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The US State Department has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for The Bahamas, urging Americans to “exercise increased caution” when visiting the Caribbean destination due to crime, beach safety risks, and boating concerns.
Level 2 means travelers should remain alert and take extra precautions. It is the second of four advisory levels used by the US government to help Americans assess safety risks when visiting other countries.
The advisory, updated on Monday, March 31, specifically highlights violent crimes, including armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults, which have occurred across The Bahamas—including tourist hotspots like Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands.
One area of particular concern is the “Over the Hill” district in Nassau, south of Shirley Street, where gang violence has resulted in killings. Travelers are also urged to remain vigilant in vacation rentals, especially where private security is not present.
Boating, Jet Ski Risks
The State Department also warns about unregulated water activities, including jet ski rentals and other personal watercraft. Some operators reportedly ignore weather conditions, and not all are licensed or insured.
There have been reports of injuries, fatalities, and even sexual assaults involving jet ski operators. Because of these risks, US government personnel are prohibited from renting jet skis or other personal watercraft from independent vendors on New Providence and Paradise Island.
Beach Safety Concerns
Visitors should exercise caution when swimming or snorkeling. Among the agency’s top concerns:
- Swimmers have drowned after overestimating their abilities
- Shark attacks have caused serious injury and death
- Sexual assaults have occurred on and near Nassau’s downtown beaches
- Jet skis and other watercraft often operate too close to shore
- Travelers are urged to never swim alone, remain alert in public areas, and monitor local weather and marine forecasts.
Possession of firearms or even a single bullet—even packed accidentally—can lead to serious legal consequences in The Bahamas.
US citizens have been detained, fined, and jailed for violating local weapons laws, even while attempting to leave the country via the airport.
If You Go, Here’s What To Keep In Mind:
- Lock all hotel and rental property doors and windows
- Avoid answering the door unless you know the person
- Never resist a robbery attempt
- Carefully inspect all bags before travel to avoid carrying ammunition
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
- Review the Traveler’s Checklist
- Consider travel insurance for emergency coverage, medical evacuation, or trip cancellation
State Department Advisory Levels
To help travelers assess international safety risks, the US government uses the following four-level system:
- Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
- Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
- Level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Level 4: Do Not Travel
You can check the latest updates at travelmaps.state.gov.
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