Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

2.0 star property
Hostel with a nightclub, a short walk to Cairns Esplanade

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

Relax by the pool surrounded by lush greenery and enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar.
Experience the perfect blend of functionality and comfort in this stylish hotel room, featuring two single beds, a desk, and a large window with city views.
Contemporary space with a central bar and seating area, perfect for social gatherings.
Relax in a cozy space with sofas, chairs, and vertical gardens, perfect for unwinding.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Giligan's, surrounded by lush greenery.

Reviews

8.0 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Kitchen
  • Pool
  • Parking available
  • Housekeeping

Explore the area

View in a map
57-89 Grafton Street, Cairns, QLD, 04870
  • Cairns Central Shopping Centre
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Cairns Esplanade
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Reef Fleet Terminal
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)
    ‪9 min drive‬

Room options

4 Bed Mixed Dorm With En-Suite

  • 215 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 4 Large Twin Beds

8 Bed En-suite Female

  • Sleeps 1
  • 4 Large Twin Bunk Beds

4 Bed En-suite Deluxe Mixed

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 1
  • 4 Large Twin Beds

6 Bed Female Dorm With En-Suite

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 215 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 3 Large Twin Bunk Beds

6 Bed Mixed Dorm With En-Suite

  • 215 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 3 Large Twin Bunk Beds

Hotel Deluxe Room

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • 215 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

4 Bed Female Dorm With En-Suite

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 215 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 4 Large Twin Beds

Hotel Twin Room

  • 215 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

10 Bed Mixed Dorm With En-Suite

  • 377 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 5 Large Twin Bunk Beds

8 bed Mixed Dorm With En-Suite

  • Sleeps 1
  • 4 Large Twin Bunk Beds

Hotel King Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • City view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

Bed In 4 Beds Female Dormitory (Clubside)

  • Sleeps 1

King Room

  • Sleeps 2

Bed In 8 Beds Mixed Dormitory (Clubside)

  • Sleeps 1

Bed In 4 Beds Mixed Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

Bed In 8 Beds Deluxe Mixed Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

Bed In 4 Beds Deluxe Mixed Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

Bed In 6 Beds Mixed Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

Deluxe Room

  • Sleeps 2

Bed In 6 Beds Female Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

Twin Room

  • Sleeps 2

Bed In 10 Beds Dormitory (Clubside)

  • Sleeps 1

Bed In 8 Beds Female Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

About the neighborhood

Cairns

Located in Cairns Central Business District, Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort is within a 10-minute walk of popular sights such as Cairns Esplanade and Cairns Central Shopping Centre. This 120-room hostel has a restaurant along with conveniences like an outdoor pool and free in-room WiFi.

What's nearby

  • Cairns Central Shopping Centre - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Cairns Esplanade - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Reef Fleet Terminal - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Esplanade Lagoon - 10 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Cairns Marlin Marina - 11 min walk - 0.6 miles

Getting around

  • Cairns Station - 8 min walk
  • Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS) - 12 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Rusty's Markets - ‬2 min walk
  • Annee's CaPhe
  • ‪Caffiend - ‬6 min walk
  • Gilligan's Travels
  • ‪The Lillipad Cafe - ‬3 min walk

About this property

Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort

Hostel with a nightclub, a short walk to Cairns Esplanade
Guests of Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort have access to a nightclub, an outdoor pool, and free WiFi in public areas. Self parking is available for AUD 12 per day. The front desk has multilingual staff on hand 24/7 to help with tours or tickets, securing valuables, and luggage storage. Additional amenities include a computer station, a terrace, and laundry facilities.
45-inch flat-screen TVs come with digital channels, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi.
Recreational amenities at the hostel include an outdoor pool.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Languages

Catalan, Dutch, English, Filipino, French, German, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Spanish

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • Covered self parking on site (AUD 12 per day)

Food and drink

  • 2 bars/lounges
  • A poolside bar
  • A restaurant

Things to do

  • Basketball
  • Billiards/pool table
  • Books
  • Concerts/live shows
  • Evening entertainment
  • Nightclub
  • Outdoor pool
  • TV in common areas
  • Volleyball

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • ATM
  • Laundry facilities
  • Lockers
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • Computer station

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Elevator
  • Grab bar near toilet
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)

More

  • 4 floors
  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower

Entertainment

  • 45-inch flat-screen TV with digital channels

Food and drink

  • Shared kitchen access

More

  • Air conditioning

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: midnight
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10 AM

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

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.

  • Covered self parking fee: AUD 12 per day
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge

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, debit card, or 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
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 2 PM—-midnight
  • Check-out: 10 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Driving? This property offers parking (fees apply).

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.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as 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. 
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Gilligan's Backpackers
Gilligan's Backpackers Cairns
Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort
Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort Cairns
Gilligans Backpackers Hotel And Resort
Gilligans Backpackers Hotel Cairns
Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel Resort Cairns
Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel Resort
Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort Cairns

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort?

Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort offers free cancellation on certain room rates. For more details, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort?

As of Aug 8, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort on Aug 18, 2025 start from $120.11, excluding 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.

What's there to see around Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort?

This hostel is situated in Cairns Central Business District within a 10-minute walk of Cairns Esplanade, Cairns Central Shopping Centre, and Reef Fleet Terminal. You'll also find Cairns Night Markets and Reef Hotel Casino less than a mile away.

Is there parking available at Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort?

Yes, covered parking is offered for AUD 12 per day.

Does Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort feature a casino?

No, Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort?

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

What do couples enjoy most about Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort?

There are plenty of amenities for couples at this hostel, including an outdoor pool, a poolside bar, and a restaurant.

Are there hot tubs at Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort?

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

Does Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

No, Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort though service animals are welcome.

Does Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort have connecting rooms?

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

How close is the airport from Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort?

The closest major airport to Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort is Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS), which is 4.1 mi away (12 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort?

Yes, some rooms at this hostel offer a balcony where guests can enjoy pool or mountain views.

Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel & Resort Reviews

Reviews

8.0

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 133 out of 418 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 186 out of 418 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 55 out of 418 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 26 out of 418 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 18 out of 418 reviews

8.0/10

Cleanliness

7.8/10

Staff & service

7.8/10

Amenities

7.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.6/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

2/10 Terrible

Kitty

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Ori

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Perfect stay for a few nights to be able to visit cairns. Pool was lush, right next to the bar which does turn into a club. Can be very loud even in the "quiet rooms".
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brodie

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Kaidan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice place to stay
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dolor

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with group, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Ben

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

cairns week

Great hotel in central Sydney and close to everything
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

craig

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great place to stay, safe and all kinds of activities inside the property - two girls travelling alone.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Immy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

4/10 Poor

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Facilities were good, but too noisy and could not sleep as the party is so loud and goes on until 3am
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

6/10 Okay

Chun Fung

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Music is too loud until 2am at night
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Jacob

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A lot of shopping and dining places are really close to Gilligan's which were helpful. Plus sufficient room for transport to park right outside the motel
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Claudia, wheelersburg

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Perfect for the traveller who wants it all within your fingertips. It is a 10min walk to the fleet terminal. If you are a light sleeper, do not book this place because there is a nightclub beneath the hotel that is active. Perfect for the party goer and it is central in town.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Yvonne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jessica

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Yvonne

Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Great!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

6/10 Okay

Owen

Disliked: Property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

4/10 Poor

David

Traveled with partner
Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
The accommodation mux of people. Welcoming reception staff. Had no hot water in room 402 shower or hand basin. Fire alarm was set off unable to get through exited door on ground floor and the floor area at bottom of stair well smelt like a sewer
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

4/10 Poor

Rob

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Convenient location for drinks but its in awful condition. We had 2 private rooms. My pillow smelt like someone pissed on it, the room stank of mould, the wifi doesn't work on the top floor and the air conditioning was stuck on a very low temperature. You'll get a nice hotel for the same price elsewhere.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

8/10 Good

Tyler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
My room was a 4 person room which was decent overall. The pillows were small and not sufficient. The rooms a/c barely worked and the room had a damp / wet smell and feel the whole time. This is the perfect location in town if you want a party as they have stuff going on every night. The location is perfect for anything you would wanna do in town and the price was right for sure.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

6/10 Okay

Eryn

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
limited facilities, power off in kitchen at 10, broken toilet
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Molly

Liked: Cleanliness

10/10 Excellent

Lucy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024