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The best hostels in Kaikoura

Some of the best backpacker spots in Kaikoura

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Located in Kaikoura, a 4-minute walk from Kaikoura Beach, Dolphin Lodge provides accommodations with a garden, free private parking, a terrace and massage services.

The host was very friendly and helpful. The room was clean, spacious, quiet and cozy. Kitchen was very well equipped and the garden furniture was excellent.
Review score
8.4
Very Good
1,195 reviews
Price from
$52.14
1 night, 2 adults

Located in Kaikoura, a few steps from Kaikoura Beach, Kaikoura Seaside lodge provides accommodations with a garden, free private parking and a shared lounge.

Was clean and comfortable and had a spectacular view
Review score
8.4
Very Good
456 reviews
Price from
$57.62
1 night, 2 adults

Dusky Lodge offers budget accommodations. Free WiFi in public areas and free on-site parking are provided. The property features a heated pool and a hot tub to relax in after a day of exploring.

Close to Whale Watching venue. A bit far from bus stop. Staff were helpful.
Review score
7.9
Good
1,056 reviews
Price from
$60.54
1 night, 2 adults
All hostels in Kaikoura
Looking for a hostel?
Budget travelers know there's no better way to make the most of their trip than by staying at a hostel: Save money for exploring during the day, and swap stories with fellow backpackers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening. Dorm-style bedrooms with shared bathrooms are standard hostel fare, but private rooms are also available for those willing to pay a little more.

Hostels that guests love in Kaikoura

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  • Avg. price/night: $64.39
    Review score
    8.4
    Very Good · 456 reviews
    Great being back at this backpackers as I first stayed here 33 years ago when it was a YHA Hostel. Have many happy memories here - so great to see it re-opened! Great location and ambiance. Friendly staff. Clean, tidy & nicely decorated. Good WiFi and communal areas. Awesome whale mural in dining room.
    Guest review by
    Margaret
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: $57.93
    Review score
    7.8
    Good · 1,234 reviews
    Very nice little hotel. Perfect for solo travellers on a budget, especially backpackers, who want a break from back to back hosteling.. Rooms were cosy, bed was comfy as was the wood burner in the lounge. Friendly staff who were very welcoming.
    Guest review by
    William
    Solo traveler
  • Avg. price/night: $52.14
    Review score
    8.4
    Very Good · 1,195 reviews
    The hostel had a lovely, laidback vibe. It was in a great location, a short walk into the Centre of Kaikoura. All the staff I met were friendly and welcoming. The garden area was lovely, and it has a beautiful terrace with sea views. The kitchen was well-equipped, and the free ground coffee was a really nice touch. The washing machine was cheap at 2 dollars, and you could use the washing line outside to dry your things.
    Guest review by
    Jeni
    Solo traveler
  • Review score
    9.2
    Wonderful · 282 reviews
    Great location, overlooking the sea. Close enough to walk into Kaikoura. Safe parking. Apartment was very well fitted out, all appliances were modern and it looked as if someone had spent money to ensure it was comfortable and safe. There was washing up liquid, dishwasher powder and washing powder provided, a boon for travellers from overseas.
    Guest review by
    Linda
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: $60.54
    Review score
    7.9
    Good · 1,056 reviews
    Great backpacker hostel with pool and hot tub. We stayed in a private room which was a decent size and comfortable. Clean toilets and showers. Multiple large kitchens and lots of areas to sit out. 5-10 minute walk to the beach/ high street.
    Guest review by
    Richard
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: $52.14
    Review score
    8.4
    Very Good · 1,195 reviews
    Great location good backpacker venue
    Guest review by
    Cotter
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: $52.14
    Review score
    8.4
    Very Good · 1,195 reviews
    Fantastic location, hostel felt very safe and staff we're great!
    Guest review by
    Row
    Solo traveler
  • Avg. price/night: $52.14
    Review score
    8.4
    Very Good · 1,195 reviews
    Very comfortable and very great location. I spent nice time in Kaikoura in the hostel.
    Guest review by
    Yoann
    Solo traveler
  • Review score
    8.6
    Excellent · 536 reviews
    Great location (beachfront). Budget accomodation with everything you need for a short stay.
    Guest review by
    Sally
    Solo traveler
  • Avg. price/night: $52.14
    Review score
    8.4
    Very Good · 1,195 reviews
    great location, nice relaxed vibe, cleanest kitchen I’ve been to in a hostel, cheap laundry
    Guest review by
    Lara
    Solo traveler