6 Caribbean Island Perfect For Solo Female Traveler
Caribbean Island Perfect For Solo Female Traveler
Solo female travel is becoming increasingly popular. More and more women are looking to explore the world on their own. The Travel Industry Association estimates that 32 million American women traveled solo each year, and Hostelworld reported a 45% increase in solo female travel bookings. For some, it is something they want to accomplish, and for others, it may be due to circumstances and not letting a lack of travel companion hold them back. Solo traveling has a lot of appeal; you can do what you want when you want and where you want. There are very few sacrifices to be made as you decide the itinerary every single day!
According to Solo Traveler, an online community for solo travelers, there are certain things / travel tips female solo traveller must consider before traveling to ensure they have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Choose your destination carefully.
Plan your first night well, including accommodations and transportation.
Only pack the essentials.
Never share your accommodation details.
Fine dining opportunities to eat with others like a cooking class.
Protect your personal items like documents, cards, and cash.
Keep your cell phone on you, but take a break from social media.
Meet other solo female travelers.
Keep it local; buy, stay and meet local people.
This is great advice, particularly choosing your destination carefully. When picking your travel destination, you want a location you can feel safe in, so you can focus on enjoying the experience instead of worrying about your valuables. The Caribbean has so much to offer for solo female travelers! They can soak up the sun, enjoy the pristine beaches and delicious food, or they can be a little more adventurous and explore cocoa farms or go scuba diving. Thankfully, there are lots of options to choose from! We’ve compiled a list of the 6 safest Caribbean Islands for solo female travel to help you select the right destination.
1. Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Grand Cayman (Cayman Islands) is a fantastic island for females looking for a solo retreat. It’s very safe, with a Level 1 rating from the US Department of State, which is the safest level rating there is. As a solo traveler, you want to have a selection of activities that you can do on your own. One of these activities is visiting some of the world's best beaches, like Seven Mile Beach. Take a good book and soak up the sun in the soft white sand, or go for a swim in the calm, crystal clear water. Because of the calm waters, Grand Cayman is a great spot for kayaking. Join a night-time kayak tour to see the incredible bioluminescence. Each time you paddle, you’ll leave a swirl of glowing light behind you. If you are a nature-loving solo traveler, there is no shortage of sights here. There are sanctuaries, mangroves, and reserves to explore. Grand Cayman is also known as a foodie hot spot. Lots of flavors and fresh seafood will be sure to satisfy. Sign up for a cooking class to meet new people and learn to recreate local dishes.
2. Grenada
This small island packs a lot of culture, beauty, and spice in its 21 x 12 mile size. It’s referred to as “spice island” because of the abundance of nutmeg plantations located here. As you would expect from the Caribbean, there are spectacular and beautiful beaches to be found in Grenada. At Levera beach, you can enjoy the sun and sand while also observing local bird species or marine life. Grand Etang National Park and Forest has stunning waterfalls and lush greenery to take in. For a little more culture, check out the River Antonine Rum Distillery or visit during one of the many festivals. One of the biggest events of the year is the Spicemas Grenada Carnival, which peaks in August. That said, events start as early as April. When traveling solo, it is best for female travelers to avoid large festivals in any country as there is an increase in tourism and petty crimes. So, if you still want to partake in some of the events, travel between April and July. A great way to meet new people is by visiting local restaurants. There are plenty of delicious food offers, but the national dish, Oil Down, is a must-try! It’s made from stew with meat, roots, vegetables, and coconut milk.
3. Aruba
Aruba is a great destination for solo females traveling in the Caribbean. It is known as the “happiest island,” which is likely due to the beautiful sandy beaches, turquoise waters, vibrant nightlife, festivals, food, and activities. You can feel safe while enjoying the many activities. Explore your more rugged side by renting a Jeep or joining a tour to explore Arikok National Park. The next day you could treat yourself to a little more luxury by spending the day at Manchebo Beach Resort and Spa. Manchebo beach is a bit less busy and touristy, so you can sit back and enjoy the sound of the waves and watch the sunset. Aruba is a very popular spot for female travelers, so don’t be surprised if you look around and see others just like you! If you head to Aruba and enjoy scuba diving, check out the ship and plane wrecks around the island, or go snorkeling with turtles in Tres Trap. The biggest challenge for many solo travelers is dining alone. A great remedy to this is sitting at the bar or a counter with a kitchen few. Senses Fine Dining offers an eight-course dining experience with a counter facing the chef. The set-up is perfect for those dining solo!
4. Anguilla
Anguilla is incredibly tranquil and safe. The sunsets here are stunning, and the food is delicious! There are also plenty of things you can do alone. The Amerindian Fountain Cavern at Shoval Bay East is a national wonder and heritage side. It was once a site of worship and is an archaeological site where you will find indigenous art illuminated from the cove's opening, 50 feet above. If you want to spend the day at one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, head to Rendezvous Bay. The beach has vibrant beach bars for you to grab a cocktail or lunch. You won’t want to skip a meal in Anguilla; there are too many amazing restaurants to enjoy! In fact, there is one restaurant for every 150 Anguillans! Lots of fresh ingredients, loaded with local herbs and veggies, make each dish special. The calm, relaxed vibe of the island draws in like-minded tourists. It’s easy to meet new people, both locals and fellow solo travelers are eager to chat and share travel tips and recommend their favorite restaurants.
5. St. Bart’s
Although St. Bart’s tends to be on the more expensive side when traveling, it is also one of the safest. There are no safety warnings or travel advisories, and it is a popular trip for the rich and famous, as well as female solo travelers. If you love sailing or being on a boat, there are plenty of tours and excursions to choose from. At Gustavia Port, you can marvel at SuperYachts, or you can pursue more natural, unspoiled locations like Anse de Colombier. This beautiful hike will take you past stunning and beautiful beaches and give you an incredible view of the cost from the hilltop. There are 22 beaches located on St. Barts, but for the most remote, relaxed beach – check out Anse de Gouverneur. You won’t find any beach bars or restaurants here, so if you plan to spend the day, pack a lunch and water.
[Related Read: 10 Device to take with you on your solo trip]
6. Martinique
Martinique is also very safe for solo female travelers. There is so much to love about this Caribbean island located in the Lesser Antilles. Upon landing, the natural landscape will likely take your breath away! Black and white sand beaches, volcanos, rolling hills, beautiful water, and tall palms are everywhere. If you want to rent a car, driving is easy with paved roads and minimal traffic. This will be the easiest way for you to see everything the island has to offer and you don’t need to worry about taxis. If you don’t want to drive, there is a public transportation system with buses that will get you around the island. Mount Pelee is an active volcano that erupted in 1902. If you want to meet new people, check out the many group excursions or tours and get a closer look at the volcano. The beaches are stunning and safe, so you can feel comfortable taking an afternoon nap in the sun or going for a swim in the crystal clear water. The food here is unique - French with creole flavor, all of which taste amazing with rum.
Rum is very popular, and you will have no problem finding delicious rum cocktails in Martinique! Although the island is a popular spot for solo travelers, there aren’t loads of tourists, so you can enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty.
Whether you are a beginner solo traveler and venturing off for your first time or a seasoned solo traveler, these 6 Caribbean islands and travel tips will provide you with both a safe and enjoyable experience you will remember forever!
