The 10 best hostels in Cairns, Australia | Booking.com
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Hostels in Cairns

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The best hostels in Cairns

Some of the best backpacker spots in Cairns

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Travellers Oasis

Cairns

Conveniently located in the heart of Cairns, opposite the Cairns Central Shopping Center and Cairns train station, Travelers Oasis presents an inviting accommodations option featuring an outdoor...

L
Lisa
From
Belgium
I stayed here for the first time five years ago and had such fond memories of the hostel that I came back on a recent trip to Cairns. It's cozy, comfortable clean and relaxed, just as I remembered! We loved our stay and will be back next time we're in Cairns.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Wonderful - What previous guests thought, 1,655 reviews
Location 9.0
Price from
$84.59
1 night, 2 adults

Travellers Paradise

Cairns

Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, Travelers Paradise offers accommodations in a historical, heritage listed Guest House in Cairns, 0.7 mi from Cairns Convention Center.

g
gaiyan
From
United States
The property is exceptionally clean and diligently maintained by Peter. He is very kind and accommodating and upgraded my room. He even use waterproof pillow and bed sheet. The environment is natural and it is like living in a rain forest. It is close to Central station where you can go shopping at Coles and Kmart. The kitchen is also clean and has essentials for cooking. The shared bathroom is easy close to the bedroom and not busy.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Excellent - What previous guests thought, 1,365 reviews
Location 9.2
Price from
$97.37
1 night, 2 adults

Mad Monkey Village

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.

e
eyal
From
Hungary
Stayed for a long time and the staff was super helpful, doing their best to help. Also met a lot of nice people, good vibe. Facilities are comfortable and the rooms as well.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.3
Very Good - What previous guests thought, 1,158 reviews
Location 8.4
Price from
$84.45
1 night, 2 adults

Dreamtime Hostel

Cairns

Dreamtime is an award winning hostel with a difference. We offer travelers a safe, peaceful & cozy place to stay. We are not a party hostel.

P
Pol
From
Ireland
Tim was friendly and accommodating upon our arrival and helped us choose a tour to the Barrier Reef. The hostel has a relaxed and social atmosphere. They make an effort to recycle and reduce energy use etc. Overall one of the better hostels I've stayed in in Australia.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
Excellent - What previous guests thought, 1,225 reviews
Location 9.0
Price from
$64.91
1 night, 2 adults

Mumma's Hostel Cairns

Cairns

Mumma's Hostel Cairns has an outdoor swimming pool, garden, a shared lounge and terrace in Cairns.

B
Bravo
From
Indonesia
The staff was really friendly and helpful
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.1
Very Good - What previous guests thought, 612 reviews
Location 9.0
Price from
$53.45
1 night, 2 adults

Little Drifter Cairns

Cairns

Located in Cairns and with Cairns Convention Center reachable within a 10-minute walk, Little Drifter Cairns provides express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi...

A
Ava
From
United States
The staff here (shout-out to Luke!!) was amazing! So friendly, kind, and willing to make my accommodation as smooth and seamless as possible. On several occasions, I had help with my luggage and friendly faces to guide me to where I needed to go. The area is top tier and within walking distance to everything you'd need - the rooms are gorgeous and comfy. Would definitely come back again!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.6
Excellent - What previous guests thought, 120 reviews
Location 9.8
Price from
$104.91
1 night, 2 adults

Caravella Backpackers

Cairns

Ideally 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...

H
Harrison F. Carter
From
New Zealand
The staff were so lovely, helpful and kind... really wonderful people. My room was clean and comfortable and had all I needed. The location was superb for everything. Ate at the attached Indonesian restaurant each evening, really lovely people and food. Loved my stay and visit.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very Good - What previous guests thought, 404 reviews
Location 9.3
Price from
$75.41
1 night, 2 adults

Summer House Cairns

Cairns

Summer House Cairns features free bikes, outdoor swimming pool, a garden and shared lounge in Cairns.

S
SAAD
From
Australia
It was much cleaner than I expected, since this was the first backpacker residence I used! The staff was friendly and extremely helpful. All necessities were provided and explained well. I only stayed a couple of nights, but for those staying longer Summer House has activities to keep all travellers entertained. Shuttle available to the CBD, and a tiny walk to some good eateries.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.6
Good - What previous guests thought, 1,775 reviews
Location 7.8
Price from
$74.36
1 night, 2 adults

The Jack Backpackers

Cairns

Guests enjoy FREE WIFI, NEW Air Cons, FREE Lockers, FREE Netflix available in common lounge area & private rooms with attached bathroom with an on-site bar and restaurant downstairs!

R
Rodriguez
From
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.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.1
Good - What previous guests thought, 1,795 reviews
Location 8.9
Price from
$58.59
1 night, 2 adults

YHA Cairns Central

Cairns

YHA Cairns Central is located just 15 minutes' walk from The Esplanade and Trinity Wharf. It features an outdoor swimming pool, 2 spas, and a free Wi-Fi hotspot.

c
cindy
From
Australia
They helped me greatly as I was late and too old to get on top bunk. Very grateful 🤩
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.9
Good - What previous guests thought, 2,478 reviews
Location 9.0
Price from
$74.75
1 night, 2 adults
All hostels in Cairns

Looking for a hostel?

Budget travelers know there's no better way to make the most of their trip than by staying at a hostel: Save money for exploring during the day, and swap stories with fellow backpackers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening. Dorm-style bedrooms with shared bathrooms are standard hostel fare, but private rooms are also available for those willing to pay a little more.

Most booked hostels in Cairns and surrounding area in the past month

See all
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
    Excellent - What previous guests thought, 1,221 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
    Excellent - What previous guests thought, 1,365 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.2
    Wonderful - What previous guests thought, 1,656 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
    Very Good - What previous guests thought, 409 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.6
    Excellent - What previous guests thought, 122 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.1
    Good - What previous guests thought, 1,794 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.9
    Good - What previous guests thought, 2,476 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.6
    Good - What previous guests thought, 1,915 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.6
    Good - What previous guests thought, 1,775 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.5
    Very Good - What previous guests thought, 1,918 reviews

No credit card needed to book these hostels in Cairns and nearby

  • Global Backpackers Cairns

    Cairns
    No credit card needed
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.5
    Very Good - What previous guests thought, 1,918 reviews

    Located in Cairns and with Cairns Station reachable within a 12-minute walk, Global Backpackers Cairns has a tour desk, non-smoking rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi and a terrace.

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.1
    Very Good - What previous guests thought, 123 reviews

    Featuring barbecue facilities, MiHaven Shared Living - Martyn St is located in Cairns in the Queensland region, a 15-minute walk from Cairns Station and 1.5 miles from Cairns Convention Center.

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.6
    Good - What previous guests thought, 44 reviews

    Located in Cairns, a 16-minute walk from Cairns Station, MiHaven Shared Living - Pembroke St provides accommodations with a garden, private parking, a shared lounge and barbecue facilities.

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.5
    Very Good - What previous guests thought, 14 reviews

    Located in Cairns and with Cairns Station reachable within a 18-minute walk, MiHaven Shared Living - Gatton St provides a garden, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi throughout the property and a shared...

Save money on hostels in Cairns and nearby – budget options available

  • Mad Monkey Central

    Cairns
    Budget options available
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.4
    Good - What previous guests thought, 622 reviews

    Kick back and enjoy a refreshing drink at our outdoor bar, serving up budget-friendly sips including locally brewed Coral Sea beer – perfect for those chilled pre-drinks to easily meet other travelers...

  • Mad Monkey Waterfront

    Cairns
    Budget options available
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.9
    Good - What previous guests thought, 556 reviews

    You simply can't beat our location – we're directly on the vibrant Cairns Esplanade, with the stunning Cairns Lagoon just across the street!

  • Bohemia Resort Cairns

    Cairns
    Budget options available
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 6.4
    Pleasant - What previous guests thought, 914 reviews

    Bohemia Resort Cairns provides accommodations close to the Cairns city center. There is a large outdoor undercover area overlooking the lagoon-style pools and landscaped gardens.

Great access to the city center. Check these hostels in Cairns and nearby

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.6
    Good - What previous guests thought, 1,915 reviews

    2024 Renovation Revelation: A Bold Makeover Journey Begins – Brace Yourself for an Entirely Revamped Bathroom Experience!

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 6.9
    Pleasant - What previous guests thought, 604 reviews

    Located in Cairns, a 7-minute walk from Cairns Station, Cairns City Backpackers Hostel provides air-conditioned rooms and a garden.

FAQ about hostels in Cairns

Hostels that guests love in Cairns

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  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.9
    Good - What previous guests thought, 817 reviews
    Best hostel in Cairns. Super social, nice events and cheap drinks at the bar. Location is in the heart of the city and you can literally walk everywhere in 5 minutes. Will definetly be back one day
    Guest review by
    Piccioni
    Solo traveler
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.5
    Very Good - What previous guests thought, 1,918 reviews
    In addition to the great location of the hostel, I really enjoyed the kitchen and common area on the top level. It's a great way to connect with people throughout the hostel. They do make sure that the hostel stays safe, asking all backpackers not to bring guests or people from outside.
    Guest review by
    Jacqueline
    Solo traveler
  • Avg. price/night: $88.52
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.2
    Wonderful - What previous guests thought, 1,656 reviews
    This is a very nice hostel. The building has everything you need. They take great care for everyday cleanings. My dorm was mixed with bunk beds. There’s a safe under the bed for each person. Sheets were clean, and so the bathrooms.
    Guest review by
    Vittoria
    Solo traveler
  • Avg. price/night: $81.96
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.9
    Excellent - What previous guests thought, 1,221 reviews
    This was the best hostel I’ve been so far. I stayed in the upstairs dorms which are very nice. With just 4/5 beds per room (not bunk beds for once). The building is not new but really nice with great vibes! Everybody was so chill…The common areas are great and the staff is awesome: thanks to Tim, Paul and Chelsea for what they do!
    Guest review by
    Vittoria
    Solo traveler
  • Avg. price/night: $79.18
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.4
    Good - What previous guests thought, 622 reviews
    The 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!!
    Guest review by
    Sarah
    Solo traveler
  • Avg. price/night: $88.52
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.2
    Wonderful - What previous guests thought, 1,656 reviews
    Best 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.
    Guest review by
    Nathalie
    Solo traveler
  • Avg. price/night: $147.53
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.6
    Good - What previous guests thought, 1,915 reviews
    very 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 Market
    Guest review by
    Victoria
    Solo traveler
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.5
    Very Good - What previous guests thought, 1,918 reviews
    Kitchen 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
    Guest review by
    Nahum
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: $79.18
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.4
    Good - What previous guests thought, 622 reviews
    As 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!!
    Guest review by
    Laia
    Solo traveler

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