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

3.1 /5

Based on 3 experiences from female travelers

4.3 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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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

2.8 /5

based on 3 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3/5

Safety

3.1/5

Food

1.7/5

Budget-friendly

2.9/5

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?

I feel like cairns is really safe, I feel very comfortable walking around at night I have never been harassed and never been catcalled actually either which is good. There are areas with higher crime rates but it’s never targeted at women more like car theft. Anyway feel safe!

Posted: December 1, 2024

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Kerrin

Cairns is a beautiful place, but it does have its social problems like many places. I wouldn't recommend a solo female walking at night by herself, as I don't feel comfortable doing that. During the day in public areas you should be fine. Make sure you lock up at night.

Posted: October 27, 2024

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Meet locals in Cairns

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 !