Whether you're visiting well-known Caribbean hot spots like Jamaica or Barbados, or prefer to keep it low-key on the region's more underrated islands, the Caribbean offers its visitors vibrant culture, crystal clear waters, and so much more. When planning a trip, however, one thing common concern is whether the destination is considered safe. The Caribbean, a popular cruise destination, draws millions of visitors to its sandy shores of every single year. According to the Caribbean Island Safety Index
2025 by Always All Inclusive, Aruba ranks as the safest island in the region.
While the Caribbean is generally considered safe, data from the International Monetary Fund released in 2024 revealed that Latin America and the Caribbean — which make up just 8% of the world population —account for one-third of the world's homicides. Some islands have also seen an increase in crime in recent years. Take Barbados, for example. In July 2025, the British government warns potential travelers of a recent rise in gang-related murders there, with some incidents occuring in public areas. Trinidad and Tobago has also experienced an increase in violent crime related to organized gang activity, with its homicide count shooting to 623 in 2024, leading to the country declaring a state of emergency, as reported by The New York Times.
But enough about the most dangerous Caribbean islands. Aruba, with its crystal clear waters and white-sand beaches, holds the top spot on the safety index because of its low crime rate, absence of recent hurricanes, and a strong health care system built to "Dutch standards".
Read more: 14 Safest Caribbean Islands For A Stress-Free Vacation, According To Research
Aruba Offers Visitors A Safe, Sandy Haven
Aruba receives a U.S. State Department Level 1 advisory — "Exercise normal precautions" — meaning it's generally considered safe with a low risk of incidents. Travelers can book trips to Aruba with peace of mind, knowing they are heading to a secure destination. The last time a hurricane came close to Aruba was in 2007, when Hurricane Felix passed to the north without making landfall. For those concerned about hurricanes disrupting their vacation, Aruba offers added reassurance.
From the Caribbean coral beauty of De Palm Island to the ethereal white sands of Eagle Beach, Aruba has much to offer its visitors in terms of natural beauty. The island's beaches are hard to beat, as Eagle Beach and Palm Beach boast stunning turquoise waters and powdery sand. It's no wonder these stretches of coastline are constantly ranked among the world's best.
One of the most enticing things about the Caribbean in general is its rich culture. With influences from Africa, Asia, Spain, France, England, and the Netherlands, each island has its own historical influence that emerges in the form of food, music, traditions, and festivals. In Aruba, two dishes worth checking out on your trip are pastechi and keshi yena. The island's biggest display of culture is the monthlong Carnival, which dates back to 1954. Featuring a cacophony of steel drums, flamboyant festival dress, and non-stop dancing, Carnival is certainly one of Aruba's most memorable experiences.
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Read the original article on Islands.
