Is Roatan Safe? Read This Before you go (Updated 2023)

Is Roatan Safe?

Roatan is one of the safest travel destinations in the world. Although the crime rate is low, Roatan has a high police presence and a well-trained security force. In addition, the island has a strong community spirit, and residents are quick to report any suspicious activity. As a result, Roatan is an incredibly safe place to visit. Read this before you book a flight to Roatan. If you are thinking of booking a place to stay or excursions in roatan, check out discoverroatan.net!

Here are my recommendations of things to do in Roatan:

Roatan Relies on Tourism

Because of the high amount of tourism that cruise ships offer, the people of Roatan know it must remain a safe and comfortable place. The number one economic driving force in Roatan is tourism. Making tourists feel safe is one of the island’s top priorities.

As someone who has stayed in both West Bay and West End many times, I can vouch that it is safe. As a young woman in my early twenties who has been coming here for years, I feel comfortable walking around by myself. Whether I am going to dinner, the beach, or drinks on a Saturday night, I have never felt uncomfortable or unsafe in Roatan.

Always be Aware

Of course, like everywhere in the world, some people will take advantage of you if they know that they can. That is why it is important to always travel smart. Make sure you are always aware of your surroundings and do not put yourself in unsafe situations.

With this being said, Roatan is like anywhere else on Earth. Sure, there is petty crime. But as long as you are safe and confident, you should not let the fear of safety stop you from traveling Travelers can feel confident that they will be able to enjoy their vacation without worrying about their safety.

My Experience in Roatan as a Young Woman

Roatan is an extremely popular tourist destination, and I have been there many times. Roatan is safe to visit, even for female travelers who are traveling alone. I have always felt comfortable walking around and meeting new people. Every time I go, I seem to come back to the states with a dozen more connections than I did when I left the states. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and I have never had any problems.

Is Roatan Safe for Women? Tips for Travelers

Traveling to Roatan is an amazing experience that I think everyone should try to do if they have the chance. Just because the crime rate in Roatan is low, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be cautious. When traveling anywhere, even in your own neighborhood, it is important to keep your physical, mental, and financial security in mind. Here are some tips to staying safe when traveling to Roatan that you can apply every time you travel.

Keep your belongings close to you

When you are on the beach or in town, it is important to keep your belongings close to you. There’s so much security at the beaches, that it is probably safe to leave your bag and towel unattended in your chair while you swim. I usually don’t take a bag and just keep my phone under my shoes and towel.

When I am walking around town, I keep my purse close to me, either in front of me or over my shoulder. I never put my bag down, even for a second, when I am out in public. This may seem like common sense, but it is important to be vigilant when you are in a new place.

Keep your valuable items in a safe in your hotel

This goes for your passport, jewelry, and any other items that you would be devastated to lose. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to keeping your valuables safe. Most hotels provide safes for your valuable belongings, even in Roatan.

Always remember that the hotel staff has keys to the room, including maids, front desk workers, etc. It is important to keep your passport and cash in a safe that is locked at all times. Hotel safes allow you to set the code each time you use it, so no one (other than you) will know the combination.

Don’t carry all of your cash on you

This is a tip I try to follow whenever I travel, not just when I go to Roatan. When you carry all of your cash on you, it makes you an easy target for thieves. Keep some cash on you for small purchases and leave the rest in the hotel safe.

Avoid walking alone at night

This is a tip I always follow, no matter where I am in the world. It is always best to travel in groups, especially at night. If you are out at night by yourself, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not put yourself in any unnecessary danger. Keep an eye on the people you pass, keeping your head up and off your phone. Don’t let your guard when you travel, especially at night. Keep in mind that staying in busier areas, like the main road, rather than a back road, is the safest option.

Do not leave your drink unattended

When you are out at a bar or club, it is important to never leave your drink unattended. Even when going out to dinner and sitting alone, if you go to the bathroom take your drink with you. This is something that I have always done, even when I am with friends. When you leave your drink unattended, you are risking having someone drug it.

Drugging drinks are extremely common everywhere. Especially for women, but sometimes men too, be careful of accepting drinks from anyone other than your waiter. Know how you can protect your drink from being spiked.

Be aware of your surroundings

This is a tip that I think is important for everyone, not just when traveling. It is so easy to get caught up in what you are doing and not pay attention to your surroundings. It is important to be aware of the people around you and what is going on around you.

This goes for when you are walking around town, at the beach, or anywhere else. Keep your eyes off your phone when you are walking, riding in a taxi, etc. Know where your taxi driver is supposed to be taking you ahead of time.

Trust your gut instinct

It is always better to be safe than sorry. If you are ever in a situation where you feel unsafe, it is important to trust your gut instinct and get ouT as soon as possible. Don’t worry about being polite or not wanting to cause a scene. Your safety is more important than anything else.

Is Roatan safe for cruise passengers?

Roatan is generally considered safe for cruise passengers. The island is policed by a local police force and actively seeks to protect travelers from any security threats. As with any foreign destination, it is important to use caution when traveling, but Roatan has seen a decrease in crime since introducing their tourism industry in the mid-1990s.

Problems with living in Roatan, Honduras

Some of the issues that can arise when living in Roatan, Honduras include:

High cost of living: The cost of living in Roatan is higher than other parts of Honduras. Groceries, housing and entertainment expenses can become expensive very quickly.
Poor infrastructure: The roads and public transportation are often not up to date with modern standards, making it difficult for visitors to get around the island.
Limited job opportunities: Jobs are limited on the island, with most employment opportunities geared towards tourism or foreign businesses.
Crime: Although crime rates have decreased since introducing their tourism industry, there is still a risk of pickpocketing and muggings throughout the area.

The Truth About Roatan: You got this!

If you follow these simple tips, you will have a great time in Roatan and avoid any unsafe situations. Roatan is an amazing place and I have never felt unsafe when I have been there.

Have you ever been to Roatan? What tips would you add to this list? Let me know in the comments below.

Happy Travels!

-Aaliyah Christine

Is Roatan Safe? Read This Before you go (Updated 2023)