San Francisco, United States
The Tenderloin should be avoided completely. It has SF's highest crime rates, open drug markets, and dangerous conditions day and night. Even locals avoid this area - tourists definitely should.
Don't go to the Tenderloin. Just don't. This is not me being dramatic - it's genuinely dangerous and absolutely not somewhere a solo female traveler should be. You'll see open drug dealing, people shooting up on the street, aggressive panhandling, and worse. Even the cops tell tourists to avoid this area. There might be a few decent restaurants hidden in there, but it's not worth the risk. Hotel clerks, Uber drivers, locals - everyone will warn you about the Tenderloin for a reason. If you somehow end up there by accident, get out as quickly as possible. Use rideshare, don't walk, and don't linger for any reason. This isn't about being judgmental toward people experiencing homelessness - it's about personal safety. The Tenderloin has serious problems that the city hasn't been able to solve, and tourists definitely shouldn't try to navigate them.
Daytime Safety
PoorNight Walking Safety
PoorHarassment Risk
Very HighPublic Transport Safety
PoorPickpocketing Risk
Very HighScam Risk
Very HighPolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
PoorSolo Dining
PoorDrug Activity
Very HighHomelessness Visibility
Very HighGetting By in English
Moderate"Scary area - saw drug dealing and aggressive people during the day"
"Hotel clerk told me to never walk through this area alone"
"Even in a taxi felt unsafe at the red lights"
"Locals warned me this is the worst neighborhood in SF"
"Avoid completely - nothing worth the risk here"
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Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Nob Hill is the old-money luxury district with grand hotels and low crime rates. It's very safe but also very expensive - expect to pay premium prices for everything. Good location if budget isn't an issue and you want maximum security.
Union Square is the main tourist and shopping hub - safe, central, but quite commercial. Good for first-time visitors who want easy access to everything and don't mind paying tourist prices for the convenience.
Fisherman's Wharf is the classic SF tourist trap - crowded, overpriced, but safe from serious crime. Fun for the sea lions and Alcatraz tours, but don't drive here due to car break-ins and watch your belongings in crowds.
Help other women stay safe in Tenderloin
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.