Is Cairns Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Cairns is generally a secure place for solo female travelers. It has a laid-back atmosphere and is considered generally safe as long as basic precautions are taken. Local people are friendly and always willing to assist tourists. However, it's always wise to stay vigilant, especially during evenings, and avoid empty or poorly lit streets. Outdoor adventure activities also abound, with careful attention to safety measures.

Safety rating

3.2 /5

Based on 4 experiences from female travelers

4.3 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.7 /5

Based on 5 experiences from local women

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How safe is Cairns?

Safety at night:Safe

Cairns, tends to be quite safe even at night, although it's always necessary for solo female travelers to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings. As a popular tourist city, there's typically a crowd up until late hours, especially in the regions near the lagoon or the Esplanade. While violent crime is relatively low in comparison to other major cities, occasional incidents of petty theft or unwanted attention can occur. So, it’s best to avoid darker, quieter areas and always stick to well-lit, populated areas.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Cairns is generally considered safe and reliable. Buses are the primary mode of public transport, which are used by local commuters and travelers alike. They are well-maintained and drivers are typically friendly and helpful. However, like anywhere, it’s important to stay vigilant, especially during late hours. It's always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your personal belongings secure at all times during your journey.

Street harassment:Low

Cairns is generally regarded as a safe city with its warm, friendly locals. Instances of street harassment are relatively low and tourists typically report feeling comfortable while exploring the city. However, as with any destination, it's always recommended to stay vigilant, especially at night, and stick to crowded and well-lit areas.

Petty crimes:Low

Cairns is generally a safe destination with a relatively low level of petty crimes. Like anywhere, tourists can be targets for pickpocketing or bag snatching, particularly in crowded tourist areas. Always keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings. Ensure to lock accommodation and vehicles when you leave them. However, most visitors to Cairns have a crime-free holiday.

Is Cairns worth visiting?

Overall rating

3 /5

based on 4 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3.1/5

Safety

3.2/5

Food

1.9/5

Budget-friendly

2.7/5

Paris

Australia

Family travel

Cairns was great. Loads to see and do. Aquariums, zoos, butterfly sanctuary, rainforest, free outdoor pools. Loads of places to eat too. Definitely recommend, some of the locals can be intimidating but you move past it

Posted: February 6, 2025

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Group travel

Felt pretty safe, although there is not much of a nightlife and the town is quite small. Great day trips that are accessible from cairns to great beaches and towns close by. If you’re there for the reef it is highly recommended, but if you’re looking for a nightlife and bustling city it is not cairns

Posted: March 31, 2024

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Solo travel

Super fun for going out. Diving on the reef is a must! A little hard to get around without a car as a lot of nice places to visit are out of town. The food is not amazing, just standard for touristy areas and prices

Posted: November 9, 2023

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Cass

Indonesia

Solo travel

Really can’t say I’ll ever return here but was good to get other places. Got cat called a lot! Didn’t feel super safe, a lot of partying too. Not pretty.

Posted: May 1, 2023

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Is Cairns safe for women?

Safety index

3.7 /5

Based on 5 local experiences

Crime index

2.1 /5

Based on 5 local experiences

Sofia

Cairns right now is going through a tough time because of juvenile criminality. People won’t actually hurt you but they will make you feel uncomfortable and unsafer But overall is a beautiful city and surroundings are gorgeous as well: Palm cove, rain tree forest, the barrier reef…

Posted: March 31, 2025

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Cairns is generally pretty safe, I’m not worried about walking around during the day. I would be more wary walking around the night club area at night but that could be just me. But other places are ok. There have been a few drunk aboriginal people I’ve been wary of when walking around at night but there is a lot of security and police officers making sure intoxicated people are safe (to themselves) but also the general public.

Posted: February 14, 2025

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Meet locals in Cairns

Kerrin

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Bobbie

About Me

Hello im from the Uk currently travelling New Zealand in my van. I love meeting new people and sharing experiences and stories. I’m a forester/ chainsaw operator by trade but enjoy long walks, sunbathing and adrenaline rush experiences.