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From21US$ /night
Check-in
05Mar2026Select date
Check-out
06Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

52-54 Spence Street, Cairns, Australia, 4870
-
Near the Cairns Aquarium
Very good
7.2
/10
3.9
3.7
/5

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.”
Hotel logo
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
Single Bed Deluxe 4-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room
2 persons
250 sq. feet 
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Air conditioning
Single Bed Deluxe 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room
2 persons
410 sq. feet 
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Air conditioning
Basic Twin Room age limit 18 35
2 persons
100 sq. feet 
2 Bunk beds
Shower
Air conditioning
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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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 Backpackers Hostel Cairns Restaurant photo
The Jack Backpackers Hostel Cairns Restaurant photo
The Jack Backpackers Hostel Cairns Restaurant photo

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.
Reservation
Not needed
Open for lunch and dinner.

The Jack Backpackers Hostel Location

52-54 Spence Street, Cairns, Australia, 4870
Map view
52-54 Spence Street, Cairns, Australia, 4870
Nearby
Market
Rusty's Markets
400 ft
Museum
The Cairns Museum
1500 ft
52-54 The Esplanade
Cairns Cenotaph
1800 ft
The Esplanade
1876 Landing Party
1800 ft
1/47 Shields St
Bones and Jones
800 ft
Gallery
Samurai Gallery Australia
1200 ft
Shop 4
Underart Gallery
1100 ft
Gallery
KickArts Contemporary Arts
1200 ft
Gallery
Doongal Aboriginal Art Gallery Cairns
1700 ft
Wooroonooran Bartle Frere
Josephine Falls
600 ft
58 Lake St Suite 3-4
Foot and Body Massage
1100 ft
Shopping Area
Orchid Plaza
1100 ft
Shopping Area
T Galleria by DFS
1400 ft
Park
Anzac Park
2100 ft
Shopping Area
Oceana Walk Arcade
600 ft
5D Sheridan St
Cairns District Court
600 ft
Restaurants
Haru
400 ft
Shop 2 55 Spence St
The Mouth Trap
400 ft
9 Sheridan St
Tiny's Juice Bar Cafe
500 ft
45 Grafton St
Rusty's Juice Bar
500 ft
57 Grafton St Unit 6
Chicken Shed
500 ft
43 Grafton St
La Creperie
500 ft
52 Grafton Street Rusty's Market
Meldrum's Pies in Paradise
900 ft
94 Grafton St
Cruze Coffee
1000 ft
105 Grafton St
Pete & Paulz Breaky Bar
800 ft
35 Sheridan St
Ganbaranba
1000 ft
Shop 7 14 Spence St Boland Center
Explore Cairns
Explore Cairns
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Cairns Night Markets
10 minutes' walk
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.
Open reviews
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.

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