Is Antigua Safe to Travel Right now? 9 Tips to stay Safe in Antigua And Barbuda

Is Antigua Safe? The short answer is yes, Antigua and Barbuda are safe to travel. I have lived in this gorgeous Caribbean Island for more than one year, and in this post, I will tell you all about safety in Antigua.

Located in the Caribbean country of Antigua and Barbuda, Antigua is a great travel destination for anyone looking to enjoy heavenly views and a tropical climate.

If you’re planning to go to Antigua and Barbuda or are just curious about the safety situation, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I discuss key considerations for staying secure and address some frequently asked questions about Antigua and Barbuda’s safety guidelines.

Is Antigua safe? 

Although Antigua is generally safe for tourists, like any tourist destination, there are some things you should keep in mind during your stay.

The crime rate in Antigua and Barbuda, according to statistics, was relatively high at 17.61% and has grown in recent years. However, it is still one of the lowest compared to other countries in the Caribbean. However, most of these crimes relate to petty theft and don’t usually involve tourists,

It makes it easier to stay safe if you follow some safety guidelines, which I am going to talk about in this post.

Is Antigua & Barbuda safe for solo travelers?

This is even more true for solo travelers. Antigua & Barbuda are safe for solo travelers, but it is recommended to exercise caution. Traveling alone, it may sometimes feel like you have no one to turn to; it is essential to stay in touch with local authorities if you suspect something is amiss.

Is Antigua & Barbuda safe for families? 

For families and solo travelers alike, Antigua is generally a safe travel destination. If you’re traveling with your family, you’ll probably be staying in an All-inclusive resort. The hotels and the beaches themselves are generally safe. 

It is important to choose your accommodation for your family wisely, so it’s always a good idea to check the reviews for the specific hotel you want to stay at. Being in touch with the hotel staff to guide you about local safety will also be helpful in this regard.

Is it safe to walk around Antigua at night?

Although it is generally safe, like any destination, Antigua is a little riskier to walk around at night, but there is no reason to do so.

Antigua’s capital city, St. John, is a small town with not much to do at night, except for a few sporadic bars. There is no reason for you to walk around town, as nothing is interesting.

The English Harbor is the area where most people hang out at night, it’s a lively village around the harbor and it’s relatively safe except for some drunkards that may be hanging around.

It’s usually quite lively and crowded in high season, so there is nothing to worry about.

I would recommend either renting a car or asking your taxi driver to take you to a specific place, such as a restaurant or a bar, and then pick you up from the same location to avoid any issues. Also, be sure to ask for the driver’s phone number and keep it handy, just in case.

Is driving in Antigua and Barbuda safe?

Driving in Antigua and Barbuda can be a great way to explore the area in depth and visit some of the islands’ more secluded beaches. However, as with any country, it’s a good idea to keep the safety guidelines in mind. 

The signposts on the main roads vary in quality and readability, so having a GPS or Google Maps around to navigate your way is very helpful. In addition, due to the tropical climate, potholes can often be found on roads (especially in more rural areas), so it is important to drive attentively. 

Driving in Antigua and Barbuda is generally safe, as long as you’re following the normal precautions. Try to schedule your trips in such a way that you don’t have to drive late at night.

The main issue with driving at night is that the streets are poorly lit, making it difficult to spot people walking along the side of the road or potholes. If something happens to the car and you’re involved in an accident, it’s not safe to stand in the middle of the road at night, and it’s also difficult to find road assistance.

Crime Rate in Antigua & Barbuda

The crime rate in Antigua and Barbuda is lower compared to other countries in the region but is still somewhat high and has increased in the last couple of years. However, most of this crime is not committed against tourists as the government tries to keep its main attractions clear of such crime. 

Common crimes in Antigua and Barbuda

Most crimes committed in Antigua and Barbuda can be categorized as petty theft. However, there are preventative measures you can take to stay safer. I’ll explain some of the most common crimes and ways to stay safe from them in Antigua.

Pickpockets

One of the most common crimes in Antigua is theft, and specifically pickpocketing. In more populated areas, it is easy to get lost in your surroundings and find that you’ve been pickpocketed. 

However, this isn’t a reason to worry, as you can stay safe by being more attentive and not wearing your valuables openly. It is best to make use of your inner sealed pockets or keep your belongings in a travel bag facing your front. 

Also, a smart way to prevent it is to leave your jewelry at home and avoid flaunting your wealth.

Scams

Although there aren’t many scams you can fall prey to here in Antigua, you should take the necessary precautions.

Some of the common scams originate from beach vendors, so I would advise against purchasing anything from them.

Although the beaches of the hotels have security guards to watch over you, if you head out to public beaches, which I recommend you should do, there you may find yourself a bit more exposed.

My advice is to ignore beach vendors, and if they are annoying, either move close to where other people are or just walk away.

Car Related Dangers

Here are some useful tips about staying safe while driving.

• If you are renting a car that is safe and recommendable, you should avoid leaving your personal belongings in the car in plain sight.

• Pack only the essentials and bring them with you when you leave the car. Remember to lock the door even if you are away for a few minutes only, and secure the car key in a safe place.

• It’s advisable to drive slowly as roads can have potholes and sudden, unmarked speed bumps. Also, secondary roads are narrow and can have blind corners. Additionally, it’s very common for pedestrians to walk on the roads, and drivers do not always use indicators.  

• Take extra care when driving at night, as some roads are unlit. Road signs and hazards may not be easily visible.  

• Do not stop if pedestrians flag you down. Keep car doors locked even when driving. 

• If you are involved in an accident, call the police and do not move the vehicle. 

Car Rental Scams

Vehicle-related crimes in Antigua are relatively rare, but it is essential to exercise necessary caution, just in case.

The general safety precautions also apply here, which is to rent a car only from recommended car rental agencies.

If somebody approaches you and offers to rent their car at a cheaper rate, don’t fall for it. The risk is not worth the money you are saving.

Additionally, when renting a car, ensure you opt for full coverage for your peace of mind.

Taxi Scams

Taxis are not metered and standard taxi fares are set by zones. Usually, taxi drivers are located outside hotels or your concierge can call you one. The taxi fare for 1 to 4 people is the same and an extra surcharge is added for each extra passenger.

Make sure you agree with the driver about the fare in local currency before you set off. You can still pay in US dollars as well as Eastern Caribbean dollars.  The currency exchange doesn’t fluctuate and it’s usually set at 2.70 (1USD=2.70EC)

Violent Crimes

As with any country with a sizable population, there have been issues of violent crime in Antigua.

Most of the violent crime that happens here is almost never directed at tourists, as the government is well-aware of the importance of tourism to their economy, so you shouldn’t be worried about it.

Here are a few tips to prevent being involved in such situations.

• Stay in a safe place, either a resort or hotel with security or a vacation rental with good locks
• Don’t walk in isolated areas, including beaches, particularly after dark, especially if traveling solo.  
• Only use licensed taxis or your own car rental
• Stay on alert when you find street parties, especially during the festival season 
• Don’t flaunt your wealth or carry large amounts of cash or unnecessary jewelry 
• Leave valuables and travel documents in a safe deposit box or secure hotel safe, and keep a copy with you (except for the driving license if you are renting a car)  

Hurricane Season in the Caribbean

The Caribbean’s hurricane season typically spans from June to November, so the best time to travel to Antigua and Barbuda to avoid the hurricane season is the winter. However, if you want to use some great deals and avoid crowds, I would encourage you to check out the spring and summer months as well.

Just stay updated with weather forecasts from the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services and the World Meteorological Organization, and in case you find yourself in the middle of a hurricane, hotels know what to do. Just adhere to the guidance provided by local officials, including any directives to evacuate.

Hurricanes in Antigua and Barbuda are not very frequent, but they can happen. The biggest one was in 2017 when Barbuda suffered a lot of damage, leading to ongoing rebuilding efforts but they are now ready to receive visitors.

Safest neighborhoods in Antigua and Barbuda

Dickenson Bay

Dickenson Bay is a popular beach located on the northwestern coast of Antigua, known for its clear blue water and white sand. As a popular destination, the beach offers a great view with plenty of fellow tourists and locals hanging out. 

Even at night, the picturesque beach is well-lit and safe to roam around in. There are also a variety of accommodation options nearby, from the all-inclusive Sandals Resort (where I worked in my past life) to the cute self-catering apartment at Buccaneer Beach Club both right on the spectacular beach.

Jolly Harbour

Located on the west coast of Antigua, Jolly Harbour is one of the prime tourist attractions of Antigua. Known for its picturesque beach, luxury villas, and bustling marina lined with restaurants and bars, Jolly Harbour is one of the safest and most enjoyable destinations here. 

In addition to the natural beauty of the beaches, a variety of watersports are also offered here.

If you are looking to stay at Jolly Harbour, I would recommend the iconic Jolly Beach Resort, an affordable and non-pretentious All-inclusive Hotel in Antigua, or Sugar Ridge Resort, an upscale hotel with luxury villas scattered around a hill overlooking the harbor. This hotel is not on the beach, but it offers spectacular views of the bay and a free shuttle bus to the beach for its guests.

English Harbour

The English Harbour in Antigua, also known as the ‘Yachting Capital of the Caribbean,’ is another popular tourist destination that is well-guarded and secure to travel in.  

Enjoy the charm of this picturesque harbor, offering a view into the colonial history and the vibrant marine life of Antigua.

As the epicenter of yachting activities here, this destination is very safe to travel around in, even at night!

However, take necessary precautions while traveling back to your place at night in case you’re not staying nearby. 

If you want to stay at English Harbour, you will find a lot of cute places, for every budget, from the finest hotel The Inn at English Harbor to the more affordable and yet stylish Antigua Yacht Club Marina

Falmouth Harbour

A natural harbor located on the south coast of Antigua, this popular destination is known for its picturesque views. Home to a variety of luxury resorts, it’s one of the most secure locations in Antigua. 

If you choose to stay at one of the hotels here, you can rest assured that your trip will be as smooth as possible, with no worries about safety.

Shirley heights

It’s a popular place on top of a hill overlooking the English harbor, where locals and tourists alike gather every Wednesday and Saturday to watch the sunset at the rhythm of Calypso music. This is one of the absolute musts among the things to do in Antigua, and it’s completely safe.

Some hotels offer a shuttle service for a few bucks to get there and go back, and I suggest you use it so you can enjoy the delicious local rum punch and not worry about driving back.

Because it can be crowded, keep your purse or wallet safe from pickpockets.

Places to avoid in Antigua and Barbuda

St. John’s at Night

St. John’s is the largest city in Antigua and Barbuda, offering a vibrant nightlife and a variety of attractions to visit. However, being the most populated city, it is not without its problems. 

If possible, you should avoid traveling here alone at night as petty crime is somewhat common, especially in less-lit secluded neighborhoods in the city. It is safer if you’re traveling in a group here, so if you’re a solo traveler, it is especially recommended not to visit the bars here at night. 

Remote or Less Touristy Areas

Areas that are less ‘touristy’ can offer the value of being hidden gems, if you prefer less crowded places. It can be rewarding to visit such places in your car, but it is advisable to plan these trips early in the day and consult travel advisories and locals before making the trip. 

Being in more remote areas of Antigua, the risk of being mugged or subject to other crimes is higher.

Public Transportation After Hours

In Antigua I recommend against public transportation at all. They are not reliable or safe for the matter.

But especially late-night public transportation in Antigua, if you can find it, makes it easier to expose yourself to crime-related situations.

Even though the buses don’t usually cover more secluded areas, the stops in between can be quite isolated and poorly lit. For safety purposes, it is recommended to avoid using public transport here at night.

During my year and a half in Antigua, I have never taken a public bus for the aforementioned reasons.

Safety Tips: Traveling to Antigua and Barbuda

1. Secure Your Belongings

Like most travel locations, petty theft is a concern for many tourists planning to visit. Keeping your belongings safe is key to being safe here. 

There are several ways to keep your belongings safe, including using hotel safes, utilizing anti-theft bags, securing your pockets, and concealing valuable items in your inner pockets. Additionally, when using transportation, always keep your valuables in sight. 

2. Choose Accommodations Wisely

Choosing a safe and trusted accommodation is also crucial for a safe travel experience in Antigua. You should consult local travel advisories and the local embassy to find trusted accommodation, as you’ll be keeping your valuables there while traveling.

3. Stay aware of your surroundings

Being vigilant is an important part of the travel safety guidelines. If you find yourself in a secluded area or suspect someone is following you, it is essential to maintain contact with local authorities or friends. Make sure your phone has the roaming plan activated so you can use it in case of an emergency.

4. Avoid Isolated Areas at Night

More secluded areas can be beautiful for tourists, but it is best to avoid them at night. Most crimes that happen here happen in poorly lit areas where it’s easier for thieves to get away with them, despite the best efforts of local authorities.

Staying clear of isolated areas during night hours is key to safe travels in Antigua.

5. Understanding and respecting local customs and traditions

Understanding and respecting the local way not only signals your cultural sensitivity but also goes a long way to establishing rapport with locals.

Sometimes, locals may sound aggressive and unhelpful, but it’s just their way of talking and sometimes their introversion. If you are polite and kind first, they will open up and become friends for life.

Also, despite appearing a bit intimidating sometimes in their approach, locals are very helpful and friendly, so in case of any unfortunate occurrence, you can count on them to help you out. 

7. Use licensed and reputable transportation services

Registered taxis or car rentals are the safest way to move around Antigua. If you want to join a tour avoid purchasing it from random strangers or beach vendors. Follow the recommendations of your hotel concierge or book through reputable online services such as Viator or GetYourGuide

8. Trust Your Instincts

When it comes to travel safety, nothing is more reliable than your own instincts. If you ever feel that something is amiss with services or there is something fishy about the area, always trust your instinct to avoid them. If somebody approaches you and you don’t feel comfortable, don’t be afraid to hurt their feelings, and just move away.

9. Be Kind by not being naive

It’s good to be kind and believe in the good of humankind, but not to the point of putting your safety in jeopardy.

Make sure you stay aware of your surroundings and if chatting with anyone, locals or other tourists alike, and you feel the conversation is getting out of line or awkward, feel free to move away. As I mentioned before, don’t be afraid to hurt people’s feelings, for the sake of your safety.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is Antigua and Barbuda safe at night?

Antigua and Barbuda is generally safe, but at night it is best to avoid more isolated places. For solo travelers especially, being alone at night in more secluded areas where there aren’t many people around can expose you to a higher risk of crime.  Besides, there’s no need to go in isolate area alone.

Is Antigua LGBTQ+ friendly?

The situation about LGBTQ+ friendliness in Antigua is nuanced. Although same-sex couples are not criminalized in Antigua, members of the community may face conservative attitudes from locals. It’s not been a long time since same-sex relationships were illegal in Antigua. And despite the fact that it’s not the case anymore, while the law can change overnight, it takes longer for the mindset and culture to shift. Despite this, many hotels and businesses brand themselves as LGBTQ+ friendly, so the situation is improving. Still, I would avoid showing signs of affection in public, to be extra cautious.

Do I need a visa to visit Antigua?

This depends on your nationality and your purpose of visit, but there are some countries which do not require visas for travel visits up to six months, including: 
Citizens of the Commonwealth realms
Citizens of CARICOM (Caribbean Community) member states
Citizens of certain European Union countries
Citizens of the United States
Citizens of Canada
If you are a digital nomad and you wish to live in Antigua for a while, you can now apply for Nomad Digital Residence.

Is Antigua a good place to live?

With its tropical charm, clear water beaches and rich local history, Antigua is a great destination for travel. Living there can be amazing too, but you need to keep in mind that it’s a small island, and it’s not for everyone. The cost of living is quite high, and you will need to purchase a car to move around.
Also, if you love partying and going out often, you won’t find many options in Antigua, especially in the low season.
But if you love beautiful beaches, a tranquil lifestyle, and delicious cuisine, Antigua is your place.

Final Thoughts: Is Antigua Safe?

Like any country, Antigua and Barbuda has challenges with crime. However, the crime rates in Antigua are some of the lowest in the Caribbean, and if you’re conducting your travel with safety guidelines in mind, it is quite a safe destination to visit. 

The travel industry plays an important role in the economy of Antigua and Barbuda, and the authorities are doing their best to keep the country safe for travel. I recommend you book your trip and enjoy Antigua, considering the above-mentioned safety precautions and making the most of your vacation in the beautiful island of Antigua and Barbuda.