in a camp  is great for people who love children and nature.

And don't miss out The best Austrian mountains to visit and how to get there .

12. Sri Lanka 

With a large majority of the countries' culture being Buddhist, this makes it a pretty safe place to travel as their mannerisms tend to be calm and welcoming. 

Sigiriya  is a must-visit when travelling Sri Lanka - an enigmatic summit with remains of an ancient palace at the top? Who wouldn't want to see that! 

Overall, there are some incredible top-destinations in Sri Lanka , but it's recommended to go off the beaten path and discover it for yourself.

Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Sri Lanka . If you have sports skills this Yoga Studio  host is ideal for you. 

13. Rural UK

The UK is quite divided and whilst the bigger cities like London, Glasgow and Cardiff are a lot busier and potentially less safe, the more rural areas are a great alternative and often get swept under the rug! 

Take a road trip round to the North Coast 500   of Scotland and discover some of the most beautiful mountains and coastlines. 

Go surfing and get your relaxation on somewhere like Devon in South West England or visit Pembrokeshire in Wales and be surrounded by nature whilst trying something new like coasteering!

Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in the United Kingdom  like this hostel on the banks of Loch Ness that only requires 18h a week of working.

Keep reading: How to travel with autism in an independent and safe way

Safety tips for solo travellers

• Transport - some countries will have better connections and modes of transport which is great, but others won't and may require you to wait around between connections (such as buses from airports). Keep this in mind when booking modes of transport and be sure to stick to public places if you have to wait, such as at a café. 
• Act like a local - being very loud about the fact you're a tourist isn't the best idea as it may attract the wrong crowd. A top tip if you're using something like google maps is to wear earphones and listen to the directions, rather than drawing attention to the fact you're looking at maps. 
• Despite how safe a place might be, it's always good to stay vigilant, especially during the evening. If you do go out at night, be sure to tell someone at your accommodation where you're going, or even better, go with someone you trust. 
• One thing to note about safer countries is that they do tend to be more expensive. It makes sense, the less money a country has, the poorer the life quality and then usually, the less safe it is. However, as long as you stay vigilant and sensible, you'll be fine!

Remember staying vigilant and being a little cautious is never a bad idea.

Travelling is super fun and exciting but for some, a little daunting. Check out this blog on  15 simple travel safety tips everyone should know to help get you started on your travel journey! 

And if you're looking for some awesome places to see, check the Top 35 iconic places in the world: famous landmarks worth visiting.

Which country are you eager to go to? Let me know in the comments!

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Lauren Mclachlan

Worldpackers Community

Hey I’m Lauren! I’m from a small town in sunny (I wish) Scotland and took on my first solo travelling trip after graduating in 2019 My experience was way better than I could’ve imagined – meeting wonderful people, seeing amazing things, great experiences and even teaching weekly yoga! I couldn’t have done all this without Worldpackers, I’m so grateful I came across the website. I think everyone should get to experience travelling at some point in their lives – wherever and whatever it may be! My advice if you’re thinking about it is – don’t think too much! Just do, you won’t regret it. Also, if you want 10% off your Worldpackers memberships you can use the code LAUREN10

Be part of the Worldpackers Community

Already have an account, are you a host, leave your comment here.

Write here your questions and greetings to the author

Feb 24, 2022

Either you are Crazy or you are a Great Stupid. You mentioned portugal is the safest country and in number 7! are you portuguese??? I visited and stayed more 11 Eu countries. portugal is the country where a female faces domestic violence and even often they are beated on the road by men! portuguese are very rude and also they are poor and dirty appearance.

Lauren (Author)

Feb 25, 2022

Hi, I'm sorry you feel this way. The countries are not ranked in any order and I did not state that it was the safest. If you read my bio you will see I am Scottish! I am against any type of violence but unfortunately this happens in pretty much all countries, it is sad but reality.

More about this topic

The most helpful 26 tips for first time travelers

The greatest travel hacking guide you need for a stress-free trip

6 lgbtqi+ apps to make your travels easier.

How do Worldpackers trips work?

As a member, you can contact as many hosts and travel safely as many times as you want.

Choose your plan to travel with Worldpackers as many times as you like.

Complete your profile, watch the video lessons in the Academy, and earn certificates to stand out to hosts.

Apply to as many positions as you like, and get in contact with our verified hosts.

If a host thinks you’re a good fit for their position, they’ll pre-approve you.

Get your documents and tickets ready for your volunteer trip.

Confirm your trip to enjoy all of the safety of Worldpackers.

Have a transformative experience and make a positive impact on the world.

If anything doesn’t go as planned with a host, count on the WP Safeguard and our highly responsive support team!

After volunteering, you and your host exchange reviews.

With positive reviews, you’ll stand out to hosts and get even more benefits.

• Mexico Travel News
• Seaweed Updates
• Hidden Travel Gems

12 SAFEST Countries To Travel Right Now In 2023 (According to GPI Rank)

Basic travel wisdom includes an awareness of the dangers and risks inherent in any destination. Countries with historically high terrorism, crime, and violence rates are less likely to be candidates for your next vacation.

The Institute for Economics & Peace is a non-profit international think tank dedicated to shifting the world’s focus to peace as a positive, achievable, and tangible measure of human well-being and progress. It has recently released the latest report in which they rank countries worldwide as the safest according to the Global Peace Index .

The index considers political and social stability, personal safety and security, public health, economic strength, and access to essential services.

The rankings from many public safety surveys are based on data collected over the past ten years. These surveys are conducted by IEP’s network of over 350 experienced researchers in the public, private and civil sectors. These researchers conduct the world’s most extensive surveys on global conflict, terrorism, militarism, organized crime, weapons proliferation, and corruption. To calculate the GPI, the researchers consider 23 indicators that cover the issues mentioned above.

The results are then compared to previous years’ results to identify and measure any critical changes in these indicators.

Here are the top 15 safest countries to visit according to IEP Global Peace Index Report 2022.

Join our   Travel Advice & Support FB Group

Most dangerous countries in the World in 2023

This tiny island country in the North Atlantic Ocean is a favorite vacation destination for many Europeans.

Its capital city, Reykjavik, is geothermally active and is a popular tourist hot spot, especially among golf enthusiasts.

The country has a functioning and well-organized democracy. Its economy depends on fisheries, tourism, hydroelectric power generation, and aluminum smelting. Iceland has very low crime rates and high rankings in personal safety surveys.

Tourists can visit the famous Blue Lagoon geothermic spa or take advantage of the many hiking trails available. The northern lights are a popular attraction for star-gazers and photographers. Iceland also has a rich cultural heritage and hosts many festivals and concerts.

The people are friendly, easygoing, and welcoming.

2. New Zealand

New Zealand has a strong economy, with a small but growing population and a high standard of living.

Tourism is a significant contributor to the country’s economy. The number of visitors during the summer season is expected to increase significantly in the next few years. Personal safety is high in this country.

People feel safe even in urban areas. While its islands are secluded and beautiful, New Zealand can also be accessed by ferry or plane. It is a favorite vacation destination for many Australians and English couples.

The government is dedicated to protecting the rights of its citizens. Work is being done to improve the country’s infrastructure and prevent terrorism.

This western European country’s history dates back to the early Christian era. It has played a significant role in Western civilization. It has a stable democracy and high rankings on the Global Peace Index.

The country’s economy is among the fastest growing in Europe, thanks to its expanding technological sector, which includes pharmaceuticals and life science. Ireland’s main tourist attractions are the many castles dotting the landscape and historical sites like Newgrange. A passage tomb was built 5,200 years ago. T

ourists who enjoy the outdoors can hike in the Wicklow Mountains or view more than 1,000 plant species at the world-renowned Gardens of Ireland.

The friendly people and communities are havens for artists and musicians.

The crime rate is low, and the country has no history of internal conflict.

In Denmark, life is comfortable and peaceful. The country abolished its army to focus on developing social welfare programs, education, and cultural heritage. It has many protected national parks where you can enjoy scenic views or go hiking or biking.

One of its major attractions is the Scandinavian Contemporary Museum in Roskilde, which offers modern art and furniture exhibits.

Denmark also has a steady supply of fresh water and electricity. Law enforcement is effective, and there are few violent crimes, making it very safe.

This central European country is known for its diverse tourism options, including skiing, hiking, and horseback riding, as well as historical sites like the Great Alp Pipeline War and Salzkammergut Residency Palace. Its capital, Vienna, is a popular destination for European travelers.

According to the World Bank, people in Austria enjoy an excellent standard of living. The country has a modern infrastructure, including highways and a new high-speed rail line connecting Vienna to Berlin.

The country also has low crime rates, corruption, and economic control measures. The head of the state is the Federal President. The government has high rankings in personal safety and transparency.

6. Portugal

Portugal ‘s rich and diverse history dates back to the Ice Age. It is located in the West Europe region.

Portugal’s economy has recently been growing due to its expanding telecommunications, technology, clean energy industries, and functioning democracy.

It also has low levels of corruption and good political participation rates. Its main tourist attractions include the religious sites of Lisbon, a UNESCO world heritage site built by the Northern civilizations, such as crusaders and royal families over centuries.

Crime rates in the country are low, and people feel safe traveling in urban areas. There is no threat of terrorism, and the country is known for religious tolerance.

7. Slovenia

Slovenia has a vibrant society and an excellent quality of life. The economy is robust and has many financial institutions. Several universities with arts and sports facilities are free and open to the public.

The country has a strong record of respecting freedom of the press, religion, and political rights.

The capital is Ljubljana, a rich cultural hub that attracts tourists all year round. The city has been undergoing significant changes in terms of urban development. It is also a major center for research and development.

The country has excellent public services, including public health and education. Crime is low, and there are few reports of theft or personal violence.

8. The Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has a stable democratic government with a strong economy. It has many students and boasts the highest percentage of the OECD countries for tertiary enrollment.

The country has many natural landscapes to enjoy, including mountains and forests. Popular tourist destinations include Ostrava Salt Mines, Prague Castle, Karlovy Vary Spa City, and Cesky Krumlov Castle.

Prague has recently been voted one of the most livable cities in the world due to its low crime rates and modern infrastructure. It is also famous for its beer. The communities and societies in the country are safe, with social acceptance and high levels of personal freedom.

The best way to see this country is on foot or by bicycle.

9. Singapore

Singapore’s economy is one of the most diversified in the world. It has a modern infrastructure and facilities, including clean water, electricity, and reliable Internet connectivity. You can access online media and participate in online activities without restrictions or censorship.

The economy is growing rapidly because of its growing business sectors, especially technology-based service industries such as software design, management services, and digital.

The country has a very efficient government and excellent strategic management. Singapore has outstanding institutions of higher learning, with many internationally-recognized educational programs.

The government boasts a high standard of personal freedom, and people can make their voices heard. Terrorism is practically absent from the country, and there is no threat of war.

Japan has low crime rates, especially when compared to other Asian countries. The economy is also one of the most stable in Asia, with relatively low unemployment rates.

Tokyo is one of the most densely populated cities. The city has many museums and exhibitions, and its many international film festivals held annually also attract tourists worldwide.

The culturally rich cities of Kyoto, Nara, Nagoya, and Osaka are famous for their ancient shrines, UNESCO world heritage sites, and traditional Japanese gardens.

11. Switzerland

Switzerland is renowned for its wealth and high standard of living. Its population is a little over 7 million. Its economy centers on banking and finance investments in business services and management consultancy.

Switzerland is also famous for its jewelry and watch-making industry. Its major tourist attractions include the Alps, lakes and waterfalls, museums of science and technology, and several castles.

The Swiss people are often regarded as very friendly, open-minded, and easygoing. Financial services are among the best in the world, and the country is famous for its excellent treatment of workers.

It has a progressive society, with female executives and a diverse religious community.

Canada is a developed country with modern facilities, including clean water and electricity. It is one of the most powerful democracies in the world, with a well-developed legal system. Its population is over 35 million, and it has low unemployment rates.

Canada has some of the largest gold deposits and petroleum and natural gas reserves.

The government ensures a free press, education, and religion. Ottawa is the capital of Canada, while Toronto and Montreal are the primary tourist destinations. The country has a health care system that is free and accessible to everyone, with public education and welfare.

Canadians are considered polite people who are welcoming to outsiders.

Playas y Plazas

33 Safest Cities, States & Beaches in Mexico 2024

Sharing is caring!

Mexico is a marvelous place to visit. It is one of the world’s top travel destinations due to its people, natural beauty, and tourist infrastructure. Mexico also makes the international headlines for safety problems. This is my attempt at a data-driven analysis of the safest places to visit in Mexico from the perspective of the people who live there. 

Safety is an important consideration when traveling to Mexico because there is a lot of bad information out there.

I am updating this article after reading about a gentleman who was express kidnapped in Puebla . Before traveling to Puebla, he read a nonsense article listing Puebla as one of the safest places in Mexico. Only later did he realize that locals consider Puebla to have a number of security concerns.

I grew up next to Tijuana and I have lived in Guadalajara since 2009. Security is important to me. I take an active role in our community association and stay up to date on current national trends. Because I often travel to dangerous places in Mexico, I want to be aware of the ways I can mitigate risk. Accurate and up-to-date information is crucial to my travel planning.

It is much easier to avoid danger if you are aware of the common threats.

Let’s have a look at the safest places in Mexico according to the data.

33 Safest Cities, States & Beaches in Mexico

This article is based on statistics published by the Mexican government’s Secretariado Ejecutivo del Sistema Nacional de Seguridad Pública (SESNSP) on crime rates, Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Geografía (INEGI) on a survey of the perception of safety by local residents, and the U.S. State Department Travel Advisory reports .

There is always somebody ready to declare Tijuana as one of the safest places to visit in Mexico based on their personal experience of spending one day there.

I love Tijuana but I wouldn’t send my elderly mother there unaccompanied like I would send her to Puerto Vallarta. 83% of the people who live in Tijuana perceive the city as unsafe and the rate of homicides and disappearances are high no matter what you compare it to.

It is best not to rely on one single data point but use multiple sources of information to create a more nuanced picture of the safest places to visit in Mexico. 

There are differences between the perception of security issues by Mexican nationals and foreigners. In San Miguel de Allende for example the expat community speaks little Spanish, consumes very little local media nor follows politics. It is a bubble within the larger state of Guanajuato and many residents are unaware of the situation just a short distance away in Irapuato, Celaya, and Salamanca. 

Safety in Mexico is one of those issues that gets people really worked up. There are both sensationalists and deniers. Questions about safety in Mexico on the big online discussion forums are often received with rude comments that can quickly descend into petty arguments.

Some people who see the US news media sensationalizing the violence in Mexico go so far as to say that the violence in Mexico is no different than the violence in the United States. If you grew up in inner-city Saint Louis or inner-city Chicago I get the analogy. Most of us did not.

An honest assessment of the security situation in Mexico will allow travelers to make the best decision for their individual situation.

Honestly, there is little comparison between the types of gun violence in Mexico and the United States. In the US crazy people with guns try to kill as many strangers as possible before taking their own life.

In Mexico, gun violence is business-related with specific targets and the perpetrators try to escape afterward. The collateral damage in Mexico is negligible compared to the United States. Robberies exist in both countries but the dramatic shootouts that make the international press are very different.

Instead of comparing Mexico City to a small pueblo like Yelapa or Sayulita, I will be examining similar categories such as the safest states in Mexico, the safest cities in Mexico, the safest border crossings, the safest beaches in Mexico, and the safest Pueblos Mágicos in Mexico. 

Common sense isn’t enough to avoid dangerous situations in the popular tourist areas of major metropolitan areas. The popular scams in São Paulo right now probably look a little different from the scams in Mexico City. A part of enjoying safe activities is identifying the dangerous activities so they may be avoided.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the security situation can change quickly. Colima went from one of the safest places in Mexico to one of the least safe places in Mexico in less than five years. Currently, 87% of the population of Colima considers the city to be unsafe.

Tijuana has a constant ebb and flow of violence. Guadalajara is a beautiful city that is constantly in the news for security problems.

The Safest States To Visit In Mexico

Mexico is a really big country with very diverse travel experiences. There are both safe and unsafe experiences that can be very close together. The state of Jalisco for example has Puerto Vallarta which is a popular destination on the Pacific coast famous for beautiful beaches.

In recent years the small towns along the border with Michoacán and Zacatecas have experienced an uptick in violent crime. Looking at the crime rate and specifically, the homicide rate statewide will give us a better picture of the regional security situation in Jalisco . Puerto Vallarta is lovely but there are pockets of instability in the Stae of Jalisco and one must be careful about being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Interestingly, the number of homicides in these five safest states combined represents only 1% of the total number of homicides in Mexico. These states have some of the smallest populations in Mexico but they are also some of the safest places in Mexico to travel.

1. Yucatán – The Safesst State in Mexico

Before we get started let’s talk about the difference between the Yucatán Peninsula and Yucatán State. Yucatán State is the northern portion of the Yucatán Peninsula that is bordered on the east by Quintana Roo State and bordered on the west by Campeche State. Both the peninsula and the state are famous for white-sand beaches and Mayan ruins such as the iconic Chichen Itzá. Yucatán State is a great place to travel, backpack, and road trip in Mexico because there are lots of popular tourist destinations in a small area.

In 2021 Yucatán was home to 42 of Mexico’s 33,308 intentional homicides. There is a total population of 2.3 million inhabitants. The state population ranks 22nd in Mexico and the gross state product per capita is ranked 21st in the country. It is one of the smaller and least developed states in Mexico.

While English has become more common in the last couple of years, Spanish and Mayan are the two primary languages.

The capital city of Mérida has a minor airport and is in close proximity to the beach towns, ancient ruins, pueblos mágicos, and lots of great food. This is the perfect place to start an adventure in Mexico. It is the safest part of the country to travel around and explore a few different experiences.

My ideal road trip through Yucatán State would start in Mérida and probably finish in the state of Quintana Roo. It would include the Uxmal archeological site which is not as crowded as Chichen Itzá. I would visit the Pueblo Mágico of Izamal which is called the Yellow City because most of its buildings are painted yellow. After that, I would head to the beach.

Sisal is another Pueblo Mágico right on the water. Celestun is right on the Campeche border and is famous for its flock of flamingos. Then I would pass by the pink lake of Las Coloradas before finishing at Vallodolid and Chichen Itzá. A trip to Yucatán isn’t complete without a picture of the iconic El Castillo pyramid.

2. Baja California Sur

Much like Yucatán State, Baja California Sur is a state within the larger peninsula. Baja California is the northern half of the Baja Peninsula and Baja California Sur is the southern half of the peninsula. Baja California Sur is very different from Baja California when it comes to safety. In 2021 Baja California Sur was home to only 51 of Mexico’s 33,308 intentional homicides.

While Baja California Sur occupies a rather large area there are very few people who live here. It is the state with the second smallest population in all of Mexico with 798,447 inhabitants or 0.6% of the population of Mexico. Baja California Sur is also the newest state admitted to the United States of Mexico, along with Quintana Roo, and is considered to be the 31st of 31 states.

Safety in Baja California Sur is less about violent crime than it is about being prepared for the wilderness. The Baja Peninsula is an amazing destination for outdoor enthusiasts because of its natural beauty. It can be dangerous because of the desert conditions and vast wilderness. A modern hospital could be a long way away.

My ideal road trip through Baja California Sur starts in San Ignacio to admire the Jesuit mission and plan a whale-watching trip to San Ignacio Bay. From there I would embark on some crazy 4-wheeling trails to the world-famous Scorpion Bay surf spot. I would cross the peninsula to Loreto where I would get my scuba certification and dive into the Loreto Bay National Park.

From Loreto, it is a long drive down to La Paz to snorkel with the whale sharks and visit the most beautiful beach in Mexico, Balandra Bay. The foodie scene in Todos Santos is really exciting with destination restaurants like Jazamango by Javier Plascencia and Agricole Cooperativa which is a farm and restaurant.

Cabo San Lucas is a little crazy with nightclubs and excesses but there are tons of great beaches and the east cape is undeveloped for the time being. I would finish up in Cabo Pulmo to swim with the manta rays and look into some more scuba diving.

3. Aguascalientes

The State of Aguascalientes is a pocket of tranquility in a sea of violence. Neighboring Zacatecas is a mess right now. Lagos de Moreno on the Jalisco border needs a little security detail, and so does most of Guanajuato. Aguascalientes may not be on the cover of international destination magazines but that might be reason enough to visit. It is part of the Bajío region and is home to a lot of traditional Mexican culture.

In 2021 the state of Aguascalientes ranked third overall with the lowest number of homicides at 86. Just like Yucatán and Baja California Sur, Aguascalientes is a small state with a population of 1.4 million people which represents just over 1% of the total population of Mexico. Unlike Baja California Sur and Yucatán, Aguascalientes is more densely populated. It isn’t Mexico City but it is only three places behind the capital when it comes to population density (inhabitants per square kilometer).

The economy of Aguascalientes is good. The gross state product per capita is ranked 10th in the country. Ranching is big business and includes both agriculture and livestock. There is a huge automobile manufacturing industry that is visible from the toll roads coming into the state. The World Bank consistently ranks Aguascalientes as one of the best places to do business in Mexico.

My ideal trip to Aguascalientes would be in April or May for the Feria de San Marcos . This is considered to be one of, if not the largest state fair in Mexico. It is billed at the Feria de San Marcos, La Feria de México. There are typical fair events like rides, games of chance, concerts, and livestock exhibitions but the real draw are the bullfights. I would read the book Mexico: A Novel by James Michener to really get an idea of the draw that the event has had on people throughout Mexico but also including Spanish and US aficionados. I suspect the imaginary town of Toledo in Michener’s book was influenced by Aguascalientes but the name was changed to protect the innocent.

There is a great birria restaurant referenced in the Cronicas del Taco series on Netflix. The engraver and caricaturist José Guadalupe Posada was originally from Aguascalientes and there is a small museum dedicated to his work and legacy there.

4. Campeche

Campeche is located in the southeast part of Mexico on the Yucatán Peninsula and is another under-the-radar international travel destination. Even within Mexico, it is a little under the radar. I think that Alan x el Mundo did a great job coving Campeche as well as Mariel de Viaje. The people that I know on the Pacific coast of Mexico probably don’t have Campeche on their travel list just yet.

The State of Campeche borders Yucatán, Quintana Roo, Guatemala, and Tabasco, and is only 10 km away from Chiapas in a couple of places. There are less than a million people residing in the entire state making it the third smallest population in Mexico. In 2021 there were 96 intentional homicides. Even petty crime in the capital is low by most standards. San Francisco de Campeche has a low perception of insecurity by its residents. People really like living there.

The city center of San Francisco de Campeche has cobblestone streets and brightly colored colonial architecture. It is a really nice town and one of the gems of the Yucatan Peninsula.

The ancient Mayan city of Calakmul and surrounding tropical forests are a protected region and Unesco world heritage site and a highlight of the state.

5. Tlaxcala

The history of Tlaxcala is really interesting because the original people of the region allied themselves with Hernán Cortez and the Spanish during the conquest of Tenochtitlán. They reaped some benefits because of it.

There was far more of the original history that was documented in the original Nahuatl because the Tlaxcalteca aristocracy was left in place during much of the colonial era. In contrast, the Aztec royalty was destroyed. To this day, Tlaxcala is a hub of indigenous cultures where Nahuatl is proudly spoken in public and perceived differently than it may be in other parts of the country.

Tlaxcala has a population of 1.35 million inhabitants making it the fifth smallest state in the republic. It borders Puebla, Hidalgo, and Mexico State. In 2021 there were 124 intentional homicides.

The most important tourist attractions in Tlaxcala are the archaeological site of Cacaxtla and the town of Val’ Quirico which looks like a medieval or renaissance era Italian village. In the mountain forest near Mexico State, there is a firefly sanctuary that is popular with 4×4 enthusiasts. There is great camping on some historic properties.

The Safest Cities To Visit In Mexico

I am going to change gears as we move from the safest states in Mexico to the safest cities in Mexico. Looking at the state-wide data we saw the rate of intentional homicides as an indicator of safety. As we move into the city data we are going to be looking at surveys that the National Statistics and Geographic Institute conducts on the perception of insecurity. The survey asks people if they feel unsafe where they live and has coverage in 75 of the largest cities throughout Mexico. These surveys are conducted quarterly and there are some national trends and correlations that we will cover later on.

The most common places that people feel unsafe are ATMs in public places , public transportation, Banks, local streets, and the highway. Places like home, work, and the mall rank much safer.

6. San Pedro Garza García, Nuevo León

San Pedro Garza Garcia is one of the municipalities that comprises the Monterrey Metropolitan Region and has a population of 162,169. It is a very wealthy area where the median home price is approaching the equivalent of US$1 million. This is the southwest part of the Monterrey Metropolitan Region and it has been settled continuously since the 16th century.

In the first quarter of 2022, 11.7% of the population felt unsafe in their city. In the second quarter, the number increased to 15.1%. There is no other city of any substantial size with a perception of safety like that. Nothing else comes close.

There are plenty of new highrises with vanguard architecture. The main attraction is shopping at designer boutiques, technology stores, car dealerships, and high-end restaurants. PANGEA is consistently rated as one of the best restaurants in Mexico and Latin America. I would leverage any social capital available to play a round of golf at Club Campestre de Monterrey Country Club. It is an amazing course.

There are a lot of really enjoyable experiences in San Pedro Garza Garcia that aren’t always associated with Mexico, like golf. San Pedro Garza Garcia is a pleasant surprise for many travelers. Experienced business travelers may be in the know about the area but not many people outside that group will be recommending it as a tourist destination.

7. Benito Juárez, CDMX

La Ciudad de México is a major city with both safe and unsafe municipalities . Benito Juarez borders the Cuauhtémoc municipality which includes touristy Roma and Condessa. Benito Juarez is a local area that includes Narvarte, Del Valle, Tlacoquemecatle, and Xoco.

My wife has family in both Del Valle and Xoco, and we love visiting the area. There are some of my favorite restaurants in Mexico City like the Chamorros de Tlacoquemecatle, Tlayudas el Tasajo, and the Almanegre coffee shop. Xoco is right across Avenida Río Churubusco from Coyoacán. The municipality is as centrally located as Mexico City can be.

Once you have finished checking out Roma and Condessa make sure to spend a little time in Benito Juarez.

8. Tampico, Tamaulipas

The state of Tamaulipas has a nasty reputation for crime and drug cartels because of the northern border region near Matamoros, San Fernando, and Nuevo Laredo. If you look at the map you will notice that Tampico is a long way away from the complicated US border region. The perception of insecurity by local residents was 20.4% in Q1 of 2022 and 27.6% in Q2 which is a stark contrast to the rates in Reynosa and Nuevo Laredo. Even the US State Department travel warning for Tamaulipas mentions the lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

Tamaulipas is one of those states where security can change quickly. A friend of mine who helps expats relocate to Mexico with their pets drives through Tamaulipas all the time. He says that everyone commenting on the security situation in Tamaulipas has never actually traveled to Tamaulipas. He says that the Mexican authorities have a strong presence along the freeways and the roads are in excellent condition. The CANACAR (National Chamber of Commerce for automobile cargo shipping) recognized Tamaulipas for having the safest freeways in Mexico in 2022.

Tampico isn’t at the top of my list of places to visit but I will admit that I was surprised that the perception of insecurity was so low. It just goes to show that there are a lot of destinations that we may make assumptions about without having all of the facts. Or that the facts have changed. 2011 was not a good year for Tamaulipas.

9. Saltillo, Coahuila

Saltillo is the capital of the northern state of Coahuila. Coahuila is known as the land of wine and dinosaurs. There is an excellent dinosaur museum in Saltillo as well as some nice wine bars. The Valle de Parras wine region is a resort town only an hour outside of Saltillo that was the first officially recognized winery in the Americas dating back to the 16th century. Both Saltillo and Coahuila were important theaters in the War of Independence, the Mexican-American War, the Reform War, and the Revolution

It is safe to say that Coahuila has a very different security situation than the neighboring state of Nuevo Leon. The corridor from Saltillo to Piedras Negras is considered to be the safest border crossing into Texas and quite possibly into the United States. In Q1 24.1% of the population of Saltillo reported feeling unsafe in the city. The figure rose to 29.8% in Q2

The Saltillo Cathedral is reason enough to visit the area. It is one of the finest examples of baroque and churrigueresco architecture in Mexico.

10. Los Cabos, Baja California Sur

I love Cabo. It is an easy, safe trip from the west coast of North America because there are so many direct flights. Cabo San Lucas can feel like a foreign country within Mexico because of the massive hotels and the English speakers outnumber the Spanish speakers.

San Jose del Cabo on the other hand still has the essence of a smaller Mexican city with the main square and a lot of options for nature lovers.

It is easy to still find virgin beaches just a short distance outside of the city. The east cape of the Baja Peninsula is famous for clear water and abundant marine life. In the summertime the surf is world-class and people flock to the beaches to test their luck. The best beaches get crowded but there are usually enough waves that everyone stays happy.

In the first quarter of 2022, 28.5% of the population of Los Cabos felt the area was unsafe. The number rose to 30.7% in the second quarter. Considering there were only 51 murders in the entire state in 2021, Los Cabos is easily one of the best cities in Mexico. I am planning another trip to Los Cabos and Baja California Sur right now.

11. Mérida, Yucatán – Widely Recognized As Safest City in Mexico & Latin America

We already talked about Yucatán but Mérida is often cited as the safest city in Mexico. With its lovely historic center and delicious regional food, it is no surprise that Mérida is one of the most enjoyable places to visit in Mexico.

It is very hot in Mérida so it is important to plan activities early in the day and late in the afternoon. It would be best to avoid the mid-day sun on a long photography walk. Try to maximize the golden hour.

One of the favorite activities in Mérida is walking the streets of the center to appreciate the historic architecture, restaurants, and boutiques. I don’t think that any trip to Mérida is complete without a sunset photo at the Monumento a La Patria traffic circle on Paseo de Montejo.

It is highly recommended to make time for a day trip to the beach, an archeological site, or one of the pueblos mágicos in the area. Staying for a night or two at one of the restored hacienda boutique hotels will easily be one of the highlights of your trip.

The perception of safety in Mérida is very good. In the first quarter of 2022, only 22.4% of the population felt it was unsafe. The number rose to 34.1% in Q2 but there was a note about the statistical margin of error due to the large change. No matter how you look at it, Mérida is easily one of the safest places to travel in Mexico.

12. Los Mochis, Sinaloa

I have been talking this article over with everyone in my orbit. Los Mochis and Sinaloa in general came as a bit of a surprise but after talking it over, the general consensus is that this part of Mexico is very safe. While Sinaloa has a reputation there is no struggle for control. There is one organization that controls everything, unchallenged. The state of Quintana Roo by contrast has multiple organizations struggling for control of the local drug trade.

Los Mochis is an important federal transportation hub with the ferry terminal in Topolobampo, the Chihuahua-Pacifico train line, and the Interstate 15 freeway. These are important pieces of transportation infrastructure and the federal government is invested in keeping them safe.

Much like the rest of Sinaloa, the history of Los Mochis is rooted in agriculture. There is an exceptional botanical garden in town. The best local museum is called El Trapiche Interactive Museum of Los Mochis in a reference to the history of sugar cane production which made the early caudillos rich.

Make it a point to stop and eat when coming through the area. There are good seafood restaurants and stalls on almost every corner. I loved Mariscos El Farallón and Mariscos el Tungar but there are tons of great places to eat both formal and informal.

Los Mochis is one of the best places to break up the drive down Interstate 15 because of the abundant hotels with safe parking and cool things to do.

13. San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León

Monterrey has not one but two of the safest cities in Mexico. San Nicolás de los Garza is on the northeast side of the Monterrey Metropolitan Region. While the median home price in San Pedro Garza García is ridiculously expensive, the prices in San Nicolás de los Garza are much more reasonable. It is a working-class suburb of the second-largest city (metropolitan region really) in Mexico. Monterrey is considered the best city for industry and big business. The government has a very close relationship with the United States and there are a lot of US companies that have set up their headquarters in the area.

14. Cuajimalpa de Morelos, CDMX

Nestles in between Álvaro Obregón and Mexico State on the far west side of Mexico City is the Delegation of Cuajimalpa. Many travelers will pass by Cuajimalpa on their way into Mexico City as they descend from La Marquesa on the freeway to Toluca. Few will stop.

The municipality includes neighborhoods like Cuajimalpa, San Mateo Tlaltenango, and Lomas de Santa Fe. Lomas de Santa Fe is futuristic and luxurious. San Mateo Tlaltenango is a wealthy suburban enclave and Cuajimalpa is a middle-class suburban area. My brother-in-law grew up in this area and has helped me maximize my time here.

Lomas de Santa Fe is an excellent place to use as a staging ground for accessing Mexico City. The traffic in Mexico City is nuts and there are certain times of day that you do not want to be on the road because of traffic and Hoy No Circula restrictions.

When you are driving into Mexico City from elsewhere you never really know what time you will arrive because of traffic considerations. Lomas de Santa Fe is right off the freeway and has tons of hotels with safe parking and awesome restaurants.

This super modern part of Mexico City is probably something you weren’t expecting.

In the first quarter of 2022, the insecurity factor was 41%. In the second quarter of 2022, that figure dropped to 37%. These figures are significantly lower than most of Mexico City.

Benito Juarez is the only other municipality with a similarly low perception of insecurity. Most other municipalities have rates twice that. 83% of residents in Azcapotzalco believe the area to be insecure.

15. Tepic, Nayarit

Tepic is an important stop along the Highway 15 corridor from Nogales down the west coast of Mexico. It is a very old city that has managed security well. Just ten years ago, the security situation was very different. Things can change quickly.

Most people don’t realize that Tepic is only 30 minutes from the beach. The new toll road from Tepic to San Blas makes Tepic feel like a beach city. I grew up in San Diego where many neighborhoods are more than 30 minutes from the beach. If you really want to surf, 30 minutes is nothing.

One of the best parts of living in Tepic is the affordability. Compared to Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, Tepic is downright cheap.

There is also a much more traditional society. There is a lot of farming close to the city and visible campesino culture.

I found Downtown Tepic to have a nice collection of historic buildings and good restaurants.

In June of 2022, 40% of the population considered Tepic to be an unsafe place. By June of 2023, that figure had dropped to 30% of the population. Those are phenomenal numbers that any city in Mexico would be proud of.

16. Santiago de Querétaro, Querétaro

One of the things that people love about Querétaro is that it is kind of boring. It doesn’t make the headlines, it is under the radar, and it feels like the suburbs.

Querétaro is a very popular place for people to relocate to from Mexico City once they get tired of the traffic and pollution. There is lots of industry, an educated population, and lots of fun things to do nearby.

The state of Querétaro is home to the best wine region in Central Mexico. San Miguel de Allende is just a short distance away, and Sierra Gorda is still reletively unknown outside of the region.

Besides a little bit of football hooliganry, Querétaro is a very safe place to live and visit. In June of 2022, 54% of the population considered Querétaro to be unsafe. That number dropped to 42% in June of 2023.

It is interesting to see more and more expats choose Querétaro as their home base. People are more open to making friends because there are so few people that grew up here compared to other places. Merida and Guadalajara have a reputation for being insular. If you don’t speak Mayan or didn’t go to elementary school with a group, it can be hard to break into the social scene. Querétaro is different.

The Safest Border Crossings in Mexico

Border crossings have a bad reputation for being dangerous places. Criminal organizations make lots of money by transporting contraband across the border.

Drugs and migrants are smuggled into the United States while guns and cash slip into Mexico. I grew up next to San Ysidro and occasionally travel through Nogales and Ciudad Juarez. I also read the newspapers and know that Reynosa and Nuevo Loredo have horrible reputations.

If you read Paul Theroux’s travelogue On the Plain of Snakes the first third of the book is about all the problems along the 3,000 km long border.

I was really surprised to learn that one of the safest cities in Mexico was the border town of Piedras Negras.

17. Piedras Negras, Coahuila

An acquaintance of mine in the On The Road In Mexico forum on Facebook had to set me straight. I thought all border towns were sketchy. It turns out that Piedras Negras is not only the best border crossing into Mexico but it is also one of the safest cities in the entire country.

In the first quarter of 2022, only 22.2% of the population considered Piedras Negras to be unsafe. The figure rose to 28.5% in Q2 but that is still one of the best perceptions of insecurity in all of Mexico, border city or not.

It seems that Eagle Pass and Piedras Negras have become the preferred border crossing to enter and exit Texas. When looking at the map it would appear that Monterrey to Nuevo Laredo would be the easiest route to San Antonio. Saltillo to San Antonio by way of Piedras Negras adds about 70 miles but is considered to be a much safer route with a more relaxed border crossing.

18. Tecate, Baja California

Tecate is a small town and designated Pueblo Mágico between Tijuana and Mexicali. It may not be the most magical of the Pueblos Mágicos in Mexico but it is the easiest place to cross in and out of Mexico from California. It is a little out of the way from San Diego but that is what keeps the crowds at bay. There isn’t the same volume of commuter traffic that major cities like San Diego and Tijuana see every morning and afternoon.

The borderline in Tecate is consistently shorter than the wait in San Ysidro, Otay Mesa, and Mexicali. Tecate has been my parent’s favorite way to access the Valle de Guadalupe wine region for some years. I am not 100% sure how my mom heard about Tecate but I am so glad she shared this hidden gem with me. I am used to the chaos and heavy border traffic of Tijuana but I wouldn’t want my mom crossing at rush hour. When you know the border wait is going to be long it is well worth the extra drive out to Tecate.

Rancho La Puerta is an amazing resort and spa that would make a great first stop on a trip down the Baja Peninsula.

19. Nogales, Sonora*

I am putting Nogales in here with an asterisk because it does have some security issues but it is the best place for passenger vehicles to access the Pacific coast of mainland Mexico.

Nogales is a major gateway to the United States. It is much faster to use US Highway 8 or US Highway 10 than it is to drive the slow and dangerous Mexico Highway 2 along the border. Sonoyta and Caborca have some significant safety problems.

Mexico Highway 15D is the main artery running from the western United States all the way down to Guadalajara and Mexico City.

Because of the Mariposa West border crossing, it is easy to get into Mexico and onto the toll road south. You don’t need to go into Nogales unless you need to purchase something or get pesos from an ATM .

If you are driving from California to Puerto Vallarta, then Nogales is the best border crossing to use.

The Safest Beaches in Mexico

An interesting characteristic of Mexican geography is that the major metropolitan areas are usually located in the center of the Country. Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara are all a long drive from the beach. Much of the coast is made up of small towns that do not have a population large enough to be considered by the national surveys on security.

20. Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco – One of the Safest Beach Vacation Spots in Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest and most treasured parts of Mexico to visit for good reason. But in addition to just visiting the city of Puerto Vallarta, I recommend traveling around the entire bay area. From Cabo Corrientes in the south to Punta Mita in the north, there are dozens of spectacular beaches for each type of travel. And they are ALL safe. There has been an uptick in the instances of petty theft but overall, Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding areas are one of the safest places to visit in Mexico.

Once upon a time, Puerto Vallarta was a small fishing village nestled between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Bay of Banderas. John Huston, Elizabeth Taylor, and Richard Burton changed everything in the 1960s. When Richard Burton was cast as the lead in Night of the Iguana he brought his famous girlfriend along to the set. Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton had just fallen in love on the set of Cleopatra but they were both married to other people. The international celebrity gossip went into overdrive and the international paparazzi swarmed. Puerto Vallarta got so much publicity it inevitably became the next hot Mexican beach destination.

Puerto Vallarta has remained enchanting after all of these years. The town has grown like crazy but the Romantic Zone still feels like you are stepping back in time. It is easy to find secluded Jalisco beaches hidden in the jungle or watch the mega yachts land at the marina. There is something for everyone.

21. Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca

Puerto Escondido is the surfing capital of Mexico and during the summer months, professional surfers and photographers from around the world set up camp here. While there is some petty theft the biggest danger in Puerto Escondido is the ocean. It is not safe to swim in Playa Zicatela for most of the year. Swimmers must use the beaches closer to town that are protected from the open ocean swells.

Playa Zicatela is the main surfing beach with big waves and strong currents. On the south end of the beach is La Punta Zicatela surf spot where the waves are a little smaller and more predictable because they break off of a point. A little bit closer to town there are beaches Playa Manzanillo and Playa Carrizaillo which are the safest beaches for swimming. All of the beaches in Puerto Escondido are stunning.

It is important to observe the ocean conditions before getting into the water in Puerto Escondido.

22. Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo

Holbox is easily one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Mexico. The size of the island has restricted some of the big-box development that is prevalent in other parts of the Riviera Maya such as Playa del Carmen and Cancún. The population of full-time residents is little more than 1,000 people and the whole area is an ecological reserve called Yum Balam.

The island is little more than a sand bar just 7 km off the coast. There is a ferry connecting the mainland but no cars are allowed. The best way to get around is on bikes or golf carts.

Even though Holbox is an incredibly small and laid-back destination there are quite a lot of activities to dive into. The Caribbean waters are warm and shallow making them safe for swimming. There are whale sharks, bioluminescence, kayaking, cenotes, and excellent snorkeling. It is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

The town has a lot of style and there are a fair amount of murals and interesting small businesses to keep you occupied for a week or longer. The friendly locals love their island and want to protect it from becoming overdeveloped like Tulum.

23. Todos Santos, Baja California Sur

Todos Santos is a tiny town situated on the Pacific coast of Baja California Sur in the municipality of La Paz and located one hour north of Cabo San Lucas. It is more like three towns because Pescadero, Cerritos, and Todos Santos are just a few minutes away from each other by car. The area is an oasis in the middle of the desert and is known as a boutique destination for outdoor enthusiasts with particularly good food. This is one of the best places to learn to surf in Mexico because of the consistency of small waves perfect for beginners.

Jesuit priests built a mission here in the early 1700s called Santa Rosa de las Palmas de Todos Santos. That mission was destroyed by the natives ten years later. The mission that stands today was built by Dominican priests in the 1800s and has been modernized ever since. In the post-colonial period, Todos Santos was an important center for sugar cane production. The town is so picturesque because of the 19th-century buildings that have been restored and painted bright colors. It reminds me a lot of a much smaller version of Mazatlan’s historic downtown.

Many people are just passing through Todos Santos on the way to or from Los Cabos. It is worth it to stay for a few days just to eat at all of the restaurants in town. There are high-end places like Javier Plascencia’s Jazamango and simple shacks selling some of the best fish tacos you will taste in this lifetime. Doce Cuarenta, the local coffee shop, looks historic from the outside and ultra-modern on the inside.

If you are thinking about learning to surf then Todos Santos should be at the top of your list of places to give it a try.

24. Sayulita, Nayarit

Puerto Escondido may be the capital of the professional surf industry in Mexico bu t Sayulita is the best place for beginners to catch their first waves and hone their skills. There are lovely beaches in every direction and lots of fun things to do in Sayulita.

Sayulita is located in the state of Nayarit just one hour north of Puerto Vallarta. The Puerto Vallarta International Airport makes the trip to Sayulita very easy because of the large number of direct flights from across North America. It is a relatively safe destination devoid of most violent crime. The biggest concern is petty theft and scams at the gas station on the way into town. I was blown away reading the Google Maps reviews about how many people, Mexicans and tourists alike, have short-changed.

Sayulita has the best nightlife in the area. Punta Mita is a 25-minute drive down the peninsula and has a lot of waves but not as much nightlife for a younger crowd.

25. Huatulco, Oaxaca

The seven bays of Huatulco are one of the most ecologically pristine tourist destinations in Mexico. The federal government built Huatulco as an international destination with conservation in mind.

I found the snorkeling in Huatulco to be excellent but the food was not nearly as good as the food in Oaxaca City.

Huatulco is home to some of the safest resorts in Mexico for families with little kids. The bays protect the beach from the massive swell energy that Oaxaca is famous for. Just down the road at Barra de la Cruz the waves can be 10+ ft while the shore of Tagolunda is flat as a lake.

Huatulco is a special place that is as safe as it gets.

26. Mazatlán, Sinaloa

I am really happy to be able to include Mazatlán on this list now. The percentage of the population that considers Mazatlán to be unsafe dropped from 54% to 42% from 2022 to 2023.

The first thing that comes to mind when I tell people how much I love Mazatlán is the cartel. Oh my gosh, Sinaloa. The important thing to remember is that there is not struggle for control of the plaza like Tijuana or Chiapas. Puerto Vallarta is in the same boat. There is one organization that is firmly in control without a rival.

My family and I stop in Mazatlán almost every year when we drive to the United States. We usually spend a couple of nights because the hotels are cheap and the seafood is so good.

Mazatlán is one of the best surf towns in Mexico with a range of great surf spots for beginners to pros.

The Safest Pueblos Mágicos To Visit In Mexico

The Mexican Secretary of Tourism created the Pueblo Mágico program to promote smaller and off-the-beaten-path destinations with unique tourism experiences. Many of the destinations have significant culinary and historical contributions to the national identity.

Many of the Pueblos Mágicos are very small towns that do not figure into national rankings on security. Ajijic, Sayulita, and Tapalpa all have populations below 20,000.

27. Ajijic, Jalisco

There are dozens of charming towns all around Lake Chapala but Ajijic is the only Pueblo Mágico. The region has been a popular vacation destination for both Mexicans and international visitors alike for more than 100 years.

Today, Ajijic has one of the largest concentrations of expats in Mexico. Many of them are of retirement age and there is a burgeoning elder care industry taking shape.

The weather and sunsets in Ajijic are considered to be excellent. Plus, there are many artists in the community who want to make the town even more beautiful. The Ajijic Museo de Arte is way nicer than you would expect in a town this small.

Overall, Ajijic is an incredibly safe community. The only dangers are uneven sidewalks and water pollution.

28. Tequisquiapan, Querétaro

Located just 2.5 hours away from Mexico City and less than an hour away from Santiago de Querétaro, Tequisquiapan is a favorite destination for wine enthusiasts.

The picturesque town is a favorite weekend getaway for chilangos and the yearly Wine and Cheese Festival is a huge party. Freixenet, La Redonda, and Viñedos Azteca are three of the most popular vineyards that offer excellent tours and tastings.

Interestingly, Revolutionary President Venustiano Carranza spent a lot of time in Tequisquiapan and decreed that the small town be known as the “Center of Mexico”, more symbolically than geographically.

The regional economy is dedicated to tourism and the local authorities are invested in keeping it safe. The biggest dangers in the area are Sunday drivers after one too many glasses of wine.

29. Loreto, Baja California Sur

Loreto is an important part of the history of the Baja Peninsula. Misión de Nuestra Señora de Loreto Conchó was founded on October 25th, 1697, and the first successful Spanish settlement on the peninsula.

The colonization of the Californias was spearheaded by Loreto. Even though the Jesuits were expelled from all Spanish dominions in the 18th century, both Franciscan and Dominican missionaries would continue their work.

Today, the town is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. The Loreto Bay is a protected national park with a wide variety of marine life. The desert trails are a favorite for hikers and there is a mountain biking community that is taking off.

The entire state of Baja California Sur is one of the safest places in Mexico and Loreto has both natural beauty and a lot of history. The sunrise over the Sea of Cortez is marvelous.

Loreto is a favorite destination for snowbirds because of its natural beauty and good security situation.

30. Valladolid, Yucatán

Valladolid is about the halfway point along the drive from Cancún to Mérida. Most people just use Valladolid as a staging point to access the Mayan ruins at Chichén-Itzá.

The Pueblo Mágico is so beautiful and safe that it deserves a few more days to explore. It is a small town so it is easy to see the entire downtown area walking.

Yucatán has a unique blend of Mayan and Spanish cultures that is on display in Valladolid. From the traditional clothing to the food, the mestizo identity is different from the center of the country.

31. Tapalpa, Jalisco

Tapalpa is a favorite destination for wealthy Tapatíos (people from Guadalajara) to go horseback riding in the forest. The town is less than two hours away from Guadalajara but a world away.

Located in the Sierra Madre Occidental, Tapalpa is in the mountains above Sayula not far from the Nevado de Colima Volcano.

There are lots of outdoor activities in Tapalpa. The Piedrotas de Tapalpa is a rock formation in a green field with climbing, rappelling, ziplining, horseback riding, and some restaurants.

On the way into town you will pass the paragliding cliffs and probably see a couple of gliders.

The Salto del Nogal hike leads to the highest waterfall in the state of Jalisco with some spectacular views of the area.

The food in Tapalpa is enough to book a trip. The town is famous for borrego (lamb) al pastor, birria, tamales de acelga, rompope, and pajaritos. Pajaritos are concoctions of unpasteurized cow milk, right out of the udder, mixed with chocolate, Nescafe, sugar, and cane alcohol.

Alpine forest is not what most people imagine when they think about Mexico. Tapalpa will exceed your expectations.

32. Pátzcuaro, Michoacán

Pátzcuaro is one of the most beautiful Pueblos Mágicos in Mexico with a vibrant Purépecha culture. The food and art are heavily influenced by the native people in the area and it is common to hear the Purépecha language spoken in the street.

Day of the Dead in Michoacan is one of the coolest experiences in all of Mexico.

33. San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas, Sonora

In early 2023, the Mexican Secretay of Tourism announced 45 new Pueblos Mágicos bringing the total to 177. While there has been a bit of criticism saying that there are too many places to visit now, I sure liked San Carlos.

San Carlos is a resort town built to explore the Sea of Cortez. It is essentially the new suburb of Guaymas and was developed for tourism. There is a big difference between a pueblo mágico like Pátzcuaro or Tequila but that shouldn’t take anything away from San Carlos.

I suggest you sit out by the pool and watch the sunset over the Cero Tetakawi and tell me that San Carlos isn’t magical. After driving through the desert, jumping in the water will always be magical.

Safest Places To Visit In Mexico Map

I always find it helpful to look at a map. The Mexico Map above shows the safest places to visit in Mexico divided into several different categories.

Each state, city, border crossing, beach, and pueblo mágico has been duly researched and is an overall good choice when it comes to security.

Some Surprises In The Data On Safety

I really enjoyed spending time looking over the data about the perception of the safest places to visit in Mexico. There were a number of surprises that I was not expecting.

The perception of security in Guadalajara is poor. So bad that I will have to update my article on the security situation in Guadalajara . 85% of residents consider the area to be unsafe. I noticed an uptick in the perception of insecurity during the pandemic but I didn’t realize how bad it has gotten. The 85 percentile is right in line with Toluca, Tijuana, and Uruapan.

Los Mochis and Mazatlán are surprisingly safe. The instant that anyone says, “Sinaloa” people get scared but that is unfounded. There is no struggle for control.

I didn’t realize how Cancún was divided into two parts. The resorts in the hotel zone do not reflect the living conditions of the majority of the population.

Tamalualipas has both some very dangerous and very safe parts of the country.

Up-to-date information is important. Things can change quickly and real, honest information is valuable.

I all too often hear people on the Mexico forums say, “Mexico is safer than the United States” based on their personal experience of living in one place. It is hard to take averages when the standard deviation is so large moving from place to place.

Safest Places To Visit In Mexico FAQ

These are some of the most common questions that I see asked in the Mexico Facebook groups about safety issues in Mexico.

What is the safest place in Mexico for tourists?

Right now, the safest place in Mexico for tourists is the Yucatán State. This includes the capital city of Mérida, the historic haciendas in the jungle, the cenotes, and the Mayan archeological sites.

Yucatán has the lowest levels of crime across the board if you can handle the heat in the summer. It is a beautiful place but it gets really hot for half the year. It is one of the safest places to visit in Mexico for tourists and locals alike.

Is Cancún safe to travel?

Yes, but know that there are two sides to Cancún: the local side and the resort side.

82% of the locals consider Cancún to be unsafe. Most tourists will never visit the local neighborhoods of Cancún.

When you think about it, it makes sense. People go to Cancún to party and there is an active market for drugs in the party destinations along the Riviera Maya.

Lots of people buy drugs in Cancún and that creates a problem. Cartels are going to fight for control of the drug market.

What are the safest cities in Mexico for expats?

Most of the cities that we have looked at are typical Mexican cities that may not have special accommodations for non-Spanish-speaking expats. It is going to be difficult to break into the social scene of San Pedro Garza García if you don’t speak the language.

Cities like Puerto Vallarta, Ajijic, Mérida, Los Cabos, and Playa del Carmen all have significant English-speaking communities. Having a little bit of help in your native language can be the difference between thriving and struggling to make new friends, or getting your cable and internet set up.

What are the most dangerous places in Mexico to avoid?

The worst cities for security are in the state of Zacatecas which is right next to where I live in Jalisco. We are constantly reading about problems near the border and it was no wonder that Fresnillo and Zacatecas City were at the top of the list.

Lastly, I was really surprised to see Ciudad Obregón in the top three places for the perception of security problems. Obregón is a popular stop along the Interstate 15 freeway from Nogales to Mexico City. I wanted to get some pictures of the monument to the Yaqui dancer on the north side of town but after pulling into the rest area I got a bad feeling and left quickly.

Navajoa, 70 km to the south, gets all the talk about corrupt cops in the On The Road In Mexico forum on Facebook. There is a new Libremiento freeway that allows travelers to bypass the city of Ciudad Obregón.

Is it safe to go to resorts in Mexico?

Yes, resorts in Mexico are generally very safe. It is rare that resorts will suffer from violent crime. Most of the crime happens off-site.

Be aware that many all-inclusive resorts have gotten in trouble for serving adulterated alcohol. Go easy on the all-you-can-drink liquor because it might not be authentic Jack Daniels.

Are Mexican all-inclusive resorts safer than regular hotels?

Unfortunately, I can’t generalize an answer here. There are both safe hotels and unsafe resorts. There are so many factors to take into consideration. Drugs are a major wildcard that make safe destinations dangerous. If there are a lot of people doing drugs at a resort in Tulum you can bet it isn’t very safe.

Final Thoughts On The Safest Places To Visit in Mexico

I hope I come off as somewhere in between denialist and sensationalist with the tone of this article. I think that safety and security are important to enjoying Mexico over the long term. We need to be honest about the safest places to visit in Mexico and the activities that we engage in.

And just because a place isn’t safe doesn’t mean that we have to avoid it altogether. I spend plenty of time in places that are considered to be dangerous but we need to know what the honest level of risk is so that each person can make the best decision for their individual situation. I like getting tacos late at night but I don’t want to bring my little kids to a sketchy neighborhood late at night to eat tacos until they are a little older.

Lastly, I hope that my methodology has been consistent. The goal is to combine statistical data with personal experience to give a more nuanced look at the safest places to visit in Mexico.

I know that just because I haven’t been carjacked in rural Michoacan it isn’t a concern of the local population. We need to look at the issue from the perspective of a local living in the area and a tourist visiting the area for the first time. They both have valid information.

It is time to get out there and start visiting Mexico. Enjoy!

Paul Hudson is a food, travel, and surf enthusiast who writes about Mexico on his blog Playas y Plazas. Originally from Southern California, Paul has lived in Guadalajara since 2009. He has a BA in Global Economics from UC Santa Cruz (Go Banana Slugs!) and speaks English and Spanish fluently. He can often be found exploring the Pacific Coast of Mexico looking for isolated beaches, fun waves, and exotic foods.

Is Cancun Safe to Visit in 2024? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 11, 2024

We have been to Cancun many times over the years, and one of the main questions that we always get is, “Is Cancun safe?” Truthfully, the situation has always been fluid, with various safety concerns such as crime and cartel activity. While we have personally felt safe in Cancun, it is important to check your government website warnings, follow basic safety precautions, and be aware of your surroundings. Mexico takes its tourism seriously and they want international visitors to continue to spend their dollars, so they are working hard to keep Cancun safe, especially in the tourist zones and the tourist hotspots.

Table of Contents

Is Cancun Safe to Visit?

As of March 2024, the US State Department updated its travel warnings for Quintana Roo, which is home to Cancun, Playa del Carmen , and Tulum. It removed the warning about an increased risk of kidnapping, but the country is still under a level 2 advisory. There are no travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo, but they are advised to exercise increased situational awareness.

As of March 2024, the Government of Canada notes that the region of Cancun has high rates of violent crime, such as homicides, kidnappings, carjacking, and assaults. Travelers are advised to exercise increased situational awareness, avoid areas with illicit activities, and promptly leave potentially dangerous situations.

Cancun’s Current Safety Situation

Cancun is located in the State of Quintana Roo, including Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel, and the Riviera Maya. These areas bring in a lot of dollars into Mexico, and this is certainly one of the safer areas in the country, especially compared to other states. However, crime and violence can affect tourists, so it is important to follow safety tips, maintain situational awareness, and avoid dangerous areas.

If you follow these tips and do your own research, you will find that you will feel a lot safer on your next trip should you choose to travel to Cancun. While emergency services are available, it is important to note that local emergency services may be limited outside the state capital or major cities.

Short Summary

Cancun’s security has been under a microscope due to incidents of criminal activity involving tourists. The Mexican government has taken great action to ensure the safety of visitors and citizens in Cancun. According to the US State Department, the Yucatan Peninsula is the safest region in Mexico for Americans in 2024. However, the State Department does have a travel advisory of “ exercise increased caution ” in the state of Quintana Roo.

• Cancun is generally safe for travelers, but take necessary precautions and take government website travel alerts into consideration.
• Follow safety tips like avoiding walking alone at night and sticking to well-known establishments.
• When traveling in Cancun, familiarize yourself with local laws, use reputable transportation services, and opt for filtered water!

Mexico Travel Advisories and Safety Concerns

For the latest advisory warnings, visit th e US State Department’s Website . Right now, the State Department website warns that ” Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico.” However, when you read further, it states, “Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To the Yucatan State.

The State Department also notes its limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in certain areas of Mexico.

Update: On February 27, 2024, the U.S. Embassy & Consulates In Mexico Department issued a warning for all U.S. travelers visiting Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean for Spring Break Travel in 2024. Only Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum were mentioned in the warning. You can check out the full message here and what they suggest.

Canada currently has a warning of “High rates of violent crime, such as homicides, kidnappings, carjacking, and assaults, including in popular tourist destinations such as the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos and Tulum), and Acapulco.” It states that drug cartels have a presence in tourist areas. There has been intergang fighting at establishments frequented by tourists where innocent bystanders have been killed or injured.

Incidents like this can happen in any large city or tourist destination. To put things into perspective, Cancun currently has a crime index of 56.33. When you look at the crime rate in New Orleans, Cancun is much lower than the rating of 67.92. See the comparison here.

To stay safe, travelers are advised to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones, especially after dark, to exercise increased situational awareness and avoid potentially dangerous situations.

Crime Rates in Cancun

Cancun has a crime rate that is similar to many major cities in the United States, most of which revolve around drug-trafficking turf wars and gang-related violence. Tourists are rarely the target, and if you keep yourself out of trouble. Avoid buying drugs, don’t stay out until the wee hours of the morning, and limit your alcohol consumption off the resort. By following common sense safety measures, you can lower your chances of any incident.

Compared to other Mexican cities, Cancun’s crime rate remains relatively low, meaning vacationers shouldn’t be too concerned about any crimes during their visit. However, they should still exercise a degree of caution.

Mexican Government’s Efforts

The Mexican government has increased security around Cancun International Airport by dispatching extra police forces and protection systems, in order to put a stop to petty crime that mainly targets travelers.

The Mexican government has taken extra security steps to protect Cancun’s standing as a favored tourist spot. These include a greater police presence at popular tourist areas such as resorts within the Hotel Zone , surveillance cameras, and gated entrances for visitors.

Initiatives were also undertaken to reduce corruption among law enforcement in this area, which resulted in the removal of numerous police officers from their posts and several top-level personnel from office due to misconduct. You can read about it here .

Collaboration between local companies and tourism workers also supports a safer atmosphere. Extra tourist police, state police, the National Guard, and even the Navy patrol the beaches.

The Hotel Zone

Staying within the Hotel Zone Cancun is one of the safest areas to stay in Cancun . Police patrols, surveillance cameras, and gated resorts all provide an extra layer of security for guests staying at the numerous high-end accommodations in this area. That doesn’t mean you should let your guard down, but we still recommend that you avoid walking alone at night or in secluded areas. Stick to well lit pedestrian streets to ensure your safety.

Cancun is a popular tourist destination, and efforts have been made to improve safety and security in this vibrant travel spot.

Cancun is a popular destination for Spring Break, and the kids love to party the nights away in the clubs of Playa del Carmen or Downtown Cancun. Our advice is to party responsibly. If you decide to go downtown Cancun to party for the night, exercise increased caution if you are going to local bars, stay in groups, don’t overdrink, and make sure to use an authorized taxi. It is when you drink too much and let your guard down that you become a target.

Best Practices for Staying Safe in Cancun

When vacationing in Cancun, it is important to remember that even though you are enjoying a vacation in popular tourist destinations, that doesn’t mean you let all common sense go out the window. A lot of people tend to think they are invincible on vacation, but this is when things can go wrong. Visitors to Cancun can have a great experience if they use common sense and exercise safety precautions. When visiting Quintana Roo or any other Mexican State, exercise increased situational awareness, avoid areas with illicit activities, and promptly leave potentially dangerous situations.

Additionally, be aware that local emergency services in Cancun may have limitations, especially outside the state capital or major cities.

Cancun Airport Safety

Landing at the airport can be one of your most vulnerable times. The arrivals area is crowded and confusing, which makes it easy to fall victim to a travel scam. We recommend that you exercise caution and think before you accept any rides, offers, or help from a “good Samaritan.” Despite its relatively low rate of violent offenses, visitors entering through Cancun airport can still fall victim to potential scams such as fake taxi drivers and pickpocketing in crowded locations.

Our safety advice for landing at the airport is to a private transfer in advance to your hotel, keep an eye on your valuables, and don’t leave anything unattended. If you need cash, go directly to the ATM, but we suggest bringing American dollars and small bills with you.

Transportation Safety

There are many different ways to get around Cancun. If you want more freedom, we recommend renting a car. We have also taken local transportation without incident. However, if you want to have added safety, booking an organized tour is a good option. You can book a night out bar hopping with a local guide, city tours with a guide, and excursions with a guide, making it safer to travel. It is important to exercise increased situational awareness, especially when using local transportation.

Local emergency services in Cancun are available but may be limited outside the city center. Always be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.

Taxis and Ridesharing Services

Travelers in Cancun can enjoy secure and reliable transportation options by utilizing authorized taxis or reliable apps like Uber. When getting into a cab, make sure to ask them to put on the meter. Also, plan your route beforehand, and be aware of the approximate costs before setting off so as not to be scammed.

Ridesharing services such as Uber are available in Cancun. But use caution, as there have been reports of violence between taxi drivers and Uber drivers due to contract disputes. If you are staying in a resort, we recommend using the taxi drivers with whom they have a contract; otherwise, you will have to leave the resort to book an Uber.

Buses and Public Transportation

Cancun’s buses and public transportation are typically reliable, inexpensive, and easy to access for anyone looking to discover the city. Public transportation is generally safe, but it is better not to ride it alone or late at night.

Rental Cars and Driving Tips

Using a rental car in Cancun can be an ideal way to enjoy the sights and attractions at your own pace. Make sure to book with trusted car hire agencies; we use RentalCars.com. You will have to get additional insurance Third Party Liability and Public Liability Insurance are mandatory. And make sure you avoid being on the roads after dark.

By observing these tips, people will reap all the benefits associated with renting cars while feeling safe traveling through Cancun’s streets and reveling in views of its glorious bright blue Caribbean Sea.

Food and Drink Safety in Cancun

Food is generally safe to eat in Mexico, especially in popular destinations. We generally avoid eating raw foods unless they are cooked or can be peeled. When eating at restaurants, we always look for places packed with locals. This is how you know it will be fresh. Think about raw foods that would be washed in tap water. We don’t eat fruits and vegetables unless they are cooked or can be peeled.

Tap Water Safety

Visitors to Cancun should not drink unfiltered tap water, and it is recommended that they stick to bottled water. We like to use a SteriPen so that we don’t contribute to plastic and avoid ice.

Although tests may show local tap water as safe enough for drinking according to regulations, microorganisms can still be present, which could lead to health problems.

Street Food and Restaurant Precautions

We have eaten street food in Mexico, and it is delicious, but tourists should still be cautious when choosing where to eat. Don’t eat salad or vegetables that aren’t cooked, and make sure the meat is freshly cooked in front of you. You don’t want to eat something that has been sitting in the heat for hours. Select freshly prepared meals, steer clear of uncovered dishes, and go for a well-known, busy place to eat.

Health and Medical Safety in Cancun

When visiting Mexico in general we highly recommend having travel insurance. Medical emergencies can happen, and it is a small price to pay for peace of mind. You may also want to look into what medications and vaccines you need. Make sure that your routine vaccines are up to date, and you may consider additional vaccines. Hepatitis A and B are good to get, and you may want to update your tetanus. For up-to-date travel health notices in Mexico, visit the CDC website.

Mosquito-borne illnesses can also be an issue, so pack bug spray and wear lightweight long sleeves if going into the jungle. In case of a medical emergency, there are healthcare services available that tourists can access if required – adding another layer of protection on top of their Mexico travel insurance policy.

Is Cancun Dangerous for Solo Travelers?

Many people travel to Cancun as solo travelers, and it is considered generally safe to visit alone. Before traveling, solo travelers should research the area and let people know where they will be. Check in with family and friends back home frequently by providing them with information about where you’ll be going during each part of your journey so they know your whereabouts. Solo travelers should exercise increased situational awareness, especially in areas classified by the State Department as ‘Exercise Increased Caution,’ such as Quintana Roo. By adhering to these basic guidelines for security, an unforgettable trip awaits any adventurous solo traveler who decides to explore this picturesque Mexican destination.

Local emergency services in Cancun are available but may be limited outside the state capital or major cities.

Many of our recommendations, regardless of the destination, are to not walk alone at night or in secluded areas, so if you are traveling alone, stay in lit areas, don’t stay out too late, and stick with the crowds.

Make sure to choose a safe hotel in a good area, use trustworthy transportation services, and avoid any illegal drugs or areas with high crime. Signing up for local tours can provide additional safety as you’ll be able to go sightseeing in a group with an expert guide. Plus you’ll make friends with some other tourists.

Is Cancun Safe for a Solo Female Traveler?

Cancun is largely considered secure for solo female travelers as well. The same recommendations can be made to avoid deserted areas and walking alone at night, and take taxis. Choose safe accommodation, preferably in the hotel zone, and use common sense and take extra precautions.

Women are more vulnerable than male travelers, and a woman can catch unwanted attention. Don’t go out alone late at night, use trustworthy taxis, don’t wear expensive jewelry, and the hotel room safe for your valuables.

Hurricane Season

Hurricane season in Cancun typically runs from June through November, with the peak period occurring between August and October. Travelers considering Cancun as a destination often wonder about safety during these months. It’s important to note that while the risk of hurricanes exists, Cancun is well-prepared with robust infrastructure and comprehensive emergency plans in place to ensure visitor safety

Here’s the lowdown: yes, hurricanes can whip through, especially from August to October when things tend to peak. But, Cancun is pretty savvy when it comes to dealing with these big storms. The hotels and local officials have got it down to a science with solid buildings and tried-and-true safety plans that kick into gear when needed.

Plus, with all the advanced weather tech these days, everyone gets a heads-up well before a storm hits. So, while it’s smart to keep an eye on the weather, Cancun remains a fab spot for a beach vacation, even during the stormy months. Chill vibes and safety can totally go hand in hand here!

The Mexican Peso is the official currency of Cancun and Mexico, but establishments readily accept the US dollar. Hotel ATMs often dispense US dollar currency instead of Mexican Pesos.

When withdrawing cash, try to use ATMs in secure locations like inside a bank or a busy mall, rather than those on the street, to keep things extra safe. And hey, while it’s tempting to carry a wad of cash to avoid transaction fees, it’s smarter to keep just enough cash for the day and use your credit card when you can. Credit cards are widely accepted and give you that extra layer of fraud protection. By keeping these practical tips in mind, you’ll make sure your financial dealings in Cancun are as smooth as the local tequila.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cancun safe right now 2024?

The US State Department notes that Cancun has friendly locals and is one of the safest areas in Mexico, with a low crime rate. So you can have an amazing experience by planning your getaway to this destination come 2024! Relax, knowing you will be safe during your stay here. Making it absolutely unforgettable.

How safe is Cancun for American tourists?

The US State Department has assessed Cancun as one of the safest places to visit in Mexico, and thus, it is Safe for tourists making a trip there in 2024. To ensure you enjoy your time while still staying secure, practice caution with regard to where you go and who you talk to, and always be aware of your surroundings.

Is Cancun safe to walk around?

When you visit Cancun, you should always take precautions to remain safe. The Hotel Zone, in particular, offers a secure atmosphere with numerous all-inclusive resorts, international hotels, and beaches for visitors to enjoy without fear of crime rates that are low outside the hotel zone.

Overall it is possible to have an unforgettable trip when exercising caution and keeping safety measures at hand during your time here, which will result in a rewarding experience.

Is Cancun safe at an all-inclusive?

When it comes to booking an all-inclusive holiday in Cancun, you can be confident that the resort is secure. Most properties have measures such as security guards with firearms to make sure visitors feel safe during their stay.

With some planning and investigation beforehand, travelers will be able to enjoy a stress-free break away from home in one of Mexico’s picturesque cities.

Is it still safe to travel to Cancun right now?

With care and knowledge of local customs, Cancun is an excellent, relatively secure destination for travelers. Hence, caution and respect should be exercised to make sure a safe journey is had while visiting the area.

Stick to the Most Popular Tourist Destinations and Tourist Zones

When you’re planning a trip to Mexico and wondering about safety, it’s handy to know which spots are a bit spicier when it comes to risk. Some areas, particularly along certain parts of the northern border and specific regions like parts of Guerrero, have a bit more heat due to higher crime rates and travel advisories. Cities like Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez often make headlines, urging travelers to stay street-smart and keep up with travel advisories.

Some regions, like Colima, Guerrero, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Michoacán, and Sinaloa, tend to be hotter on the risk radar due to higher crime rates and consistent travel advisories. While these areas can have their share of challenges, don’t let that put a damper on your whole itinerary.

Mexico is a vast country with safe and serene destinations in the most popular tourist destinations and off the beaten path, far from the troubled spots. By staying sharp and keeping up with the latest travel advisories, you can navigate your way to a smooth and secure Mexican adventure. Remember, a little prep and awareness go a long way in making sure your vacation vibes remain as calm as a seaside sunset!

Our Safety Recommendations For Cancun

Cancun is an attractive tourist destination to visit, offering a secure holiday when the appropriate steps and precautions are taken. Staying up-to-date on safety updates, bearing in mind some basic security tips, staying up to date on current Mexico travel warnings, and keeping any dangers that may arise at bay will enable travelers to enjoy Cancun fully without worry.

So get ready for your trip by packing all you need (including sunscreen) for what promises to be an unforgettable experience – complete with sand, sunshine, and, of course, memories galore!

Plan Your Next Trip to Cancun with These Resources

• Mexico City: Best Things to Do in Mexico City for an Epic Trip
• Cancun: 21 Amazing Things To Do In Cancun
• Cancun: Where To Stay In Cancun: Best Hotels And Areas For Every Budget
• Playa Del Carmen: 29 of Best Things to do in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
• Yucatan Peninsula: 23 Amazing Things To Do In Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula
• Tulum: 23 Best Things To Do In Tulum
• 23 Best Beaches In Mexico
• Best Mexican Dishes: 27 Most Popular Mexican Foods

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

26 Best Things To Do In Oaxaca, Mexico in 2024

The Best of Loreto – Best Kept Secret in Baja California Sur

Is Mexico City Safe To Visit in 2024? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

1 thought on “Is Cancun Safe to Visit in 2024? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips”

We just got back and Cancun is extremely safe. We didn’t stay in resorts but three different locations and took local buses and walked around at night and at no time did we feel even the slightest concern about our safety or security. Using common sense travel, having a reasonable control of your faculties and not engaging in extremely risky behavior with strangers keeps any risk low. Mexican people are hard working, friendly and helpful.

Discover 20 of the world's best beaches

Jan 30, 2024 • 19 min read

It's easy to see why Punta Paloma is considered one of the most seductive beaches in Spain © iStock / Getty Images Plus

From fabled golden bays to little-known coves,  no shell has been left unturned during our hunt for the world's best beaches.

We have sent our writers everywhere in search of sublime, surf-pounded shorelines and remote pockets of hard-to-reach paradise for Lonely Planet's new book Best Beaches in the World . From Albania to Yemen and everywhere in between, our team has swam, snorkeled, slugged cocktails and hiked through rainforests, to create the definitive beach bible. 

Here's 20 of the 100 that were selected as our pick of the best beaches in the world.

1. The Pass, Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia

When the swell is good, The Pass has a right-hand point break that turns this stretch of pinkish-cream, pillowy-soft sand into a surfer’s paradise. Located at the most easterly point on mainland Australia, Cape Byron , it doesn't matter if you're a pro or a novice with the board, the bay has something for everyone, including lessons for beginners. 

The midden (a pile of shells and bones) next to the boat ramp points to the rich Aboriginal history of the area, while inside the subtropical rainforest that runs around the edge of The Pass are native koalas and brush turkeys. Delta Kay, an Arakwal Bundjalung woman, offers walking tours around the cape and several hiking tracks let you admire The Pass from different angles. The 0.3-mile (0.48 km) Palm Valley Currenbah track is wheelchair accessible and loops through the palm rainforest to some picnic and barbecue facilities. The most scenic track, however, is the 2.3-mile (3.7km) Cape Byron loop, which takes in the stunning homes of Wategos Beach and Little Wategos Beach . Note: if you want to surf The Pass, a 2023 law requires you to use a surfboard leash (leg rope).

Getting there:  The beach has limited paid parking. Either arrive early or walk from central Byron (20 minutes; the foreshore has a wheelchair-accessible path). Alternatively, neighboring Captain Cook and Clarkes beaches also have limited parking.

2. Ipanema Beach, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Renowned for some astonishing sunsets that the locals frequently applaud, Rio 's Ipanema Beach stretches for 1.9 miles (3 km). Local subcultures use its numbered lifeguard chairs as different markers for their area of the beach. For example, Posto 9, located off Rua Vinícius de Moraes, is the go-to spot for the fashionable crowd, attracting both the young and beautiful, alongside artists and hippies. Praia Farme, situated in front of Rua Farme de Amoedo, is where the gay community gathers. Posto 8 is where kids from the favela come together. Between Ipanema and Copacabana , Posto 7 is popular with surfers, and Posto 10 is where you'll find games of volleyball, soccer, and futevôlei (footvolley) going on.

Getting there:  Ipanema Beach is in the South Zone of Rio de Janeiro. Av Vieira Souto runs alongside the beach and the closest Metrô station is General Osório.

3. Ao Maya, Ko Phi-Phi, Krabi, Thailand

At just 49ft-wide (15m) and 820ft-long (250m), Ao Maya is a slip of a beach hidden by limestone cliffs. Yet it caught the eye of film director Danny Boyle who used its ombré turquoise waters and fine white sand as the setting for The Beach , the 2000 film starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The movie's popularity attracted around 6000 tourists daily to Ao Maya. However, the influx led to a buildup of trash, damage to plants and coral, and disruption of wildlife.

This prompted Thai officials to close the bay in 2018. They initially hoped the beach would recover within a few months, but it remained closed until 2022. It then reopened with better infrastructure and additional protections. New rules now regulate tourist activities: swimming is prohibited (although knee-high wading is allowed); boats cannot anchor in the bay; and only 375 visitors can visit in hourly slots. Still, the trip is worth it to spend time in this incredible paradise and appreciate the natural beauty that was almost lost.

Getting there  From neighboring Ko Phi-Phi Don , take an early morning boat tour here (20 minutes each way) to beat the crowds. Alternatively, it's reachable by speedboat from Phuket and Krabi .

4. Mnemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania

After a few action-packed days on safari in mainland Tanzania , Mnemba Island acts as the perfect retreat. Only accessible to guests of the andBeyond resort, which sleeps 23, this gorgeous white-sand beach is like your personal coastal paradise. Indulge in long walks and enjoy some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling around.

Getting there Resort stays include transfers from either Stone Town or Abeid Amani Karume International Airport on Unguja Island, Zanzibar. It's then a short boat ride to Mnemba Island.

5. Sarakiniko, Milos Cyclades, Greece

You'll need to bring all your own supplies for Sarakiniko , a set of sun-bleached volcanic rocks that dip into a small deep turquoise stretch of the Aegean. The arresting views and cooling waters make up for having to rough it, though. Centuries of wave-and-wind erosion made the rock formations at the beach dip and arch, creating caves to explore and alabaster cliffs to jump off. Sunbathe on the rocks or use them as your access point to slip into the water for some snorkeling.

Ranked among the best-loved beaches in Greece , Sarakiniko can get packed with tourists. To avoid the crowds, visit in September and October. If you’re here during the high season, arrive in the morning and the only sounds you’ll hear will be the wind and the lapping waves. If you can, check back in at sunset – it’s quite a sight as the alabaster-colored rocks glow against the fiery hues from the setting sun.

Getting there  Sarakiniko is 1.9 miles (3km) north of Adamas port, on Milos ’ northernmost coast. Several daily buses run here from Adamas during summer months and there’s parking for anyone arriving by scooter, car, or ATV. Milos airport has domestic flights to and from Athens, or you can also reach Milos by ferry from Athens ’ Piraeus port (2½ to 6½ hours) as well as other islands such as Santorini (two hours).

6. Chesterman Beach, Tofino, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

Most people come to Chesterman Beach to surf, but it’s the views that will take your breath away. From misty mornings where the fog comes off the soft sand to the fiery skies in the evening as the sun dips below the cedar trees, you could spend all day here. The beach is also great for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding,  and observing the hundreds of colorful starfish, anemones, urchins and other sea creatures that appear in tide pools.

You can even enjoy the beach as you whale watch, partake in outdoor yoga, or walk across the sandbar at low tide. The calm summer months are perfect for beginner surfers and with several expert-led surf schools based locally. Winter, and its serious swells, draw experienced surfers. It also hosts surf competitions. Make sure you bring your wetsuit – water temperatures don’t get much higher than 57°F (13.8°C). 

Getting there  Chesterman Beach is 3.1 miles (5km) south of Tofino , near the far west end of  Vancouver Island ’s Pacific Rim Highway. You can easily cycle here from Tofino. Regular ferries run between Vancouver city and Nanaimo (on Vancouver Island) in just under two hours. From there, it’s a 125-mile (200 km) drive west to Tofino – around a three-hour drive or a four-hour bus ride.

7. Cabo San Juan del Guía, Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, Colombia

Ringed by rainforest, the golden sands and coconut palms of Colombia ’s Caribbean coast are picture-perfect – especially Cabo San Juan del Guía. It is located in a national park that stretches along the coast from the Taganga near Santa Marta to the mouth of the Río Piedras, 22 miles (35km) east, and covers some 29,900 acres (12,100 hectares) of land and 7400 acres (3000 hectares) of coral-rich sea.

While it is a bit of a hike (approximately 2 hours) to get to this set of picturesque turquoise bays enclosed by rocky outcrops, it’s well worth it – and many others agree as the beach is popular with locals and tourists alike. If you want to wake up to the incredible view, you can rent a hammock, tent, or one of the very few cabins surrounding the beach. Note: they’re rented on a first come, first served basis so arrive early, especially in the high season (December and January). There’s also a restaurant so you won’t go hungry, but remember to bring your own water or purifying device as you’ll need it here. The park has banned plastic, so make sure you’re not carrying any in. You’ll want to leave this beautiful beach in pristine condition for future generations to enjoy.

Getting there It takes an hour by bus from the Santa Marta Public Market to reach the El Zaino park entrance, 23 miles (37km) to the east, with frequent daily departures. From the park entrance, colectivos (minibuses) run to the beginning of the trail. You can also reach the beach via a two-hour hike or a rough 50-minute boat ride.

8. Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue, Seychelles

With its pristine white sands shaded by coconut palms and shallow turquoise waters that gently lap against granite boulders, Anse Source d’Argent is usually found on lists of the world’s best beaches and rightly so. This is the beach of dreams. It’s an adventure to get here, but a fun one that involves a ferry, a bike ride (or walk) to L’Union Estate , a former vanilla and coconut plantation that charges a small fee to access the beach. Take a moment to tour the estate-turned-museum before you head 0.43 miles (700m) down the road ti get your first glimpse of heaven on Earth. While you enjoy the beach you can also sip on fresh fruit juices and coconuts (with rum, if you wish) from one of the rustic beach bars along the beach. To avoid the inevitable crowds, come in the early morning, but then return in the late afternoon (with your same entrance ticket) to enjoy the gorgeous sunset on a near-empty beach.

Getting there  It takes less than two hours to reach La Digue by ferry from Victoria on the main island of Mahé , and just 15 minutes by ferry from Baie Ste Anne in Praslin.

9. Playa Balandra, La Paz BCS, México

An enclosed cove beach with shallow deep blue waters, Playa Balandra is perfect for kids. Apart from swimming, this is also very much an activity-oriented beach with kayaks and stand-up paddleboards available for rent. Beachgoers can also explore tide pools and hike to neighboring coves. A protected area surrounded by arid, cacti-covered mountains, the beach is part of the azure Balandra Bay, which has glass-clear waters and white sands. Only 450 people are currently allowed on this beach per day (with two time slots from 8am-noon and 1-5pm), so it never feels too crowded, but it’s still best to get there early to secure a timeslot. The first Sunday of every month is exclusively reserved for locals, so make sure you plan your beach day in advance. Note that beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent, but there are no other facilities.

Getting there:  Make the 30-minute drive north from La Paz in a hire car or catch a bus from the La Paz Malecón bus station, with departures roughly every two hours from 9am.

10. Punta Paloma, Tarifa, Cádiz, Spain

With its soft sands, sparkling waters, and wind-carved dunes set against a backdrop of Morocco and the Strait of Gibraltar, it’s easy to see why Punta Paloma is one of the most seductive beaches in Spain . The deep blue Atlantic offers excellent swimming, the dunes offer dazzling views, and the chiringuito (beach restaurant) offers beachgoers tinto con limón (red wine with lemonade). Everyone from first-timers to local residents love this beach.

Walk along the west end of the curving sand will lead you to natural mud baths where you can paint your skin with mineral-rich mud. There are several other walking and horse-riding routes along the surrounding hills, some of which lead you to sights such as the prehistoric Los Algarbes necropolis. If you’d rather stick to the beach, there are several opportunities for kitesurfing rentals and lessons. Or, if you prefer sticking to the sands and watching the waves, you’ll likely also catch a glimpse of dolphins, whales, migratory birds, and maybe even a turtle. 

Ge tting there  Punta Paloma is 6.2 miles (10km) northwest of Tarifa and linked by bus during summer months only. Tarifa is easily reached by car or bus from Málaga , Gibraltar , Jerez , or Seville , all of which have international airports.

11. Punta Rata Beach, Brela, Makarska Riviera, Croatia 

Dreamy Punta Rata extends 1312ft (400m) around a headland protected by a nature reserve in a magical place where the Aleppo pine forests meet the cool, clear Adriatic Sea. One of the Croatian coast’s most exquisite beaches, the fragrant pine groves provide shade, while the deep blue waters offer ideal temperatures above 70°F (20°C) from June to October) for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. This beach is pure bliss. Linger on the nearby promenade to catch the magnificent sunsets, when the sky glows with deep orangey-reds and neon pinks, as the sun dips below the pine-dotted outcrop that rises from the sea.

Getting there  The beach is on the northwest edge of Brela (easily reached by walking or cycling), around 31 miles (50km) southeast of Split on Croatia ’s Dalmatian coast. Split has an international airport and good bus links to Brela (1 hour).

12. West Beach, Berneray, Outer Hebrides, Scotland 

The beaches of the Outer Hebrides look like they belong somewhere tropical rather than the North Atlantic shores of Scotland . West Beach is among the most picturesque – its powdery sands meet both the jewel-like green-blue waters and machair (grazing land). The wilds of this shoreline make it look like an untouched paradise, but these three miles (5km) of coast are a draw for tourists as well as locals. The brave might go for a swim in these chilly waters that rarely get above 55°F (13°C), but it’s a paradise for beachcombers, bird-watchers, and hikers. The grassy elevated dunes offer the perfect perch for pristine views of the beach and the best place to spot cormorants, gannets and more. Come in the spring, when the surrounding landscape is a burst of color thanks to the wildflowers that grow in abundance.

Getting there Stretching along the entire west coast of Berneray, you'll need to catch a ferry from Leverburgh in neighboring Harris (the southern half of the Outer Hebrides’ main island) to get here. There are flights from Edinburgh , Inverness , Glasgow and Southampton to Stornoway Airport in Lewis (the northern half of the principal island), which also has ferry links. You’ll want a car to explore; book the ferry in advance.

13. Rauðasandur, Westfjords, Iceland

Iceland’s Rauðasandur is a wild, 6-mile-long (10km) beauty with breathtaking sea cliffs and a turquoise lagoon that snakes through a sprawl of red, orange and pink sand – colors from crushed scallop shells. Located in the Westfjords, it’ll feel as if you have the beach to yourself, save from the company of grey and harbor seals that sometimes frolic on the shore. Rauðasandur also has some excellent hiking trails. It’s possible to walk to the famous Látrabjarg bird cliffs where thousands of puffins, razorbills, gannets, and terns gather during the warmer months.

Getting there  Rauðasandur sits 19 miles (30km) south of Patreksfjörður in the Westfjords , reachable on a 1-hour flight from Reykjavík . It's a 640-mile (400 km) drive from Reykjavík, or you can catch the Baldur car ferry to Rauðasandur from Stykkishólmur, 106 miles (170 km) north of the capital. The often-unpaved roads in The Westfjords require time, patience, planning and a sturdy 4WD vehicle.

14. Pink Beach, Padar Island, Komodo National Park, Indonesia

Only a handful of beaches in the world have the rosy, cotton-candy sands of Pink Beach, located inside Komodo National Park . Its distinctive hue comes from deep red organ pipe corals that have broken down offshore over centuries and mixed with the fine white sand grains to produce the soft, pink shoreline. With an abundance of coral, the beach is a popular snorkeling spot – schools of tropical fish love the reefs too. Simple beach huts dot the shoreline here, offering drinks and simple meals as well as the only shade on the sun-drenched beach.  Pink Beach is popular with tourists; arrive early or just before sunset for a quieter experience.

Getting there On the northwest shore of Padar Island, around 25 miles (40km) from Labuan Bajo , Pink Beach can only be visited on a day tour from the fishing town or a private day liveaboard cruise.

15. Dueodde, Nexø, Bornholm, Denmark

The wild Baltic Sea surrounds Denmark’s sunniest island, Bornholm . Famed for its crisp natural light, head to Dueodde on the southern tip to see why. The sun's rays kiss the pearl-colored sands and make the soft jade and cerulean waves at this lovely beach shimmer. Wading through the shallow water here feels like stepping into a painting. In the evening, its sunsets turn the sky pink, orange, and yellow. Whilst the campsites and cafes are busy in the summer, don't rule out visiting in the winter when the locals toboggan down the snow-covered sand dunes. For the best views, climb the 196 steps to the top of Dueodde’s blue-and-white 1960s lighthouse.

Getting there  Dueodde’s main patch of beach is 6.2 miles (10 km) south of Nexø, at the southern end of Bornholm, around 125 miles (200 km) east of Copenhagen . There are car parks at nearby Fyrvejen and Skrokkegard. Bornholm Airport has year-round 35-minute flights to and from Copenhagen, as well as seasonal links with Berlin, Aarhus and others. There are also regular ferry services to and from Ystad in Sweden (1¼ hours).

16. Keem Bay Beach, Keel, County Mayo, Ireland

A short 4.9-mile (8km) drive from Keel village, at the western end of County Mayo’s Achill Island , is one of Ireland ’s most glorious, secluded bays: Keem Bay Beach . The verdant green hillsides spill down to a deep-set horseshoe-shaped bay, where a pale-blonde beach sits framed by the Croaghaun Cliffs and the swell of the wild Atlantic. Tucked away beneath the cliffs, the bay offers calm (if cool) waters. Swimmers and snorkelers can both take advantage of the gentle sea here. Launch a kayak from the shore during the warmer summer months for fabulous views of the rural Ireland from the water. You might also catch a glimpse of pods of dolphins, which sometimes swim and feed by the bay.

Getting there  Keem Bay is accessible along western Achill Island’s snaking R319 road. The nearest airport is Ireland West Airport Knock, 59 miles (95km) east of Achill Island, or a 1½-hour drive away, with some international flights.

17. Ruby Beach, Olympic National Park, Washington, USA

Two miles (3.2km) south of the Hoh River and bordered by a rainforest, Ruby Beach is a great introduction to the Pacific Northwest. It looks like waters have lashed wildly against the shoreline here until trees have toppled and the sea are stacks found with a swirling froth crashing at their feet. It's great for beachcombers – agates, garnets and sea glass all glitter in the sand – but there is treasure inside its tide pools, too. Anemones, sea urchins, purple starfish and skittering crabs, make it a wonderland for children and adults alike.

Getting there  Ruby Beach is on the southwestern coast of the Olympic Peninsula and borders Hwy 101, which loops around the peninsula and the national park. The beach is 172 miles (277km) west of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

18. Stanhope Beach, Prince Edward Island National Park, PEI, Canada

Stanhope at Prince Edward Island National Park has some of Canada ’s best beaches. Glistening wetlands meet the north coast of the Atlantic, with 25 miles (40km) of beach framed by rolling dunes that provide refuge for the endangered piping plover bird. Boardwalks hover above the red-gold sand, and offer beautiful views of the coast while also connecting the dunes to the shoreline. During summer the water is warm enough for swimming and there’s a popular campsite among the trees just back from Stanhope Main Beach, so you can stay for the beautiful sunset and wake up to the lapping of the waves against the shore.

Getting there  Stanhope Beach is around 12 miles (20km) north of Charlottetown , PEI’s provincial capital, which has flights to Toronto, Montréal, Ottawa and elsewhere in Canada. You can also reach PEI by road from New Brunswick or by ferry from Nova Scotia . The national park is open year-round, but beach facilities are only available from mid-May to early autumn.

19. Radhanagar, Swaraj Dweep, Andaman Islands, India

For a secluded beach where it feels as if time has slowed down, look to Radhanagar . Located on India ’s remote and beautiful Andaman Islands , this dreamy spot with the softest of sand kisses a bright green forest full of ancient species found nowhere else on earth. The region’s natural beauty is the main draw here: come for some of the finest diving and snorkeling in India, look out for an elephant or two strolling along the shoreline, and gather with the locals who spend their evenings chatting as the sun sets casting blazing coral hues across the sky.

Getting there  The isolated Andaman Islands sit almost 870 miles (1400km) east of mainland India, so getting here is part of the adventure. Fly into Port Blair (the small regional capital, on South Andaman), then catch a two-hour ferry to Swaraj Dweep. Radhanagar awaits on the island’s northwest coast, with a couple of eco-luxe resorts hidden among the trees.

20. Pacifico Beach, Siargao, Surigao Del Norte, Philippines

A secret among surfers until fairly recently, Pacifico Beach is a picture-perfect tropical beach with azure-colored lagoon waters, coconut palm-shaded sands and a lovely low-key vibe. When a devastating typhoon flattened the region in 2021, the locals’ resilience won out and the island staged an incredible comeback. Many homes and businesses, including a handful of places to stay and eat in Pacifico, rebuilt and reopened within the year. This is one place where tourism is essential to the island’s ongoing recovery. Whether you’re looking for an idyllic beach to relax or a paddle across the lagoon for a left-hand reef break, Pacifico Beach and the fledgling beach town of Siargao is where you want to be.

Getting there  Pacifico Beach is 13 miles (21km) or a 30-minute drive north of Surigao’s domestic airport, and 31 miles (50km) north of the island’s main tourism hub, General Luna. The drive from the latter, typically undertaken by rental scooter, takes just over an hour, but most visitors make a day of it, lingering at the many viewpoints and other attractions along the way.

Explore related stories

Jun 11, 2024 • 7 min read

Dazzling Santorini is the instantly recognizable supermodel of the Greek islands. Here’s what you need to know for your first trip to Santorini.

May 31, 2024 • 4 min read

May 28, 2024 • 8 min read

May 25, 2024 • 6 min read

May 20, 2024 • 5 min read

May 20, 2024 • 13 min read

Mar 19, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 4, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Feb 29, 2024 • 6 min read

12 Of The Safest Florida Beach Towns For Travelers To Enjoy

• Coral Gables, located just outside Miami, has an incredibly low crime rate, making it a safe and perfect vacation destination with beautiful parks, restaurants, and shopping.
• Boca Grande, a retirement community in Southwest Florida, is a safe and quiet beach town with rare incidents of crime, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway.
• Siesta Key has a low crime rate, friendly locals, and one of the best beaches in Florida, offering tourists an authentic and safe experience while enjoying the clear waters and white sand.

Florida is a sought-after destination that draws millions of visitors with its perfect weather, pristine beaches, and amusement parks — just to mention a few. However, while the Sunshine State has everything to keep tourists glued for days or months, many may wonder how safe its towns and cities are. After all, without the reassurance of safety, the thrill of discovering various attractions fades away.

Fortunately, there are places in Florida, some of which are towns that break away from typical tourist spots , with lower levels of violent and property crime. Here’s a list of the safest Florida beach towns where tourists can immerse themselves fully without constantly having their hearts race with worry.

While these coastal towns in Florida are the safest, no destination is entirely crime-free, only that the incidents occur less frequently compared to other places. People should always be mindful of the neighborhoods they plan on retiring to or visiting, take care of their belongings, and be cautious of their surroundings.

UPDATE: 2023/11/14 10:42 EST BY NOAH STAATS

Even More Safe Beach Towns In Sunny Florida!

This article has been refreshed with two new safe beach towns in Florida, both being toward the Southern part of the Sunshine State. Whether you're after a laid-back retreat or don't want to deal with petty or violent crime, Florida has plenty of safe havens from the chaos.

Related: Harbour Island: Everything To Know About Visiting This Pink Sand Beach From Florida

Coral Gables

One of the safer beach towns in Florida is Coral Gables, located just outside Miami/Miami Beach. Although close enough to the big city at the southern tip of the state, Coral Gables has an incredibly low crime rate, with your chance of being a victim of a violent crime sitting at 1 in 949 people . Therefore, it is not common or expected to fall victim while traveling through this wealthy city.

Moreover, Coral Gables is where many of the uber-wealthy have homes and businesses and beautiful parks, public spaces, restaurants, and shopping. Coral Gables has always been Miami's quieter, safer, and cleaner counterpart, making it perfect for this genre of vacation.

• Best things to do in Coral Gables: Venetian Pool, Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden, Shops at Merrick Park, Lowe Art Museum, Coral Gables Museum, Miracle Mile

Here are some fun things to do in Miami, Florida, this winter .

Boca Grande

One of the safer and more remote beach communities in Southwest Florida is the city/village of Boca Grande. Located on Gasparilla Island on the Southern Coast of Florida, Boca Grande stretches nearly seven miles, housing just under 2,000 people. This is a retirement community, for the most part, making it a safe and quiet beachside vacation destination. Moreover, the island of Boca Grande tends to be less busy in the summer and fall seasons, as the weather will be warmest.

Spring and winter break is when crowds come here, often bringing weddings, parties, and shenanigans. Therefore, avoiding coming here during peak "party" season is recommended. Besides that, crime is very rare here, with the worst being stolen golf carts and other valuable items.

• Best places to visit in Boca Grande: Gasparilla Island State Park, Port Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum, Cayo Costa State Park, The Gasparilla Inn, Downtown Boca Grande

Siesta Key has a low crime rate, about 70 percent less than the national average . As such, tourists are unlikely to have unpleasant experiences when strolling along the streets or hanging around the beach. The town is small, with friendly neighbors and welcoming locals who give travelers authentic experiences.

Siesta Key is also home to Siesta Key Beach, one of the best beaches in Florida with the clearest water . The beach is a geological marvel with powdery white sand and child-friendly waves, though kids should be under supervision.

• Best places to visit in Siesta Key: Siesta Key Beach, Siesta Key Village, Point of Rocks, Crescent Beach, Turtle Beach

Santa Rosa Beach

The unfortunate event of being a victim of crime in Santa Rosa Beach is 1 per 1,171 inhabitants, less than most Florida towns. Walking around feels safe, making discovering some of the town’s most incredible spots and beaches easy. Santa Rosa Beach, Grayton Beach State Park, and Seaside Beach are some of the best places for parasailing, deep-sea fishing, and dolphin watching.

Eden Gardens State Park is another safe attraction in Santa Rosa Beach. It has a well-preserved white mansion surrounded by magnificent trees, fountains, picnic shelters, and gardens with unique plants.

• Best places to visit in Santa Rosa Beach: Eden Gardens State Park, Santa Rosa Beach, Grayton Beach State Park

Related: From Wildlife To Beaches: A Big Bend Road Trip Adventure Through Florida's Natural Beauty

Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne is one of the safest places in Florida to vacation, retire, or raise a family. Its palm-lined streets are also walkable for easy and stress-free access to various stores and attractions.

There’s much to love about Key Biscayne besides its safety. It’s home to breathtaking beaches, one of which is among the safest beaches in Florida to visit in summer . Its stunning nature preserves, restaurants with a view, and charming neighborhoods also make Key Biscayne worth the visit.

• Best places to visit in Key Biscayne: Crandon Park, Cape Florida Lighthouse, Miami Seaquarium, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Bear Cut Preserve

Choosing the best time to visit Florida depends on what tourists want to experience in any of these beach towns.

Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is one of the safest Florida beach towns when it comes to reported crimes. Nearly all incidents on Anna Maria Island are related to DUI and petty theft, making it generally safer for travelers than other urban areas in Florida.

Some statistics also reveal that it has a tight-knit community that values hospitality and safety.

Like most destinations on the Gulf of Mexico, Anna Maria Island has beautiful beaches with warm and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. However, they should be aware of strong currents during some seasons that make swimming and other water sports dangerous.

• Best places to visit on Anna Maria Island: Coquina Beach, Bayfront Park, Anna Maria City Pier, Bean Point, Rod and Reel Pier

Venice is one of the safest beach towns in Florida, with many credible sources praising it for its low violent crime rate. Besides being safe, this coastal gem is worth visiting for its gorgeous sandy beaches, green spaces, and unique attractions .

Its 14 miles of beaches are known for prehistoric shark teeth, thus the town’s nickname “Shark Tooth Capital of the World.” Beachcombing is a famous activity, and the best time to find treasures is at low tide after a storm or strong winds.

• Best places to visit in Venice: Venice Beach, Venice Fishing Pier, Brohard Paw Park, Sharky’s On The Pier

Like most towns and cities in Florida, Venice is home to annoying insects, especially mosquitoes, so carry an insect repellent.

The crime rate in this adventure-filled destination in Florida is significantly lower than most towns its size. Sure, it’s not immune to crime, but violent incidents are nearly non-existent, making Naples one of the safest beach towns in Florida. Tourists only need to be aware of their surroundings, especially when in crowded places, but Naples has a good safety-related track record.

Regarding activities, Naples has something for every traveler, from action-packed adventures to relaxing getaways. Naples Pier and Beach, 5th Avenue South, Third Street South, Naples Zoo, and Tin City Waterfront Shops are some of the attractions that provide exciting adventures.

• Best places to visit in Naples: Naples Pier and Beach, Naples Zoo, Tin City Waterfront Shops, Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park

Related: 10 Things To Do In Naples: Complete Guide To Florida's Paradise Coast

North Palm Beach

According to NeighborhoodScout, North Palm Beach is 63 percent safer than most U.S. neighborhoods , making it a top contender for the safest places in Florida. The town’s high level of safety makes it a nice place to live or go for a vacation, and fortunately, there are incredible attractions to keep visitors hooked.

Visiting John D. MacArthur Beach State Park is one of the best things travelers should do in North Palm Beach. It’s the only state park in Palm Beach County that attracts thrill seekers who want to explore scenic trails and access a beautiful stretch of the Atlantic Ocean.

• Best places to visit in North Palm Beach: John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, North Palm Beach Country Club, MacArthur Beach Nature Center

Related: 10 Perfect Florida Family Vacation Ideas For Families This Summer

Sanibel Island

Besides being a safe beach town, Sanibel Island is one of Florida’s small beach towns that are laid-back and low-key. It boasts of having the lowest violent crimes, with only a few incidents being theft or burglary. Aside from being safe, Sanibel Island is worth visiting for its beautiful shell-covered beaches and extensive nature reserves with different wildlife species. Visitors will also love discovering hidden gems on Florida’s Gulf Coast for an unforgettable trip.

• Best places to visit on Sanibel Island: Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Park, J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Bowman's Beach, Sanibel Historical Museum & Village

As mentioned, Sanibel Island has the best beaches for shelling, but there are some things to know to make the experience more rewarding and enjoyable .

Satellite Beach

Extreme violent crimes, theft, and other unpleasant experiences are less common in Satellite Beach, making it one of the safest towns in Florida. It’s an incredible destination for a quick weekend getaway or vacation with the family. Samsons Island Nature Park, Pelican Beach Park, and Hightower Beach Park are some attractions that promise gratifying experiences. About 30 percent of Satellite Beach’s land is water, so it’s no surprise why most of its best offerings are beach parks.

• Best places to visit in Satellite Beach: Hightower Beach Park, Samsons Island Nature Park, Pelican Beach Park, Canova Beach Park

Marco Island

Marco Island has long been an oasis of safety, as it has low records of pickpocketing, mugging, and terrorism. Most credible sources have ranked it top among the safest cities in Florida, where they use FBI Uniform Crime Report statistics for their findings. Aside from safety, tourists will love Marco Island for its stunning beaches, world-class boutiques, luxury vacation homes, and expansive natural spaces.

• Best places to visit in Marco Island: Tigertail Beach, South Beach, Marco Island Historical Museum, Marco Island Center for the Arts, Mackle Park

Marco Island has only two public beaches, Tigertail Beach and South Beach, so tourists should stay at a beachfront resort to access a private beach.

Protect Your Trip »

The 25 best beaches on the east coast for 2024.

Plan the perfect summer getaway at these picture-perfect seaside locations.

Getty Images |

Even if you only have one day to spare, these stretches of sand guarantee a relaxing getaway.

Bethany Beach, Delaware

Canaveral National Seashore: Titusville, Florida

Cape Cod National Seashore: Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape May, New Jersey

Courtesy of Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority |

Delray Beach, Florida

Folly Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, New Jersey

Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Virginia Beach, Virginia

South Beach: Miami, Florida

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Amelia Island, Florida

Cocoa Beach, Florida

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Fire Island, New York

Tybee Island, Georgia

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Acadia National Park, Maine

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Stuart Beach, Florida

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

• The Top Gulf Coast Beaches
• The Top Beach Resorts Around the World
• Beach Packing List
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Fall in new england.

Amanda Norcross June 11, 2024

Fun Things to Do in New Mexico

Alissa Grisler and Ashley M. Biggers June 11, 2024

Travel During Hurricane Season

Top Orlando Theme Parks

Lyn Mettler and Timothy J. Forster June 11, 2024

The Best Places to Go for July Fourth

Sharael Kolberg June 10, 2024

The Best Places to Celebrate Juneteenth

Suzanne Mason June 6, 2024

The Best Salem Tours

Lyn Mettler June 6, 2024

The Best Key Largo Snorkeling Tours

Gwen Pratesi June 6, 2024

The Best London Tours

Kim Foley MacKinnon June 5, 2024

Celebrity Ascent Review

Megan duBois June 5, 2024

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

10 Most Affordable Beach Destinations to Live in Around the World

These beautiful coastal destinations offer top-notch beach living on a budget.

ah_fotobox/Getty Images

Many dream of waking up to the soothing sound of crashing waves, but with inflation and real estate prices driving up the cost of living , few can afford to move to a beach town. However, this doesn't mean you have to abandon your fantasy, as plenty of oceanfront communities across the globe offer affordable housing and good-value living.

And while the cost of living also largely depends on your spending habits, the beach towns we've highlighted below guarantee your dollar will stretch much further without sacrificing the little pleasures like eating out, enjoying cultural activities and events, and taking advantage of everything the destination has to offer.

So, whether you're planning your retirement or want to try the digital nomad lifestyle , we've found 10 budget-friendly places around the world — both small and large — where surf, sand, and sun are pretty much a given 365 days of the year.

To compile this list, we consulted experts from International Living, specializing in life overseas, as well as multiple reports on the cost of living in cities worldwide. And, of course, be sure to check the visa requirements for your beach destination of choice before packing up.

George Town, Malaysia

Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

The capital of Penang, an island off Malaysia's west coast, is a vibrant city famous for its historic attractions and colonial architecture, which were recognized by UNESCO and included in the organization's list of World Heritage Sites in 2008. The city is also known for its street art, vibrant nightlife, and diverse population, reflected in its eclectic dining scene that blends Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences.

According to data by International Living, a couple can live on a monthly budget of $1,760, whereas $2,500 will get you a place in a luxury high-rise with an ocean view and resort-like amenities.

Valencia, Spain

Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure

Known as the birthplace of paella, Valencia offers a fantastic food scene, striking architecture, and affordable living, regularly placing it among the best beach destinations to live in Europe .

The city has several golden-sand beaches and is a short flight from the Balearic islands of Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca (or a five to seven-hour ferry ride ).

A couple renting a two-bedroom apartment in downtown Valencia can live comfortably on a monthly budget of $2,635, according to International Living .

Mazatlán, Mexico

Elijah-Lovkoff/Getty Images

Last year, this underrated beach destination ranked among the most affordable communities in Mexico for expats . GoBankingRates calculated a single person would need less than $1,300 per month to live comfortably here, and that number includes rent. The company also noted the average one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs about $620 per month.

The city, which already has a sizable expat community, is home to a beautiful historic area, more than 10 miles of beaches (including several on the three islands off its coast), and many music events throughout the year.

Canggu, Bali, Indonesia

Andrew TB Tan/Getty Images

Bali's picture-perfect beaches and laid-back lifestyle have attracted many expats, but if you're looking for one of the most affordable destinations on the island, consider Canggu. This increasingly popular village on Bali's south coast is close to some of the island's most important temples, plus it's surrounded by scenic rice paddies and banana plantations.

You can expect to spend under $1,500 per month here, of which $800 goes toward renting a two-bedroom villa , according to International Living.

Hua Hin, Thailand

Rasamee Tansirisithikul/Getty Images

A former fishing village, Hua Hin is now the preferred seaside getaway for both locals and visitors, thanks to its picture-perfect beaches, golf courses, seafood restaurants, lively night market, and temples. And while the destination has many urban conveniences, if you miss the vibrancy of a big city, Bangkok is about a three-hour drive away and easy to visit for a weekend.

International Living points out couples in Hua Hin can live comfortably on a monthly budget of $2,000, which covers eating out a few times a week, groceries, entertainment, and renting a one- or two-bedroom apartment.

Varna, Bulgaria

Media Trading Ltd/Getty Images

Located on Bulgaria's Black Sea coast, north of Greece and Turkey, Varna is a midsized city offering access to scenic beaches, museums, an aquarium, a lively garden, many resorts, and an international airport. The region is an up-and-coming luxury destination on the Balkan peninsula, with a presence from global hospitality brands like Meliá. Nobu recently announced plans to open a property in the area as well. And golf enthusiasts can practice their swing at one of the most scenic courses in the region at Thracian Cliffs, which overlooks the Black Sea.

According to local data, a furnished two-bedroom apartment in Varna costs around $655 monthly and about the same for other expenses . Bulgaria, overall, was named one of the best places to invest in real estate by Sothebys in 2023 .

Lagos, Portugal

Gabriel Mello/Getty Images

The Algarve region of Portugal is a magnet for expats, thanks to its sun-drenched beaches , delicious cuisine, and many charming villages and small towns. Lagos, in particular, is a popular choice as it offers urban amenities with the laid-back lifestyle of a resort town, including a vibrant nightlife scene, excellent shopping, and a marina.

International Living experts estimate a couple will need a monthly budget of about $2,080, inclusive of rent.

Toulon, France

User10095428_393/Getty Images

This city along the Mediterranean may not be as well known as Marseille or Nice, which is precisely what makes it appealing as a home base. As the gateway to Provence, Toulon is an ideal destination for sampling the region's delicious food and admiring its stunning scenery. Residents enjoy plenty of sunshine throughout the year, beautiful historic architecture, plenty of cafes and restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. With several beaches in and around the city, you're never too far from a stretch of sand.

Capital.fr reports the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Toulon is $16 per square meter (or about $600 per month), plus approximately $150 for electricity and heating .

Azores, Portugal

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Island living in the middle of the Atlantic? Sign us up. The Azores is a much calmer, less crowded, and more affordable alternative to Portugal's mainland. The nine islands comprising the archipelago boast dramatic landscapes with volcanoes, lagoons, thermal springs, and small towns where life moves at a slower pace.

Although certain goods may cost more because they're imported, living in the Azores is generally less expensive than on the mainland, at around $1,500 per month. In the capital, Ponta Delgada on the island of São Miguel, monthly costs are about $1,200 if you're single and $2,850 for a family of four, according to Expatistan.com .

Puerto Morelos, Mexico

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

The Riviera Maya is a bustling vacation and second-home destination where housing isn't exactly cheap these days, but if you're searching for an affordable alternative in the area, the small fishing village of Puerto Morelos, located between Playa del Carmen and Cancun, is your best bet.

In contrast to its more famous neighbors, this Caribbean community is more laid-back and relaxed, offering plenty of opportunities to stay active. At the same time, thanks to its proximity to Cancun (the city is about a one-hour drive away), residents have access to quality health care and other urban amenities.

International Living notes a couple can live here on $1,700 a month, of which rent accounts for $500 to $700, depending on the apartment.

Related Articles

Is it safe to go there? What State Department travel advisories mean for your vacation

If you're planning an international trip, you're probably researching the safety of your destination.

The U.S. Department of State offers guidance based on the most up-to-date information about potential hazards that can disrupt travel or threaten personal safety. The department issues advisories that classify how safe a place is to travel on a given moment.

Each country has an advisory level from 1 to 4, from lowest risk to highest risk. The most dangerous places to visit, including areas affected by war and unrest, are classified under Level 4, which means "do not travel." Some countries, including Mexico, have different advisory levels for different regions.

Here's what the State Department travel advisories mean.

What are the travel advisory levels in the US?

The State Department classifies how safe a place is to travel by assigning an advisory level, from Level 1 to Level 4. Here's what the advisory levels mean:

Level 1: Exercise normal precautions. This indicates the least risky places to travel to, but the State Department cautions that "there is some risk in any international travel."

Level 2: Exercise increased caution. Travelers should be aware of higher safety and security risks in their destination, and that conditions can change at any time.

Level 3: Reconsider travel. Serious safety and security risks exist and conditions can change at any time. The State Department provides more specific guidance for travelers in Level 3 areas.

Level 4: Do not travel. Level 4 countries represent the highest risk of life-threatening danger and little to no ability for the U.S. government to assist when an emergency occurs. The State Department advises travelers to avoid Level 4 countries, that Americans in those countries leave as soon as it's safe to do so, and to write a will and leave DNA samples before travel in case of worst-case scenarios.

Some countries have varying advisory levels with different guidance based on the region. This includes Mexico, where most states are under advisories ranging from Level 2 to Level 4.

Is there a worldwide travel alert?

Yes. The State Department issued a worldwide caution for international travel in October 2023, which was updated in May 2024, because of the "potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests."

The worldwide caution was first issued shortly after the Israel-Hamas war began, and was updated to warn travelers of "increased potential for foreign terrorist organization-inspired violence against LGBTQI+ persons and events."

What countries are on high alert for travel?

Any country classified with a Level 4 advisory is considered high risk for travel, according to the State Department. High risk means local conditions are very hazardous and/or the U.S. government has little to no ability to help travelers in trouble.

What countries have a Level 4 travel warning?

As of May 2024, these countries and regions are under a Level 4 advisory, meaning do not travel:

• The Gaza Strip
• Afghanistan
• South Sudan
• Central African Republic
• Burkina Faso
• North Korea

Six states in Mexico have a Level 4 travel warning: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas.

What countries have a Level 3 travel warning?

As of May 2024, these countries and regions are under a Level 3 advisory, meaning reconsider travel:

• Israel and the West Bank
• Mainland China and Macau
• Guinea-Bissau
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Trinidad and Tobago
• El Salvador

What level of advisory is Mexico?

Mexico has 32 federal entities: 31 states and the capital, Mexico City. Six Mexican states have a Level 4 travel warning:

Seven states in Mexico have Level 3 advisories:

• Baja California

Travelers to Puerto Peñasco , the popular Sonora resort town also known as Rocky Point, should follow safety precautions that include only using Federal Highway 8 via the Lukeville Port of Entry and only driving during daylight hours .

Mexico City is under a Level 2 advisory.

Where should Americans not travel right now?

Travelers should be cautious if planning to travel anywhere with a Level 3 or Level 4 travel advisory from the State Department.

The department does not restrict people from traveling to Level 4 countries, except for North Korea. Americans can only visit North Korea for limited humanitarian purposes and must apply for a special passport that allows this travel.

Is it safe to travel to Europe right now? 

It depends where you're going. Destinations such as Greece, Hungary, Norway, Portugal and Switzerland are under Level 1 advisories, the State Department's lowest level. Exercise normal caution when you visit.

France , Germany and the United Kingdom, the three European countries with nonstop flights out of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, are under Level 2 advisories because of the risk of terrorist attacks. The State Department advises travelers to be aware of their surroundings when in crowded public spaces and follow instructions from authorities.

Visitors to France should also be aware that pickpocketing and civil unrest are also possible in their travels, according to the State Department .

Is it safe for Americans to travel to China?

Most of China, which consists of the mainland, Hong Kong and Macau, is under a Level 3 advisory.

The State Department advises travelers to reconsider travel to mainland China because of arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including exit bans that ensnared travelers in recent years , and the risk of wrongful detentions. Travel to Macau should be reconsidered because of the U.S. government's limited ability to provide consular services there.

Hong Kong is under a Level 2 advisory because of arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

How to check for travel advisory? 

Visit travel.state.gov for detailed advisories on the country or countries you plan to visit.

Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who’s covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic’s consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter:  @salerno_phx .

Support local journalism.   Subscribe to  azcentral.com  today.