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

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How safe is Cairns?

Safety at night:

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:

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:

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:

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.
Tap water:

Tap water:Very safe

Tap water in Cairns is entirely safe to drink. The water is thoroughly and routinely tested and has consistently achieved high standards for both taste and purity. It is possible to drink directly from the tap without any concerns for your health.

Is Cairns safe to travel?

3.1 /5

Based on 3 experiences

Group travel experience

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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Cass

Cass

Indonesia

Solo travel experience

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 right now?

Before your visit to Cairns, it's essential to check travel advisories for Australia, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The United States government advises exercising normal precautions in Australia. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: September 8, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Canadian Government advises to take normal security precautions in Australia. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 10, 2024

Is Cairns worth visiting?

Overall rating

2.8 /5

based on 3 experiences

Solo travel experience

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
Things to do: 4/5Food: 3/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Cairns

Meet local women in Cairns who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Chloé

Chloé

About Me

Hi there ! My name is Chloe. I am a 29 year-old french woman travelling down the east coast of Australia. I'd love to meet people who could teach me the australian way of life and help me discover things about this country. I love discovering new cultures, food, stories. I love cinema, sport, reading and going out having a drink. I started my trip in Cairns, will go a bit north and then down south all the way to Adelaide (or maybe Perth). If you allowed me to stay at your place for one or two nights, it would help me a lot and it would be a real pleasure to meet you and to learn all the things you could teach me :) See you soon !

Speaking

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Marie

Marie

About Me

Hey, I'm Marie and I'm interested in backpacking, digital nomad, camping, hiking, rafting, solo travel, surfing, trekking, van life, swimming, skiing and games

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Cairns

Connect with upcoming visitors to Cairns who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Emily

Emily

About Me

Hello! I'm Emily, 35 and a world traveller 🌎 I'm in Australia for thr first time and want to explore Queesland a bit 😀 I love tea, talking, kpop ans travel!

Speaking

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Safety in Australia