The Backpacker’s Guide To Byron Bay Hostels

Backpacking in Byron is a breeze with these hostels.

The best Byron Bay hostels are those with convivial communal areas, clean and tidy surrounds and proximity to the region’s sparkling beaches. While some travellers consider a hostel a place to party and make friends, others might see their accommodation as simply a crash pad while they tick off all the best things to do in Byron.

The northern NSW’s town is located about nine hours’ drive from Sydney and getting here makes for an adventurous road trip. Whether you’re in Byron to surf, hike the hinterland or are partial to a post-BluesFest bar crawl, you’ll find something to suit in our list of Byron Bay hostels. The hostels are on the lands of the Arakwal people, Minjungbal people and Widjabul people of Bundjalung Country.

1. Aquarius Backpackers

It’s not the age of Aquarius. But that doesn’t stop backpackers in Byron trying to expand their consciousness through meditation, yoga, fire twirling and bongo drums. Aquarius Backpackers is one of the best hostels in town, just one block back from Main Beach.

It’s a place to slow down and chill out, with a rooftop bar, sparkling pool, onsite cafe, laundry facilities and pool table. The hostel has en suite motel rooms as well as dorm rooms for those who want to socialise and are okay with a shared space.

the property exterior of Aquarius Backpackers — Stay for the night at Aquarius Backpackers.

2. The Arts Factory Lodge

The Arts Factory Lodge, as the name suggests, is a popular Byron Bay hostel historically aimed at creative types who enjoy live music. You’ll find backpackers from around the world at this hip hostel, many with a penchant for high-waisted corduroy jeans and bowl cuts, as long as they’re ironic.

a didge pit at The Arts Factory Lodge — Make your own Didgeridoo at The Arts Factory Lodge.

Although quite a bit has changed at the hippie-friendly hostel that has been around since the 70s, it remains a place aimed at those wanting to support the local arts scene. Join the push of bodies bopping at live performances, hang out by the pool, keep up your yoga practice and bunker down in a range of spaces, from private tipis to dorms and shared bungalows.

the pool at The Arts Factory Lodge, Byron Bay — Swim a few laps in the expansive pool.

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3. Wake Up Byron Bay

This happening hostel is a popular hub for travellers to this seaside suburb. Wake Up Byron Bay offers a range of accommodation, from private rooms to stylish shared spaces, all of which have undergone a stunning renovation in the past few years.

the property exterior at Wake Up Byron Bay — Wake Up Byron Bay is an ideal choice for solo or group backpackers.

The hostel is conveniently located near the beach, so you can return liquid-limbed after a day paddling for waves. Wake Up reads more like a resort than a backpacker’s hostel, with air-conditioned rooms, bright and breezy communal spaces, a buzzy restaurant and bar. There’s also daily yoga classes on offer.

lush greenery surrounding Wake Up Byron Bay — Stay in a tropical oasis at the heart of Byron Bay.

4. The Surf House

The Surf House could very easily rest on its laurels given its locale just a few blocks back from the beach. Instead, the renovated backpacker’s hostel continues to operate on the premise that it seems to truly care about its guests.

the living space interior at The Surf House — Stop by The Surf House before exploring Byron Bay.

Formerly named the Byron Bay Beach Hostel, it has housed thousands of would-be surfers over the years and its new look makes it one of the best places to stay in Byron Bay. Borrow a board for free and join the crew of local soul surfers to chase waves at The Pass, Tallows and Belongil, three of the best places to catch waves in Byron. There are both shared and private rooms, as well as a stunning open-air rooftop bar.

The Surf House in Byron Bay — The Surf House is a backpacker favourite.

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5. YHA Byron Bay

Looking for an affordable holiday with the family? Or a wallet-friendly weekend away with mates? Look no further than the YHA Byron Bay, a great spot to stay and play in Byron Bay. Close to the seaside village’s best cafes, restaurants and beaches, it’s also perfectly located.

a top view of the pool at Byron YHA — Sunbathe by the pool in Byron YHA.

Sure, there’s a range of luxe holiday homes where you can stay in style and comfort. But if you want to snip away at your mortgage or save some cash to splash on your travels, then this is the hostel of your dreams. It’s comfortable, clean and in prime position to zigzag from the beach to the main strip of shops and back.

people enjoying at the pool in Byron YHA — Spend laid-back afternoons on the sun loungers at Byron YHA.

6. Backpackers Inn on the Beach

Backpackers Inn does what it says on the tin. The Inn is also one of the ‘in’ place to stay in Byron Bay, especially if you enjoy interaction with other travellers. Spend your days curled up in one of the many hammocks overlooking the tropical grounds. Or walk the 500 metres into the centre of town to check out what’s on.

The hostel is perfectly positioned near the beach and has secure dorm accommodation as well as private rooms where you can station yourself over summer. There’s a barbecue, outdoor dining, a communal area and fully equipped kitchen where you can cook up a fresh feed from ingredients procured at the local farmers’ market.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney. The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

The backpacker’s guide to Byron Bay hostels

Backpacking in Byron is a breeze with these hostels.

1. Aquarius Backpackers

2. The Arts Factory Lodge

3. Wake Up Byron Bay

4. The Surf House

5. YHA Byron Bay

6. Backpackers Inn on the Beach

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Your guide to a summer staycation in Sydney

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.