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Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel

2.0 star property
Adults-only hostel with a 24-hour front desk and an outdoor pool

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Photo gallery for Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel

Lobby
In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets
Sports facility
Double Room (Shared Bathroom Facilities) | In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets
Exterior

Reviews

5.4 out of 10

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Kitchen
  • Pool
  • Housekeeping
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
83 The Esplanade, Cairns, QLD, 4870
  • Cairns Esplanade
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Cairns Marlin Marina
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Reef Fleet Terminal
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)
    ‪9 min drive‬

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Room options

View all photos for Double Room (Shared Bathroom Facilities)

Double Room (Shared Bathroom Facilities) | In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Double Room (Shared Bathroom Facilities)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Shared Dormitory (6 bed with ensuite)

Shared Dormitory (6 bed with ensuite) | In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Shared Dormitory (6 bed with ensuite)

  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

Twin Room (Shared bathroom)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Shared Dormitory, Women only (6 bed with shared bathroom)

Shared Dormitory, Women only (6 bed with shared bathroom) | In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Shared Dormitory, Women only (6 bed with shared bathroom)

  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Shared Dormitory (6 bed with shared bathroom)

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Shared Dormitory (6 bed with shared bathroom)

  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

Shared Dormitory (2 bed with shared bathroom)

  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

About the neighborhood

Cairns

Located in Cairns Central Business District, Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel is adjacent to Cairns Esplanade and within a 10-minute walk of other popular attractions like Cairns Marlin Marina. This 20-room hostel welcomes guests with a bar/lounge and conveniences like an outdoor pool and free in-room WiFi.
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What's nearby

  • Cairns Esplanade - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Esplanade Lagoon - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Cairns Marlin Marina - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Reef Fleet Terminal - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Cairns Central Shopping Centre - 11 min walk - 0.6 miles

Getting around

  • Cairns Station - 13 min walk
  • Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS) - 8 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Rattle N Hum - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Flynn's Italian by Crystalbrook - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Crepe - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪La Pizza Trattoria - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Imm Thai Cafe - ‬4 min walk

About this property

Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel

Adults-only hostel with a 24-hour front desk and an outdoor pool
Guests of Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel enjoy features like an outdoor pool, free WiFi in public areas, and a computer station. You can take advantage of free offsite parking, along with a shuttle from the airport to the hotel (available on request) for AUD 15 per person. The 24-hour front desk has staff standing by to help with tours or tickets, luggage storage, and dry cleaning/laundry. Other amenities at this adults-only hostel include express check-out, a terrace, and laundry facilities.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include refrigerators, microwaves, and stovetops.
Recreational amenities at the hostel include an outdoor pool.

Languages

English

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Exterior

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free offsite parking
  • Airport pick-up shuttle (surcharge) from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM at scheduled times and on request

Food and drink

  • A bar/lounge
  • Snack bar/deli

Things to do

  • Outdoor pool
  • TV in common areas

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • Computer station

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • 1 building
  • 2 floors
  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator
  • Shared kitchen access
  • Stovetop

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Phone
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 5:30 AM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions and lockbox information; your host will greet you
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property ahead of time using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 8:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation

Access methods

Staffed front desk, lockbox

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children younger than 18 are not permitted to stay at this adults-only property (only guests 18 and older are allowed)

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Deposit: AUD 50.00 per stay

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Airport shuttle fee: AUD 15 per person

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day, and checking out is easy with express services. For convenient arrivals, you can take advantage of the airport pick-up service (fees apply). Driving? This property offers free nearby parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A credit card for incidental charges and a government-issued photo ID may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Waterfront Backpackers Hostel Cairns
Waterfront Backpackers Hostel
Waterfront Backpackers Cairns
Waterfront Backpackers
Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel Cairns
Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel Hostel/Backpacker accommodation

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel?

Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel offers free cancellation on select room rates. For additional details, review the cancellation policy on our site.

What can I see within easy reach of Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel?

This hostel is situated in Cairns Central Business District, just steps from Cairns Esplanade, and within a 10-minute walk of Cairns Marlin Marina and Reef Fleet Terminal. You'll also find Cairns Central Shopping Centre and Esplanade Lagoon less than a mile away.

Is parking available on site at Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel?

No, there isn't parking at the hostel but you'll find free parking nearby.

Does Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel feature a casino?

No, Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel?

No, this hostel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel?

Couples will appreciate amenities at this adults-only hostel, including a bar, an outdoor pool, and a terrace.

Are there hot tubs at Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel?

No, this hostel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

No, Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel though service animals are welcome.

Does Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel have connecting rooms?

No, this hostel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel?

The closest major airport to Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel is Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS), which is 4.4 mi away (8 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel?

No, there aren't any rooms with balconies at Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel.

Waterfront Backpackers - Hostel Reviews

Reviews

5.4
Rating 10 - Excellent. 2 out of 42 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 42 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 14 out of 42 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 8 out of 42 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 9 out of 42 reviews

5.4/10

Cleanliness

6.4/10

Staff & service

3.4/10

Amenities

4.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

2/10 Terrible

D, Melbourne

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Filthy. Bed had sand on it. Floors had weird stains. Air con locked out during peak heat times. Noisy. No lock on bathroom door leading directly from kitchen.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020

4/10 Poor

.

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room doesn't have enough outlets. Unclean and old hotel.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Matt

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Go for it

Great location. Chill spot to enjoy cairns.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
The showers are crap. And the toilets aren’t really clean. But for a few nights only and for that price it’s completely alright to stay there and the nightmarket is underneath the hostel. It’s not noisy in there and the fridges have small lockers for every person, so no one can steal food from you. It’s not too bad, but nothing I would like to stay in for a month
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Matt

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Solo backpacker

Quiet place. Thursday nights are the best time to come.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2019

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2019

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveler

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Shady place wouldn’t stay again

This place had a funky smell very small. No towels. Shared washroom was very hot a not clean. The toilet paper was the cheapest kind. This is my first and last time in this hostel.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2018

4/10 Poor

Tara, QLD Australua

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service
I asked to leave small suitcase before chack in, but there was no stuff and everytime when I require assistance, he wasnt really friendly. But tour desk stuffs were always friendly and nice.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2018

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great location but pretty shoddy conditions

It was a hostel so was never going to be amazing. The staff were friendly but the hygiene was poor. Pretty dirty.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2018

4/10 Poor

Verified traveler

Disliked: Property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The hostel is right next to a major construction site. It is dark and drab.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2018

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
No air conditionings shared toilet didn't have toilet paper
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2018

6/10 Okay

Dimiter

Liked: Staff & service

Basic

A usual cheap hostel with central location. The common areas can use some cleaning and polishing. Fortunately there was aircon and wifi in the room. Staff is mostly cooperative.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2017

2/10 Terrible

baily

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Don’t stay here

I had prepaid for two nights and wished I didn’t. The place was filthy, the staff was never around, the free breakfast was really weak when it was actually there, no lots on the door, people weren’t friendly, no safe or lockers, and the toilet and taps were broken. I moved to travellers oasis after my paid for nights and was so so so much happier!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2017

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities

Ok for the price, bathrooms lacking

The room was clean and comfortable and the aircon worked ok. The 3 bathrooms on the upper floors were not maintained. They were clean enough but only one had toilet paper, one with a shower was out of order and the other one with a shower the door didn't shut or lock. We only stayed one night but are a bit confused as to where we were supposed to shower. The kitchen was lacking on mugs/cups and plates or bowls. We tried to have coffee and had to scrounge for dishes. Decent price for the location though and front desk staff and information guy Phil was great

4/10 Poor

Craig, Hobart

Disliked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Cheap

If you want a basic room to get some sleep, that is what you'll get - but the air-con worked only reasonably and was very noisy. Room contains a bed and a rubbish bin and THAT is IT! But cheap and in the centre of everything and just across from the esplanade.

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
It's a wonderful little hostel

6/10 Okay

Shahna, Wollongong, NSW, Australia

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Close, Cheap, Free Wifi

I booked very last minute late in the arvo. The only downside I have is that I was extremely tired and had to wait 30+ minutes (told 20minutes) for the guy on front desk to arrive as he was not in the office. I went a couple of shops down and ate some amazing food (amazing food everywhere in walking distance). I did come back the next night to stay as it was so convenient. Unfortunately I was too busy to check out our pool.

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveler

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The service was good, the desk man was helpful but the hotel is self was gross & the the room looked a jail cell. If you want a budget place but dont care about anything else then this is fine, otherwise i urge not for you yo stay. The communal bath room was so dirty which was the worst part of this hostel.

8/10 Good

katrina, coffs harbour

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Room comfort

All you can expect for backpacker accommodation

Handy to all cbd needs Clean sheets, mattress not so clean Reasonable noise levels from other guests Air con between 5pm and 9am Staff good Kitchen was a mess and bathrooms need more cleaning but not totally unusable

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Room comfort

Excellent location; Inexpensive

The staff were helpful and location is excellent. The staff were helpful and pleasant. It is a party hostel and the rooms are very basic. You get what you pay for and if all you're doing is sleeping there it's not a bad deal!

4/10 Poor

Verified traveler

Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Location is good but facilities is dirty. Very noisy hostel.

6/10 Okay

ziao

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

6/10 Okay

Melker

Disliked: Property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Litet och ofräscht

Vi bodde i ett dubbelrum, extremt litet samt ofräscha sängar. Air condition var endast på från 5pm - 8am, extremt varmt på rummet de andra timmarna.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2020

6/10 Okay

Siegfried

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2019

8/10 Good

Amanda

Traveled with group
Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2019