Other reasons, primarily personal safety.

I’ll be with my parents and boyfriend at all times. Is it safe as long as I’m with someone?

I personally would not suggest it unless it is a well lighted beach and there are many people around and then only with using caution and extreme common sense. My common sense would tell me "NO" and I have been going to the island for 28 years.

I guess here comes the obvious question: is there a lot of crime on the beaches?

No, but why take a chance? Haven't read all the way back up the threads but basically, don't go to any dark corners, beach or no. Some beaches have more light than others and walking ( not alone) is perfectly safe until it's not. Used to walk Kim Sha as late at 11, but there's light and people there.

Not trying to be a smart-a$S but you will get responses on this board from seasoned visitors and residents, some local and some transplants. Trust me, they know what they are talking about.

Not a lot of crime on the beaches but don't put yourself in a position to be an easy target either. It only takes that ONE time of being in the wrong place and then your vacation could be ruined.

My experience with being out after dark at Orient Beach 10 years ago was that it could be hard to find your way home as it was so dark on the beach. My wife and I stayed at one of the bars between Pedro's and the village later than we should have. Needed to go back to our hotel in the village and had a heck of a time just spotting the right place to walk back in. After that we always made sure we were back in Orient Village before it got dark. Fortunately, Orient felt very safe back then. Not sure how I would feel about it these days since there are fewer people around.

Hopefully within another year we'll have a chance to go back as it's been three years now since we stayed there (for two weeks in an apartment).

No worries. I appreciate honesty. That is why I’m asking here lol