Who doesn’t dream about pristine white beaches, palm trees, stunning sunsets and clear blue waters? Well, if you’re planning on visiting one of these heavenly destinations then we can definitely help you out with some tips on where to stay 😉 Roll out of bed and find yourself on the beach! Who says you have to stay in a fancy-pants resort to experience tropical luxury? We have exotic hostels in some of the most staggeringly beautiful locations on the planet, from tree houses in rain forests, infinity pools on mountains and beach huts on Caribbean shores. Whether you’re after a private room or a social dorm, here are some examples of how you can travel in paradise on a backpacker’s budget… But first, check out the HOSCARs winners for 2025!

13 best exotic hostels

1. 🏖️ Lushy Hostel, Nusa Penida, Indonesia 🇮🇩

At Lushy Hostel, guests are guaranteed a clean and comfortable experience, opportunities to meet new people, and embark on the best adventures in the area. The hostel emphasizes creating meaningful friendships among travelers.

“I stayed here for a week, but wish it had been forever. Best hostel vibe ever!” – Emily, Australia 🌟

⭐Customer rating: 9.5

💰Price: Dorms from €9.93

👉Book now

2. 🏞️ Lost and Found Hostel, Chiriquí, Panama 🇵🇦

Panama’s only hike-in jungle retreat, located in the cloud forests of the Chiriquí Province. Situated inside the La Fortuna Nature Reserve, this hostel offers a unique social housing experience with stunning views of Volcán Barú as the backdrop.​

⭐Customer rating: 9.0​
💰Price: Dorms from €16.67

👉Book now

3. 🎉Far Out Beach Club, Ios, Greece 🇬🇷

⭐ Customer rating: 8.0

💰 Price: Dorms from €8.00​

👉Book now

4. 🦩Tribu Hostel, Holbox Island, Mexico

Ah, La Isla Holbox, where have you been all our lives? Holbox – meaning black hole – was founded in 1873 by pirates, and today it’s just 40 miles north-west of Cancun where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Caribbean. Today the island retains its magical charm with pink flamingos, colourful murals and yellow golf buggies, the only method of transport. The rainbow-painted Tribu hostel is just 40 metres from the beach. Owners David and Mia (plus Mango, the hostel dog) encourage you to “leave your footprint” and try Spanish language courses, yoga sessions, a “blind dinner”, or just simply flop in the hammocks for your Mexican siesta!

⭐ Customer rating: 9.3

💰 Price: Dorms from €11.82

👉Book now

5.🌊 Hangover Hostels, Mirissa, Sri Lanka

Can you get any more tropical than coconut groves, the Indian Ocean and rolling alabaster beaches? We think not! 150km from the capital of Sri Lanka is Marissa, a beach where you can while away the hours diving, surfing, and experiencing some of the best whale watching in Asia. Let Hangover Hostels be your modern paradise. With free breakfast and morning yoga on the overhead deck, it’s no surprise our customers stay longer than they intended: “I booked the hostel for 2 days but ended up staying for 20 days! LOL!” Lol indeed!

⭐ Customer rating: 9.3

💰 Price: Dorms from €11.00

👉Book now

6. 🌿Good Vibes Bungalows, Gili Trawangan, Indonesia 

Prepare to become a part of the good vibes familia! There are no dorms in these newly built topical bungalows on Gili Trawangan, just 2-3 bed private rooms all to yourself. Picture sitting on your own private balcony eating free banana pancakes for breakfast! Good Vibes also make sure that there are hostel vibes with a garden, bar and organised adventures to meet other islanders. 🙌

⭐ Customer rating: 9.4

💰 Price: Privates from €7.51

👉Book now

7. 🏞️Socialtel Bocas del Toro, Panama

Socialtel’s beachfront property in Bocas del Toro is located in Isla Colón, just 500 meters from the airport. Guests can dive right into the Caribbean waters from the expansive water deck, enjoy sunset cocktails, or join activities like live music, yoga classes, and vibrant social events. This hostel offers the perfect mix of relaxation and fun in one of Panama’s most beautiful island destinations.

⭐ Customer rating: 7.6

💰 Price:Dorms from €16.39

👉Book now

8. Nomads Magnetic Island, Australia

Located on the picturesque Magnetic Island off Queensland, Nomads Magnetic Island offers a unique beachfront hostel experience. Guests can enjoy stunning ocean views, vibrant social events, and direct access to the beach, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.​

⭐ Customer rating:8.2

💰 Price: Dorms from €24.00

👉Book now

9. 🏄‍♂️F&F Hostel, Uruguay 🇺🇾

It’s easy to see why this haven holds a 9.5 superb rating from our customers. It’s next to the famous surfers’ beach Playa Brava in Punta del Estea and has its own swimming pool, pool table and garden bar. But what makes F&F special is the homely atmosphere, awesome staff and dorms are the same price as a twin private for the sweet deal of £7 per room! Be careful, you may never leave!

⭐ Customer rating: 6.0

💰 Price: Dorms from €16.04

👉Book now

10.🌅Hideout Hostel, Koh Phangan, Thailand 🇹🇭

If you’re looking for paradise vibes with a social twist, Hideout Hostel in Koh Phangan is the perfect escape. Nestled on this iconic Thai island, this beachside hostel offers a fun, friendly, and stylish stay—ideal for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind.

⭐Customer rating: 9.2
💰Price: Dorms from €14.00

👉Book Now

What to Pack for Your Exotic Hostel Stay 🎒

Packing for an exotic hostel stay requires some smart choices. Whether you’re heading to a beachfront retreat, jungle lodge, or island getaway, here’s what you should bring:

For Beach Hostels (Lushy Hostel, Tribu Hostel, Socialtel Bocas del Toro)

• Flip-flops – Essential for the beach and hostel showers

• Microfiber towel – Quick-drying and easy to pack

• Reef-safe sunscreen – Protects both your skin and marine life

• Dry bag – Keeps valuables safe from water and sand

• Snorkel & mask – Many hostels are near coral reefs

For Jungle & Eco Hostels (The Lost and Found, Secret Garden Cotopaxi)

• Mosquito repellent – A must-have for tropical areas

• Headlamp or flashlight – Some remote hostels have limited lighting

• Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated while exploring

• Hiking shoes – Many hostels are close to trails and waterfalls

• Light rain jacket – Weather can change quickly in jungle areas

For Party & Social Hostels (Far Out Beach Club, Nomads Magnetic Island, Socialtel Bocas del Toro)

• Earplugs & sleep mask – If you’re sharing a dorm with night owls

• Portable charger – Keep your phone powered for photos and maps

• Travel lock – Secure valuables in hostel lockers

• A casual evening outfit – Some hostels have themed nights or beach clubs

Extras That Always Come in Handy

• Hostelworld app & offline maps – Helpful for finding new destinations

• Multi-plug adapter – Power outlets vary between countries

• Notebook or journal – Capture your best memories

A well-packed bag ensures a stress-free stay, so pack smart and leave room for adventure.

Best Activities at Exotic Hostels 🌊🎉

Hostels aren’t just a place to sleep—they’re hubs of adventure, social connections, and unique experiences. Here are some of the best activities you can enjoy at these exotic locations:

🏄Water Adventures & Beach Fun

• Snorkeling & scuba diving – Many exotic hostels are near coral reefs (Smugglers Cove Beach Resort, Lushy Hostel)

• Surfing & paddleboarding – Ride the waves at Hangover Hostels Mirissa and Nomads Magnetic Island

• Kayaking & island hopping – Explore hidden beaches near Tribu Hostel and Socialtel Bocas del Toro

🎶Social Events & Nightlife

• Full Moon & beach parties – Dance under the stars at Far Out Beach Club and Hideout Hostel

• Cocktail nights & bar crawls – Meet other travelers at Nomads Magnetic Island and Socialtel Bocas del Toro

• Live music & DJ sets – Enjoy evening entertainment at Tribu Hostel and Socialtel Bocas del Toro

🌿Eco & Adventure Activities

• Hiking & jungle treks – Discover nature near The Lost and Found Hostel and Secret Garden Cotopaxi

• Wildlife spotting – See monkeys, toucans, and tropical birds at The Lost and Found and Hangover Hostels

• Yoga & meditation – Unwind at Nomads Magnetic Island and Good Vibes Bungalows

🏡Hostel-Exclusive Experiences

• Community dinners & cooking classes – Taste local flavors at Tribu Hostel and Lushy Hostel

• Cultural nights & themed events – Experience local traditions at Socialtel Bocas del Toro

• Board games & movie nights – Relax at F&F Hostel and Smugglers Cove Beach Resort

Staying at an exotic hostel means more than just finding a bed—it’s about immersing yourself in new cultures, making connections, and creating unforgettable experiences.

✨ Find Your Paradise – Your Next Adventure Awaits! 🌍🏝️

Travel isn’t just about the places you visit—it’s about the experiences you collect, the people you meet, and the memories that stay with you long after your bags are unpacked. These 13 exotic hostels aren’t just places to stay; they’re gateways to adventure, doors to cultural discovery, and homes away from home where friendships are made over sunset cocktails, jungle treks, and moonlit beach bonfires. 🌅🍹🌿

Whether you’re dreaming of waking up to the sound of waves in Sri Lanka, hiking through the jungle in Panama, or dancing under the stars on a Greek island, the world is yours to explore—without breaking the bank.

So pack light, chase the sun, and let the journey take you somewhere unforgettable. Your next adventure starts here! 🚀🌊✨

👉 Which one of these hostels will be your next destination? Let us know in the comments! 💬😊