Calypso Backpackers

After doing farm work, I needed somewhere to unwind, and this place hit the spot. I paid $22.00 for a beer and a jug of beer. There’s a burger joint and bar on site, plus a pool, laundry, free pool table and a reception desk with offers for activities like bungee jumping, skydives and the barrier reef. Staff were sound and happy to answer questions, and I even had a beer with a couple of them one night. A free shuttle goes to Cairns’ main center, or it’s a 15-20 minute walk. The kitchen was really clean, with lots of space and places to store dry and refrigerated food. The rooms were cleaned often by the backpackers who stay there. After so many hostels where the sheet is the duvet, having a proper quilt and pillow was nice. It might be one of the cheapest hostels around, maybe even the cheapest in Cairns, but it’s easily the best. I wasn’t there in peak season, though you could see they usually run different events. I’d highly recommend staying here, whether you’re travelling solo or with someone.

I stayed for a week and only wish I’d had more time. The hostel has a lovely pool surrounded by palm trees, a super handy free shuttle into town and a free breakfast in the mornings. The staff are really cool, and Ally at the travel desk was amazing at helping me plan. It’s a great place to chill after a long trip along the East Coast, or to get ready before setting off. I loved the atmosphere and will definitely come back. 😍

This is a very budget place. We booked a double room with insect screens on the windows and air conditioning, and the staff were helpful. The sheets had stains, though they were clean. The large hostel has a pool and smoking area in the central courtyard, along with a kitchen and a bar in the main building. The bar plays very loud music until midnight every night, and people drinking there may carry on making noise for another hour or two. Light sleepers and anyone going to bed early probably won’t enjoy it, so it’s worth asking whether your room is near the bar. It may suit younger travellers who want to meet people, drink heavily and sleep late. Central Cairns is a 15-20 minute walk away, and there’s also a shuttle bus.

The rooms weren’t anything special, but the hostel itself was one of my favourites. Check-in was easy, and the girl at reception was fun and full of energy. After spending some time in town, we had a lot of fun hanging out back at the hostel in the evening. There was a trivia night where the losers had to jump in the pool, and everyone else staying there was really chill. I loved the place.