Hostels in Cairns
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The 10 Best Hostels in Cairns, Australia
Some of the best backpacker spots in Cairns
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Travellers Oasis 5 stars
Cairns
Travellers Oasis offers spacious dormitory rooms as well as private double, twin and single guest rooms. Each room includes fans, bed linen, towels and a personal safety deposit box. Guests have access to shared bathroom facilities. Air-conditioning is available for an additional cost.
Denmark
Staff went out of their way to help me book a stay on a scuba diving boat.
Travellers Paradise 5 stars
Cairns
Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, Travellers Paradise offers accommodation in a historical, heritage listed building in Cairns, 1.2 km from Cairns Convention Centre. Free street parking is available. It is located opposite Cairns Central Shopping Centre, Coles Supermarket and the train station. Free unlimited WiFi is available.
China
It's comfortable to stay here and the owner Peter is so nice and helpful. I’ll stay it again when I travel cairns again.
Global Backpackers Cairns 4.5 stars
Cairns
Global Backpackers Waterfront is situated on the Cairns Esplanade waterfront and the Lagoon, boardwalk, marina, restaurants, shops and nightlife are a short walk away. There are evening activities held in the property's bar venues, all within a 5-minute walk from Global Backpackers Waterfront, where you can receive discounts in bars and clubs.
The hostel offers a range of rooms from private rooms with balconies and en suites to shared dormitory rooms. All have air conditioning and free WiFi.
Ireland
Perfect for a quieter traveller! nice chill areas, gorgeous view of the lagoon and sea from the balcony for mealtimes, and quiet at night! the kitchen was very well equipped, and well laid out so it never felt too busy at mealtimes! our private room was small, but very comfortable and perfect for our short stay. exceptionally clean. the staff are so lovely, and go out of their way to help book tours, taxis, whatever you need really they were always happy to help! one of the best hostels we’ve ever stayed in! not to forget the excellent location! we were able to pop back and forth from the lagoon throughout the day.
YHA Cairns Central 4 stars
Cairns
Accommodation options include private rooms with an en suite bathroom or dormitory rooms with a shared bathroom. All rooms are air-conditioned.
Facilities include a communal kitchen and dining area and a guest laundry. Relax in the TV room or a reading room, or play a game of billiards. The tour desk can arrange Great Barrier Reef cruises, snorkeling and diving trips.
Croatia
Everything was perfect! Located just across the street from the mall and railway and bus stadtion. 10min walk to the lagoon and the port. The staff was really kind and helpful. Backyard has a pool and the kitchen is well equipped and very big.
Mad Monkey Waterfront 3 stars
Cairns
We offer all types of accommodation, from Mixed Dorms Ensuite to Female Dorms Ensuite and Private Double Rooms. We have high-quality mattresses, pillows and linen which is included for a comfortable night’s sleep. All our dorms have a private en-suite bathroom and all our private rooms come with personal towels, otherwise our reception team is more than happy to assist you with a towel hire in case you forgot one. All our rooms are Air-Conditioned & All our bunk beds are equipped with personal USB ports & power sockets to make sure you can comfortably scroll through your new travel pictures from bed.
Chile
I’ve stayed in so many hostels in Cairns and this one was definitely my favorite. Very nice atmosphere and people. The common areas are very comfy and always clean. The staff was very friendly. I absolutely recommend this place!
Dreamtime Travellers Rest 3 stars
Cairns
Dreamtime is an award winning hostel with a difference. We offer travellers a safe, peaceful & cosy place to stay. We are not a party hostel.
As we are a small, independent hostel, our reception is open from 8.00am to 6.00pm.
Canada
I planned to stay for just a little while after arriving from Canada and ended up extending my stay. Paul and Tim were great hosts and I was sad to leave when the time came. If you're looking for a party hostel, this isn't it -- Dreamtime is peaceful and quiet, even when people are up late chatting over drinks. Comfy beds, good facilities, and the coin-operated AC was definitely enough to cut the heat when going to bed at night. I hope to be able to come back one day!
The Village Cairns
Cairns
Set in Cairns and with Cairns Convention Centre reachable within less than 1 km, The Village Cairns offers express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi throughout the property and a terrace. The property is located 4.6 km from Cairns Flecker Botanic Gardens, 14 km from Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park and 14 km from Skyway Rainforest Cableway. The accommodation provides a shared kitchen, a 24-hour front desk and organising tours for guests.
Rooms are complete with a shared bathroom equipped with a shower, while certain units at the hostel also provide guests with a seating area.
United States
Friendly helpful staff. Clean linens and comfy beds. Great location! Nice big kitchen and lounge eating area. I met so many people traveling and/or working their way through Australia. I had a wonderful time here!
Summer House Backpackers Cairns 3.5 stars
Cairns
Summer House Backpackers Cairns features free bikes, outdoor swimming pool, a garden and shared lounge in Cairns. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a shared kitchen and a 24-hour front desk, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The accommodation provides evening entertainment and an ATM.
United States
awesome!! I have stayed here on two separate occasions and both times gotten a free upgrade!
The Jack Backpackers 2 stars
Cairns
If you are planning a late check-in after 19:00 pm. Please call our friendly reception team at your earliest convenience to arrange a late check in. Night Security Number 0484737381. Please also note that The Jack Backpackers is a international hostel and only accepts booking with a valid International passport and credit card will be required upon check-in. Please note that there is a surcharge of minimum 1.40% when paying with Eftpos. The Jack Backpackers is unsuitable for persons under the age of 18. Bookings made by any guests under the age of 18 will not be accepted and will be asked to cancel the booking.
The Jack Backpackers is a International Youth Hostel and only accepts bookings with a valid International passport.
United States
When you stay with the hostel, they give deals at their bar and lounge for drinks and food, specifically for staying guests. The location was perfect because it was walking distance to anything I was looking to do. As for the room it was very clean, but at night the AC would turn off after a few hours and I would wake up from the heat and then get up to turn it back on.
Mad Monkey Village 3 stars
Cairns
Refurbished in May, 2018, Mad Monkey Village featuresa TV, a kitchen, bathrooms with air-conditioners in every room. There is also an outdoor swimming pool. Free WiFi provided.
All the private double rooms are air-Conditioned and come with towels.
Ireland
Good vibes and atmosphere Chilled, so quiet at night time
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9.0Scored 9.0SuperbRated superb· 1284 hostel reviews
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7.2Scored 7.2GoodRated good· 334 hostel reviews
Save money on hostels in Cairns – budget options available!
Travellers Oasis
CairnsBudget options available9.0Scored 9.0SuperbRated superb· 1,284 reviewsSet in the centre of Cairns and located opposite the Cairns Central Shopping Centre and Cairns train station, Travellers Oasis offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, with hammocks to...
Amazing host, lovely atmosphere and great services !
YHA Cairns Central
CairnsBudget options available8.1Scored 8.1Very goodRated very good· 1,661 reviewsYHA Cairns Central is located just 5 minutes' walk from The Esplanade and Trinity Wharf. It features an outdoor swimming pool, 2 spas, and a free WiFi hotspot.
The swimming pool was great. Kitchen was fully equipped.
Mad Monkey Waterfront
CairnsBudget options available8.0Scored 8.0Very goodRated very good· 409 reviewsAt Mad Monkey Waterfront we offer an affordable and clean accommodation in the heart of Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
The kitchen is very clean and it's easy to cook. The staff is also very nice.
Dreamtime Travellers Rest
CairnsBudget options available8.6Scored 8.6FabulousRated fabulous· 934 reviewsDreamtime is an award winning hostel with a difference. We offer travellers a safe, peaceful & cosy place to stay. We are not a party hostel.
They have the best location and very comfortable room
The Village Cairns
CairnsBudget options available7.9Scored 7.9GoodRated good· 1,240 reviewsSet in Cairns and with Cairns Convention Centre reachable within less than 1 km, The Village Cairns offers express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi throughout the...
rooms are big, great location, nice balcony, clean…
Summer House Backpackers Cairns
CairnsBudget options available7.6Scored 7.6GoodRated good· 1,458 reviewsSummer House Backpackers Cairns features free bikes, outdoor swimming pool, a garden and shared lounge in Cairns.
Everything: great great people, great great facilities.
The Jack Backpackers
CairnsBudget options available7.3Scored 7.3GoodRated good· 1,349 reviewsGuests enjoy FREE WiFi daily, NEW Air cons, FREE lockers, FREE Netflix available in common lounge area and Private En suite rooms, on-site bar and restaurant.
Friendly staff, discounted dinners, good location.
Mad Monkey Village
CairnsBudget options available7.8Scored 7.8GoodRated good· 1,084 reviewsRefurbished in May, 2018, Mad Monkey Village featuresa TV, a kitchen, bathrooms with air-conditioners in every room. There is also an outdoor swimming pool. Free WiFi provided.
Everyone was so welcoming, the vibe was good there too
Great access to the city centre! Check these hostels in Cairns
Travellers Paradise
CairnsCentral location8.7Scored 8.7FabulousRated fabulous· 1,337 reviewsSurrounded by lush tropical gardens, Travellers Paradise offers accommodation in a historical, heritage listed building in Cairns, 1.2 km from Cairns Convention Centre.
super nice and clean. They will offer the best to you if they can.
Global Backpackers Cairns
CairnsCentral location8.4Scored 8.4Very goodRated very good· 1,772 reviewsGlobal Backpackers Waterfront is situated on the Cairns Esplanade waterfront and the Lagoon, boardwalk, marina, restaurants, shops and nightlife are a short walk away.
Great kitchen Perfect location Air con worked well
Wanna Stay?
CairnsCentral location7.7Scored 7.7GoodRated good· 29 reviewsWanna Stay? is situated in Cairns, within 800 metres of The Cairns Civic Theater and 4.7 km of Cairns Flecker Botanic Gardens.
Homey atmosphere. Highly recommended. Quiet and perfect for long stay
MiHaven Shared Living - Martyn St
CairnsCentral location7.6Scored 7.6GoodRated good· 54 reviewsFeaturing barbecue facilities, MiHaven Shared Living - Martyn St is set in Cairns in the Queensland region, 1.5 km from Cairns Station and 2.4 km from Cairns Convention Centre.
Clean, organised, sensible rules. value for money.
Gilligan's Hotel & Resort Cairns
CairnsCentral location7.5Scored 7.5GoodRated good· 2,073 reviews2024 Renovation Revelation: A Bold Makeover Journey Begins – Brace Yourself for an Entirely Revamped Bathroom Experience! Welcome to Gilligan's, your gateway to Cairns' tropical paradise.
I've already made my comment. I've stayed few days.
Caravella Backpackers
CairnsCentral location7.5Scored 7.5GoodRated good· 149 reviewsIdeally located in the scenic and quieter area of the Esplanade- away from the noise of the clubs, bars and traffic- but only an easy 10 minute walk to the main attractions, the Pier and Cairns City...
Location is close to the boardwalk and restaurants.
MiHaven Shared Living - Pembroke St
CairnsCentral location7.5Scored 7.5GoodRated good· 39 reviewsMiHaven Shared Living - Pembroke St offers rooms in shared apartments with access to a shared kitchen and living area with a TV. Free WiFi is available.
the ease of getting there and the tranquility of the place
Mad Monkey Central
CairnsCentral location7.2Scored 7.2GoodRated good· 567 reviewsOffering an outdoor pool, barbecue and sun terrace, Mad Monkey Central is situated in Cairns in the Queensland Region, 400 metres from Cairns Convention Centre.
Vibe is so nice!! I really recommend this hostel!!
Cairns City Backpackers Hostel
CairnsCentral location7.2Scored 7.2GoodRated good· 334 reviewsSet amongst tropical gardens with an outdoor swimming pool, Cairns City Backpackers is a 25-minute walk from The Esplanade.
Nice acclimation, that is clean and well organized
Mumma's Hostel Cairns
CairnsCentral location7.1Scored 7.1GoodRated good· 556 reviewsMumma's Hostel Cairns has an outdoor swimming pool, garden, a shared lounge and terrace in Cairns. Boasting a tour desk, this property also provides guests with a barbecue.
Very good hostel, clean, good vibe, friendly staff
Happytourcairns sharehouse
CairnsCentral location7.0Scored 7.0GoodRated good· 127 reviewsSet within 1.1 km of Cairns Regional Gallery and 4.8 km of Cairns Flecker Botanic Gardens, Happytourcairns sharehouse features rooms in Cairns.
The fast wifi, the kitchen, the shower and the room.
Bohemia Resort Cairns
CairnsCentral location6.6Scored 6.6PleasantRated pleasant· 922 reviewsBohemia Resort Cairns provides accommodation close to the Cairns city centre. There is a large outdoor undercover area overlooking the lagoon-style pools and landscaped gardens.
We got a family room and it was nice. Good value for money!
MiHaven Shared Living - Gatton St
CairnsCentral location5.3Scored 5.3AverageRated passable· 3 reviewsLocated in Cairns and with Cairns Station reachable within 1.5 km, MiHaven Shared Living - Gatton St provides a garden, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi throughout the property and a shared lounge.
Castaways Backpackers Cairns
CairnsCentral location4.8Scored 4.8DisappointingRated disappointing· 30 reviewsEnjoy free Wi-Fi and access to a swimming pool and a communal kitchen at Castaways Backpackers Cairns. It is located 5 minutes’ walk from the popular Esplanade.
FAQ about hostels in Cairns
Hostels that guests love in Cairns
- Avg. price/night: £66.915.8Scored 5.8Above averageRated okay· 1,513 reviewsHotel is mouldy roof and safety hazaard. Also dusty and breeding with insects like spider coming onto my bed in morning. Its still cheaper than a hostel but this is really out of a horror movie. Feel like hotel staff management can only do so much toGavinSolo traveller
- Avg. price/night: £45.337.2Scored 7.2GoodRated good· 567 reviewsThe breakfast was great, the hostel is extremely clean, i loved the common area, it’s so social I met lots of new people. The beds were extremely comfortable and everyone from staff is so nice and helpful. One of the best hostels I‘ve stayed in, also perfectly located, only 5-10 minute walk anywhere you wanna go. Really great hostel!!SSarahSolo traveller
- Avg. price/night: £72.099.0Scored 9.0SuperbRated superb· 1,284 reviewsBest hostel I stayed in Australia! Staff is great, super helpful and thoughtful! The hostel is super clean and bedrooms comfortable. Stayed in a 3-bed dormitory and I felt like home. You can also feel that this place is so special that it creates a very calm ambiance amongst guests. There are different common areas/kitchens for each group of bedrooms. The hostel is located just beside the bus station and a commercial center where there is a supermarket and some stores open until 10 Pm.NathalieSolo traveller
- 7.9Scored 7.9GoodRated good· 428 reviewsThe cleanliness, it's cleaned at a 5star standard which I loved by karen, nothing was to much effort. I stayed for few weeks, made use of pool and great facilities. Very cheap stay for excellent quality. Highly recommended. It's next to major rd, but u don't hear noise. Close to shops & bus stop. Staff are amazing only to willing to help. Very much appreciated. If your on a budget this is definitely the place to stay. You won't be disappointed.PruedenceSolo traveller
- Avg. price/night: £98.547.5Scored 7.5GoodRated good· 2,073 reviewsvery Social place if you like to party, cheap drinks for hostel guests. was pretty clean and even had a little workout room; pool area is very big and chill great location next to Rusty’s MarketVictoriaSolo traveller
- Avg. price/night: £72.099.0Scored 9.0SuperbRated superb· 1,284 reviewsGreat location, quite a few bathrooms, a pool etc. One of the best hostels I've stayed in.
EvgeniySolo traveller - 8.4Scored 8.4Very goodRated very good· 1,772 reviewsKitchen has a terrace which looks across the esplanade, so nice to sit & cook up there. Each floor of rooms had a sofa area outside to chill which I’ve never seen in a hostel before & was great to have a space other than your bunk bed. Great location & cheap
NahumYoung couple - 8.4Scored 8.4Very goodRated very good· 1,772 reviewsExcellent location and the facilities are second to none. The hostel is huge and very well run. It’s still a hostel though so beds uncomfortable especially climbing up to the top bunk and back down but that’s the fun of staying in a hostel. Very clean and good value for money. I would recommend this hostel to anyone looking for a cheap stay in Cairns especially when days are spent outside on tours etc
LorraineSolo traveller - Avg. price/night: £80.758.7Scored 8.7FabulousRated fabulous· 1,337 reviewsThis hostel is set in a great location within walking distance to the centre. The hostel is very secure, private and quiet. There are lots of places to hang out either with other travellers or on your own. The pool is a nice addition and very shady for some mid-day swimming without the sunburn. Peter is very responsive to all queries and easy to get in contact with. Overall a great budget place to stay while visiting Cairns.
HelenSolo traveller - Avg. price/night: £45.337.2Scored 7.2GoodRated good· 567 reviewsAs a backpacker, one of the best hostels I've been to, the hostel itself is very welcoming and the people very close. I've been here for a month and a half and I've felt at home. It is great that breakfast is included and the kitchen is very large and clean, there is no space problem as it usually happens in other hostels. There is a bar in the hostel and the drinks are cheap, they also hold events in the hostel and it allows you to meet a lot of people. Would repeat again without a doubt!!LaiaSolo traveller
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