Cool Bananas Backpackers

Scott, the owner, lives onsite and treats everyone like his own children, he takes great pride in teaching and protecting them like he would his own (he also has 2 kids in their early 20's) The hostel is kept way above the standard you would expect in a hostel, you can see the pride taken. The kitchen is big enough and there's plenty of cookware and even has a "free" box with oil and herbs and stuff for everyone to share. There is plenty of seating everywhere you go, nice hammocks in the garden, it's easy to be social or go off and find your own space. I was in the Tin shack, which is as described, but it was super cheap and private so i was happy. The have a fire pit and a board with daily activities which were easy to join, the long termers and the staff were always happy to include me in whatever crazy adventures they were having. oooo and theres a puppy! Chilli! who is always up for pats and if you ask nicely, scott lets you take her on walks or even a jog! There's a surf school that operates from the hostel that goes daily and also a very different tour where you can legally fly a plane!!! this was cheap too!

most people don't know about the area and go past it, my friends had been told it's not worth going, but i think it's the highlight of my trip! i want to go back soon as i can.

1) The facilities are great and kept remarkably clean (bathrooms and showers included) by the volunteers working there. 2) Ample indoor and outdoor common areas. 3) The fireplace is truly a plus in chilly evenings.

1) As in many places where long-term residents and hostel volunteers far outnumber actual travelling guests, the social dynamic can end up feeling somewhat cliquey (most of the former have little to no interest in getting to know / actively involving the guy/girl passing through who will be gone in a couple of days, and prefer hanging out with fellow long-terms instead - which is natural and understandable, but can be a bit of a bummer for travelers). 2) The kitchen (which is good, spacious enough and well equipped) lacks basic common items such as cooking oil and salt which many hostels do provide. Hardly an issue for long-term guests with their huge boxes of condiments, but would be a great improvement (with minimal investment) for itinerant travellers who carry very little due to weight and bulk. It would also significantly help in preventing encrusted pans and the like. 3) The shared room was ok but a little messy with long-term guests' stuff scattered permanently all over the place - and poor if any wifi signal (unlike stated in the hostel's website). The above are constructive suggestions for further improvement. The hostel is a great one, would stay again and recommend to others.

The location was great.

The lounge was locked on the sat evening while everyone went to the pub. We couldn’t access comfortable seats, games etc.

Great vibe, people were all really nice and very friendly happy pup wandering around

Needed an extra blanket as we were very cold during the night but all in all we loved it