5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Kaikoura 🎒 [2023]

1. Dusky Lodge & Backpackers

The largest hostel in Kaikoura has an incredible amount of space to relax after a day’s swimming with dolphins or whale watching with multiple lounges, decks and even a swimming pool. From super-budget dorm rooms to private ensuite rooms to family rooms, there are plenty of options. Spruce up some meals (with ideas from 10 Easy Meals to Cook in a Hostel in 10 Minutes) in one of several equipped kitchens, while facilities such as laundry, dining and all the other essentials are here. Plus, free unlimited WiFi! For more stays with family rooms, check out the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Kaikoura.

Check Dusky Lodge and Backpackers out:

• Dusky Lodge and Backpackers on Booking.com
• Dusky Lodge and Backpackers on HostelWorld
• Dusky Lodge and Backpackers on Trip.com
• Dusky Lodge and Backpackers on Expedia

2. Dolphin Lodge

A homely hostel offering private double rooms with or without an ensuite, twin rooms and dorms, Dolphin Lodge presents another awesome hotel in Kaikoura. All the home comforts are included, such as a communal kitchen, outdoor spa pool, DVD library, garden furniture and a barbecue. What’s more, the location is ideal; just a couple of minutes’ stroll from the main street in one direction and a walk along the Esplanade to the dolphin swimming office and Kaikoura Beach in the other.

Check Dolphin Lodge out:

• Dolphin Lodge on Booking.com
• Dolphin Lodge on Trip.com

© Dolphin Lodge

3. Albatross Backpacker Inn

A very welcoming hostel in Kaikoura, Albatross Backpacker Inn is certainly worth considering. Set in a historic building, the hostel has a lot of character which is furthered by the colourful murals and vibrant garden. Stay in the likes of the “Awesome Dorm”, female dorms, twins and doubles, as well as make use of all the expected facilities like laundry, kitchen and lounge. Plus, you’re not likely to get bored with events regularly put on by your hosts from potluck dinners to jam sessions.

Check Albatross Backpacker Inn out:

• Albatross Backpacker Inn on HostelWorld

© Albatross Inn

4. Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park

For alternative budget accommodation options for backpackers, consider staying in a holiday park in Kaikoura. The Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park has budget cabins, which are ideal for those travelling as a couple or a group of friends. Other accommodations include motel rooms and camping sites. Guests can make use of all the usual facilities that you would find in a hostel, such as a kitchen and laundry facilities. To see what else to expect in New Zealand holiday parks, see our Accommodation Guide to Holiday Parks in New Zealand.

Check Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park out:

• Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park on Booking.com
• Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park on Expedia

© Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park

5. Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park

Another holiday park in Kaikoura is the Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park. They also offer standard cabins as their cheapest accommodation, after camping sites. Otherwise, you have a heated swimming pool, private spa pools, free WiFi and basic kitchen, dining and laundry facilities to make use of. For more accommodations alternatives, head to the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Kaikoura.

Check Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park out:

• Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park on Booking.com
• Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park on Trip.com
• Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park on Expedia

© Kaikoura top 10 holiday park

[CLOSED] Skyhi Hostel Lodge

With not a bunk room in sight but a fantastic offering of budget private rooms, Skyhi is well worth considering if you’re travelling as a couple, with friends, or just want your own private space. This cosy hostel in the centre of Kaikoura has great communal facilities like a kitchen, lounge and laundry, with the addition of free unlimited WiFi, free cookies and a cosy garden to lounge in.