Is the Bahamas Safe? A Personal Guide for Women Travelers

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Let me get straight to the point: yes, the Bahamas is safe for travelers, but like anywhere else, you need to use common sense, which is not all too common nowadays.

I’ve visited the Bahamas plenty of times, and while I felt safe most of the time, I didn’t just rely on vibes and sunshine to keep me out of trouble because as a solo traveler, that ain’t gone cut it.

I always do my research before stepping foot in a new city. The headlines will have you thinking the Bahamas is dangerous, but in my experience, the reality was much more nuanced.

Crime exists from petty theft, scams, and occasional violent crime, mostly in areas where you should not be, but the same could be said for parts of Miami, New York, or even your own hometown for that matter.

Do not look for trouble; you will most likely not find any.

I stayed in Nassau and also hopped over to Paradise Island. I explored the beaches, dined at local restaurants, chatted with locals but I also made sure I stayed aware of my surroundings.

I didn’t feel unsafe, but I also didn’t throw caution to the wind. I trusted my instincts, stayed in well-lit areas at night, kept my belongings close, and avoided wandering off into unfamiliar neighborhoods alone. Just like I would anywhere else.

Bottom line: The Bahamas is safe and most visitors have no issues, especially when staying in tourist-friendly areas like Nassau, Paradise Island, or the Exumas.

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Can I Travel to the Bahamas Right Now?

Yes, you can absolutely go to the Bahamas right now—and I just did, so I’m speaking from experience, not just Google.

One thing I really appreciated was their “Clean & Pristine” certification. It’s basically the Bahamas’ way of making sure hotels, restaurants, and tour companies are keeping things clean and following proper health standards.

When I was there, I noticed signage everywhere showing which businesses were certified, and as someone who still keeps a little hand sanitizer in my purse, that made me feel better.

Everything felt organized. It never felt chaotic or sketchy, from check-in at the resort to getting around town. The staff at our hotel followed basic hygiene protocols, and I didn’t feel like I had to be overly cautious just to enjoy myself.

Here’s what you can skip:

• No COVID test before arrival
• No vaccination proof
• No health visa
• No quarantine
• No curfews

Pro tip? Travel insurance is still a must. You never know what can go wrong—delayed flights, missed connections, hurricanes, you name it.

I always keep a list of my go-to insurance companies and must-have safety items in my Travel Safety Guide if you need help figuring out what to pack or what to protect.

So if you’re wondering, “Can I still go to the Bahamas?”—yes, you can. Just go with a little preparation, a lot of sunscreen, and don’t skip the conch fritters.

Is Nassau, Bahamas, Safe For Tourists?

The Bahamas has more than 700 islands, and over five million visitors head there each year to explore a slice of that tropical beauty.

With its white sand beaches, warm weather, and just a 30-minute flight from Miami, it’s no surprise the Bahamas remains one of the most popular Caribbean destinations for U.S. travelers.

But with that popularity comes increased attention—and the recent Nassau travel advisory issued by the U.S. State Department has definitely caused a stir in the tourism industry.

While most travelers have a smooth and relaxing experience, the U.S. has advised visitors to exercise increased caution in Nassau due to crime, particularly in non-tourist areas of New Providence Island (where Nassau is located).

Reports have included armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults, especially after dark so don’t people venture too far off the beaten path.

Let me be clear: I’m not telling you not to go becuase I’ve been to the Bahamas myself and felt safe. But I don’t move reckless when I travel. You shouldn’t either.

Whether you booked a Sight Seeing with Wine, Rum Cake and Conch Fritter, riding a Segway through Nassau’s historic streets, or taking in the gorgeous Bahamian waters on horseback, please use common sense.

I only book excursions through Viator because I trust their screening process. I’ve used them everywhere from Jordan to Jamaica.

Use the tips below to protect yourself and avoid becoming a target while you enjoy the islands.

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• Keep a low profile in crowds
• Don’t wear T-shirts with American logos 
• Always travel in groups of two or more, especially at night
• Don’t get drunk or keep the drinks to a minimum since drunk travelers are more likely to be taken advantage of by criminals.

Real Talk: My Travel Tips for Staying Safe in the Bahamas

While the Bahamas is beautiful, you still need to use common sense when you’re out here living your best life.

Most folks go and have an amazing time with zero issues, but like anywhere else, it pays to stay alert, especially in places like Nassau and Freeport where crime tends to be a little higher.

When I visited, I didn’t feel unsafe, but I also wasn’t out here being careless. These are the same rules I follow whether I’m in the Caribbean or Memphis.

1. Don’t Bring the Bling

Leave the flashy jewelry and designer bags at home. I’m not saying don’t look good—because trust, I always pack a few ‘fit checks but there’s a difference between showing out and making yourself a target. I

keep my passport locked up in the hotel safe and only take what I actually need when I leave the room. If someone ever tries to rob you (God forbid), just give them the stuff. It’s not worth fighting over a purse or phone.

2. Dress Cute, But Use Your Judgment

You can wear what you want, but depending on where you are, being too revealing might attract the kind of attention you don’t want especially in certain neighborhoods.

I like to think of it as reading the room. When I’m walking around the resort, swimsuits and coverups are fine. But if I’m headed into town, I usually keep it a little more chill, shorts and a tank, not a full bodycon dress.

3. Book Smart, Not Cheap

Let’s talk tours and excursions. All those jet ski and boat ride vendors on the beach might sound like a good time, but not all of them are legit.

Before you hand over your money, ask questions: Are they licensed? Do they have safety equipment? What happens if something goes wrong?

If they can’t answer that without stuttering—skip it. I always stick with operators recommended by my hotel or ones I’ve researched ahead of time.

4. Sign Up for STEP Alerts

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is free and super underrated. It’s a U.S. State Department service that sends you safety alerts, weather warnings, and embassy updates while you’re abroad.

If something major pops off like a protest or stormy you’ll know ahead of time. I sign up every time I travel out of the country, just for that extra peace of mind.

5. Please Get Travel Insurance

I know folks love to roll the dice, but I don’t play when it comes to my coins or my health. A good travel insurance policy can cover trip delays, emergency medical care, cancellations due to weather, and more.

And with hurricane season in the Bahamas running from June through November, trust me, it’s worth it.

If you’re not sure what to get or how to choose, my Comprehensive Travel Safety Guide breaks down my favorite options. It includes links to providers I trust and what to look for based on the kind of trip you’re taking.

Do You Need a Passport to Visit the Bahamas?

Yes ma’am! Don’t try to wing it. You must have a valid U.S. passport to enter and return home from the Bahamas.

Also, don’t be surprised if they ask to see proof of when you’re leaving the country (aka your return flight). If you’re still in the process of getting your passport, check out my guide for destinations you can visit without one in the meantime.

What About Hurricanes?

The Bahamas does get hit by hurricanes, especially between June and November, so keep an eye on the weather before your trip.

But fun fact: they actually get fewer direct hits than Miami. Still, don’t gamble—travel insurance can be your backup plan in case you need to cancel or reschedule due to a storm.

Want more tips like this? Bookmark this post, send it to your group chat, and don’t forget to grab the safety guide before your flight.
Because traveling safe doesn’t mean traveling scared—it just means you’re prepared. 💅🏾✈️

Bahamas Travel Advisory

The U.S. Department of State routinely evaluates and communicates travel-related risks to American citizens intending to explore other countries.

The resulting advisories are published with a level rating between 1 and 4, indicating the potential risk of traveling to a specific country.

A Level 1 rating advises travelers to exercise normal precautions, which is standard practice for travel.

Conversely, a Level 4 rating warns against all travel to the rated country due to severe safety concerns.

The factors influencing these ratings span crime, terrorism threats, political instability, health risks, and the potential for natural disasters.

The goal is to equip travelers with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their travel plans and help ensure their safety.

Also, as an avid traveler, I suggest checking out Numbeo, which details the country’s crime statistics and is my favorite go-to resource for all things safety.

Additional Ways to Stay Safe

The State Department specifically warned visitors to keep their eyes open and be alert when traveling to New Providence and the Grand Bahama islands, as these are where “the vast majority of crime” occurs.

If you plan to attend a Fish Fry at Arawak Cay in Nassau, the State Department suggests you should be extremely careful and not resist any robbery attempt.

In addition to not resisting criminals, please follow the following guidelines:

• Please do not answer the door to your hotel unless you know who it is.
• If you’re carrying a purse, I recommend always keeping it close to your person.
• Keep any jewelry in a hotel safe
• Always lock your car 
• Keep your passport and other forms of identification in a safe place
• If you’re a woman traveling alone, do not walk unescorted at night 
• Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol
• Don’t accept rides from unlicensed taxi drivers.
• Do not leave valuables on the beach or poolside while swimming
• Travel in groups 
• DO NOT ALLOW YOUR GIRLFRIENDS TO GO OFF WITH STRANGERS. I DON’T CARE HOW FINE HE IS!
• Be cautious when using an ATM to prevent being robbed or having PINs stolen.
• Secure valuables in your hotel room
• Keep car doors locked and windows rolled up when driving.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and help locate you in an emergency.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency and medical situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

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Things You Need to Know Before You Go:

• Bahamians speak English and are easy to understand
• Only use official taxis identified by their yellow license plates
• US currency is accepted everywhere.
• Travel with cash and a major credit card
• Taxis are cash-only
• Cars drive on the left side of the road
• Many excursions have a pickup and drop-off point on Paradise Island.

Emergency numbers in The Bahamas

• General emergency numbers: 911 or 919 for police/fire/ambulance
• Recommended hospitals on New Providence Island include Doctor’s Hospital: (242) 322-8411 or 322-8418 or 302-4600
• Princess Margaret:(242) 322-2861 Medical Walk-In Clinic, Colin’s Avenue, near downtown Nassau: (242) 328-0783 or 328-2744
• Medical Walk-In Clinic, Sandyport Business Center, near Cable Beach: (242) 327-5485
• Recommended hospitals on Grand Bahama Island include:
• Sunrise Medical Center: (242)373-3333
• Rand Memorial Hospital: (242) 352-6735

Where to stay in the Bahamas

Exumas draws those seeking outdoor pursuits, including boating, swimming with the pigs, fishing, and snorkeling. Stay at Sandals Resorts to experience these activities and much more.

Enjoy all-inclusive luxury vacations at Sandals Caribbean Resorts. Sandals offers the most romantic getaways with quality inclusions of any luxury beach resort. 

 Sandals Grand Bahamian features one of the world’s most comprehensive all-inclusive packages where guests can enjoy gorgeous white-sand beaches, 5-star Global Gourmet™ dining, opulent accommodations, unlimited premium spirits, and exciting water sports where you will be safe and will not have to worry about the U.S. travel warning.

Final Thoughts: Travel Smart, Not Scared

The Bahamas is absolutely worth visiting and yes, it’s safe if you use common sense, trust your gut, and do your homework.

I had an amazing time soaking up the sun, eating my weight in conch fritters, and relaxing without feeling like I had to look over my shoulder every second. But I also didn’t roll up to the islands acting brand new.

Whether you’re heading there for a solo reset, a girls’ trip, or a romantic escape, just be intentional.

Know where you’re staying, book your excursions through legit operators, and protect your peace (and your pockets) with travel insurance.

💡 Need help getting travel-ready?
👉 Grab my Comprehensive Travel Safety Guide eBook – It’s just $19.99 and will change how you travel
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👉 Get Trusted Travel Insurance – Because peace of mind is priceless
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