About

Backpackers By the Bay is Airlie's secret little paradise! We are situated just a short walk away from the main street (400 meters, 5 minute walk) and were the closest hostel to the Premiere & Greyhound drop off. This makes us a perfect location as you can enjoy Airlie's famous nightlife without having to listen to it whilst trying to sleep, the best of both worlds! We are renowned for our chilled, relaxed vibes with friendly staff and a clean environment, just check out our reviews!

Airlie town centre is a hub for cafes, bars, restaurants and shopping, you'll find everything including souvenirs, art galleries and swimwear. The Airlie Beach markets are held every Saturday morning on the esplanade for locally made jewellery, clothes and crafts. The Airlie Beach Lagoon is situated right in the centre of Airlie Beach and has become the focal point of the area.

More like a large, international, environmentally-friendly house, the hostel is fully equipped with kitchen, laundry, pool, hammocks, outdoor exercise station area, BBQ, library etc. All rooms are serviced daily. We also get guests into their rooms ASAP without waiting for a 2pm checkin time so you can get showered, refreshed and out there exploring. Movies can be viewed anytime.

Free WiFi and tea and coffee available all day. Take advantage of our tour booking services with some great local standby rates including free accommodation and storage deals, or come and hand feed the wild cockatoos every day around our pool area. Peter and Carolyn have been the onsite owners for over 20 years and look forward to showing you some true aussie hospitality - come and say g'day.
~WINNER OF MULTIPLE WHITSUNDAY TOURISIM AWARDS~

*All guests must be 18 years old and over
PLEASE NOTE: NO check in or out on Christmas day (25 December) or New Years day (1 January)

House Rules

Check In

12:00 - 23:00

Check Out

until 10:00

Taxes Included

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Facilities

Free Parking
Free WiFi
Jobs Board
Luggage Storage
Tours/Travel Desk
Parking
Card Phones
Reception (limited hours)

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Reviews

6.7Good(1944)

Value for Money
6.7
Security
7.0
Atmosphere
6.6
Cleanliness
5.6
Staff
8.5
Location
6.7
Facilities
6.2

Summary of traveller reviews

Airlie Beach Backpackers By The Bay offers a friendly atmosphere and helpful staff, with comfortable beds and good air conditioning. It's conveniently located near the bus stop and a short walk to town. However, some guests mention that cleanliness in common areas like the kitchen and bathrooms could be improved, and the property may suit long-term travellers more than short stays.

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Stayed in Jul 2026

Anonymous

Female, 31-40, Canada

I had a really great stay at Backpackers by the Bay! The staff made me feel at home the minute I arrived and helped organizing my trip in Airlie Beach. I booked a boat tour with them and even got a last minute discount and a free drink. The bathrooms and other common areas were very clean even if of course the kitchen could get a bit messy at peak cooking time. The room was cozy with only 4 people and good A/C and the location right in front of the Greyhound stop was super convenient.

Stayed in Jul 2026

4.0

Lotty

Female, 18-24, England

This hostel is not the best for short term backpackers as it is hard to socialise. Rooms smell strongly of **** and lots of people smoke in prohibited places. Room doors aren’t locked and extension bales are unsafely plugged in. I did not stay for a second night.

Stayed in Jun 2026

9.7

Natalie

Female, 18-24, England

super friendly old style hostel, lovely garden great vibes and met great people. short walk into town/to the beach

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