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Cairns is one of the most underrated cities in all of Australia. With its unparalleled natural beauty, the city is home to diverse reefs, ancient rainforests, rich culture and a DELICIOUS food scene.
As the gateway to the famous Great Barrier Reef, this Aussie town sees a lot of tourists passing through. Many travellers just see Cairns as a gateway city but it is so much more! This gorgeous little city deserves a few days of its own.
With a lot of backpackers heading to Cairns, that means there are a lot of hostels to choose from. Too many hostels to choose from sounds like a good problem to have right? And it is! But deciding which one is best for you can often feel like a mammoth task.
Don’t sweat it. I’ve done the hard work – boots on the ground and fingers to the keyboard (you’re welcome). My ultimate guide to the best hostels in Cairns will have you diving in the Great Barrier Reef in no time.
Let’s dive in dudes.
Photo: Alexandria Zboyovski
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Cairns
- Best Overall Hostel in Cairns – Travellers Oasis
- Best Hostel in Cairns for Solo Travellers – Summer House Cairns
- Best Cheap Hostel in Cairns – Mumma’s Hostel Cairns
- Best Party Hostel in Cairns – Gilligan’s Backpacker Hotel & Resort Cairns
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Cairns – Global Backpackers Cairns
The 5 Best Hostels in Cairns
Here it is – the crème de la crème of Cairns’s hostels, neatly split into travel niches just for you. Picking a place has never been easier, so you can get out exploring the city ASAP.
1. Travellers Oasis – Best Overall Hostel in Cairns
- Dorm (mixed): From $29
- Private Room: From $77
- Address: 8 Scott street, Parramatta Park, Cairns, Australia
Travellers Oasis is a breath of fresh air for those who want the good vibes of an Aussie hostel without the cookie-cutter feel. It’s smaller, friendlier, and full of character, with a pool and social area that makes it hard not to jump into the social scene. By the time you check out, you’ll probably have a whole new crew to backpack Australia with.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Chill But Social Vibes
- Solid Amenities
- Friendly Staff
The decor is stylish without trying too hard, and the bathrooms feel more like home than your usual hostel setup. They’ve even got proper beds—not the dreaded bunks—and they’re actually comfortable.
The place is spotless, with a cosy yet airy vibe that makes it feel like a home away from home. The kitchen is an absolute gem, fully equipped with ovens—yes, ovens—which is a game-changer for anyone who’s tired of cooking pasta for the fourth night of the week.
The staff keep everything running smoothly, and their attention to detail is impressive. Located just a 10 to 15-minute walk from Cairns city centre, it’s close enough for easy access but far enough out to enjoy some proper peace and quiet. Relaxed, welcoming, and full of charm, Travellers Oasis is the kind of place you settle into and never want to leave.
2. Summer House Cairns – Best Hostel in Cairns for Solo Travellers
- Dorm (mixed): From $21
- Private Room: From $82
- Address: 341 Lake Street, Cairns, Australia
The outdoor space at Summer House Cairns nails that laid-back Aussie vibe. With a pool, fitness area, and volleyball court, it’s the kind of spot where you’ll want to spend all your time soaking up the sun and hanging out with other solo travellers in Australia.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Fitness Area
- Regular Shuttle Buses Into Cairns
- Outdoor Swimming Pool
There’s always something happening here, but the painting sessions definitely stand out as a fun and creative way to unwind. Trivia nights at the bar are a laugh and a great way to meet people from all over. And the $5 jugs? Hell yeah, baby!!!
The staff are warm, welcoming, and happy to sort you out with whatever you need. While the hostel sits a bit outside Cairns city centre, the regular shuttle buses keep everything within easy reach. The rooms are clean, quiet, and come with spacious lockers for your gear, making sure you’ve got everything you need for a comfortable stay on the East Coast.
3. Mumma’s Hostel Cairns – Best Cheap Hostel in Cairns
- Dorm (mixed): From $26
- Private Room: From $67
- Address: 140 Grafton St, Cairns, Australia
Mumma’s Hostel Cairns has that cosy, homey vibe that’s perfect if you’re looking to actually connect with people. Not into the party scene? No worries – this isn’t that kind of place, so you’re guaranteed a solid night’s sleep. But if you do fancy a night out, all the party spots are just a stone’s throw away.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Dorms With Curtains
- Clean and Modern Amenities
- BBQ Area
It’s got a funky open layout, plus the cinema area is a fun touch! The showers are clean and there’s even free towel hire on request if you want an opportunity to escape your grimy backpacker one. The location is good too – very close to the lagoon and the strip, as well as supermarkets!
There are plenty of chill areas to kick back in, and the beds come with curtains for that extra bit of privacy and comfort. The staff are super friendly and always there to help. Plus, the toilets and showers are spotless and actually don’t smell – and let’s be real, it’s all about the little wins in hostel life. Throw in a free breakfast to get you fuelled for the day and you’re looking at one of the best cheap hostels in Cairns if you’re looking to do Australia on the cheap.
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View on Osprey4. Gilligan’s Backpacker Hotel & Resort Cairns – Best Party Hostel in Cairns
- Dorm (mixed): From $26
- Private Room: From $122
- Address: 57 – 89 Grafton Street, Cairns, Australia
Gilligan’s has made a name for itself as one of Australia’s wildest party hostels, and the Cairns spot lives up to the hype. The energy here is off the charts, day and night, making it a top pick for solo travellers and groups alike. With a lagoon-style pool that’s perfect for cooling off or striking up a conversation, the social vibes are sweet as.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- On-site Nightclub
- Discounted Drinks
- Super Social
Each floor has modern communal kitchens and lounges, giving you plenty of space to cook, unwind, or catch up on a good read. The kitchens are big, clean, and fully equipped, so there’s no hassle keeping yourself fed.
Guests get discounts on drinks and entry, so the nightlife here is hard to pass up. Centrally located, everything in Cairns is within easy reach, but the real highlight kicks off when the hostel turns into a nightclub after dark.
The dorms are comfortable and well-maintained, with “clubside” rooms near the nightclub clearly marked for those who don’t mind being close to the action. If you’re after a social spot with everything you need for a good time when backpacking Cairns, Gilligan’s has you covered.
5. Global Backpackers Cairns – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Cairns
- Dorm (mixed): From $25
- Private Room: From $108
- Address: 67 The Esplanade, Cairns, Australia
Global Backpackers Cairns is the perfect spot for long-term travellers and digital nomads who want affordability without compromising on quality. This clean, modern hostel is in a prime location right on Cairns Esplanade, directly across from the Cairns swimming lagoon and within walking distance of restaurants, nightlife, and shopping.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Film Room
- Rooftop Terrace
- Insane Kitchen (views and amenities!!!)
The common areas are ideal for relaxing, with a film room, an outdoor terrace, and plenty of comfy couches. The kitchen is a standout feature, with ample cooktops, multiple sinks, a walk-in fridge, and both indoor and outdoor seating. The views from the kitchen are spectacular, adding a little extra magic to meal prep.
Step outside, and Cairns Esplanade offers a vibrant mix of dining options, with the lagoon and boardwalk just moments away. This hostel makes it easy to strike a balance between work and play, with excellent staff, spacious en suite bathrooms, and free access to a small gym.
Global Backpackers is a great choice for those looking for a relaxed base in Cairns to settle in, work remotely, and explore the city at their own pace.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Cairns Hostels
So, now that I’ve talked about the best, let’s talk about the rest! (Of the best). These are some more picks from the top Cairns hostels to rest your weary head at when exploring the city.
The Village Cairns
- Dorm (mixed): From $19
- Private Room: From $51
- Address: 1/7 Shields St, Cairns, Australia
The Village Cairns has a laid-back, social vibe with plenty of events to join, making it a great spot for meeting people without the full-on party scene. If you’re looking for a solid night’s sleep but still want a place with some life to it, this one fits the bill. Rooms are clean, with spacious lockers, and the kitchen is well-equipped. The balcony is great for meals or chatting, and the TV/dining area has a ping pong table for some downtime.
The location is a winner—just a two-minute walk to the Esplanade Lagoon and the marina, where all the snorkelling and diving trips to the Great Barrier Reef kick-off. Being right in the city keeps everything convenient, though it can get noisy late into the night, so bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
Mad Monkey Village
- Dorm (mixed): From $21
- Private Room: From $89
- Address: 141 Sheridan St, Cairns, Australia
Mad Monkey Village is a newly renovated gem with a lagoon-style pool that’s perfect for kicking back after a day of Aussie adventures. Soak up the sun by the pool, or chill in the TV room with Netflix and PlayStation when things get too hot in the day!
The kitchen’s always spotless, thanks to the staff, and the A/C in the rooms is solid, keeping things cool at night. It’s a pretty chill spot, but if you’re after a little more action, there’s free yoga throughout the week and events at their sister hostel, Mad Monkey Central, which is only a short walk away.
Dreamtime Hostel
- Dorm (Female): From $36
- Private Room: From $64
- Address: 4 Terminus Street, Cairns, Australia
From the moment you arrive, you’re sure to feel at home at this Aussie hostel. Making friends with the people staying here is super easy—the vibes are very chill whilst keeping things social. If you are a solo traveller because you like your own space that’s totally cool. Dreamtime Hostel has a great selection of private rooms so the introverted side of you is catered for too!
There are just so many opportunities to meet people here; at the outdoor swimming pool, at the bar, in the guest kitchen, even while doing your laundry! The staff are great but Tim in particular is a gem. A fountain of knowledge for the local area, he’s also on hand to whip out great suggestions and can even help us book all tours (with a sweet discount too).
YHA Cairns Central
- Dorm (mixed): From $27
- Private Room: From $68
- Address: 20-26 McLeod Street, Cairns QLD 4870, Cairns, Australia
Smack bang in the middle of Cairns, YHA Cairns Central is a solid base for your travels. The place has a huge courtyard with lush tropical gardens, a pool, two spas, and an outdoor games area. It’s opposite Cairns Central Shopping Centre and just a short stroll from Cairns Esplanade, packed with pubs, cafes, shops, and the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef from Trinity Wharf. The staff are on the ball and can sort you out with tours and activities.
This isn’t a party hostel, so it’s perfect for anyone wanting a low-key vibe. The rooms are clean, and you can grab a towel for free. With a slightly older crowd, it’s all about relaxing and taking it easy.
Mad Monkey Central
- Dorm (mixed): From $22
- Private Room: From $65
- Address: 100 Sheridan Street, Cairns City, Cairns, Australia
Mad Monkey Central is a top hostel in Cairns and is perfect for all you party animals out there. The vibe at Mad Monkey is second to none, it’s hard to describe so you’ve just gotta go and experience it for yourself. The Mad Monkey bar it totally lit and now they even have a gourmet pizza oven. No, eating is not cheating at Mad Monkey! Expect a stylishly designed space and epic amenities all wrapped up in a super affordable price.
Mad Monkey Waterfront
- Dorm (mixed): From $22
- Private Room: From $64
- Address: 93A Esplanade, Cairns, Australia
Cairns is a must-see in Australia, and the waterfront views at Mad Monkey alone are worth the visit—seriously, they’re unreal. This Mad Monkey’s got it all: solid rooms, top-tier facilities, and a vibe that’s off the charts. The rooms are spotless and comfy. The kitchen’s always looking sharp too, thanks to the ever-busy staff keeping it fresh. With a buzzing atmosphere and laid-back communal areas, it’s a breeze to meet other travellers – expect to bump into some seriously cool, down-to-earth peeps. There’s something happening most nights, including a free BBQ and a free breakfast every morning to keep you fuelled up. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with this one.
Travellers Paradise
- Dorm (mixed): From $43
- Private Room: From $80
- Address: 187 Bunda Street, Parramatta Park, Cairns, Australia
If you are looking for a quiet, retreat in a hostel then Travellers Paradise is the place for you. Situated just 600m from Cairns city centre, you could not get a better location if you tried. Travellers Paradise is a simple youth hostel in Cairns that has everything that you could need. Free tea and coffee throughout the day is a nice touch and the hostel garden is a real treat. The hostel has its own outdoor swimming pool which is the perfect place to hang out with your hostel mates. FYI, Travellers Paradise is a booze-free hostel so if you’re looking for a party perhaps look elsewhere.
The Jack Backpackers
- Dorm (mixed): From $23
- Private Room: From $61
- Address: Corner Sherdian and Spence Streets, Cairns, Australia
The Jack Backpackers is an increasingly popular youth hostel in Cairns that has its own bar and restaurant. Genuinely, you don’t need to leave the place throughout the course of your stay, this place has it all! Free family dinner every night is a great way to meet other backpackers and save those precious dollars in a country as expensive as Australia too. Invariably once dinner is over the crew hits The Jack’s bar and then rolls on out into town. The Jack Backpackers has the perfect hostel vibe, is super clean and the beds are comfy AF.
Caravella Backpackers
- Private Room: From $77
- Address: 149 The Esplanade, 4870 Cairns, Australia
Caravella Backpackers is a top hostel in Cairns that overlooks the city waterfront. This place offers great value for money, guests are welcome to make the most of the free airport shuttle service and the nightly meal deals at the Caravella restaurant. There is an up-market feel to Caravella which makes you feel as if you are in a ‘proper’ holiday resort, rather than a budget hostel in Cairns. Just a 10-minute walk from some of Cairns’ best bars, cafes and shops Caravella is a fantastic hostel well worth considering.
Bounce Cairns
- Dorm (mixed): From $22
- Address: 117 Grafton Street, 4870 Cairns, Australia
Bounce Cairns is a highly recommended hostel in Cairns with a heap of freebies to enjoy. Free breakfast (hell yeah!), free WiFi, free parking, and free tea and coffee, Bounce Cairns is fantastic value for money. They have mixed, female-only and male-only dorms so you can stay how you like. Bounce Cairns has private rooms too that are super affordable and come with a TV and kitchenette. Relax and welcome if you are looking for a super chilled-out hostel in Cairns you will be stoked with your choice of Bounce Cairns. FYI, the outdoor swimming pool is the icing on the cake with this one!
Cairns City Backpackers
- Dorm (mixed): From $23
- Private Room: From $52
- Address: 274 Draper Street, Parramatta Park, 4870 Cairns, Australia
Cheap and cheerful, Cairns City Backpackers is the best hostel in Cairns if you are just looking for a place to crash. No frills, nothing flashy, CCB is a brilliant budget hostel in Cairns that ticks all the boxes. With free parking, free WiFi, a guest kitchen and even a little outdoor swimming pool, Cairns City Backpackers is a bit of a hidden gem. A total saving grace if you find yourself nearly skint in Cairns. If that is the case, be sure to have a gander at the hostel’s jobs board. The staff can help you out with where to look for work too so your bank account can be saved ASAP.
Asylum Cairns
An asylum in all the positive senses of the word, Asylum is a great budget hostel in Cairns. Super affordable, centrally located, clean and comfortable you’ll be hard-pressed to find a complaint about Asylum Cairns. They even offer a free airport transfer! The team runs an all-you-can-eat BBQ every Monday night for just $5. Not to be missed! Most dorm beds come with their own reading light and plug socket which is a total bonus. No fighting over who gets to charge their phone next to your dorm mates! FYI Asylum Cairns is a BYOB hostel, let the good times roll!
Castaways Backpackers
Castaways Backpackers is a highly recommended hostel in Cairns that is ideal for digital nomads. With a great social vibe but without the rowdy party crew, Castaways offers digital nomads the opportunity to get a heap of work done in a quiet environment and then relax and unwind with fellow travellers. The dorms are bright and spacious and the lack of bunks makes the place feel a bit less sterile. The guest kitchen is ideal for digital nomads looking to cut costs and the swimming pool is a great incentive to get the workload over and done with. Castaways is just 10 minutes from Cairns Esplanade so you are right in the heart of the action in Cairns.
JJ’s Backpackers
JJ’s Backpackers is a much loved and highly recommended hostel in Cairns that sees travellers return time after time. With the right balance of party vibes and a relaxed feel, JJ’s Backpackers is a solid all-rounder. Guests can chill out by the poolside, in the guest kitchen or even in their spacious dorm. There is always something on at JJ’s whether it be a BBQ or a pizza night. The staff here are wonderful and are happy to help you with your onward travels. Be sure to swing by the hostel’s tours and travel desk to wangle a bargain on your next Australian adventure.
Koala Beach Resort
Cheap AF and with everything you could really ask for in a budget hostel in Cairns Koala Beach Resort is a great option for all. Whether you are hitting up Cairns with your crew or going it solo you’ll feel right at home at Koala Beach Resort. Just 500m from Cairns Esplanade and the Lagoon, Koala Beach Resort couldn’t be in a better location if it tried. The staff totally make Koala Beach Resort. Mostly locals, they are more than happy to point you in the right direction and let you know what’s on in Cairns during your stay.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Cairns
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Cairns.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Hostels in Cairns
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Cairns.
What to Pack for your Cairns Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Cairns?
The average price of hostels in Cairns can range from $19 – $28+ per night. Of course, the private rooms are on the higher end of the scale than the dorm beds.
What are the best hostels in Cairns with private rooms?
Global Backpackers Cairns has you covered with some swanky digs—ideal for couples or if you’re just over-sharing bunk beds. The location’s spot on, the vibe’s laid-back and the amenities are pretty sweet too. Beware though-they get booked up way in advance so lock it in ASAP.
What are the best hostels near the Great Barrier Reef?
Cairns is the ultimate base for Great Barrier Reef adventures, and its hostels don’t disappoint. Travellers Oasis is a top pick—its homely vibe, tropical garden, and proximity to the marina make it the perfect place to rest up before heading out to the Reef.
Mad Monkey Central is also a great choice as it’s conveniently located near the marina, making it easy to roll out of bed and onto your Reef tour.
Final Thoughts on Cairns Hostels
Cairns isn’t just a stop on your way somewhere else—it’s a destination that’ll catch you off guard if you give it the chance. With unforgettable adventures, a solid backpacker crowd, and that perfect tropical vibe, it’s a place that sticks with you long after you leave.
Whether you’re diving the Reef, exploring the rainforest, or just kicking back in town, the right hostel makes all the difference.
Still unsure of the right hostel? Travellers Oasis is my fave. It’s always refreshing to see a hostel that strays from the cookie-cutter hostel chains and it has a family vibe that is hard to replicate.
Happy travels! And hey, if you discover any hidden gems or must-try spots along the way, drop me a comment – I’m always looking for the best new spot in the city.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Australia for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Cairns before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate East Coast Australia backpacking guide.
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