11 Caribbean Islands Where Scams Are Common + 11 Safer Alternatives
Planning a Caribbean getaway should feel exciting—not stressful. While the region is full of stunning beaches and rich culture, some islands have gained a reputation for tourist scams like inflated prices or misleading tours.
The good news? With a little awareness, you can avoid the hassle. Knowing which places require extra caution—and which offer a more laid-back, scam-free experience—can help you relax and enjoy your trip the way it’s meant to be.
1. Jamaica
Tropical paradise vibes mask the reality that some tourists face here. Jamaica’s beautiful beaches sometimes come with unwanted attention from hustlers offering “special deals” on everything.
Watch for unmarked taxis charging triple the going rate and guides who suddenly demand extra fees mid-tour. Always negotiate prices upfront and book through reputable hotels or agencies.
2. Dominican Republic
All-inclusive resorts dazzle with promises of worry-free vacations. Behind these promises, some visitors encounter pushy timeshare presentations disguised as “welcome tours” or rigged ATMs in tourist zones.
The Dominican Republic remains worth visiting, but research reputable resorts beforehand. Withdraw money from bank ATMs only and politely decline any free gifts that require attending presentations.
3. The Bahamas
Cruise ships dock daily, bringing waves of eager explorers to these stunning islands. Unwary visitors might encounter vendors selling “authentic” goods actually made elsewhere or taxi drivers taking the scenic route to inflate fares.
The Bahamas’ beauty is genuine, but prices near cruise ports rarely are. Walk a few blocks inland for better deals and always confirm taxi fares before starting your journey.
4. Saint Lucia
Volcanic peaks and lush rainforests create postcard-perfect views everywhere you look. Saint Lucia’s natural beauty sometimes gets overshadowed by unexpected “taxes” added to bills or unlicensed tour guides offering cut-rate excursions.
Stick with hotel-recommended services and get written confirmation of all-inclusive prices. The island’s dramatic landscapes and friendly locals make it worth visiting with proper precautions.
5. Trinidad & Tobago
Carnival celebrations and vibrant culture draw visitors year-round to these twin islands. While enjoying Trinidad & Tobago’s festivities, tourists sometimes encounter currency switching tricks or rental cars with pre-existing damage blamed on them.
Document everything when renting vehicles and count your change carefully. The authentic cultural experiences and natural beauty outweigh these concerns for careful travelers.
6. Cuba
Classic cars and colonial architecture create a time-capsule atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Visitors to Cuba might encounter confusion around the dual currency system or friendly locals who guide you to specific restaurants for commissions.
Research fair prices beforehand and be wary of anyone offering “special” cigars at discount prices. The authentic culture and warm hospitality make Cuba worthwhile despite these minor hassles.
7. Saint Martin/Sint Maarten
Half French, half Dutch, this unique island offers two cultural experiences in one trip. Unwary travelers might encounter jewelry shops selling fake gems at authentic prices or beach vendors who aggressively push services.
Saint Martin’s stunning beaches and diverse cuisine make it worth visiting. Shop only at established stores with proper certification and politely but firmly decline unwanted services.
8. Aruba
Constant trade winds cool visitors as they explore this desert-like island paradise. Despite Aruba’s reputation for safety, travelers occasionally face timeshare presentations disguised as free tours or inflated prices for water activities.
Book excursions through your hotel or reputable companies with online reviews. The consistently perfect weather and stunning beaches make Aruba worth visiting with minimal precautions.
9. Barbados
Pristine beaches and British colonial heritage create a refined island experience for visitors. First-time travelers to Barbados might encounter unauthorized taxi drivers at the airport or beach vendors selling counterfeit goods as authentic souvenirs.
Look for licensed taxis with ZR plates and shop at established markets. The island’s excellent infrastructure and genuine hospitality make these minor concerns easy to navigate.
10. Antigua & Barbuda
Perfect sailing conditions and 365 beaches (one for every day of the year!) attract water lovers from around the world. Visitors to Antigua might encounter rental properties that don’t match online descriptions or tour operators who cut experiences short.
Book through established agencies with verified reviews. The stunning coastlines and excellent sailing make these twin islands worth visiting with proper research.
11. Haiti
Raw cultural authenticity and artistic traditions remain strong despite ongoing challenges. Beyond typical tourist concerns, travelers to Haiti face more serious safety issues including document scams and transportation risks in certain areas.
Only visit with reputable humanitarian organizations or guides if you choose to go. Haiti’s incredible art scene and historical significance deserve attention, but careful planning is essential.
12. Saint Kitts & Nevis
Volcanic peaks rise dramatically from turquoise waters in this peaceful corner of the Caribbean. Saint Kitts & Nevis offers authentic experiences without the aggressive hawking found elsewhere.
Friendly locals welcome visitors to explore historic sugar plantations and pristine beaches at your own pace. The refreshing lack of tourist traps and genuine interactions make these sister islands a delightful alternative.
13. Grenada
Spice aromas fill the air as you wander through local markets untouched by tourist traps. Grenada’s nickname “Spice Isle” hints at its authentic character, where visitors enjoy fair prices and genuine interactions.
Beautiful Grand Anse Beach stretches for two miles without persistent vendors. The island’s perfect balance of development and preservation creates a refreshingly honest Caribbean experience worth discovering.
14. Turks And Caicos
Crystal-clear waters reveal vibrant coral reefs just steps from powder-soft beaches. Visitors appreciate the straightforward tourism experience here, with clearly posted prices and professional service standards.
Turks and Caicos maintains strict regulations for tour operators and accommodations. The exceptional water clarity and well-preserved marine environment make this destination worth the premium price for peace of mind.
15. Anguilla
Understated luxury defines this flat coral island where celebrities seek privacy without pretension. Visitors find refreshingly transparent pricing and a no-haggle culture throughout Anguilla’s upscale establishments and local restaurants alike.
The island’s 33 beaches remain blissfully free of vendors and cruise crowds. Though more expensive than some alternatives, the hassle-free environment and world-class beaches justify the investment.
16. Bonaire
Untouched coral reefs thrive just offshore in this diver’s paradise. Bonaire’s focus on conservation extends to its tourism practices, with straightforward pricing and ethical operators.
Rent a truck and explore at your own pace—road signs mark dive sites all around the island. The laid-back atmosphere and spectacular underwater scenery make this Dutch Caribbean gem perfect for independent travelers seeking authenticity.
17. Dominica
Volcanic hot springs bubble alongside rainforest trails in this nature lover’s dream. Unlike more commercialized islands, Dominica offers genuine ecotourism experiences led by knowledgeable local guides.
The island’s focus on sustainability means fewer tourist traps and more authentic interactions. Hiking to the Boiling Lake or swimming in Emerald Pool provides unforgettable experiences without the hassle of aggressive selling.
18. Guadeloupe
French influence meets Caribbean flair on this butterfly-shaped island duo. Visitors enjoy reliable public transportation and clearly priced menus throughout Guadeloupe’s towns and beaches.
The French department status ensures European-standard consumer protections rarely found elsewhere in the region. Even without speaking French, travelers can easily navigate this safe destination where local markets offer authentic goods at fair prices.
19. Curacao
Pastel-colored buildings line the waterfront in this Dutch Caribbean jewel. Curacao combines European organization with laid-back island vibes, creating a refreshingly straightforward tourist experience.
Visitors appreciate the island’s well-regulated tourism industry and diverse activities. From exploring the vibrant capital of Willemstad to discovering hidden beaches, travelers encounter honest pricing and professional service throughout their stay.
20. British Virgin Islands
Perfect sailing conditions connect dozens of islands and cays in this yachter’s paradise. Visitors experience a well-regulated tourism environment where charter companies maintain high standards and transparent pricing.
The British Virgin Islands offer a stress-free island-hopping adventure with clearly marked fees. From the famous beach bars of Jost Van Dyke to the unique rock formations at The Baths, each stop delivers authentic charm without tourist traps.
21. Martinique
Volcanic beaches and French bakeries create a unique cultural fusion for visitors to discover. Travelers appreciate Martinique’s excellent infrastructure and consumer protections that prevent common tourist pitfalls.
The island combines Caribbean beauty with European efficiency in a refreshing blend. From hiking Mont Pelée to exploring rum distilleries, guests enjoy fair pricing and professional service throughout this French overseas department.
22. Saint Vincent And The Grenadines
Unspoiled island charm awaits sailors and travelers seeking authenticity off the beaten path. These lesser-visited islands offer genuine experiences without the commercial tourism machine found elsewhere.
Visitors to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines encounter honest locals and fair prices. The spectacular Tobago Cays Marine Park and laid-back Bequia island provide Caribbean experiences as they once were—before mass tourism changed the regional landscape.