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Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
25/08/2025
Donaldytong, Wikimedia Commons
Cairns provides a vibrant and diverse range of hostels and budget accommodation, offering lively social hubs for those seeking interaction and party atmospheres, alongside more relaxed guesthouses for a comfortable stay.
1. Travellers Oasis
Type: Hostel
This hostel offers a tranquil yet social environment, ideal for those seeking to connect with others without a relentless party scene. Guests often gather around the refreshing swimming pool or on the inviting outdoor terrace, which features BBQ facilities. The communal atmosphere is further enhanced by three fully equipped kitchens, allowing for shared meals and easy interaction. The staff are notably helpful, contributing to a welcoming and friendly vibe.
2. Gilligan's Backpacker Hotel & Resort
Type: Hostel & Resort
Positioned as a central hub for nightlife, this resort-style hostel is renowned for its energetic party atmosphere. It boasts a massive outdoor pool, multiple bars, and a nightclub on-site, making it a prime location for meeting new people and experiencing Cairns' lively scene. Regular social events and discounted drinks ensure a constant buzz, while air-conditioned rooms offer comfort in the tropical climate.
3. Mad Monkey Central
Type: Hostel
Mad Monkey Central is a lively and well-located hostel, perfect for those who appreciate a vibrant social scene. It features a newly refurbished swimming pool and relaxing cabanas, along with an outdoor bar offering budget-friendly drinks. Guests benefit from a daily free hot breakfast, fostering easy connections before exploring the area. The hostel frequently hosts events and activities, encouraging a fun and interactive stay.
4. Summer House Cairns
Type: Hostel
Designed with a social yet comfortable atmosphere, Summer House Cairns is particularly appealing to solo travellers looking to meet others. It offers a lagoon-style pool and a volleyball court, providing excellent spaces for communal activities. The hostel also organises daily events, such as pancake mornings, and offers perks like free bus and train station pickups, ensuring both social opportunities and convenience.
5. Cairns City Backpackers Hostel
Type: Hostel
This budget-friendly hostel provides clean and comfortable accommodation with a good range of facilities. It maintains a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, particularly within its cozy courtyard and around the outdoor swimming pool, where guests can relax and socialise. Its central location offers easy access to the city's attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring Cairns without overspending.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.