7 Best Backpacker Hostels in Vanuatu

An awesome place to stay, eat and mingle, Retreat Seaside is a top choice for backpackers.

This buzzing hostel achieves the perfect sweet spot between social vibes and genuine comfort that makes island life so memorable. You'll find yourself choosing between shared dorms (both single and bunk bed setups), private queen rooms tucked away on the third floor with those handy bath-shower combos, ground-floor studios complete with private bathrooms and air-con, or the showstopper "King Suite" with its king-sized bed, double everything (sinks and shower heads), plus a separate lounge area that's perfect for spreading out.

Everything comes sorted with complimentary bed linen, towels, WiFi, power and water. Basically, you just need to rock up with your belongings. The shared kitchen facilities are properly kitted out with fridge, microwave, toaster and kettle, so you can whip up meals whenever hunger strikes.

The onsite swimming pool is a godsend after a day exploring, whilst the bar and restaurant become the heart of the action with weekly trivia nights and those brilliant discounted pizza and burger specials that the expat community raves about.

Daily housekeeping keeps the common areas spotless, and you'll get fresh linens and towels weekly. And if you don't want to leave, monthly deals are available.

Another worthy option in the capital, Vila Backpackers brings the fun with its "themed" rooms and excellent prices.

This vibrant flashpacker haven is your perfect island home away from home, where comfort meets community in the most delightful way. You'll love how this place brings together travellers who crave both adventure and genuine connections.

The accommodation options here are brilliant. Whether you're bunking down in the "Checkmate Bunkhouse" with fellow adventurers or treating yourself to a private "Knight Room" with a luxurious king bed, every space feels bright, clean and welcoming. The cosy "Rook Room" with its double bed is another gem we're particularly fond of.

But honestly, it's what happens beyond your room that makes this place truly special. The café serves up tasty bites that'll fuel your island adventures, while the Chess Club Bar becomes the heart of the social scene with great music and cold drinks flowing.

In the communal areas, you can challenge fellow travellers to a game of chess, throw some darts, lose yourself in a good book whilst swinging in the hammock, or cool off with a dip in the pool.

By far Vanuatu's most unique dorm experience, Tanna Volcano View Tree House is located in a local village only a short drive away from the famous Mt Yasur volcano.

If you've ever dreamed of falling asleep to the rumble of an active volcano, this locally owned treehouse is your answer. Perched directly opposite the entrance to Yasur Volcano, it offers front-row seats to one of the world's most spectacular natural shows right from your verandah.

Robert and Lina run this family homestay with genuine warmth, and we can't get enough of how they make every guest feel like part of the village family. The treehouse sits just a two-minute stroll from the volcano ticket office, so you'll be first in line for those unforgettable crater visits.

You'll have your pick between private rooms or dorm-style accommodation, both featuring comfortable beds wrapped in mosquito netting. Breakfast comes included with every stay, and the on-site restaurant serves up generous helpings of authentic local kai kai that'll have you coming back for seconds.

The hosts arrange volcano tours directly from the property and can organise excursions to the ash plains, waterfalls and Port Resolution.

For those travelling to Santo LINK#D053, you'll find backpacker-friendly accommodation at the Tropicana Motel & Backpackers.

On a quiet street in the heart of Luganville, the property provides convenient access to the island's tour and dive operators, with the local produce market, banks, post office, supermarkets and restaurants just a short walk away.

The accommodation features a variety of room options, including single, twin, triple, quadruple and family rooms, all with ensuite bathrooms, pedestal fans and mini fridges. In true backpacker style, there are also shared dorm rooms to help keep the costs extra low.

Set within a large villa, the property includes a garden with a pavilion and picnic seating area.

Sitting on some prime real estate close to Port Vila, no wonder Bluepango Guest House is a highlight for backpackers.

This backpackers sits in an absolutely prime coastal spot, and we love how it strikes the perfect balance between hostel vibes and guesthouse comfort. You'll find yourself in lovely garden surroundings with free WiFi and complimentary parking thrown in.

The outdoor dining area is the perfect spot to swap travel stories with fellow adventurers whilst enjoying your meals under the open sky (and, yes, the stargazing is also awesome). The shared kitchen setup gives you the freedom to whip up your own creations using local ingredients.

During our last visit, we noticed the swimming pool was out of action, but honestly, the no-nonsense approach here is what makes it such a brilliant base for travellers who aren't fussed about bells and whistles.

Backpackers in Paradise, also known as Second Home Havannah, proves that you don't have to be stuck in Port Vila if you're on a budget.

Sure, they have "Deluxe Retreat Rooms", which are perfect for your private space, but what we particularly love about this place is how it caters to every type of traveller. Backpackers can snag a bed in the dormitory-style accommodation, which keeps costs down without sacrificing comfort.

The shared kitchen is a real winner if you fancy preparing your own meals (perfect for those on a budget). But if cooking's not your thing, don't worry. There's an on-site restaurant with a limited but satisfying menu.

The scooter rental is ideal for exploring the surrounding area. Plus, the restaurant doubles as an entertainment hub with a pool table and bar, ideal for meeting fellow travellers over a drink or two.

A backpacker accommodation ideally situated between the beaches of Eratap and the city excitement of Port Vila, Koyu at Eratap Point (or Koyu Apartments) is an accommodation that tends to fly under the radar.

Think spacious dorm-style apartments, but with a twist; each one comes with its own fully equipped kitchen and access to a balcony overlooking either the ocean or tropical gardens.

We appreciate the high ceilings here, which create an airy feeling throughout. The kitchens come with everything you need: stove, refrigerator and electric kettle.

There's a good balance of indoor and outdoor living. The tropical gardens house plenty of outdoor dining and lounging spots. Plus, the beach is right at your doorstep, and they'll sort you out with complimentary snorkelling gear and beach towels.

You'll also find BBQ facilities (ideal for those sunset cook-ups), a small convenience store for essentials, guest laundry services and free parking.