"The vibe at the hostel is fun and they have good deals for some pub food at the bar downstairs if you're staying."
Noemi from United States
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"Location of the accomodation is perfect, everything you need is in walking distance, not that Cairns is very big."
Elizabeth from Australia
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"One of the cleanest hostels we have stayed in, the housekeeping and staff were super friendly and cleaned the room everyday, the showers and bathrooms were also of a very high standard and always clean."
Rose H
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Accommodation
The Jack Backpackers provides convenient hostel accommodation right in Cairns CBD with a capacity of 800 guests. Each guest has access to free Wi-Fi and complimentary evening meals 7 nights a week. This facility is located just 5 minutes from the Esplanade, Lagoon, and Reef Terminal.
Dining Options
The Jack hosts a restaurant serving both lunch and dinner with an A La Carte menu that includes pizzas, seafood, burgers, and contemporary Australian cuisine. Guests can enjoy their meals in an all-weather beer garden or at the bar while watching live sports on multiple screens. For large groups and events, The Jack offers tailored food and beverage packages.
Entertainment and Amenities
The Jack specializes in sports entertainment, showcasing live events on 27 screens throughout the venue, including a huge projector. For gaming enthusiasts, the hotel features a modern gaming lounge with 25 pokie machines and Keno. Guests can also enjoy live music in the beer garden, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere.
Location
The Jack is strategically positioned in Cairns CBD, making it easily accessible from various transport hubs. It is just 2 minutes away from shopping centers and a mere 5 minutes from the scenic Esplanade. A taxi ride from the airport takes around 12 minutes and costs approximately $25.
Events and Functions
With extensive function rooms, The Jack can accommodate diverse events, from milestone celebrations to corporate functions. The venue's capacity of 800 makes it suitable for large gatherings, with full-service event planning available. Detailed information and package options can be easily obtained by contacting the staff.
Highlights
Location: Cairns CBD, 5 minutes from the Lagoon .
Dining: A La Carte menu featuring seafood and burgers .
Entertainment: 27 screens for live sports .
Events: Function rooms for up to 800 guests .
“This backpacker's hostel lands right in the town center, a short walk from the shopping center and transport hubs. The vibe leans toward clean, functional spaces, including well-kept private rooms and dorms with ensuite bathrooms. It also has a sociable kitchen, though the weekend noise level from the bar might be a factor for some.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type
The Jack Backpackers Hostel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Single bed 4-Bed Female Dormitory Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Air conditioning
room details
Single Bed Deluxe 4-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room
2 persons
250 sq. feet
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Air conditioning
room details
Single Bed Deluxe 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room
2 persons
410 sq. feet
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Air conditioning
room details
Basic Twin Room age limit 18 35
2 persons
100 sq. feet
2 Bunk beds
Shower
Air conditioning
room details
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Facilities
The Jack Backpackers Hostel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities:
Very good
7.2/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Safe deposit box
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Security
Adults only
Luggage storage
Locker room
ATM/Cash machine
Vending machines
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Diving
Snorkelling
Billiard tables
Darts
Guest Parking
Shared kitchen
Electric kettle
Services
Housekeeping
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink
Happy hour
Dining
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Business
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Board games
Spa & Leisure
Live entertainment
Night club
Garden area
BBQ facilities
Leisure/ TV room
Room features
Air conditioning
Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Self-catering
Shared kitchen
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
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Dining Onsite
At The Jack Backpackers, diverse dining experiences cater to every taste and occasion, creating a warm gathering place for locals and travelers alike. Enjoy a delightful Australian menu infused with vegetarian and gluten-free options, all within a family-friendly and modern atmosphere.
The Jack
Australian
Ambiance
Family-friendly and modern, with a lively atmosphere accentuated by sports broadcasts and live entertainment in the beer garden.
Key Offerings
Featuring a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options, The Jack is perfect for large groups, casual dinners, and work lunches. The venue includes 18 flat-screen TVs showcasing major sporting events, and live performances from 6 PM until 2 AM add to the vibrant experience.
Vibrant market featuring local crafts and food stalls, perfect for a casual evening out.
Green Island
8 minutes' walk
A picturesque reef island with breathtaking coral reefs, great for snorkeling and swimming.
Cairns Regional Gallery
8 minutes' walk
Exhibits showcasing local and Indigenous art. Entry is often free, offering a cultural insight.
Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome
9 minutes' walk
An interactive wildlife experience with zip lines and animal encounters, ideal for thrill-seekers.
Rusty's Markets
2 minutes' walk
Energetic market offering fresh produce and local treats, open Friday to Sunday for a casual outing.
Green Arrow Walk
10 minutes' walk
Scenic walking trail through lush greenery ideal for a peaceful stroll or a cycling adventure.
ZOO To You HQ Wildlife Discovery Centre
10 minutes' walk
Engaging wildlife center focused on educating visitors about Australia's unique fauna, a great family destination.
Haru
2 minutes' walk
Japanese cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, well known for its sushi and ramen dishes. Reservations recommended.
Tiny's Juice Bar Cafe
2 minutes' walk
Relaxed café serving healthy juices and light bites, perfect for a nutritious start to your day.
The Mouth Trap
2 minutes' walk
Delightful eatery famous for its gourmet sandwiches and relaxed vibe. Great for quick yet delicious meals.
Cairns Marlin Marina
9 minutes' walk
Charming marina with shops, restaurants, and sunset views, ideal for a leisurely evening stroll.
Muddy's Playground
19 minutes' walk
Family-friendly park with play areas and picnic spots, offering fun activities for younger visitors.
Cairns Performing Arts Centre
11 minutes' walk
Hosts diverse shows including theater and music performances, suitable for all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
Cairns9 min
·
2300 ft
Airports
Cairns International Airport (CNS)11 min
·
4.5
mi
Train
Cairns Central Station5 min
·
1400 ft
Bus
Bus stop2 min
·
400 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-19:00
Check-out
from 09:00-11:00
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
107
Former name
Shenannigans
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about The Jack Backpackers Hostel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 498 verified reviews
6.7/10
Nice
62%
Recommend
Breakfast
8.7/10
Cleanliness
7.3/10
Comfort
7.3/10
Facilities
7.2/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.8/10
Location
8.9/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.2/10
Staff
8.6/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Clean rooms
Good location
Helpful staff
Good water pressure
Drink deals
Cons
Filthy kitchen
Difficult parking
Room ventilation
Noisy kitchen
Guest reviews
based on 1732 reviews
7.2/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About The Jack Backpackers
Is there a place to store luggage at The Jack Backpackers?
01 June 2024
Yes! Complimentary luggage storage is available for all paying guests, and belongings can be stored for as long as needed.
Can I check out early if I need to leave before 9 AM?
02 July 2024
Reception hours are from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, so early check-outs can be arranged within those times.
What is the atmosphere like at night?
15 August 2024
Expect lively music on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights until around 11 PM, while the weekdays tend to be quite peaceful.
Are the lockers secure, and do I need to bring my own lock?
22 September 2024
The lockers are new and secure, but guests will need to provide their own padlocks to keep their belongings safe.
What transportation options are available for getting to the airport?
30 October 2024
There are local companies that provide airport shuttles. A taxi costs around $25 and takes about 12 minutes, while the shuttle costs $10 and takes roughly 30 minutes.
Are there any scheduled activities or events for guests to participate in?
12 November 2024
Yes, there are various social events like pool competitions and trivia nights, which include exciting prizes.
Is there a female-only dormitory available for guests?
05 December 2024
Yes, there are shared accommodations designated specifically for female guests.
Can guests use personal sleeping bags during their stay?
18 January 2025
Due to local council regulations, sleeping bags are not permitted inside the hostel. They can be stored at reception if needed.
Is it possible to check in late at night, around midnight?
23 February 2025
Late check-ins can be accommodated until 2 AM, after which guests will need to wait until reception reopens at 9 AM.
Can I bring my bike and is there a secure area for it?
14 March 2025
Yes, there is a designated bike area for guests to securely park their bicycles.
What types of tours and local activities can be booked through the hostel?
29 April 2025
A tour desk is available with knowledgeable staff who can assist in booking various local tours before your arrival.
Is Wi-Fi available throughout the property?
10 May 2025
Yes, free Wi-Fi is accessible in all communal areas as well as in guest rooms.