With so much to do in Cairns it can be hard to find the time to sleep, but at least it is not hard to find somewhere cool to rest your head when you do get a few hours down time. Whether you want relaxed digs with a laid back vibe and lots of chilled out common rooms or a wild party spot where you can party before (and sometimes after) hitting the clubs there is somewhere for you. Here are our four favourite hostels in town.
Travellers Oasis – Best for Relaxing
Located just behind Cairns Central Railway Station, not far from the city centre, is the Travellers Oasis Hostel. Recently refurbished, Travellers Oasis is clean, comfortable, welcoming and low key. It has a maximum of 50 guests, and doesn’t have any bunk beds, giving it a much more laid back atmosphere, more like in a guesthouse than a party hostel. That doesn’t mean fun can’t be had – the hostel has a pool and BBQ where guests can socialise, and it is just a short walk into town for the best nightlife for miles around – but your sleep probably won’t be interrupted by dubstep either. It also has free Wi-Fi, free luggage storage and parking for those brave enough to take on an Aussie road trip.
Gilligan’s Backpackers Hotel and Resort – Best for Partying
Located in the heart of Cairns, Gilligan’s Backpackers Hotel and Resort is fun and friendly choice for backpackers on a budget. The large hostel has dorm style rooms sleeping up to eight people and the lagoon style pool is a great place to chill out with friends. For those that prefer to party hard Gilligan’s bar and night club host themed social events every night giving plenty of opportunity to meet new people and of course there are plenty more clubs around too. Bed linen, the cooking facilities and hot water are all provided free of charge, as is use of the hostels Wi-Fi, and you even get free airport transfer service.
Dreamtime Travellers Rest – Best for Eco Travel
Dreamtime Travellers Rest hostel is set out between three traditional homes making it spacious and quiet. As an eco hostel it strives to be clean, green and sustainable, and engages in conservation work in the local area. They also aim to spread peace, harmony and love among their guests and the hostel always has a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. The tropical garden has an outside pool area where guests can lounge in the large hammocks and soak up the relaxed atmosphere or just hang out with friends at the hostel bar. The staff are friendly and more than happy to help book trips for guests, and there are weekly BBQs and other social events to get involved in.
