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By staying at a hostel, you can spend less on lodging and set aside more of your budget for exploring during your holiday. We’ve heard good things about this destination’s natural setting, including its coral reefs and rainforests.

These dorm-style accommodations come in many shapes and sizes, but all of them have a few qualities in common, including budget-friendly prices, a social atmosphere and shared rooms (though many hostels offer private room options too).

Based on reviews from our guests, these hostels in Cairns have the best ratings: Freedom Cairns - Located within a 10-minute walk of Cairns Esplanade. You can take advantage of free WiFi and a shared/communal kitchen, as well as tour/ticket assistance. Rooms come with towels, showers and free toiletries. Global Backpackers Cairns - Located within a 5-minute walk of Cairns Esplanade. You can take advantage of free WiFi and a rooftop terrace, as well as a shared/communal kitchen. Rooms come with showers and linens. Gilligan’s Backpackers Hotel & Resort - Close to public transport, this property is within a 10-minute walk of Cairns Station. Property features include free WiFi, an outdoor pool and a restaurant. Rooms come with towels, showers and TVs. Cairns Waterfront Haven - Located within a 10-minute walk of Cairns Esplanade. You can take advantage of free WiFi and an outdoor pool, as well as a shared/communal kitchen. Rooms come with towels and linens. Mad Monkey Backpackers Waterfront - Located steps from Cairns Esplanade. You can take advantage of free WiFi and free bike hire, as well as tour/ticket assistance. You’ll find towels, TVs and lockers in all rooms.

If you’re in the market for somewhere affordable to stay in Cairns, one of Expedia’s 26 hostels could be a great option for you.

Good weather’s always better when you’re discovering new places, so here are some stats about the seasons: The hottest months are usually January and December, with an average temperature of 27°C, while the coldest months are July and August, with an average of 22°C. Average annual precipitation for Cairns is 92 mm.

In general, Cairns is known for its coral reefs, rainforest and local tours. Top attractions include Cairns Esplanade and Palm Cove Beach. Get out into nature with places such as Esplanade Lagoon, Muddy’s Playground and Yorkeys Knob Beach. Cultural attractions include Cairns Performing Arts Centre, Jute Theatre and Australian Armour and Artillery Museum.

Keep this information about transit options in Cairns on hand to make the most of your stay: You can fly into the nearest airport, which is Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.), located 3.5 mi (5.6 km) away from the city centre. Once you’re on the ground, you might want to use public transport during your trip. To check out more of the area, take a train from Cairns Station, Freshwater Station or Redlynch Station.