Backpackers always say hostels in Jamaica are the best in the world.

They offer an authentic Jamaican experience for low-budget travelers and a great base from which to easily explore the island, city by city, with a backpack.

It's also an excellent way to learn about Jamaica's local culture and history and to directly engage with locals.

And the best thing is that hostels are easy to find in Jamaica as there's possibly one in every parish.

So whny not veer away from the resort experience and book your stay at a hostel?

Here are the 10 best hostels in Jamaica that we recommend for you. 

Hostels in Port Antonio

Germaican Hostel 

Head to the east of the island to the quaint Germaican Hostel where you can bunk in dormitories with your own group of friends or new ones.

You can also take advantage of the private cottage on the property to explore all the Port Antonio area has to offer. It’s child friendly and, with free Wifi and breakfast included, it almost feels like a visit to a friend’s home.

Porty Hostel

Porty Hostel in the same region, actually sits in the residential area, guaranteeing a truly authentic experience with the local community.

With bunk beds dormitory style or a private room and the host willing to help you discover everything in the area depending on your tastes, you’ll definitely feel like you got to spend your time with friends.

Hostel in Kingston

Backpackers Hostel 

The Backpackers Hostel is like an oasis in the city. It shares a garden with a gallery and many local art and music events are hosted on the property.

Wifi and a great restaurant are also on offer.




Hostels in Montego Bay

Togetherness Hostel

The hub of all tourism, Montego Bay isn’t just for all-inclusive hotel goers; hostels are also easily-found in the island’s second city.

Stay in the beautiful residential neighborhood of Ironshore in the hills above the city at Togetherness Guesthouse, with private bathrooms, double rooms or dorm accommodations as well as a pool, and boasting stunning views from every point.


The Retreat at a Piece of Paradise 

The Retreat at a Piece of Paradise feels a little like a hilltop villa stay except that the space sleeps four dorm-style. The rolling lawns, private pool, and on-property chef easily make you forget that this is technically a hostel.


Five Gables

Another lovely hostel to stay in is Five Gables which always receives rave reviews for its relaxed vibe.

This little yellow house above the hills in Ironshore offers a private pool and great views, along with an exceptional host, making this hostel the destination for many return guests.

Hostels in the Blue Mountains

Jay's Guest House

Stay at one of the more family-oriented spots like Jay’s Guest House in Hagley Gap just beyond the Yallahs River with warm, friendly hosts, free wifi, and great food.


Whitfield Hall Hostel 

For those seeking to check off a bucket list item, head to Whitfield Hall Hostel, a 17th-century former plantation property and working coffee farm as part of the infamous hike up Blue Mountain Peak.

Step back in time in this wooden building and savor authentic Blue Mountain coffee by the light of traditional Tilley lamps and a crackling fire, before heading off to sleep in one of the dorm rooms or one of the two private rooms and then waking well before dawn to trek up the mountain.




Hostels in Negril

Negril Yoga Centre

Negril is still the most bohemian part of Jamaica which is already appealing to most backpackers.

The very popular yoga retreat of Negril Yoga Centre is more than a hostel but is truly a way for those seeking a simple getaway to get the best of all worlds.

Relax in affordable scenic accommodations on the cliff end of Negril with amazing meals and yoga sessions.


Negril Backpacker Hostel

At the back of the property known as Judy House nestled on a mountain road 10 minutes from the beach is a hostelers secret gem, the Negril Backpacker Hostel.

The main property offers self-catering cottages with air conditioning, but also offers dorm and tent accommodations in this garden-like setting with glimpses of the sea.



Overall, it is fairly easy to explore Jamaica and have a rich and varied vacation experience by choosing to make your holiday a hosteling journey around the island.

It will be a vacation to remember and you will most likely leave not just with memories of a great time, but with many new friends including Jamaicans and others from all over the world.