There have been incidents of crime in St Lucia including murder, armed robbery and sexual assault. There is a continuing serious risk of homicides, primarily gang related and involving guns. Some incidents have taken place in public areas.

While the user asked about 2023, the current status in 2026 is that St. Lucia is generally safe but requires a "high degree of caution" in specific urban areas. The U.S. and Canadian travel advisories currently place the island at Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions), though they warn of an increase in petty crime and gang-related violence in the capital, Castries, and the southern town of Vieux Fort. For tourists staying in major resort areas like Rodney Bay or Soufrière, the experience is typically very safe and welcoming. However, it is a peer-to-peer essential to avoid walking in desolate areas or on unlit beaches at night. Solo travelers should utilize registered "Blue Plate" taxis rather than unofficial transport. While the "island vibe" is relaxed, travelers in 2026 should be vigilant about their belongings in crowded markets and stay informed about the local weather, as the island is in the "Hurricane Belt" and can experience severe tropical storms between June and November.