Updated with additional water safety information.
Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due tocrime.
Country Summary:The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands. In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population. Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence.
Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated.Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications. Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities. Commercial watercraft operators have discretion to operate their vessels regardless of weather forecasts; injuries and fatalities have occurred. Due to these safety concerns, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.
Never swim alone, regardless of your age or level of swimming skills. Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities. Be mindful of sharks when swimming and engaging in water activities, as there have been recent fatal and non-fatal incidents involving sharks. Be aware of weather and water conditions and heed local warnings.
Read the country information pagefor additional information on travel to The Bahamas.
If you decide to travel to The Bahamas:
FAQs
Yes, travelers should consider a solo or family trip to the Bahamas. However, it's essential to be aware that, as the U.S. State Department's travel advisory indicates, there are instances of crime in the country. Please take precautions and exercise increased caution while you're visiting this destination.
Why is there a warning in The Bahamas? ›
Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets. Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders. Actions to Take: Exercise extreme caution in the eastern part of New Providence Island (Nassau)
How many murders in The Bahamas in 2024? ›
The U.S. embassy said 18 murders have occurred in Nassau so far in 2024. However, violent crime — also including burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults — can occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas, the State Department warned.
Is it safe to go to Nassau right now? ›
Speaking of safety, Nassau falls in the medium crime rate category. While it's far from one of the world's most dangerous places, it's wise to exercise increased caution as you explore the city. Follow our safety tips, and let the Royal Bahamas Police handle the rest.
What is the safest island in the Bahamas? ›
The Abacos are considered some of the safest islands in The Bahamas and are known for being family-friendly. The Abaco Islands have only a population of around 17,000 and are made up of Great Abaco, Little Abaco, and several smaller barrier cays. See crime statistics in The Bahamas on the Royal Bahaman Police website.
Is the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas safe? ›
Both Atlantis and Baha Mar have quite a bit of security and gated access. As a traveler, you can still go to Nassau and feel comfortable, but with the knowledge that you don't need to explore outside the grounds.”
Is Nassau on high alert? ›
The Bahamas - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Updated with additional water safety information. Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime. Country Summary: The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands.
Where not to go in the Bahamas? ›
The U.S. Embassy in Nassau offers some guidance for staying safe, advising travelers to use “extreme caution” in the eastern part of New Providence Island — where Nassau is — especially “when walking or driving at night.” Specifically, the Over the Hill neighborhood, south of Shirley Street, should be avoided.
Why are they telling people not to go to the Bahamas? ›
In renewed travel warnings last month, the U.S. State Department urged would-be sun and sand seekers to beware of two of the most popular Caribbean beach destinations. "Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common.
How many people get kidnapped in the Bahamas? ›
Kidnapping cases in Latin American and Caribbean countries 2021. Brazil led the list with a total of 4,390 kidnapping cases in the latest available data. Peru followed with 1,072 occurrences in 2021. On the flip side, there was only one reported kidnapping in the Bahamas during that year.
“The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands,” the State Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs said in a Travel Advisory Friday.
Is violence spiking in the Bahamas? ›
Violence is spiking in The Bahamas, Jamaica, triggering travel warning to U.S. citizens. A significant increase in crime in The Bahamas and Jamaica has led the the U.S. State Department to issue travel advisory warnings for the two Caribbean destinations.
Is it safe to walk around downtown Nassau? ›
Violent crime
To reduce your risk, do not go on foot outside the main tourist areas and beaches, especially if you are alone. Stay in downtown Nassau, where there are regular police patrols. Avoid unlit areas, and travel in groups after dusk.
Is the Bahamas worth it? ›
Beyond the breathtaking landscapes, the Bahamas are home to a rich and lively culture, full of warm hospitality and unique traditions. The Bahamas is a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly unforgettable tropical escape.
Are US citizens allowed to travel to the Bahamas? ›
All visitors, regardless of their vaccination status, are welcome to travel freely to and throughout The Islands of The Bahamas.
Is the Nassau cruise port safe? ›
U.S. travelers were advised to be especially cautious in Nassau, use caution when out at night anywhere in the Bahamas, "keep a low profile," be aware of the surroundings, don't resist if confronted by robbers, and have and review security plans.
