With summer officially upon us, many travelers are flocking to the Caribbean for a sun-kissed vacation.
The islands offer not only warm weather and abundant sunshine but one-of-a-kind experiences, world-class hotels and resorts and spectacular nature in addition to vibrant culture.
But before they go, travelers will want to read up on the latest U.S. State Department guidance.
Anguilla
The burgeoning British island territory of Anguilla beloved for its beaches and laidback charm remains one of the world's safest places, at least according to the State Department, which hasn't updated its Level 1 travel advisory since August 2024.
Antigua and Barbuda
The islands of Antigua and Barbuda continue to draw visitors from around the globe on the heels of an exceptional year for tourism. Visitors will be happy to know that this Caribbean locale is among the safest heading into spring and summer 2025.
Aruba and the ABC Islands
The "happy" island of Aruba is one of the many top Caribbean destinations receiving a Level 1 travel advisory this summer. Therefore, visitors are encouraged to exercise normal precautions as they enjoy Aruba's world-class beaches and stunning nature.
The same goes for its neighboring islands of the Leeward Antilles, Bonaire and Curacao.
A picturesque Aruban coastline. (photo courtesy of Aruba Tourism Authority)
The Bahamas
The State Department updated its Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas in late March to reflect crime, swimming-related risks and information on traveling with firearms and ammunition.
"Violent crime—like armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults—can occur anywhere in The Bahamas," the latest summary reads. "Most crime occurs in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. Stay alert in the 'Over the Hill' area in Nassau, south of Shirley Street, where gangs have killed residents. Stay alert in vacation rental properties, especially where private security is not present."
Barbados
One of the Caribbean's most popular honeymoon destinations, Barbados remains a Level 1 country, according to the State Department. Therefore, travelers can visit with confidence over the remainder of 2025.
Bermuda
Although not a Caribbean destination per se, many associate Bermuda with the tropics and those with plans to visit will be happy to know that it remains safe and a Level 1 destination, according to the U.S. government.
British Virgin Islands
Travelers can exercise normal precautions when exploring Tortola, Virgin Gorda and the other islands and cays of the British Virgin Islands this summer.
Rosewood, Little Dix Bay, British Virgin Islands (Photo via Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon)
Cayman Islands
Visitors hoping to enjoy the stunning beaches, nature and wildlife of the Cayman Islands can do so with peace of mind as the British overseas territory receives a Level 1 travel advisory from the State Department.
Dominica
The Nature Island of Dominica is an easy choice for adventure seekers and those travelers prioritizing safety as it receives a Level 1 travel advisory from the U.S. State Department.
Dominican Republic
A beach near Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. (photo by Patrick Clarke)
Visitors to the Dominican Republic are asked to exercise increased caution due to crime. "The development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources in resort areas means these tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo," the State Department notes.
Jamaica
The State Department made a significant update to its travel advisory for Jamaica last month, upgrading its advisory from Level 3 to Level 2 in a move that was lauded by officials on the island.
Rather than reconsider travel, Americans are simply advised to exercise increased caution due to crime and limited medical services.
El San Juan Hotel in Puerto Rico. (Photo Credit: Brian Major)
Puerto Rico
While the State Department doesn't issue travel advisories for U.S. territories, the Canadian government gives Puerto Rico a low risk level, encouraging citizens to take normal security precautions on the island. In addition to being safe, Puerto Rico offers Americans the chance to experience the Caribbean without a passport.
St Kitts and Nevis
St. Kitts and Nevis is enhancing connectivity, giving travelers more options when it comes to reaching this safe Caribbean locale, which receives a Level 1 travel advisory from the U.S. State Department.
Saint Lucia
Maria Major island Saint Lucia. (photo by Brian Major)
Saint Lucia continues to be among the safest destinations in the Caribbean, receiving a Level 1 travel advisory from the State Department this summer.
St Vincent and the Grenadines
While the State Department notes that the "islands of Canouan, Mayreau, Palm Island, Petit Saint Vincent and Union Island are in varying stages of recovery from Hurricane Beryl," travelers can continue to exercise normal precautions in these beautiful islands.
Trinidad and Tobago
The State Department updated its travel advisory for Trinidad and Tobago following an end of a state of emergency in May, with officials encouraging Americans to reconsider travel due to the "serious risks of crime" as well as the "heightened risks of terrorism and kidnapping."
Areas in Port of Spain that are currently off limits to U.S. government employees include Laventille, the southern end of Charlotte Street between Oxford Street and Park Street (past the General Hospital); Piccadilly Street, Besson Street, Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah. Meanwhile, officials are barred from the Downtown Port of Spain and Fort George overlook, and all beaches at night.
Turks and Caicos
When exploring the incredibly popular Turks and Caicos Islands, travelers are encouraged to exercise increased caution due to crime, the majority of which occurs in Providenciales.
A March 2025 update came after the islands shared an important message with visitors following several arrests involving tourists who mistakenly arrived with ammunition in their luggage. "We urge all travelers going to the Turks and Caicos Islands to carefully check their luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing from the United States," the State Department warns.
US Virgin Islands
The Canadian government gives the U.S. Virgin Islands a low risk level this summer, advising travelers to take normal security precautions as the biggest threat is often the potential for petty crime.
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