Anguilla: The Caribbean’s Safest Paradise
In a world where travel safety concerns continue to grow, Anguilla has emerged as a beacon of tranquility in the Caribbean. This tiny British overseas territory, nestled just north of St. Maarten and east of the Virgin Islands, has been crowned the safest destination in the Caribbean according to the 2025 World Population Review. The ranking, which evaluates crime rates, policing effectiveness, and political stability based on data from the Global Peace Index, highlights what locals have long known – that this island paradise offers more than just beautiful beaches; it provides peace of mind. “Here, peace isn’t found, it’s felt,” the Anguilla Tourist Board proudly announced after the report’s release. “From 33 beaches to the warmth of our community, safety is simply part of island life on Anguilla.” This sentiment captures the essence of what makes this destination special: safety isn’t a marketing point but rather woven into the fabric of everyday life on the island.
What sets Anguilla apart in terms of safety is multifaceted, according to experts. John Rose, chief risk adviser for global travel management company Altour, points to the island’s “isolation and limited access points” as factors that “reduce cross-border criminal activity,” while its “more controlled, boutique environment” for tourism management contributes to its secure atmosphere. The US Department of State reinforces this view by assigning Anguilla its lowest risk level – a Level 1 travel advisory – simply advising tourists to “exercise normal precautions.” The World Population Review specifically notes that Anguilla’s crime rates “are the lowest in the Caribbean, with very few violent or petty crimes to mar its reputation as a tropical oasis.” While acknowledging that drug-related offenses are “moderate,” the review emphasizes that such crimes “rarely affect visitors,” allowing tourists to “feel safe and at ease in tranquil Anguilla.” This designation isn’t just a feel-good accolade; it carries meaningful weight for traveler confidence and tourism economics alike.
Anguilla’s recognition extends beyond safety, with Travel + Leisure’s 2025 World’s Best Awards naming it one of the top islands globally and the highest-ranked in the Caribbean. The island earns consistent praise for its friendly hospitality, diverse cuisine, and luxury resorts, standing out as a remote, exclusive escape. Unlike more commercialized Caribbean destinations, Anguilla remains refreshingly free of shopping malls, cruise ships, and high-rises. Instead, visitors find an island characterized by Encyclopedia Britannica as having “an easy-going atmosphere and magnificent beaches and waters.” The combination of pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and fresh seafood creates an environment where travelers can truly disconnect from the stresses of everyday life while feeling completely secure in their surroundings.
Atlanta-based travel adviser Erin Schroeder, founder of Major Traveler, considers Anguilla’s safety designation “an incredible win,” noting that “safety in the Caribbean is a top three deciding factor when travelers are weighing various islands.” Beyond safety, Schroeder highlights additional appealing aspects of the Anguillan experience, including easy transportation and excellent walkability. “I personally love the ability to walk along the beach at night to local restaurants or exercise on the island’s flat roads knowing that it’s safe to do so,” she shares, emphasizing how the island’s security enhances the overall vacation experience. This freedom to move about comfortably, especially in evening hours, is a luxury not found in every Caribbean destination and adds significant value to the Anguillan travel experience.
The island’s exclusivity comes with certain logistical considerations that prospective visitors should keep in mind. Anguilla’s off-the-beaten-path appeal means it’s a bit more challenging to reach, with limited direct flight options from the United States. As Schroeder explains, “There’s a high price of entry, as travelers have to fly to St. Maarten and take a boat, which costs about $115 per person each way for a shared ferry.” This additional travel step serves as a natural filter, helping to maintain the island’s uncrowded, boutique atmosphere. Following Anguilla in the World Population Review’s safety ranking were Barbados, St. Barts, Martinique, the Cayman Islands, and Aruba – all destinations with their own unique appeal, but none combining the highest safety ranking with Anguilla’s particular brand of laid-back luxury and unspoiled natural beauty.
While Anguilla’s safety record is impressive, travel experts still recommend taking sensible precautions. John Rose advises a “layered” approach to safety that includes reviewing local advisories, checking with hosts or advisers for current information, and practicing common-sense measures like limiting displays of wealth and using registered transportation. “Safety is dynamic, not static,” Rose emphasizes. “The best travelers prepare by gathering accurate information before they go, monitoring while they’re there, and staying ready to respond if something changes. That’s how you travel smart, not scared.” This balanced perspective serves as a good reminder that even in the Caribbean’s safest paradise, mindful travel practices enhance the experience. For those seeking a perfect blend of security, serenity, and sophistication in the Caribbean, Anguilla offers a compelling case as the destination where paradise meets peace of mind.
