About

Experience Byron Bay at the iconic Aquarius Backpackers!

Located on Lawson Street, we are right in the heart of town, just 100 metres from Byron’s world-famous Main Beach and steps from buzzing shops and restaurants. Whether you’re here to relax, surf, or party, we’ve got you covered.

Enjoy the most complete and diverse line-up of free daily activities in Byron Bay, including rooftop yoga, beach volleyball, trivia nights, beer pong, sunrise walks, paint & sip sessions, Mario Kart tournaments, DJ sets, and more!

Come try CINCO’S — our brand-new onsite bar where you can treat yourself to $5 beers and wines, along with other premium options. You won’t find these prices anywhere else in town!
You’ll also have free access to high-speed Wi-Fi, our brand-new rooftop gym, a ping pong table, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and a fully equipped kitchen, among other amenities. Surfboard hire and the pool table are also available for a small additional fee.

We offer Byron’s most spacious dorms, all with ensuite bathrooms and air conditioning, as well as a variety of room types to suit every traveller: mixed dorms, female-only dorms, private rooms, and luxury motel-style spa suites.

While we don’t have a pool on-site, there is a brand-new poolside bar next door called Roca Cabana. As our guest, you’ll receive an exclusive 15% discount. Please note that a minimum spend may apply during daytime hours, except for private room guests, who receive free access.
We also have onsite parking available (fees apply, subject to availability). Motel suites include their own allocated free parking space.
Still struggling to plan your trip? No need to panic — our in-house travel desk will help you put together the trip of a lifetime!

Important Information:
- Guests must be 18+ with valid photo ID at check-in.
- Dorm beds are exclusively for guests aged 18–35. Those over 35 are welcome in private rooms.
- For group bookings of 10 or more, please contact us directly via email as special terms and conditions apply to full dorm bookings — including different cancellation and payment policies, security bonds, and more.
- Motel Suite and Spa Suite bookings include one reserved car space.
- All other parking can be booked at check-in for a small daily fee (subject to availability).
- Please note that no check-ins or check-outs are available on 25 December or 1 January.
If a booking falls within this period, it will be cancelled automatically and the deposit will not be refunded.
- Roca, our Latin fusion restaurant and licensed bar, is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. In-house guests receive 15% off food and drinks. Please note that some rooms may experience elevated noise levels during these hours.
- While Aquarius doesn’t have a pool on-site, there is a brand-new poolside bar next door called Roca Cabana. As our guest, you’ll receive an exclusive 15% discount. Please note that a minimum spend applies during daytime hours.

Peak periods (20 December – 10 January, Schoolies week 2, and Easter long weekend) Payment & Cancellation Policy:
- After the deposit is paid, an additional 25% charge will be applied.
- Full payment is required one month before arrival.
- No refunds or changes are allowed within one month prior to check-in.

House Rules

Check In

0:00 - 23:00

Check Out

until 10:00

  • Non Smoking
  • Taxes Included
View House Rules

Facilities

  • Free WiFi
  • Free Internet Access
  • Free Security Lockers
  • Free Luggage Storage
  • Bicycle Parking
  • Jobs Board
  • Luggage Storage
  • ATM
View all facilities

Reviews

9.0Superb(3153)
  • Value for Money
    8.7
  • Security
    9.5
  • Atmosphere
    9.0
  • Cleanliness
    8.0
  • Staff
    9.4
  • Location
    9.9
  • Facilities
    8.5
Summary of traveller reviews

Aquarius Backpackers Byron Bay is praised for its fantastic location, close to the beach and town centre. Guests highlight the social atmosphere and friendly staff, making it ideal for solo travellers. While some mention issues with cleanliness in bathrooms and a lack of privacy due to no bed curtains, the overall experience is highly positive, with many recommending it for its great vibe and facilities.

Stayed in Jun 2026
9.7
G
Grace
Mixed Group, 18-24, USA
I absolutely love it here!! The less than 10 point rating is bc the WiFi isn’t amazing but everything else is awesome
Stayed in Jun 2026
8.3
C
Chloe
Female, 18-24, England
Great location, staff very friendly and very sociable. Kitchen was well equipped! However rooms and bathroom were a bit dirty. But really enjoyed my stay at Aquarius!
Stayed in Jun 2026
9.7
N
Natalie
Female, 18-24, England
Fab hostel one of the best I've stayed in. Location is perfect right by the beach and in town. Activities are great especially yoga/trivia/music bingo/sip and paint with the opportunity to win vouchers for the restaurant. The social space is really great with pool table, TVs etc and the hostel had a great friendly vibe easy to make friends. The rooms being on 2 floors meant it didn't feel like the dorms had 12 people in and gave a bit more privacy. Definitely stay here if you're in Byron!
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Location

16 Lawson St, Byron Bay, Australia
0.3km from city centre