35 AMAZING Hostels in The Philippines (2024 • Insider Guide!)

• Overall Best Hostel in The Philippines – Lud d Philippines Makati – Manila
• Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in The Philippines – Outpost Beach Hostel – El Nido
• Best Cheap Hostel in The Philippines – Ola! Hostel Manila – Manila
• Best Party Hostel in The Philippines – Frendz Hostel El Nido – El Nido
• Best Hostels in The Philippines for Digital Nomads – CROSSROADS HOSTEL MANILA – Manila

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Travelling to the Philippines can be a dream, but it can also be a horrible experience if you don’t plan your trip. Finding out where to stay in the Philippines is the most important part of your backpacking adventure.

Depending on the area, you’ll get to see different areas, cultures, people and attractions. Luckily, there are many great accommodations all over the island, so you probably won’t have to worry a lot about finding a place to rest your head.

Lud d Philippines Makati – Manila | Overall Best Hostels in The Philippines

The overall best hostel in the Philippines is Lud d Philippines Makati in Manila. This super modern and ever so friendly hostel has everything you could possibly wish for.

Once you’ve recovered from the jet lag be sure to sign up for the Lub d Philippines Makati free walking tour of Manila. Led by a local guide this is an epic opportunity to get to grips with the world’s most densely populated city.

The hostel has its own bar and cafe too. The dorms are generous in size and super comfortable. A deserved winner of the overall best hostel in the Philippines in 2024.

Outpost Beach Hostel – El Nido | Best Hostels in The Philippines for Solo Travelers

The best hostel in the Philippines for solo travelers is Outpost Beach Hostel in El Nido. Solo travelers will have the time of their life at this super sociable and friendly hostel. Set just outside of El Nido center, Outpost Beach Hostel is about as chilled out and laid back of a hostel that you could ever wish to find and many will agree that it’s one of the best hostels in El Nido.

The bar and cafe are ideal places to get meeting and mingling, the outdoor terrace is a popular hang out for the Outpost-fam too. At the tours and travel desk, you can arrange all your island hopping trips, with your new hostel buddies! FYI – this is a cash-only hostel.

Ola! Hostel Manila – Manila | Best Cheap Hostels in The Philippines

If you’re hunting for one of the cheapest hostels in Manila, The Ola! Hostel should be on your radar. The rooms are clean, air-conditioned, and decked out with comfy beds and private lockers to keep your stuff secure. But the real gem here is the 24-hour rooftop bar, where you can socialize, sip on great cocktails, and grab a bite to eat.

The hostel is well-maintained, with spacious common areas and a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to meet fellow travellers. The location is spot-on, giving you easy access to all the best Manila attractions and dining spots.

After a day of exploring, unwind in the lobby with a movie. The on-site laundry is a lifesaver for long-term travellers, and there’s free, fast Wi-Fi in all common areas to keep you connected.

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Frendz Hostel El Nido – El Nido | Best Party Hostel in The Philippines

Frendz Hostel El Nido is the spot to be at in the heart of El Nido town. They’ve got a rooftop pool with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding islands – seriously, it’s the Philippines at its finest (and also one of my favourite hostels in the Philippines).

Their daily events are not to be missed. It’s the best opportunity to meet fellow travellers and dive headfirst into El Nido’s wild nightlife. The staff know how to bring people together, starting every evening with a free shot on the roof – proper freshers’ vibes, but it’s all in good fun.

Need to recover from the chaos? Hit up their in-house cafe and restaurant, HUB, for some quality coffee and breakfast. They’ve also got The Haqqy Life office downstairs to hook you up with the best tours in Palawan. Pro tip: book ahead – these island hopping tours are popular for a reason!

CROSSROADS HOSTEL MANILA – Manila | Best Hostels in The Philippines for Digital Nomads

CROSSROADS HOSTEL MANILA delivers seriously comfy beds and air conditioning that actually cools you down after a day of sweaty adventures. The staff is absolutely lovely, and being near Shangri-La Plaza is a lifesaver when your backpack’s been running on empty for way too long – been there, done that.

The chill vibes definitely make it a top pick for digital nomads in the Philippines. With lots of communal spaces and reliable Wi-Fi, setting up a makeshift office here will be a breeze. Don’t want to work in the hostel? There are tons of cafes and cool co-working spaces nearby too, meaning you can smash out work without having to commute to a space that suits you.

Bohol Hammock Hostel – Bohol Island

Bohol Hammock Hostel is a family-run gem that draws in a friendly crowd of backpackers. With spaces for yoga, workouts, and pure relaxation, it’s got everything you need for both active and chill vibes. Highlights include a sunrise hike over a hidden, non-touristy view of the Chocolate Hills and a local-style cooking lesson using fresh produce from the surrounding area. The family-style dinners are mouthwatering, and the breakfasts are equally delicious. The staff are always on hand to help with anything, making it a truly welcoming spot. If you’re after an authentic rainforest experience, this place is a must!

If you’re after somewhere different, then check out where to stay in Panglao, a popular post for Bohol.

Happiness Hostel El Nido – El Nido

Happiness Hostel El Nido really lives up to its name – this place is a damn rainbow of good vibes. The location is spot on, with everything you could need right on your doorstep, from diners to shops, all within walking distance. Some pretty cool beaches like Las Cabañas Beach are just a short tricycle away too. The staff are legends too – super helpful and always up for making sure you’re having the best time.

The bar downstairs is the perfect hangout, whether you’re grabbing breakfast, lunch, or gearing up for a night out. They also make it easy to book tours right from the hostel and trust me, with a crowd this cool you’re guaranteed a sweet ‘ol time.

Murals Hostel and Cafe – Cebu

Murals Hostel and Cafe is one of the best hostels in the Philippines in 2024 – no doubt about it. Designed with the 2024 backpacker at heart, Murals Hostel and Cafe ticks all the essential boxes and then some.

The free breakfast makes your mornings as easy as can be and you can stay connected 24/7 with thanks to the free WiFi. With speeds up to 100mps, this is ideal for digital nomads.

The cafe is a great place to connect with your fellow hostel guests and get to know the staff too. The team is so welcoming and outgoing you will fast be made to feel like one of the family.

If you are headed to Cebu, then be sure to check out our awesome Cebu itinerary!

Mad Monkey Nacpan Beach – El Nido

Mad Monkey Nacpan Beach is the best hostel in the Philippines if you are heading to El Nido. This iconic Philippines backpackers hostel sits right on the beach and, if we’re honest, is a dream come true.

Providing you with good times aplenty, Mad Monkey Nacpan Beach has this hostel game sussed. The bar is open until late and serves super cheap beers and cocktails.

The hostel has an in-house tour and travel desk where you can arrange bucket-list island hopping tours and scuba diving sessions. The sunsets here are unreal! Book your stay at this cool hostel, and then check out our El Nido itinerary to plan your trip!

Frendz Resort & Hostel – Boracay Island

Frendz Resort & Hostel is the overall best hostel in the Philippines on Boracay Island. This epic hostel even has its own swimming pool and backpackers bar. A resort at heart but with all the hostel vibes, Frendz is a one-stop-shop for backpackers in Boracay.

At the tours and travel desk, you can create an itinerary that ticks off your bucket list items and more. They have live music nights throughout the week.

The dorms are simple but comfortable. Each bed comes with its own reading light and plug socket. WiFi is free and fairly reliable. If you’re staying in Boracay, plan your stay using our Boracay itinerary.

Mad Monkey Cebu City – Cebu

Mad Monkey is one of the best hostels in Cebu City and is a top hostel in the Philippines for solo travelers. Super sociable and set in a great location in Cebu, Mad Monkey is ideal for solo travelers eager to make new friends and share adventures.

The in-house bar is probably the most popular area for the hostel fam to congregate at the end of the day so you should make sure you reserve your space at the bar.

Mad Monkey Cebu City is a relatively new hostel and so everything still feels fresh and new. It will continue to grow in popularity no doubt.

Chill Out Hostel – Boracay Island

Chill Out Hostel on Boracay Island is an ideal Philippines backpacker hostel for travelers on a budget. This super cheap and super friendly hostel makes staying on budget in Boracay as easy as can be.

You can cook for yourself in the communal kitchen. You can do your laundry using the in-house facilities. The bar and cafe serve super cheap food and drinks too.

The vibe here is on-point, chill by name and by nature – as cheesy at it sounds! There is even free shampoo, shower gel, and bath towels. The added value here is top notch.

Palazzo Pensionne – Cebu

Palazzo Pensionne in Cebu is a top hostel in the Philippines for couples. These self-contained units are ideal for traveling couples who want to have some space and privacy when they arrive in Cebu.

Palazzo Pensionne is right in between Uptown and Downtown Cebu. The food courts and shopping malls are a walking distance one way, and the historic center is a few minutes walk in the other direction. Perfect!

The free breakfast provides a platform for you and bae to get chatting with fellow guests. This place does have a more hotel-like feel, which is no bad thing.

Kame House Backpackers – El Nido

Kame House Backpackers in El Nido is a brilliant youth hostel in the Philippines for backpackers who want to party. The in-house bar is a great place to connect with like-minded travelers.

El Nido has a decent party scene and Kame House Backpackers puts you right in the heart of the action. This hostel even offers a free breakfast and a late check-out. Music to your ears we are sure.

The swimming pool is an added extra that you’ll end up being totally grateful for. Even at night dancing gets you working up a sweat – a quick dip to cool off sounds like a great idea.

Butterfly Totem Guesthouse – Puerto Princesa City

Butterfly Totem Guesthouse is a truly special place to stay in Puerto Princesa for digital nomads. The hostel is named butterfly because it symbolizes personal transformation, joy and lightness of being – which is perfect for digital nomads committed to this whole new way of living.

The rooms are a perfect size and the difference in price between dorms and private rooms is so small you may as well book private and treat yourself. There is a free breakfast included in every room rate, and free WiFi too – of course!

Spin Designer Hostel – El Nido

Spin Designer Hostel in El Nido is a top hostel in the Philippines for digital nomads. Offering a sense of community and a real homely environment, Spin Designer Hostel is the pick of the bunch in El Nido. The WiFi is always free, fast and reliable. The hostel is as safe as can be and you’ll have access to your own security locker.

There are plenty of well-thought-out areas in which to work and there isn’t a rowdy party atmosphere here. You’ll be able to get your work done in peace for sure.

Manila-Z-Hostel – Manila

Manila-Z-Hostel is a fantastic youth hostel in the Philippines that offers private rooms. There is a hive of activity at this hostel. The nightly sunset sessions are an ideal opportunity to connect with the hostel fam and perhaps get planning tomorrow’s adventures together.

The private rooms include a free breakfast in the room rate, in addition to WiFi access and air conditioning.  There is a free city tour included in the room rate too which is awesome. Manila-Z-Hostel prides itself on being a platform for people to interact and grow. If you’re feeling sociable but want to retreat to your own room, this is for you.

My Hostel Boracay – Boracay Island

My Hostel Boracay is a fantastic Philippines backpacker hostel that has private rooms. This chic and modern hostel offers little extras like a free breakfast and complimentary WiFi access too. The outdoor terrace is where you’ll find your hostel fam when they are not hanging out on the beach.

The private rooms are affordable and offer a decent amount of space. The beds are super comfortable – that’s the main thing. There are private single, twin and double rooms available to suit every kind of traveler. Everyone is welcome at My Hostel Boracay. Book your stay today.

Paglaom Hostel – Siargao Island

Another of the best hostels in the Philippines is Paglaom Hostel on Siargao Island. There is so much to love about this hostel, least not the communal kitchen and the BBQ terrace.

This super chilled out hostel provides you with the chance to kick back into island life. There are, of course, enough hammocks to go around and the beach is only a few minutes walk away.

Be warned, backpackers intend on staying only a couple of nights here and end up staying way longer. Becoming part of the furniture in fact. You have been warned! Book your life changing hostel experience now! The best base for your Siargao itinerary.

Footprints Homestay – Siargao Island

Footprints Homestay on Siargao Island is the best hostel in the Philippines for solo travelers seeking an immersive experience. This cute AF homestay is run by a Filipino-British couple who invite global travels into their home throughout the year. For solo travelers keep to learn more about life in the Philippines this is the place to stay.

A real home from home you’ll make plenty of new friends, including house dogs Rocky and Pepper and the gorgeous cat Totskie. Surfboards and are available for rent here and you can arrange your tours too.

Hostel Avenue – Boracay Island

Hostel Avenue is a fantastic youth hostel in the Philippines for solo travelers. Located on Boracay Island, Hostel Avenue offers travelers plenty of space to kick back, relax and connect with fellow nomads.

The astroturf rooftop garden dotted with beanbags is a great place to come and chill after you have finished up on the beach for the day.

You won’t have far to travel to the beach – say three steps?! Avenue Hostel sits right on the beach front and even has its own cafe in-house. Once you check-in you are in. Everything you could possibly need is within a 20m radius of you. Hell yeah!

Haven Backpackers Hostel – Manila

Haven Backpackers Hostel is the coolest hostel in the Philippines for solo travelers. This place is lit! Not many Philippines backpacker hostels offer a free breakfast but Haven Backpackers Hostel does.

This just adds to the epic value for money the room rates provide. Designed to please literally every kind of traveler Haven Backpackers Hostel is a top pick regardless of your style.

There is an upbeat and friendly feel to Haven and the staff will go out of their way to ensure you have everything that you need for a great stay. This place is just fun and one of the best hostels you’ll find in Manila. Simple as!

Lions Den Backpackers – Manila

Lions Den Backpackers is the best budget hostel in the Philippines. This super affordable hostel even offers a free breakfast, in addition to free WiFi and access to the bar and cafe. This comfortable and affordable hostel is a super popular option in Manila and there is always a cool crowd of international travelers staying here.

The dorms are simple but offer everything you need, including bed linen and access to the shared bathroom facilities. Located in the heart of Manila you need not to travel far to feel immersed in this hectic city.

Swinging Carabao Hostel – El Nido

Swinging Caraboa Hostel is the best cheap hostel in the Philippines for travelers heading to El Nido. FYI – Swinging Carabao Hostel is a new option to the backpacking scene in El Nido and is set to kick off. Offering insane value for money and great facilities, Swinging Caraboa Hostel is not to be missed.

The WiFi is free but with so many cool people hanging out here at any given moment you will totally forget about your phone.

There is a real family feel to Swinging Carabao Hostel. You can dive into typically Filipino treats at the in-house cafe. You can kick back and relax in one of the many hammocks or you can simply chill in your dorm beneath the ceiling fan.

Avocado Tree Hostel – Siargao Island

Avocado Tree Hostel is a highly recommended hostel in the Philippines for travelers hitting up Siargao Island. This little paradise isn’t the cheapest but Avocado Tree Hostel will help keep you on budget. The fan rooms are cheaper than the A/C.

Super safe and always clean, you’ll get given your own security locker for the duration of your stay. The staff look after the place really well and are keen to help their guests where they can. There are 30-beds available at Avocado Tree Hostel which makes for a buzzing atmosphere that never feels overcrowded or rowdy.

Kokai Resort – Siargao Island

Kokai Resort is an ideal Philippines backpackers hostel for couples. Located in Siargao Island, Kokai Resort makes traveling with your S/O as easy and affordable as possible.

The private rooms offer you both more than enough space to spread out so. You know what its like in some tiny hostel rooms, climbing over each other can be testing!

The garden area at Kokai Resort is a real treat and one of the many reasons that this spot tops our list of awesome hostels in Siargao. You can chill out for as long as you like in a hammock. If you and bae should see what deals you can haggle on day trips with the staff at the tours and travel desk.

Bahay Kubo Hostel – Manila

Quirky and all kinds of cool, Bahay Kubo Hostel in Manila is the coolest hostel in the Philippines for couples. With an eclectic decor and a cheery team of staff, travelers just love Bahay Kubo Hostel. The private rooms are so cheap you won’t believe it. Even if you’re happy with dorm rooms you can totally treat yourself to a private room in Manila.

The cozy AF and super photogenic lounge and common room space is an ideal spot to curl up with a book or get chatting with your fellow guests. There is air conditioning throughout the hostel – phew!

Erlittop Garden – El Nido

Erlittop Garden in El Nido is the best hostel in the Philippines in 2024 for couples seeking a romantic retreat. Located an hour away from El Nido itself, Erlittop Garden is a sanctuary for weary travelers looking for rest up and chill out.

The private huts are probably the most adorable accommodation option in the Philippines. They’re just a little bit romantic too.

The views of the coast are simply breathtaking and the staff at Erlittop Garden can help you and your lover arrange the best day trip of your lives. There is so much to discover in El Nido.

Pink Manila Hostel – Manila

Pink Manila is set within a penthouse of an iconic high-rise building in the heart of Manila. That may just give you an impression as to the kinda parties that happen here. You’ve made it to the penthouse party people!

Pink Manila Hostel features a pool, gym, billiards table, bar, and a panoramic terrace view – what is not to love about this place. They even offer a free breakfast.

Pink Manila Hostel is a highly recommended hostel in the Philippines. The staff makes sure everyone gets involved and has an awesome stay in this incredible city.

Noordzee Hostel – Cebu

Pool party or beach party? Don’t answer! At Noordzee Hostel in Cebu, you can have both – at the same time if you want to. This highly recommended hostel in the Philippines is the perfect party venue for wild things heading to Cebu.

There is a bar in-house and the cocktails flow until late. During the daytime, the tunes play in the background while the super chill hostel fam laze by the swimming pool.

The late check-out service is a dream! You will need an extra couple of hours of sleep after an epic night of fun at Nordzee Hostel in Cebu. Get booking ASAP, this place is popular.

Sheebang Hostel – Puerto Princesa City

Sheebang Hostel is a great Philippines backpacker hostel for party people. This super chilled out hostel never gets too rowdy. With a truly authentic vibe, Sheebang Hostel is the kinda place where the hostel fam kicks back with a beer or three at the end of the day. Rather than getting messy. If you like a real backpacker party, you’ll find it at Sheebang Hostel.

There is a happy hour from 4 pm until 6 pm each and every day. Whatever you choose to do with your day be sure to get back in time to secure your spot at the bar for the evening.

Chillax Flashpackers – Boracay Island

Chillax Flashpackers is a highly recommended hostel in the Philippines for digital nomads. This super secure hostel offers everything a digital nomad in 2024 could ask for.

You’ll even have access to the swimming pool. All guests have their own security lockers and the hostel has 24-hour security too. You can head out and explore Boracay safe in the knowledge your gear is safe too.

This is an eco-hostel and the staff will be happy to explore more about that to you. This is a cool hostel that you don’t want to miss out on. Book your bed ASAP.

Hostel Seven Cebu – Cebu

Hostel Seven Cebu is a highly recommended hostel in the Philippines for digital nomads. Cebu is another great city for digital nomads and Hostel Seven Cebu is ahead of the game when it comes to offering what digital nomads need.

This relaxed, quiet hostel gives you the headspace you need to focus. There are ample opportunities to socialize too, but only when the to-do list has been ticked off.

You’re welcome to take advantage of the late check-out service. The cafe is open from early until late and, again, you are welcome to work here for as long as you like.

Our Melting Pot – El Nido

Our Melting Pot in El Nido is a top hostel in the Philippines that has private rooms. They even offer a free breakfast too. This is a simple and affordable hostel that has the basics covered. They have security lockers and luggage storage services too. It’s always nice to be able to scale down to a night pack if you’re island hopping.

Rustic and unfussed, Our Melting Pot is a classic Philippines backpackers hostel that is well worth your consideration. FYI – the electricity is rationed here. So it’s not the best option for digital nomads. Everyone else, you’re good. Get booking.

1521 Hostel Mactan Cebu – Cebu

1521 Hostel Mactan Cebu is an artistic, clean, and functional youth hostel in the Philippines that just so happens to have private rooms. This airy and bright hostel offers great value for money and is placed perfectly in Cebu.

There is a common room at 1521 Hostel Mactan Cebu that also doubles as a co-working space. The WiFi is always free, fast and reliable. This is a great option for digital nomads or anyone who needs to get connected in Cebu. The cafe serves up a brilliant coffee and some sweet treats too.

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Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

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Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

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Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

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Keep your laundry organized and stink free

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Hanging Laundry Bag

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Stay Dry With a Micro Towel

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Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

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Monopoly Deal

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Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

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Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!

So there you have it, the 35 best hostels in The Philippines. You have so much choice. From Manila to Cebu, to the islands and beyond, The Philippines is an amazing destination to visit.

If you’re unsure where to start when it comes to where to stay in The Philippines, let’s bring things back to basics. Remember that our best hostel in The Philippines is Lud d Philippines Makati – Manila – that’s where we would start.

Travel Safety Tips for The Philippines

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to The Philippines.

Planning an epic trip all across The Philippines or even Southeast Asia itself?

Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!

For more cool hostel guides around Southeast Asia, check out:

• Best hostels in Coron
• Best hostels in La Union
• Best hostels in Siquijor

Over to you

By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in The Philippines has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!

If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!

Heading further south to Mindanao? Check out the epic Cagayan de Oro Airbnbs for your trip.

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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂