The Jack Hotel & Backpackers

Stayed at The Jack hostel for over a month, while i was working in Cairns, and really enjoyed my stay there. Had very helpful members of staff that were on hand to help you out with any issues. Particularly liked the pretty terraced area and TV room above the main bar. Met some really friendly people and overall had a great experience. On some nights of the week it does get a bit loud with the music and live entertainment, but in my opinion this contributes to the cool and social atmosphere of the place. Would recommend!

Bought 2 x $35main meals. They were entree size at best. One consisted of 5 cocktail prawns and a cup of white rice together with some garlic sauce. When we questioned it, was told that was it. Won't be returning.

Overall not too bad, but I suggest they get a more efficient checking in. After being insured that late check in would be no problem, they let us wait very long. Not very nice to stand with your luggage in street at night after a long bus drive. ☹️

If I could give this hostel a higher rating, then I would. Everything about it was brilliant. First of all, the price is very reasonable, which is important as most hostels have become super expensive following the pandemic. Also, the location is brilliant, only a five minute walk from the center of Cairns and ten minutes from the lagoon and waterfront.

The facilities here are also great. Everything is kept clean and tidy by the housekeeping staff. Plenty of showers and toilet facilities for everyone. The kitchen features not only cooking hobs but also ovens (a rarity in hostels). Moreover, the hostel has a good sized social area and a TV lounge which are great to chill out in. All rooms are also equipped with a fridge and Air Con which, believe me, you will need in Cairns.

The hostel has its own onsite pub (also called the Jack) which hosts live bands on some nights. The hostel does warn you in advance about the potential noise this may create as the pub is open until late on Fridays and Saturdays, but we did not find it to be that loud and experienced no noise issues. Furthermore, the legendary nightclub Gilligan's is only a two minute walk away and with the more relaxing atmosphere you find at the Jack, you really do get the best of both worlds when it comes to partying or just relaxing and taking it easy.

By far my biggest compliments, however, go to the manager, Harriet and her team at reception, who are not only very friendly and always up for a chat, but really do go above and beyond to ensure the hostel is well run, and to help out with any problems or queries you may have and to make sure your stay is as comfortable as possible.

I cannot recommend this place enough. Easily one of my favourite hostels. Needless to say, when I find myself back in Cairns, I know where I'll be staying!

The people in reception were super nice, the girl that was living there and closing everything up was very annoying, if two people were outside talking softly she would complain while other people would have their videos on their mobiles blasting and nothing would be said.
The rooms were dirty and the house cleaner went there and "vacuum" and it was still dirty and the bathrooms and toilets are pretty dirty 2.