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Renovation Revelation: A Bold Makeover Journey Begins – Brace Yourself for an Entirely Revamped Bathroom Experience!

All guests receive FREE access to Gold's Gym for the entire stay

Please Note: The following room types are located on the club side of the property, where noise from the attached nightclub may be heard:

Standard 10 Bed Mixed Dorm Ensuite
Standard 8 Bed Mixed Dorm Ensuite
Standard 4 Bed Female Dorm Ensuite

Special Offers: -Advance Purchase rates now available for most dorm types!

Unwind and Connect at Gilligan's Hotel & Resort - Your Gateway to Cairns' Tropical Paradise.

Welcome to Gilligan's, your gateway to Cairns' tropical paradise. Nestled in the heart of the city, we offer a vibrant and cozy retreat for every traveler.

Your Tropical Haven in Cairns: Whether you're seeking the camaraderie of backpacker-style dormitories or the tranquility of private hotel rooms, we've got you covered. Our spacious, air-conditioned rooms come with en-suite bathrooms and free bed linen for your convenience. And yes, we offer Free Wi-Fi, because we know you want to stay connected during your adventures.

Socialize and Relax: Gilligan's boasts a lagoon-style swimming pool, the perfect spot to chill out with friends, or to make new ones. Each of our four floors features modern communal kitchens and lounge areas. Whether you want to read a book, watch TV, or simply unwind, it's your space to enjoy. We pride ourselves on providing a clean and safe environment, ensuring your stay is nothing short of fantastic.

In the Heart of the Action: Step outside, and you'll find yourself amidst the vibrant city life. Gilligan's is a stone's throw away from Rusty's Market and is surrounded by boutique shops, cosy cafes, and buzzing bars and restaurants. The Reef Terminal, the Esplanade, and the Kuranda Railway Station are all within walking distance. Our strategic location in Cairns City Centre allows you to explore with ease, providing you with easy access to local attractions and sights.

Endless Amenities: Your comfort is our priority. We offer free luggage storage, pool tables, a powder room, and a fitness room to accommodate all your needs. Plus, you'll find four state of the art communal kitchens, fully equipped for your culinary creations.

A Memorable Experience: Gilligan's is more than just accommodation; it's a fantastic Cairns experience. Book your stay today and make Gilligan's your tropical haven!

Important Details: Gilligan's is an 18+ property. Our reception desk is open 24 hour. Check-in is from 2 pm, and check-out is at 10 am.

Please note that cancellations within 24 hours of the arrival date incur the first night's accommodation fee and the credit card used for booking will be charged.

Please note that payments on credit card incur a surcharge (Visa & Mastercard 1%, American Express 1.8%)
Bookings for 8 pax or more are considered a group booking and may be subject to additional charges. These bookings may be subject to cancellation at the managers discretion.

House Rules

Check In

0:00 - 23:00

Check Out

until 10:00

  • Credit Cards Not Accepted
  • No Curfew
  • Non Smoking
  • Taxes Included
View House Rules

Facilities

  • Free City Maps
  • Free WiFi
  • Free Internet Access
  • Free Security Lockers
  • Free Luggage Storage
  • Bicycle Parking
  • Meeting Rooms
  • Luggage Storage
View all facilities

Reviews

8.9Fabulous(4506)
  • Value for Money
    8.7
  • Security
    9.1
  • Atmosphere
    9.0
  • Cleanliness
    8.6
  • Staff
    9.2
  • Location
    9.3
  • Facilities
    8.8
Summary of traveller reviews

Gilligan's Backpacker Hotel & Resort Cairns offers a vibrant social atmosphere and a fantastic central location, perfect for travellers looking to party and meet new people. Many guests praise the friendly and helpful staff, with special mentions for Joe and Leon. While it's a lively party hostel, some rooms can be noisy due to the attached club, though quieter options are available. Cleanliness is generally good, though some recent reviews mention occasional issues with kitchen cleanliness.

Stayed in Jul 2026
6.3
J
Jitske
Female, 25-30, Belgium
The basics in the room itself were okay/good. The communal parts were honestly not okay. Everything in the kitchen was disgusting. People did not clean their dishes or the stuff they used to cook. Also kinda sad but it was not a stimulating environment to make connections with other travellers.
Stayed in Jul 2026
10
T
Tianna
Female, 18-24, Australia
Gilligans is heaven on earth. Joe (aka. JoJo) is the king of this place. Mr manager manages the heck out of here. Don't be mislead by the humble black polo. We love JoJo so please bow when you see him to show respect. 10/10
Stayed in Jul 2026
6.0
J
Jaimey
Female, 18-24, USA
I had to move rooms twice due to 1) a couple fighting in the room and then blasting music loud enough to annoy the neighboring rooms and 2) a girl had completely covered my unmade bed in her items. While the staff were able to switch me, which I appreciated, the people who seemed to stay here were discourteous and messy. Great location
View all reviews

Location

57 - 89 Grafton Street, Cairns, Australia
0.2km from city centre
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Hostelworld says

Most travellers either begin or end their Aussie route in Cairns and the vibe here is pretty contagious. At Gilligans Resort, you can expect to dive right in to the party scene with regular social events and "cool people". The resort is perfect if you need a hostel close to the famous Cairns Esplanade Lagoon and buzzing nightlife.