Best Gold Coast hostels (top 5 to stay at in 2024)

Here’s Aussie Talk’s top 5 picks for the best hostels on the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is an amazing place for surf, sand, and fun… Lot’s of fun! While hotels can be expensive (especially during peak periods) hostels in the city are very well priced.

You’ll find a big range of hostels, but we have narrowed the options down, to help you make a decision. Read on for our top 5 best Gold Coast hostels – each providing comfort, along with a great social atmosphere where you’ll be sure to make new friends!

You might also be interested in these Aussie Talk Guides:

• Best hostels in Sydney in 2024 (Top 11 & some surprising personal experiences)
• Best Hostels in Melbourne in 2024 (Top 10 – the good, the bad & the ugly)

Bunk Backpackers Surfers Paradise

…Exceptional social atmosphere.

• Location: Bunk Backpackers Surfers Paradise is located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, close to the beach, shopping, dining and the sometimes-crazy nightlife. There’s easy access to public transport, making it convenient to explore other parts of the Gold Coast.

• Service: Reception is open 24/7 to assist guests and you’ll find helpful staff at the tour desk.

• Amenities: Swimming pool, bar and lounge, kitchen, laundry and activities.

• Accomodation: Dormitory-style rooms with various bed options (4-bed, 6-bed, 8-bed, and 10-bed dorms) and private rooms. Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, secure lockers and linen provided.

• Reviews: Generally praised for its lively and social atmosphere. Mixed reviews on cleanliness, with some guests noting areas for improvement. Staff often complimented for being helpful.

Visit Bunk Backpackers Surfers Paradise website

Budds In Surfers Backpackers

…Great pool, clean environment.

• Location: Budds in Surfers Backpackers is located just a short walk from the beach, nightlife, and shopping areas of Surfers Paradise. Close to public transport options, making it easy to explore the Gold Coast.

• Service: Reception is open 24/7 to assist guests, tour desk and free shuttle.

• Amenities: Swimming Pool, bar and lounge, kitchen, laundry, common areas and activities.

• Accomodation: Offers a variety of room types, including mixed dormitories, female-only dorms, and private rooms. Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, secure lockers, and bed linen. A big bonus is free breakfast included with most stays.

• Reviews: Known for its laid-back and friendly atmosphere, making it easy to meet other travelers. Generally well-reviewed for cleanliness and maintenance and staff.

Visit Budds in Surfers Backpackers website

Tequila Sunrise Hostel Surfers Paradise

…Friendly staff, good complimentary meals.

• Location: Tequilla Sunrise Hostel Surfers Paradise is located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, close to the beach, shops, bars, and restaurants. Easy access to public transport options, making it simple to explore the Gold Coast and beyond.

• Service: 24-Hour Reception, tour desk, events and activities.

• Amenities: Free Breakfast, evening meals, common areas, kitchen and laundry.

• Accomodation: The hostel offers various room types, including mixed dormitories and private rooms. Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, secure lockers, and bed linen are provided.

• Reviews: Known for its lively and social atmosphere, making it a great place to meet other travellers. Well-reviewed for cleanliness and high quality facilities. Staff are regularly praised for their friendliness and helpfulness.

Visit Tequila Sunrise Hostel Surfers Paradise website

YHA Coolangatta Gold Coast

… Relaxing vibes, close to surfing hot-spots.

• Location: YHA Coolangatta Gold Coast is located just a short walk from the famous Coolangatta surf beach – perfect for surfers and beach lovers. Close to public transport options, making it easy to explore the southern part of the Gold Coast and also make the trip into Surfers Paradise. Close to Kirra Beach, Snapper Rocks, and various cafes, bars, and pubs.

• Service: 24-Hour Security, tour desk, bike rentals and free shuttle from Gold Coast Airport.

• Amenities: Swimming pool, common areas, kitchen, laundry and recreational facilities.

• Accomodation: Offers a variety of room options, including multi-share dormitories and private rooms. Free Wi-Fi, secure lockers, bed linen and some rooms with ocean views.

• Reviews: Known for its laid-back and friendly atmosphere, ideal for relaxing and meeting other travelers. Generally praised for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities. Staff known to be friendly and helpful.

Visit YHA Coolangatta Gold Coast website

Surf Inn Boutique Backpackers

…Good location, fun environment.

• Location: Surf Inn Boutique Backpackers is another great hostel situated in Surfers Paradise, where most of the best party spots on the Gold Coast are found.

• Service: 24-hour reception desk for assistance and information, tour desk, airport transfers and bicycle rentals.

• Amenities: Free wifi, communal kitchen, common areas and laundry facilities.

• Accomodation: Dormitories (mixed and gender-specific), private rooms with en-suite or shared bathrooms, clean linens and bedding provided and regular housekeeping services.

• Reviews: Well-maintained and clean facilities, regular housekeeping services. Helpful and friendly staff and knowledgeable about local areas and activities. Some guests feel dormitory rooms can be a bit cramped, especially during peak seasons. Wi-Fi connectivity can be inconsistent or slow, particularly in some rooms or common areas.

Visit Surf Inn Boutique Backpackers website

If you have any suggestions regarding this list of the best Gold Coast hostels, or experiences you’d like to share, email team@aussietalk.com, or leave a comment below.