Island Life Hostel

1.0 star property

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Island Life Hostel

Terrace/patio
Bar (on property)
Double Ensuite, Private Bathroom and AC | In-room safe
Free daily cooked-to-order breakfast
Standard Double Room, 1 Double Bed | Terrace/patio

Reviews

8.4 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Breakfast included
  • Bar
  • Laundry
  • Housekeeping
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
Calle Isabel La Catolica #356, Colonial Zone, Santo Domingo, Distrito Nacional, 10210
  • Place, Calle El Conde
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Columbus Park
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Malecon
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • Airport, Santo Domingo (SDQ-Las Americas Intl.)
    ‪25 min drive‬

Room options

1 Bed in a Shared 12 Bed Dormitory,Shared Bathroom

  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

1 Bed in a Shared 8 Bed Dormitory, Shared Bathroom

  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

1 Bed in a Shared 4 Bed Dormitory, Shared Bathroom with AC

  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

1 Bed in a Shared 4 Bed Dormitory, Shared Bathroom with AC

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

Double Ensuite, Private Bathroom and AC

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Double Ensuite,Private Bathroom and A/C

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Double Private, Shared Bathroom

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Standard Double Room, 1 Double Bed

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • 107 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Basic Triple Room, 1 Bedroom

  • 129 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Double Bed OR 1 Twin Bed

Standard Double Room

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Standard Double Room

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Basic Twin Room

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

Standard Double Room

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

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About the neighborhood

Santo Domingo

Located in Zona Colonial, Island Life Hostel is next to Museo del Ron y la Caña and Church of Saint Barbara. This 9-room hostel welcomes guests with conveniences like free breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a rooftop terrace.

What's nearby

  • Alcazar de Colon - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Calle Las Damas - 4 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Calle El Conde - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Columbus Park - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Malecon - 14 min walk - 0.8 miles

Getting around

  • Eduardo Brito Station - 4 min drive
  • Las Americas Intl. Airport (SDQ) - 27 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Casa de los Dulces - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Pat'e Palo European Brasserie - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Restaurante Atarazana - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Restaurante Delicia Campestre - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Alterno Coffee - ‬2 min walk

About this property

Island Life Hostel

Guests staying at Island Life Hostel enjoy an outdoor pool, a rooftop terrace, and free WiFi in public areas. Airport transportation is made easy with an airport shuttle (available 24 hours) for USD 35 per vehicle one-way. Front-desk staff can assist with dry cleaning/laundry, tours or tickets, and luggage storage. Additional amenities include an arcade/game room, a terrace, and laundry facilities.
Recreational amenities at the hostel include an outdoor pool.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge)

Food and drink

  • Free cooked-to-order breakfast available daily 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM
  • A bar/lounge

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Billiards/pool table
  • Outdoor pool
  • TV in common areas

Conveniences

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

Guest services

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

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Picnic area
  • Rooftop terrace

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bathroom

  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Shared kitchen access

More

  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 1 PM; Check-in end time: midnight
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 4 percent for credit card payments
The front desk is open daily from 6 AM - midnight
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staffed during limited hours
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 midnight please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
All guests must show a valid passport. This is the only form of identification that is accepted at this property.

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • This property doesn't allow children 18 and younger (only guests older than 18 are allowed)

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

  • Airport shuttle fee: USD 35 per vehicle (one-way)
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of 4 percent

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 cash deposit 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, debit cards, and cash
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: 1 PM
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available 24 hours), which is offered for a fee.

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 cash deposit 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, debit cards, and cash.
  • 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, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Island Life Backpacker's Hostel Santo Domingo
Island Life Backpacker's Santo Domingo
Island Life Backpacker's
Island Life Hostel Santo Domingo
Island Life Santo Domingo
Island Life Backpacker's Hostel
Life Hostel Santo Domingo
Island Life Hostel Santo Domingo
Island Life Hostel Hostel/Backpacker accommodation
Island Life Hostel Hostel/Backpacker accommodation Santo Domingo

Frequently asked questions

What can I see within easy reach of Island Life Hostel?

This hostel is situated in Zona Colonial, just steps from Alcazar de Colon and Museo del Ron y la Caña, and within a short walk of Calle Las Damas. You'll also find Malecon and Sambil Santo Domingo within a short drive.

How much does it cost to stay at Island Life Hostel?

As of Jun 10, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Island Life Hostel on Jun 12, 2026 start from $46, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Will I be able to park at Island Life Hostel?

No, this hostel doesn't offer parking.

Does Island Life Hostel feature a casino at the property?

No, Island Life Hostel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Island Life Hostel?

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

Is Island Life Hostel good for couples?

Couples will appreciate amenities like an outdoor pool, a bar/lounge, and a free daily breakfast at this hostel.

Are there hot tubs at Island Life Hostel?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hostel.

Does Island Life Hostel have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

Island Life Hostel offers free cooked-to-order breakfasts each morning though there is no restaurant.

Will Island Life Hostel allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Island Life Hostel.

Are there connecting rooms at Island Life Hostel?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hostel.

How far is the airport from Island Life Hostel?

The closest major airport to Island Life Hostel is Santo Domingo (JBQ-La Isabela Intl.), which is 12.4 mi away (32 minutes by car). Another top airport is Las Americas Intl. Airport (SDQ), which is located 16.2 mi away (27-minute drive).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Island Life Hostel?

No, you won't find rooms with balconies at Island Life Hostel.

Island Life Hostel Reviews

Reviews

8.4

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 50 out of 90 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 21 out of 90 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 9 out of 90 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 7 out of 90 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 90 reviews

8.4/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Staff & service

8.0/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

8/10 Good

Jill

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff were amazing and helpful . They seemed to work so hard. The room was very clean . The hostel was a great layout with large communal areas and surround to pool was nice to relax by .
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Raul

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great place to stay
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

LUIS

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
😔😔
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Mylene

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Exactly for what you need: a night close to the airport
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leendert

Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place to stay, staff was very welcoming and friendly. Great vibe at this location, I’ll definitely stay here again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Larry

Excellent staff and even better price
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christy Victoria

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Island Life Hostel is in a perfect spot of Santo Domingo that made it easy to walk around town. The hostel itself is clean, good amenities, and friendly staff!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

eric

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff is very welcoming, it is a place that makes you feel at home right off the bat! I will recommend this place, for sure!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Mylene

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
It was good enough for what I needed. Just to crash for a night. People staying there were really nice and all the staff there helped me with everything that I needed.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gaoussou

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very nice hostel in a great location. Right near the top attractions, restaurants and bars. The staff is absolutely amazing and the nicest people. They are very helpful in giving tips and advice on how to navigate the city and answer any questions. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brianna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I love the hospitality of the staff! Everyone is so welcoming and easy to talk to. I also like how safety is important to the staff and the presence of security. I stayed by myself in a private room and it was very clean and cozy. The wifi didn't work so great, but the area is so beautiful and full of life that I didn't want to spend much time in my room anyway. The size of the hostal combined with the amenities, such as the pool table, made it easy to socialize and make friends with other travelers. Breakfast is great as well. The bar is great. The dogs are so chill and friendly. There was a great mixture of people available to speak Spanish, English, French, and even Italian. I definitely recommend staying here.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nayna

Liked: Staff & service
I stayed here for 4 nights. Met some amazing people from around the world. The owner is great and made me feel very comfortable. There was a glitch initially but he sorted it out in no time. Nothing was too much trouble for him. He made me feel well looked after. I'll definitely visit again!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

2/10 Terrible

kurt

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities
No hot water. Smelled bad. Dirty mattress. Dogs living on the property barked all night.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ronald

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

Know what you are getting

This was my first ever experience in a hostel . At first when I arrived I thought as though I may of made a mistake from the entire environment. Very different from a hotel . I was here on a couples visit . But as I settled in I realized I was getting exactly what I paid for and I got the hostel experience. The owner and manager are really great guys and will do everything within their power to make you feel welcome and feel like a home away from home . Hostels unlike hotels really push for a more social atmosphere and I meet some really great people .Had a lot of fun at the bar and one day had there Nachos (and they are very good ) I ended up loving this place . But know exactly what you are getting .
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

4/10 Poor

Arjun

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Staff & service
Loved the property and the people I met there - just had a big complaint about the owner. I've stayed in dozens of hostels while travelling through over 30 countries but this has been the most incosiderate hostel owner I've ever seen. He likes keeping his dogs on property both of which like barking really loudly at random noises throughout the night which kept me up. He also just brings his friends over on weekdays from out of the hostel to e party right in front of the rooms (they didn't even go to the common area) which also kept me up. Also someone got sick in my dorm and was asking the owner if he could get some medicine or some help from the owner who was on property, but the owner refused to even go to the room to see him. I wouldn't recommend booking this property because I think it's a bad idea to give money/support a bad hostel owner like this one.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

4/10 Poor

carla

Disliked: Amenities
Internet que não chegava no quarto, segurança que não fala o idioma e trata mal por não ter o cartão, falta de indicações
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Didier

Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Hostel inteiro é sujo, parece que não é limpo há anos. O car
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Israel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Conocí a gente increíble, la pasé genial, la habitación bastante cómoda y el precio super bueno en la ubicación perfecta, cerca de todo lo bueno
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Constanza

Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
La limpieza y muebles de la propiedad deja mucho que desear, al igual que la atención al cliente, el personal fue inaccesible con la reserva desde antes de llegar a la propiedad. Al igual que la comunicación fue limitante ya que no todos hablan bien el español.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

SEBASTIEN

Disliked: Cleanliness

Bien placé

L'hôtel est bien placé pour visiter la zone coloniale a pied On a tout fait en une demi journée...
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
La pasé muy bien en el hotel , el personal muy acomedido y las instalaciones en buenas condiciones y sobre todo la ubicación para ir a los diferentes lugares turísticos ... excelente .
Stayed 11 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

MARIA

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
gracias por el desayuno incluido
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Roman

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
La peor experiencia en un hostel
Stayed 1 night in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Esturain

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

Exelente.

Rebaso mis expectativas muy buen lugar la ubicacion y la atencion muy amigables y respetuosos . Lo recomiendo al 200 % exelente hostal.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023