On recommendation of other backpackers we booked our two nights each side of sailing the Whitsunday islands here. And I am so glad we listened to those recommendations! This hostel was set behind the bar and in the middle of lots of trees which made you feel like you were somewhere exotic. We stayed in a double room here and paid $46 per a night as we managed to get in on a special deal.
Atmosphere
With a bar that you have to walk through to get to the accommodation you instantly know it is a party hostel. Used mostly as a base the night before and after our sailing trip we didn’t go out of our way to meet other backpackers but it certainly had a friendly vibe around the place and many other backpackers staying there. The layout of the buildings made it feel a little like a hostel resort – if there is such a thing. The lack of pool didn’t matter as Airlie Beach has a beautiful lagoon to swim in two minutes’ walk away. Unlike our last hostel they don’t offer you much to do in the hostel, but it isn’t the sort of place that needs it.
Staff
The staff were very friendly and helpful especially as we arrived in a very groggy state at 7 am after an overnight bus! We were even given a special deal on our room even though we were not staying 2 nights in a row. They gave us a brilliant map of the hostel and explained about each area of the hostel. While we were on the boar they stored our luggage and valuables – we managed to get all of this for free – despite being told the day before it was a $5 charge pp.
Communal Areas
The bar and benches at the front of the hostel provided a great communal area to begin with but otherwise there were several areas in the main hostel. The breakfast room and kitchen were both good for cooking in although only one had cooking hobs. Fairly basic and not beautifully clean they weren’t the greatest cooking areas. They had a wifi and bbq area situated in the middle of the complex – although the wifi was either pretty slow or wouldn’t let you log on due to the volume of people using it. There was also a TV lounge with sofas and two tables where the tops have board games stuck on.
Games Room
Overall I loved the layout of this hostel with all the trees around the buildings it felt really cool. Our double room had air-con, fan, fridge and cutlery/plates ect. Each room had a little bench and table outside of it. The place felt nice and relaxed but at the same time you knew it was a huge party place for groups before and after sailing. With very cheap accommodation, their own travel desk and great location between everything in Airlie Beach I would recommend it as a great place to stay.
