Cairns, a gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning natural beauty, adventure activities, and vibrant culture. I recently embarked on a journey to Cairns with a focus on budget-friendly accommodations.
My Stay at Cairns City Backpackers Hostel
Location and How to Get There
Cairns City Backpackers Hostel is conveniently located at 274 Draper Street, just a 15-minute walk from the heart of Cairns. The hostel is well-positioned for easy access to the city’s main attractions, including the Cairns Esplanade and the Reef Fleet Terminal. If you’re arriving by plane, it’s a short 10-minute drive from Cairns Airport. The hostel provides a shuttle service, or you can take a taxi or use a rideshare service.
How to Book
Booking a stay at Cairns City Backpackers Hostel is straightforward. I used their official website to make my reservation, but you can also book through popular booking platforms like Booking.com or Hostelworld. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure a spot.
Environment and Facilities
Upon arrival, I was greeted by the friendly staff who made the check-in process smooth and quick. The hostel has a laid-back, tropical vibe, with lush gardens and a refreshing swimming pool. The common areas are clean and well-maintained, offering plenty of seating for socializing with other travelers. There’s a communal kitchen equipped with everything you need to prepare your meals, and a BBQ area for outdoor cooking.
The dormitory rooms are basic but comfortable, with bunk beds and lockers for storing personal items. There are also private rooms available for those who prefer more privacy. The shared bathrooms are cleaned regularly and offer hot showers, which are always a plus after a day of exploring.
My Experience and Rating
During my stay, I found Cairns City Backpackers Hostel to be a perfect base for exploring the city. The relaxed atmosphere made it easy to meet fellow travelers, and the staff were always on hand to offer tips and advice on local attractions and tours. I particularly enjoyed spending time by the pool, soaking up the tropical sun. The location was ideal, allowing me to walk to most places or catch a quick bus ride when needed. Overall, I would rate my experience an 8.5/10. It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for a friendly and convenient place to stay in Cairns.
Affordable Hotel Options in Cairns
1. Gilligan’s Backpacker Hotel & Resort Cairns
Location and How to Get There
Gilligan’s is situated at 57-89 Grafton Street, right in the heart of Cairns. This central location puts you within walking distance of the city’s best attractions, including the Cairns Esplanade, Rusty’s Markets, and numerous bars and restaurants. From Cairns Airport, it’s a 15-minute drive, and there are plenty of transport options including taxis, rideshares, and shuttle buses.
How to Book
You can book a stay at Gilligan’s through their official website, which often has exclusive deals and discounts. Alternatively, platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, and Hostelworld offer competitive rates and the ability to compare prices.
Environment and Facilities
Gilligan’s is a vibrant, social hub known for its lively atmosphere and excellent facilities. It caters to both backpackers and travelers looking for a bit more comfort. The hotel features a large outdoor swimming pool, a sun deck, and several bars that host nightly entertainment, including live music and themed parties.
Accommodation options range from shared dormitories to private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Each room is air-conditioned and equipped with lockers. The shared facilities include a communal kitchen, laundry services, and a large common area with TVs and games. For those looking to stay fit, there’s a gym available, and an in-house travel agency can help you book tours and activities.
Amenities and Services
– Wi-Fi: Free and available throughout the property
– Swimming Pool: Large outdoor pool with sun deck
– Bars and Nightlife: Multiple bars with nightly entertainment
– Kitchen: Fully equipped communal kitchen
– Laundry: On-site laundry facilities
– Gym: Fitness center available for guests
– Travel Desk: Assistance with tour bookings and local information
2. Cairns Central YHA
Location and How to Get There
Cairns Central YHA is located at 20-26 McLeod Street, right opposite Cairns Central Shopping Centre. This prime location means you have easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as public transport. The hostel is a 15-minute drive from Cairns Airport, and you can get there by taxi, rideshare, or shuttle bus.
How to Book
Booking a stay at Cairns Central YHA can be done through the YHA Australia website, where members can often find discounted rates. Other booking platforms such as Booking.com and Hostelworld also list this property, allowing you to compare prices and read reviews.
Environment and Facilities
This hostel is known for its clean, comfortable, and safe environment, making it a favorite among solo travelers and groups alike. The property features an outdoor swimming pool, a spacious communal kitchen, and several social areas including a TV lounge and an outdoor BBQ area.
Accommodation options include shared dormitory rooms, private rooms, and family rooms. Each room is air-conditioned, and the dorms have individual lockers. The shared bathrooms are well-maintained and cleaned regularly. The hostel also offers free Wi-Fi, bike rental services, and a tour desk to help you plan your adventures in Cairns.
Amenities and Services
– Wi-Fi: Free and available throughout the property
– Swimming Pool: Outdoor pool for guests
– Kitchen: Large communal kitchen
– BBQ Area: Outdoor BBQ facilities
– Laundry: Coin-operated laundry machines
– Bike Rental: Available for exploring the city
– Travel Desk: Assistance with booking tours and activities
3. Mad Monkey Backpackers Waterfront
Location and How to Get There
Mad Monkey Backpackers Waterfront is located at 93A Esplanade, Cairns, right on the waterfront. This prime location offers stunning views of the Coral Sea and easy access to the Cairns Lagoon, restaurants, and nightlife. The hostel is a 10-minute drive from Cairns Airport, with various transport options including taxis, rideshares, and shuttle buses.
How to Book
You can book a stay at Mad Monkey Backpackers Waterfront through their official website, where you might find special offers and discounts. Other reliable booking platforms like Booking.com and Hostelworld also feature this property, allowing for price comparison and reviews.
Environment and Facilities
Mad Monkey Backpackers Waterfront is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and social vibe. The hostel features a communal kitchen, a cozy lounge area, and an outdoor terrace with beautiful views of the Esplanade. There’s also a swimming pool and a bar where guests can unwind and socialize.
Accommodation options include shared dormitories and private rooms, all equipped with air conditioning and secure lockers. The shared bathrooms are clean and modern, ensuring a comfortable stay. The hostel provides free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and bike rentals, making it a great value for budget travelers.
Amenities and Services
– Wi-Fi: Free and available throughout the property
– Swimming Pool: Outdoor pool with a sun terrace
– Kitchen: Fully equipped communal kitchen
– Bar: On-site bar with regular social events
– Laundry: Laundry facilities available
– Bike Rental: Free bike rentals for guests
– Travel Desk: Help with tour bookings and local activities
4. Bounce Cairns
Location and How to Get There
Bounce Cairns is located at 117 Grafton Street, in the heart of Cairns. This central location provides easy access to the city’s main attractions, including the Esplanade, the Reef Fleet Terminal, and various dining and entertainment options. The hostel is a 10-minute drive from Cairns Airport, accessible by taxi, rideshare, or shuttle bus.
How to Book
Booking a stay at Bounce Cairns is simple via their official website, where you can often find exclusive deals and promotions. Other booking platforms like Booking.com and Hostelworld also list this property, allowing for easy comparison of prices and amenities.
Environment and Facilities
Bounce Cairns is a popular choice among backpackers for its modern facilities and lively atmosphere. The property features a large swimming pool, a sun deck, and several social areas where guests can relax and mingle. There’s also a communal kitchen and a dining area for guests to prepare and enjoy meals.
Accommodation options include mixed and female-only dormitories as well as private rooms. Each room is air-conditioned and comes with personal lockers. The shared bathrooms are spacious and well-maintained. Additional amenities include free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and regular social events organized by the hostel.
Amenities and Services
– Wi-Fi: Free and available throughout the property
– Swimming Pool: Large outdoor pool with sun deck
– Kitchen: Fully equipped communal kitchen
– Breakfast: Free breakfast included
– Laundry: On-site laundry facilities
– Social Events: Regular activities and events for guests
– Travel Desk: Assistance with booking tours and local activities
5. Hides Hotel Cairns
Location and How to Get There
Hides Hotel Cairns is located at 87 Lake Street, in the center of Cairns. This historic hotel offers easy access to the city’s main attractions, shopping centers, and restaurants. The hotel is a 15-minute drive from Cairns Airport, and you can reach it by taxi, rideshare, or shuttle bus.
How to Book
You can book a stay at Hides Hotel Cairns through their official website, where you might find special deals and packages. Other booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, and Agoda also offer reservations for this property, allowing for price comparison and customer reviews.
Environment and Facilities
Hides Hotel Cairns combines historical charm with modern amenities. The hotel features a rooftop terrace with views over the city, a swimming pool, and several common areas where guests can relax. The property offers a mix of private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations, catering to different budget levels.
Rooms are air-conditioned and come with comfortable beds and basic amenities. The shared bathrooms are clean and well-kept. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi, a complimentary breakfast, and a tour desk to assist with local activities and excursions.
Amenities and Services
– Wi-Fi: Free and available throughout the property
– Swimming Pool: Outdoor pool with rooftop terrace
– Breakfast: Complimentary breakfast included
– Laundry: Laundry facilities available
– Tour Desk: Help with booking tours and activities
– Historic Charm: Features original architecture and design elements
Exploring Cairns doesn’t have to break the bank, and these affordable hotel options prove that you can enjoy a comfortable stay without spending a fortune. Whether you’re looking for a lively hostel with plenty of social activities or a quiet, budget-friendly hotel, Cairns has something to offer every traveler.
