There are no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime.

Advisory summary

Crime
Violent crime, including armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults, can occur anywhere in The Bahamas.

Most crime occurs in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. Stay alert in the “Over the Hill” area in Nassau, south of Shirley Street, where gangs have killed residents.

Stay alert in vacation rental properties, especially where private security is not present.

Jet skis, boating, and licenses

• Boating is not well regulated. Injuries and deaths have occurred.
• There have been reports of sexual assaults by jet ski operators.
• Due to safety risks, U.S. government employees are not allowed to use or rent jet skis and personal watercraft from independent operators on New Providence and Paradise Islands. 
• Watercraft may not be safe, and some operators are not licensed or insured.
• Watercraft operators sometimes ignore weather forecasts. Always follow local weather and marine alerts.
• Do not operate a fishing boat or other charter in Bahamian waters without a license from The Bahamas Port Department. Police have detained American boaters and seized their vessels. Penalties include a fine of up to $100,000 and 3 years in prison.

Beach safety

• Never swim alone and beware of jet skis or other watercraft operating close to shore. 
• Sexual assaults have occurred on and near downtown Nassau beaches. Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in public restrooms.
• Be aware of your own fitness and swimming capabilities.  
• If you are new to snorkeling, understand the risks. Swimmers and snorkelers have died after overestimating their physical fitness or health.  
• Stay alert for sharks. Shark attacks have led to serious injury and death. 
• Be aware of weather and water conditions and follow local warnings.

Weapons and ammunition
Firearms and ammunition are illegal, including small quantities in carry-on bags or luggage. Police strictly enforce these laws, even at the airport when travelers are leaving.

Travelers with firearms or ammunition can face arrest, jail time, and fines.  

Authorities have detained U.S. citizens for several days or more after finding firearms or ammunition, preventing them from leaving.

Hurricanes
The Bahamas regularly experiences hurricanes. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in The Bahamas.

Review our Travel Guidance for The Bahamas to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

If you decide to travel to The Bahamas:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Review the Country Security Report for The Bahamas.
• Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.
• Lock doors and windows and use other security features, especially on balcony doors.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Visit The Bahamas Port Department’s website if you plan to operate a charter or sail in Bahamian waters.
• Always check your personal belongings. Officials have detained travelers entering and exiting the country for carrying guns, ammunition, or other prohibited items.
• You must follow local laws abroad. If you break laws in The Bahamas – even by mistake – you could face deportation, fines, or imprisonment.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for The Bahamas.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.