Is Arcata safe for solo female travelers?

It's safe, I'd recommend being mainly around Old Town Eureka or Arcata. I feel like both are walkable, but the parts of Arcata that are neighborhoods are safer than most of the places outside of Old Town Eureka. Definitely rent a car or take a taxi. There's a lot to see, and that needs a car to get to.

Arcata is pretty safe. It’s a sleepy stoner town with the worst crimes being car break ins for the most part. Eureka is a little sketchier but again it’s nothing compared to a big city. Sexual violence is around but not really random. More in personal contexts

Arcata is a small walkable college town with many young folks and travelers passing thru. Also a close knit community. I feel it is very welcoming and safe! There are well lit streets and the community members are always ready to help if you need anything.