Ditch the crowds and forget about those cookie-cutter tourist hotels—Isla Holbox is your ticket to the real tropical deal. This gem of an island is one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets, offering up pristine white-sand beaches, the soothing sound of crashing waves, and plenty of sunshine without the dreaded masses.
Located to the north of the Yucatán Penninsula, this nature reserve has everything from secluded lagoons, dense jungles, and waters teeming with life!
But being somewhat off-the-beaten-path means that sometimes finding affordable digs can be hard, especially on an island as expensive as Isla Holbox. Lucky for you, this island has a couple of hostels to choose from and I’ve dove deep to curate my ultimate guide to the best hostels in Holbox.
The sooner you book your bed, the sooner you can dive headfirst into what really matters—stuffing your face with tacos from the local señora and diving into those crystal-clear waters.
Let’s get your Holbox adventure started!
Photo: @Lauramcblonde
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Holbox
- Best Overall Hostel in Holbox – Che Holbox Hostel & Bar
- Best Hostel in Holbox for Solo Travelers – Mapache Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Holbox – Kin Camping and Hostal
- Best Party Hostel in Holbox – Tribu Hostel
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Holbox – Papel Mache Guesthouse
The 5 Best Hostels in Holbox
In just a few clicks you will be experiencing all the beauty of Holbox Island for yourself! But before you can take a dip in the sea you will need to find that perfect hostel for you. With each stay a little different from the next, keep your eyes open for that hostel that best fits how you like to travel!
1. Che Holbox Hostel & Bar – Best Overall Hostel in Holbox
- Dorm (mixed): From $29
- Private Room: From $81
- Address: Calle Carito, Entre Hernan Cortez y Caleta, Holbox Island, Mexico
Che Holbox Hostel’s got the tropical vibe nailed from the moment you walk in—and that’s just the start. It’s one of my favorite hostels in Mexico, hands down. This buzzing backpacker’s paradise hosts nightly events that practically guarantee you’ll leave with more mates than you came with. With an on-site bar and café, you’ve got everything you need to feel right at home in Holbox.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Daily Events Held
- Super Social
- Co-working Space
Karaoke, beer pong tournaments, themed parties, dares on the roulette wheel, and a bar that’s always up for a good time make every night here a party.
The staff? Absolute legends. They’re ready to share all the local secrets—where to eat, dance, chill, and find hidden beaches so you can skip the tourist traps and see the real Holbox. And with some of the cheapest dorms and private rooms in town, you’re not just getting a bed—you’re getting the full Holbox experience.
2. Mapache Hostel – Best Hostel in Holbox for Solo Travelers
- Dorm (mixed): From $20
- Private Room: From $64
- Address: Esquina Calle Sierra con Calle Geronimo de Aguilar, Holbox Island, Holbox Island, Mexico
Been bouncing around Central America and need a spot to call home for a few days? Mapache Hostel is your chill-out haven in Holbox, with a vibe that’s all about kicking back and connecting with other travelers backpacking Mexico.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Chill but Social Vibes
- Close to Punta Coco
- Free Breakfast
The staff here are pure gold—they’ll make you feel like part of the family from day one. It’s a cozy, family-style spot that’s a world away from the bigger hostels that focus on a party, with daily activities to bring everyone together and show you the best of Holbox. Perfect for solo travelers!
Pick your style: dorm bed, double tent, a touch of glamping in a tipi hut, or a private cabaña—they’ve got it all. With its tropical design and outdoor terraces, Mapache Hostel is one of the best places to hang out, relax, and swap stories with new mates.
3. Kin Camping and Hostal – Best Cheap Hostel in Holbox
- Dorm (mixed): From $17
- Private Room: From $22
- Address: calle Boquinete entre Porifrio Diaz y Jeronimo, Holbox Island, Mexico
Kin Camping is a solid pick for budget travelers who don’t mind roughing it a little. Holbox can be pricey, but you can definitely do Mexico on the cheap here. Just a few minutes from the beach and the center, this laid-back hostel/campground is the perfect base for your Holbox adventures, with a friendly, chill vibe and owners who are all kinds of lovely.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Central Location
- Great Garden/Chill Out Zone
- Super Chill but Social
Socializing is a breeze with the open kitchen near reception, plus they have free coffee in the mornings and hammocks to kick back in. The staff puts on an epic BBQ and show that’s always a highlight, so you’ll meet some seriously cool people. The garden shaded with palm trees is comfy and welcoming, and the beds are surprisingly cosy, with thick curtains for privacy. AC in the dorms is a welcome bonus.
For those who want a bit more adventure, swap the dorm for a tent and embrace the camping life. All tents come with a fan, comfy mattress, pillows, and the campsite has its own showers and toilets. If you’re after an off-the-beaten-path experience on a budget, this place is a winner.
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View on Osprey View on REI4. Tribu Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Holbox
- Dorm (mixed): From $23
- Private Room: From $79
- Address: Av. Pedro Joaquin Coldwell, Holbox Island, Mexico
When figuring out where to stay in Mexico, you’ll probably want to find a spot to sink into a bar stool and crack open a cold one. On Holbox Island, that place is Tribu Hostel. Party animals, get ready to bask in the sandy terraces, sway in the hammocks, and hang out at the lively bar where the good times roll.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- DJ Nights
- Beachside Location
- Super Social
The nightlife here kicks off at the upstairs bar, with insane live music that feature local and global talent for jam sessions, art nights, DJ sets, Latin vibes, or just downright magical nights. Feeling bold? Grab a mic and surprise the crowd on Open Mic night. This colorful hostel is packed with activities, so it’s got the perfect balance of party and chill. Plus, it’s in a killer location near Holbox’s best restaurants and bars.
When you’re not partying, Playa Holbox is just steps from your dorm, so no long treks to shake off that hangover. Punta Coco is also a short hop away too. The colorful, laid-back atmosphere here will make you never want to leave this backpacker’s paradise—it even made our list of the best hostels in the world. Now that’s impressive.
5. Papel Mache Guesthouse – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Holbox
- Dorm (mixed): From $22
- Address: Esmedegal, C. Porfirio Díaz, Holbox, Q.R., Holbox Island, Mexico
Looking for a place to relax, work, and soak in the Caribbean beauty? Papel Mache Guesthouse is the perfect spot. The vibrant vibe here makes it easy to meet other digital nomads in Mexico. It’s got AC and free Wi-Fi that’s reliable (essential for me when I’m working on the road), so you can get things done without breaking a sweat.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Daily Tours
- Community Vibe
- Fully Equipped Kitchen
The staff are chill and easy to vibe with, and the cozy atmosphere makes it feel like home. The beds are comfy, the common area’s welcoming, and the kitchen’s got a coffee machine to keep you fuelled for those work sessions. Plus, they’ve got towels and locker locks—little touches that go a long way.
If you’re after a peaceful, community-driven experience, this is the place to be. It’s ideal for travelers sticking around for a while and looking to meet new people and share stories.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Holbox Hostels
If you’re still on the hunt for the perfect spot to crash, you’re in luck. I’ve got more epic hostels in Holbox that offer a little something extra—whether it’s that beachside location you’ve been looking for, or just a place where you can kick back and soak up the island vibes. Considering the island doesn’t have tons of hostels, I’ve even thrown a couple of budget stays in too for good measure.
Golden Paradise Hostel
- Private Room: From $37
- Address: Hernan Cortez con Canane, 77310 Holbox Island, Mexico
Split it with a mate or your partner, and this place is way cheaper than a hostel. Golden Paradise Hostel has the vibe of a hostel but only private rooms, so you’re getting the best of both worlds. It’s quiet, rustic, and no-frills, but has everything you need for a comfy stay. The location’s spot-on—close to the ferry port and the main town, yet tucked in a peaceful area that’ll make you feel safe on this Mexican island.
With green gardens with palm trees and hammocks to lounge in, it’s a paradise indeed. Golden Paradise Hostel is well-kept and clean, with rooms getting a fresh tidy-up every day. Ideal for those who want a little privacy with a hostel price tag.
Hotel Mittoz
- Private Room: From $38
- Address: Calle Tiburón Ballena esquina pedro joaquin codwell, 77310 Holbox Island, Mexico
Okay, so it’s not technically a hostel, but when it comes to keeping your budget in check on a pricey island like Holbox, Hotel Mittoz is a sweet find. The rooftop is a game-changer—those ocean views alone are worth the visit. The rooms with balconies are comfy, and you’ll definitely want to hit up the roof terrace for some sun and a dip in the pool.
The beach is just a few steps from your bed, so you’re never far from the sand and some sick snorkel spots. The staff are super friendly and helpful, and the rooftop pool is a nice bonus for winding down after a day of exploring. Plus, it’s got a prime spot right in the heart of the action—perfect for those who want to be smack bang in the center of the party!
Hostel Le Isla Holbox
You best not come to this colorful hostel unless you want to party! Hostel La Isla Holbox will have you staying right in front of some of the best bars in town playing music till early in the morning! Now, this does not mean you can not also have a relaxing stay at this backpackers hostel. With its lounge and cozy rooms, you won’t be in a rush to check out. Top it off with a cafe serving up delicious meals every day, you will have everything you need to feel at home on Holbox Island!
Balam Eco Camping
Balam Eco Camping is a tropical island resort hooking up backpackers with some of the cheapest stays in Holbox! While you may not find any dorm beds, you will find everything from budget tents to bungalows perfect for getting some much-needed alone time! Balam Eco Camping also has its very own lounge and garden which are great places for hanging out and chatting with other backpackers. And with Playa Holbox being a short walk away, there is no better place to call home on Isla Holbox!
Be Holbox
No matter if you are looking to save money or are just looking for one of the best spots on the island, Be Holbox is a cheap AF place to stay on the island. But this youth hostel is so much more than just a budget dorm room. Be Holbox is also home to a bar and a rooftop terrace perfect for cracking open a few beers and hanging out with other backpackers! With their bike rentals, you’ll be able to explore this quiet island life in true Holbox style!
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Holbox
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Holbox.
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.
FAQs About Hostels in Holbox
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Holbox.
What to Pack for your Holbox Hostel
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.
Ear Plugs
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.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
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.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
What’s the best hostel in Holbox for digital nomads?
Get some work done, relax & meet some fellow travelers at Papel Mache Guesthouse! It’s a brand new hostel with cheap dorms, spacious lounges, and a chill but social vibe so you can balance work and play.
How much does a hostel cost in Holbox?
Average dorms in Holbox costs around $15 to $30 per stay while private rooms can jump from $25 to $100 depending on the type of property.
What are the best Isla Holbox hostels for couples?
Mapache Hostel is a great choice if you want a unique experience whilst still being in the usual social hostel scene. Thye have some pretty swanky choices to choose from like tipi huts and private cabañas. Deff a cool way to experience Holbox with your partner.
Final Thoughts on Holbox’s Hostels
Just remember, Holbox might not be the cheapest destination, but it’s worth every penny. The stunning beaches, vibrant nature, and laid-back vibes make it a backpacker’s paradise. To insane nightlife and secret beaches, there are limitless ways you can experience the fun and wonder of Mexico’s best-kept secret!
Book your hostel, pack your sunscreen, and get ready for some serious taco therapy—because you won’t want to miss a second of what this little slice of heaven has to offer.
Still undecided? I’d go with Che Holbox Hostel & Bar. There’s aaaallways something going on here, from salsa nights, day trips out to chill pool sessions with a marg in hand.
Time to hit the sand and start living your best Holbox life! Make sure to drop me a comment if you have any good recommendations on the island for me!
Photo: @sebagvivas
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Mexico for a wealth of info!
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Mexico if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Mexico before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Mexico to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Central America backpacking guide.
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