Best Hostels In Cairns For Backpackers
Updated Mon 16 Feb 2026
Tropical far north Queensland is so much more than just a gateway to the incredible Great Barrier Reef. Cairns is in fact incredibly backpacker-friendly, with its esplanade boardwalk lined with bars, restaurants and a public swimming lagoon. This bustling tropical town has grown increasingly popular with backpackers looking for a relaxing time in an awesome city, with plenty of natural tours and adventures to be had close by.
A Quick Introduction to Hostels in Cairns
Cairns can be an affordable city for a backpacker in Australia, with an abundance of hostels and budget accommodation, backpackers can save their dollars for trips out to the Reef, the Daintree Rainforest and the Atherton Tablelands.
Most travellers who are backpacking are usually keen to save their money for experiences and tours rather than on bed and board. That’s where the invention of the hostel comes in. They are usually good value and allow for a few types of accommodation, meaning if you want to super save, you can stay in a dorm, or if you’re keen to have privacy and not spend tons, you can get a private room in a hostel.
Average prices of Cairns hostels
To give you a rough idea of prices, the average price for a bunk bed in a shared dorm in Cairns is from around $30 - $45 per night. A basic room for two is roughly from $100 per night. This is just a rough average to give you an idea. Prices always depend on the season and holidays.
To ensure a smooth holiday, choosing the right hostel for you and booking in advance is recommended before you get your sandals on the ground in Cairns. So, what kind of hostels are there in Cairns? Here are our top picks for your next adventure in far north Queensland.
Our favourite Cairns hostels
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Location: Located in the city centre amongst abundant restaurants, bars and nightlife.
Cairns #1 place to party and easily one of the best party hostels in the world. Renowned as the best hostel in Cairns for sociable, solo travellers and party animals, there are events held here every single night of the week.
Located in the city centre offering spacious, air-conditioned and en-suite rooms, there is a variety of dorm-style accommodation and private hotel rooms on offer. This pure entertainment venue hosts a huge swimming pool to chill out with friends, an open deck bar, a huge outdoor pub screen, two nightclubs, and restaurants. Linen, wifi, luggage storage, gym and kitchens are all included and free for guests to use!
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Location: Central Cairns, one block from the train station and surrounded by restaurants, bars and clubs!
Head to Youth Hostel Australia for an assured awesome stay! YHA Australia is a nationwide brand of hostels, perfecting the balance of style and comfort for budget-conscious travellers.
Featuring both private rooms, shared dorms and including all linen, free wifi, free parking, air con and a social vibe, get amongst the action at YHA! Plus the hostel has modern ammenities, an outdoor swimming pool, spacious common areas, and a social BBQ area.
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Location: Global Backpackers is located on the Cairns Esplanade waterfront opposite the lagoon.
Global Backpackers Cairns is a world-class hostel is located on the Cairns Esplanade waterfront opposite the lagoon. With the boardwalk, marina, restaurants, shops and nightlife just a short walk away, this hostel is a great, central access point to all of the wonders that Cairns has to offer!
Featuring modern facilities throughout, an awesome communal rooftop deck and lounge offering the best views of the city and the Coral Sea, you can’t go wrong with Global Backpackers Cairns. Enjoy the sunset or sunrise and take in the tropical waterfront vibe in style, without breaking the bank!
The hostel offers a wide range of rooms, from deluxe queens with balconies and en-suite to simple and cheap shared dorms. All rooms have air conditioning and free Wifi. This is travellers' favourite hostel in Cairns when it comes to location, and it’s no surprise why!
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Mad Monkey Jungle
Location: Located in the centre of Cairns, Mad Monkey Jungle is only a couple of streets back from the bustling esplanade.
Renowned for its busy social scene and high-vibe atmosphere, this hostel is the ultimate place to stay if you're looking to party during your time in Cairns. With an on-site bar offering cheap drinks, an outdoor pool, a modern kitchen and spacious rooms, staying here is really a no-brainer!
All rooms have AC to keep you cool, as well as en-suite bathrooms. Some rooms even have private balconies or courtyard gardens. Each bed has its own power point and light, plus there is free WiFi. You can opt for a female-only dorm, and there are lockers to keep your belongings secure.
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Location: Heart of Cairns, two blocks from the Esplanade and 400m from the Greyhound bus station.
The perfect combination of beachside simplicity, affordability and all of the little extras that make your room feel like a home away from home, The Drifter (formerly The Village Hostel) is a great option.
Boasting a brilliant location, excellent facilities and a variety of private and shared rooms, relax in comfort in this budget-friendly accommodation. Featuring personal, integrated charging points, female-only dorms, free luggage storage, free wifi, social atmosphere, free breakfast and a fully-equipped kitchen, let your stay be an easy one at The Drifter!
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Mad Monkey Backpackers Waterfront
Location: On the bustling esplanade across the road from the Cairns Lagoon.
This hostel boasts bright, fun, modern and affordable accommodation with excellent freebies like wifi, breakfast, large lockers, free bicycle hire and local gym access.
Choose from all types of accommodation, from mixed to female dorms and private double or twin rooms. The rooms have top-quality mattresses, linen & brand new air-cons for a great night's sleep. This spot is one of the best hostels for couples, solo travellers and small groups.
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Check out our handy guide for backpackers in Cairns for more information on budget travel up north!
Call us or live chat with our local travel experts for more help with accommodation and tours in Cairns.
