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 situated in the heart of Cairns, opposite the Cairns Central Shopping Centre and Cairns train station, Travellers Oasis presents an inviting accommodation option featuring an outdoor...

r
raycel
From
China
1. Both the front desk and the staff are very friendly. Kathy will help solve the demands you put forward. There is a very nice young lady at the front desk. When you don't know the place, she will take you there in person. A slightly older staff member sees that you are going downstairs to check out and helps take the luggage down the stairs. It makes people feel very warm here. 2. The rooms, toilets and kitchens are tidied up very cleanly. 3. This accommodation is arranged very warmly. 4. The check-in and check-out processes are arranged in an orderly manner and you can handle them by yourself. 5. The bed and the quilt are comfortable to sleep in.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,653 reviews
Price from
US$89.17
1 night, 2 adults

Dreamtime Hostel

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.

M
Madison
From
Australia
The staff were incredible especially Paul, the owner, who provided me with a free upgrade from a single to a double room upon arrival which I’m very grateful for. The manager Tim was also very friendly and accomodating. It’s truly such a peaceful hostel, just about everyone had gone to bed by 10pm and it was silent. The bathroom, kitchen, laundry and pool amenities are all beautiful and way beyond the standard for hostel accomodation. I plan to return again in the future for a longer stay!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,212 reviews
Price from
US$74.31
1 night, 2 adults

Travellers Paradise

Cairns

Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, Travellers Paradise offers accommodation in a historical, heritage listed Guest House in Cairns, 1.2 km from Cairns Convention Centre.

M
Maria
From
Germany
Nice, super clean and quiet! One of the best hostels I have stayed in a long time! Owner was very helpful and friendly getting around and store my luggage!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,349 reviews
Price from
US$105.23
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.

K
Kristiane
From
Denmark
Absolutely amazing stay at Mad Monkey Village. Very welcoming staff and nice common areas to hang around at. A big fan of the hammock by the pool and the tv room where you could watch what you wanted to on Netflix. The pillows here were also so nice and not flat like other hostels. Would definitely recommend to a friend.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,147 reviews
Price from
US$69.43
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.

J
Jana
From
Germany
the pool is amazing, the kitchen is clean, nice free breakfast, curtains in front of the beds for privacy and super friendly staff. loved it
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.2
Very good - What previous guests thought, 602 reviews
Price from
US$75.93
1 night, 2 adults

Little Drifter Cairns

Cairns

Set in Cairns and with Cairns Convention Centre reachable within less than 1 km, Little Drifter Cairns offers express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi throughout...

S
Soledad
From
Argentina
New and modern building, very comfortable and has everything you need. The kitchen is well equipped
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 138 reviews
Price from
US$105.69
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...

J
Julien
From
France
Amazing room. Brand new and beautiful. Swimming pool is great. Everything one need to cook at disposal. And people are lovely !
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
Very good - What previous guests thought, 437 reviews
Price from
US$75.96
1 night, 2 adults

Summer House Cairns

Cairns

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

B
Bonang
From
South Africa
The staff was super friendly and helpful. The property is close to the airport. They have a lot of social activities and a WhatsApp community with the announcements so you don’t miss out. They have the cheapest food and drink prices I’ve seen in my time in Australia and the food was delicious.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.6
Good - What previous guests thought, 1,771 reviews
Price from
US$62.42
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 ensuite rooms with an on-site bar and restaurant downstairs!

A
Ariba
From
Singapore
It was cheap and yet comfortable
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.1
Good - What previous guests thought, 1,788 reviews
Price from
US$59.02
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.

J
Joanna
From
Italy
The bed was comfortable and very clean! Super friendly staff.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.8
Good - What previous guests thought, 2,469 reviews
Price from
US$75.30
1 night, 2 adults
All hostels in Cairns

Looking for a hostel?

Budget travellers know that there is 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 bit more.

Most booked hostels in Cairns and surroundings in the past month

See all
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
    Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 1,349 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
    Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,653 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.9
    Good - What previous guests thought, 794 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
    Very good - What previous guests thought, 437 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.1
    Good - What previous guests thought, 1,786 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
    Very good - What previous guests thought, 138 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.8
    Good - What previous guests thought, 2,469 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.6
    Good - What previous guests thought, 1,858 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.5
    Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,899 reviews
  • Popular with guests booking hostels in Cairns

    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.6
    Good - What previous guests thought, 1,771 reviews

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

  • Mad Monkey Central

    Cairns
    Budget options available
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.3
    Good - What previous guests thought, 606 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...

    From US$76.35 per night
  • Mad Monkey Waterfront

    Cairns
    Budget options available
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.9
    Good - What previous guests thought, 561 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!

    From US$73.53 per night
  • Bohemia Resort Cairns

    Cairns
    Budget options available
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 6.4
    Pleasant - What previous guests thought, 893 reviews

    Bohemia 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.

    From US$61.43 per night
  • Global Backpackers Cairns

    Cairns
    Budget options available
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.5
    Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,899 reviews

    Situated in Cairns and with Cairns Station reachable within 1.1 km, Global Backpackers Cairns features a tour desk, non-smoking rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi and a terrace.

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.2
    Very good - What previous guests thought, 125 reviews

    Featuring barbecue facilities, MiHaven Shared Living - Martyn St is set in Cairns in the Queensland region, 1.3 km from Cairns Station and 2.4 km from Cairns Convention Centre.

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.8
    Good - What previous guests thought, 45 reviews

    Set in Cairns, 1.4 km from Cairns Station, MiHaven Shared Living - Pembroke St offers accommodation with a garden, private parking, a shared lounge and barbecue facilities.

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.4
    Very good - What previous guests thought, 15 reviews

    Located 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.

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

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.6
    Good - What previous guests thought, 1,858 reviews

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

    From US$148.62 per night
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 6.9
    Pleasant - What previous guests thought, 615 reviews

    Located in Cairns, 700 metres from Cairns Station, Cairns City Backpackers Hostel provides air-conditioned rooms and a garden.

    From US$52.84 per night

FAQ about hostels in Cairns

Hostels that guests love in Cairns

See all
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.9
    Good - What previous guests thought, 794 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 traveller
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.5
    Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,899 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 traveller
  • Avg. price/night: US$89.17
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
    Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,653 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 traveller
  • Avg. price/night: US$82.57
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
    Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,212 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 traveller
  • Avg. price/night: US$76.35
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.3
    Good - What previous guests thought, 606 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 traveller
  • Avg. price/night: US$89.17
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.3
    Superb - What previous guests thought, 1,653 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 traveller
  • Avg. price/night: US$148.62
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.6
    Good - What previous guests thought, 1,858 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 traveller
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.5
    Very good - What previous guests thought, 1,899 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: US$76.35
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 7.3
    Good - What previous guests thought, 606 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 traveller