"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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Rooms and Amenities
The Jack Backpacker Hostel offers accommodations with air conditioning. Options include double rooms, twin rooms, and beds in dormitory rooms. Twin rooms feature tea and coffee makers, with private bathrooms that include a shower and hairdryer. Guests have access to free Wi-Fi, available in communal areas and in all rooms. Free Netflix is also accessible in the common lounge area and in private en suite rooms. The hostel provides a shared kitchen, and plate sets are available for rent at reception for $10. For digital access, Goki app door entry or unique door codes are available.
Dining at The Jack
The Jack features two dining areas: an air-conditioned indoor restaurant and an A La Carte outdoor beer garden. The Jack's Restaurant is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, serving a modern Australian menu with pizzas, seafood, burgers, and steaks. The menu caters to groups, work lunches, casual dinners, and families. Guests receive free evening meals seven nights a week. The venue includes three bars that offer local, premium, and imported beers, spirits, and cocktails. The Jackpot Gaming Lounge offers free coffee for gaming patrons.
Entertainment and Activities
The Jack features an all-weather beer garden that hosts live music from 6 PM to 2 AM and shows major sporting events on five projector screens and two HD LED screens. The bars have 18 flat-screen TVs for sports viewing. Guests can use pool tables and dart boards. The venue hosts monthly concerts and events. The Jackpot Gaming Lounge has 25 pokie machines. Major events, such as UFC fights, are broadcast live and loud on large screens with stadium surround sound.
Location and Transportation
The Jack is located in the heart of Cairns CBD, 10 km from Cairns Airport. It is a 2-minute walk from the Shopping Centre and a 5-minute walk from the Esplanade, Lagoon, and Reef Terminal. The hostel is a 5-minute walk (five blocks) from the Greyhound bus stop and a 5-minute walk (two blocks) from the Premier bus stop. Taxi service from the airport costs approximately $25 and takes about 12 minutes; the airport shuttle is $10 per person and takes approximately 30 minutes.
Services and Amenities
The reception is open from 9 AM to 7 PM. Free luggage storage is available at check-in and check-out. The hostel offers a tour desk where staff can assist with booking local activities such as diving, snorkeling, and bungee jumping. Laundry facilities are available on the motel and hostel side, and washing powder can be purchased for $2 at reception. The Jack can assist with booking the Cairns Airport Shuttle. The venue is available for functions, including birthday parties, corporate events, and Christmas parties. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the premises.
“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 hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
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
Budget Twin Room
2 persons
100 sq. feet
2 Bunk beds
Shower
Air conditioning
room details
Budget Double Room
2 persons
100 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Balcony
room details
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Facilities
The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
General
No smoking on site
Free 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
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
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.