![6 Best Backpackers Hostels in Takaka & Golden Bay ???? [2023]](https://nzpocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/73774739-867x650.jpg)
Where to Find Accommodation in Takaka and Golden Bay for Backpackers
With long stretches of stunning beaches, sand spits, luxuriant forests, cave networks, unique geological features, uncrowded access to Abel Tasman National Park, a huge amount of work opportunities, and more awesome Golden Bay must-dos, Golden Bay and its main town Takaka are a must-visit for backpackers.
With that, there are plenty of backpacker hostels in Golden Bay to help you save money on your stay.
Hidden behind the Takaka Hill, the township of Takaka is the most happening place in the area and where almost all the hostels on this list are located but don’t be afraid to go off the beaten track, this is how you make the most of Golden Bay. Just ask any of the hostel owners to point you in the right direction.
Here is a short list of the hostels we like the most in the Golden Bay area.
Table of Contents
1. Annies Nirvana Lodge
Annies Nirvana Lodge is worth a visit for its artistic vibe alone. With wooden art throughout the garden packed with lounging furniture and locally inspired mural paintings, you’ll love every second of your stay. This puts guests in a great mood and the atmosphere where everybody talks to everybody.
The no-frills rooms consist of dormitories, as well as private single, double, twin, triple and family rooms – something for everyone! Plus, BBH members get a discount.
Book Annies Nirvana Lodge:
![6 Best Backpackers Hostels in Takaka & Golden Bay ???? [2023]](https://nzpocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/73774739.jpg)
© Annies Nirvana Lodge2. The Innlet, Country Apartments and Cottages
Just a 30-minute drive from Takaka and just past Collingwood is the charming backpacker hostel and budget accommodation The Innlet!
There are a variety of accommodation types on the property, from private cabins to a farmhouse hostel.
The hostel is small so it will never feel overcrowded, which is just the vibe you’ll want when relaxing in this accommodation surrounded by lush native forest.
Book The Innlet, Country Apartments and Cottages:
© The Innlet3. Farewell Gardens Holiday Park
Located at the base of Farewell Spit, Farewell Gardens Holiday Park offers a tranquil eco-friendly retreat for backpackers exploring Golden Bay. We love its prime location, just a stone’s throw from the sea and surrounded by pristine natural beauty.
The park boasts well-established gardens with large, private sites sheltered by mature native and exotic trees, perfect for a relaxing stay.
Accommodation options range from standard cabins and an ensuite cabin to a self-contained apartment, as well as tent and campervan sites. The new standard cabins sleep up to four people, ideal for small groups or families.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s proximity to Wharariki Beach and the opportunity to spot diverse birdlife, including gannets, royal spoonbills and blue penguins.
![5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Takaka & Golden Bay 🎒 [2025]](https://nzpocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Farewell-Gardens-Holiday-PArk.jpg)
© Farewell Gardens Holiday Park4. [UPDATE] Shambhala Retreat
[Update: Shambhala Retreat no longer offers backpacker dorms but private double and twin rooms. For more cheap stays with alternative types of rooms, head to the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Takaka.]
Far off the beaten track and on a private beach, Shambhala is a dream hostel – a real slice of paradise where backpackers from all over the world come to relax and unwind.
It is no surprise that with such a setting, the eco-backpackers has become a relaxation retreat perfect for meditation and yoga lovers.
© ShambhalaMore About Hostels in Takaka and Golden Bay for Backpackers
That’s it for our list of the best backpacker hostels in Takaka and Golden Bay. Don’t miss any of the highlights in Golden Bay by having a look at the following guides:
- 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Takaka
- 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Takaka
- Abel Tasman National Park – Guide for Backpackers
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in our Tasman and Golden Bay – Guide for Backpackers.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
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