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Surfers Paradise has a reputation for being overdeveloped and filled with foreign package tourists for half the year. And parts of Surfers Paradise are quite seedy and loaded with strip clubs, but things are changing. The area is cleaning up and newer developments are pushing out some of the worst aspects from decades earlier.

The beaches are obviously the main attraction and they are still excellent. Hotel prices in the area are somewhat reasonable, but nicer places are still out of reach for many budget travelers. Fortunately there are quite a few hostels in Surfers Paradise with bed prices that bring this Gold Coast resort community into an affordable range for nearly any budget traveler, as long as you can arrange to get yourself there. Most of the hostels in Surfers Paradise are just steps from the beach, so regardless of which of the many water sports you are coming to enjoy, you’ll be right there.

By the way, in case you aren’t from Australia, you should know that hostels are almost called “backpackers” in this country. They are identical to what most of the rest of the world calls a hostel, so instead of a Surfers Paradise hostel you’ll be looking for a backpackers. And the name makes it sound like it’s only meant for young people who’ve never used a real suitcase, but the reality is that travel is huge throughout Australia and these backpackers places are a well known network for all budget travelers. In other words, regardless of your age or luggage style, you should feel comfortable staying in any hostel in Surfers Paradise.

Most of the most notorious bars and clubs in Surfers Paradise are on or near Orchid Avenue, just a block off the main beach. There are a couple hostels in Surfers Paradise just off this strip, so if nightlife is a priority you might want to choose one of those.

The Island Backpackers Resort is right next to the bus station and just around the corner from Orchid Avenue. Beds in their 6-bed dorms start around $AUD26 per night and they have private twin and double rooms starting around $AUD37 per night per person. This is a popular and highly rated Surfers Paradise hostel with loads of interesting features. It gets booked up well in advance during the peak summer season so if you want to stay at this centrally located place you should book as soon as you know your dates.

Backpackers in Paradise is a few blocks further inland, but still with a good central location. This place doesn’t get the same high marks from guests that the Island Backpackers Resort gets, but if that one is full this one is your closest option. Their cheapest beds are in their 12-bed dorm rooms starting around $AUD25 per night.

The Ipanema Holiday Resort is the closest to the beach itself, but they don’t have dorm rooms. They do have private rooms for 2, 4, or 5 people, each with its own bathroom, with prices starting around $AUD42 per night, so this is a good deal if you are traveling with your own small group and want a bit of privacy. They do have a guest kitchen and other hostel amenities, so you can save more money by cooking for yourself.

Hostels in Surfers Paradise