After seeing the vibrant metropolises of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, you might feel the need to get a little further off the beaten track in Australia. May we suggest Hervey Bay?
This quiet and unassuming town takes up some prime beach space on Queensland’s coast – more specifically, the Fraser Coast. It’s an excellent base for travellers who want to go to the UNESCO listed Fraser Island. Rock up any time from July to November for the chance to see humpback whales up close and personal – something the majority of travellers have on their bucket list!
We’re sure you’re already dusting off your backpack and rooting through your cupboards for sunscreen. But first, you’re going to need somewhere to stay. Hervey Bay isn’t exactly awash with hostels, but don’t let that get you down – it’s quality over quantity here. There are some other pretty awesome budget accommodations that might just be up your street.
We’ve put together a list of the best hostels in Hervey Bay to help you find the right place for you. No matter your taste, travel style, or budget, there’s something on this list that will make your stay a memorable one. Let’s take a closer look.
Quick Answer: Best Hostels in Hervey Bay
- Overall Best Hostel in Hervey Bay – Woolshed Eco Lodge
- Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Hervey Bay – Flashpackers Hervey Bay
- Best Hostel for Couples in Hervey Bay – Shady Grove B & B
- Best Hostel for Families in Hervey Bay – Lazy Acres Caravan Park
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Best Hostels in Hervey Bay
Before booking your trip to Hervey Bay, have a think about what type of traveller you are. A digital nomad who needs space to work? A solo backpacker in Australia looking to make friends? Or perhaps you’re trying to find a romantic spot for you and your other half.
Most travellers in Hervey Bay stopped over on their Queensland road trips, so you can be sure to meet people from all over the world. These next seven hostels are the best budget accommodations in Hervey Bay – and we’re sure you’re going to love at least one of them!
Woolshed Eco Lodge – Overall Best Hostel in Hervey Bay
Consistently voted as the best hostel in Hervey Bay, this family-run accommodation will welcome you like, well, family! It’s right in the centre of town, with all the restaurants, bars and shops on your doorstep. There are heaps of weekly events that will help you break the ice with fellow travellers too.
One of the things that sets Woolshed Eco Lodge apart from other accommodations on this list is their commitment to sustainability. It is well on its way to becoming carbon neutral, so you can have a clear conscience as you sway in a hammock out in the Woolshed’s tropical gardens. We’d go as far to say that this is one of the best hostels in Australia too!
Flashpackers Hervey Bay – Best Hostels for Solo Travellers in Hervey Bay
Just look at everyone in this photo… they’re so happy, and they’ve only known each other for 25 minutes! At least, that’s what we think happened here. With an event every day of the week – ranging from popcorn nights and sausage sizzles to pancake breakfasts – you won’t find it hard to meet like-minded travellers during your stay at this Hervey Bay hostel. And while it has flashpacker in the name, it’s no more expensive than your average budget hostel! If you’re still not convinced, there’s a tour desk that will help you sort your whale watching tour or a trip to Fraser Island.
Shady Grove B & B – Best Hostel for Couples in Hervey Bay
If you’re travelling with your other half, a night in a noisy and sweaty dorm isn’t going to do anything for your relationship. However, splashing out on a night in a comfortable B & B will go a long way to making your stay a memorable one without breaking the bank. And if you do fancy a lazy day, there’s plenty on-site to keep you entertained. Lounge in the garden with a favourite book, watch a movie in the shared lounge, or have a game of tennis. All of this will have to wait until you’ve enjoyed your continental breakfast, though!
Lazy Acres Caravan Park – Best Hostel for Families in Hervey Bay
Sometimes, staying in a hostel isn’t the best option for a family – especially if they have young children. However, why should you miss out on low-priced accommodation?! Thankfully, there are alternatives. This holiday park is a great way to keep your costs down and still have a wonderful time. Units are spacious and give everyone enough room to breathe, while there’s plenty to do, too. Kids are sure to love the playground, while no-one will turn down a dip in the outdoor pool!
Mango Tourist Hostel
This small and intimate hostel is a real home away from home in Hervey Bay. There are never more than eight people able to stay, so make sure to book up pretty sharpish to ensure your place. Less than 200 metres from the beachfront, the owners can help you organise all your Hervey Bay activities. Your friendly local hosts can help with travel advice on local bush walks, and there are tours leaving from this cool and inexpensive place to stay.
Hervey Bay Colonial Lodge
If you’re working on the road, that usually means you’ll be able to splash out a little extra on your accommodation. Every once in a while, you deserve a treat, so make sure to put this lovely lodge on your list. There’s unlimited free Wi-Fi – perfect for keeping in contact with your clients and getting the most up to date information. However, once your laptop is firmly shut, why not spend some time strolling around the tropical gardens or enjoying the saltwater swimming pool?! Go on, you’ve earned it!
YHA Colonial Village & Camping & Tours
Last but not least is this hybrid hostel in Hervey Bay. Located within eight acres of landscaped botanical gardens, there’s not a bunk bed in sight. However, that’s about the only thing they don’t have here; there’s a bar and bistro on-site, sports courts, and a swimming pool. And because it’s YHA, you know you’re getting a reliable chain of hostels that have properties all across Australia. Now, all you need to do is choose between an apartment, room, or tent!
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It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!What to Pack for Your Hervey Bay 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 my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
Why You Should Travel to Hervey Bay
Whether it’s the thought of lazing on the beach, the chance to see humpback whales, or simply finding a quieter part of Australia to visit, consider putting Hervey Bay on your Eastcoast Aussie itinerary. It’s a paradise if you love water sports, too – with swimming, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and fishing all possible on the calm waters off the coast.
Just make sure you pick the right place to stay. Your hostel will set the tone for the rest of your trip, so if you choose one that doesn’t suit you, you won’t make the most of your time here. If you’re still struggling to make a decision, try not to stress; just go for our top recommended hostel in Hervey Bay – Woolshed Eco Lodge. It’s great value for money, and well on its way to being a zero-carbon property!
FAQ about Hostels in Hervey Bay
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Hervey Bay.
How much does a hostel cost in Hervey Bay?
The price of dorms in Hervey Bay ranges just around $20-$30 per stay, while private rooms are around $60.
What are the best hostels in Hervey Bay for couples?
Shady Grove B & B is a great hostel for active couples. From outdoor swimming pool, free bikes to tennis courts, you and your bae won’t feel bored in this hostel.
What are the best hostels in Hervey Bay near the airport?
Hervey Bay airport is within the city center so most hostels are very near and accessible. However, If I have to recommend one Woolshed Eco Lodge is my go to.
Travel Safety Tips for Hervey Bay
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.
Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Hervey Bay
You might be looking forward to enjoying a delicious meal as the waves lap against the shore, snorkelling and diving on the largest human-made reef in the southern hemisphere, or simply spending quality time with your friends and family. Whatever you want from a chilled-out beach break, Hervey Bay has it!
One thing that may slip your mind when planning your trip to Hervey Bay is where you’ll call home for the duration of your trip. Do you want to embrace the backpacker lifestyle and enjoy beers ’til the early hours, camp out under the stars, or go for a friendly and welcoming bed and breakfast? Your choice of accommodation in Hervey Bay is a massive part of your trip – whichever way you look at it!
If you’ve been to Hervey Bay and you feel we’re missing something off our list, please let us know in the comments below. You could also tell us what you love about the area to give travellers some help with their plans!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Australia for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Australia before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Oceania backpacking guide.
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