Kamusta and a very warm welcome to our selection of the best hostels in the Philippines, dear reader!
These hostels are handpicked, offering a top-notch hostel experience.
And we have to say, they will knock your socks off.
This guide explores all of the must-see areas of the Philippines, from Manila to Boracay.
Are these really the best hostels in the Philippines?
100% YES, there’s even a fabulous 5 Star Hostel to explore!
Surfing enthusiasts and solo travellers will fall in love with SPIN Designer Hostel in El Nido.
We’ve also collected the 3 best hostels in El Nido.
Hostelgeeks is an independent travel brand collecting the world’s greatest hostels. This means, we do not belong to any booking or media agency.
Make sure you read through all our guide to hostels.
Here we cover all topics around hosteling, including sex, packing lists, and design-led hostels to fall in love with.
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List of Destinations with the Best Hostels in the Philippines
There’s no time to waste. Let’s jump right in and discover boutique hostels in the Philippines.
The destinations we cover in this guide, from North to South are:
- Manila
- Siargao
- La Union
- Coron
- El Nido
- Puerto Princesa
- Cebu
- Moalboal
- Dumaguete
- Siquijor
- Bohol
- Boracay
In this guide you can also find FAQ.
We put all hostels and backpacker places in the Philippines on this big hostel map. It will help a lot of planning your Philippines Backpacking trip.
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| ⚪ Best Hostel in Manila: | Lub D Philippines Makati |
| 🏝️ Best Hostel in Siargao: | Mad Monkey Hostel Siargao |
| ⛪ Best Hostel in Cebu: | HappyNest Hostel |
| 🌴 Best Hostel in El Nido: | SPIN Designer |
| 👫 Best for Socializing in Boracay: | Frendz Resort & Hostel |
| ♻️ Best Eco Hostel in Bohol: | Moon Fools Hostel |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Hostel in Dumaguete: | AivyMaes Divers Paradise Resort Dauin |
| 🥳 Best Party Hostel in Coron: | Hop Hostel |
Best Hostels in Manila
Although the hostel scene in Manila is pretty small for such a big city, there are good options to choose from.
Our selection of Manila hostels include:
Keen for party hostels and fun things to do? Check out our full guide to the best hostels in Manila.
1. Z Hostel
Young and energetic travellers will love the social vibes at Z Hostel. It’s also surrounding by a vibrant food, arts and music scene!
Staff offer free city tours, fun activities and clean comfortable rooms.
Have a blast at a rooftop terrace party, and look forward to a free breakfast as you catch up with friends using the super-fast Wi-fi.
Location: in Makati, one of the busiest districts in Manila. Tons of bars, restaurants and cafes surround this hostel, making life super easy and relaxed.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Lub D Philippines Makati
Ok seriously, Lub D Philippines Makati will have you falling to the ground in shock, if you’re not careful.
Look at the premiere accommodation and facilities on offer:
- Dorm & private room options w/ Air-con
- Huge social area w/ pool & bar
- Social work spaces
This is a top choice for solo travellers and digital nomads from across the globe. Couples and families will love the private rooms.
Location: Yet again in Makati, you’ll be less than 2km from Greenbelt and Glorietta Malls.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Siargao
Let us leave the big city and head to a stunning tear drop island 800 kilometres south of Manila.
Get ready for crystal clear waters and white sand beaches. Yes please!
To top it off, we’ve found two great hostels. They are:
- Party Hostel: Mad Monkey Hostel Siargao
- Hiraya Surf Hostel
- Ilakai Hostel
- Sinag Hostel
We also have an in-depth guide on the best hostels in Siargao!
1. Mad Monkey Hostel Siargao
No fun party hostel would be complete without a swimming pool and bar. Mad Monkey Hostel Siargao happens to have a tiki-themed bar, fancy that!
Unlike other worldwide Mad Monkey hostels, this one respects the quiet vibe of the island, finishing hostel parties at 10pm to hit the nearby nightlife.
Tasty food is available around the clock from the in-house restaurant. Enjoy a cold beer in the sun and venture to the nearby Cloud 9 surf.
Location: nearby all of the necessities of a good time: bars, restaurants, beach and shops.
Important: You can purchase a so-called Golden Ticket by Mad Monkey. Stay 30, 60 or 90 days in their hostels at a super low rate and one-time payment. Check more info about Golden Ticket here.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in La Union
This relaxed coastal town is well-known for its surfing spots, but there’s also so much more to discover. From red clay pottery to grape picking, loom weaving to pilgrimages, waterfalls to eco-tours; you’ll get to experience a range of exciting activities and attractions at La Union.
Here are the best hostels in town:
We also have a guide with more details: best hostels in La Union.
Best Hostels in Coron
Time to do a little island hop and move over to Coron in the province of Palawan.
It should definitely make your must-do list of the Philippines. Not only to witness the magical ocean mountains, but to discover these great hostels:
We have an in-depth guide on all the best hostels in Coron with more details.
Hop Hostel
Look past the basic design and you will discover double-bed dorms and yummy veggie/vegan food at Hop Hostel.
We’re so excited that couple dorms are becoming a thing. The beds can be enjoyed in both single and king size – woohoo!
This lively hostel loves to throw a good ole fashioned rooftop party to help settle you in. So what are you waiting for?
Location: the serene blue waters of Coron can be seen from the rooftop. It’s the perfect launchpad for discovering the Calamian group of islands.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Bakawan Hostel
Get ready for spacious, spotless rooms that leave you feeling more like you’ve checked in at a hotel.
Bakawan Hostel offers 6-bed mixed dorms, yet no private rooms.
Upstairs you’ll find a common room with ample space and awesome views. It’s a great space to meet people.
Enjoy a free breakfast and consider renting a bike to explore the immediate area.
Location: being a little further from the hustle and bustle this is a quieter option. However there is a nice bar just 5-minutes by foot.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
Best Hostels in El Nido
More white-sand beaches, coral reefs and pristine water. Is it possible to ever get sick of hearing those words? We don’t think so.
Along with all of this natural beauty and diving opportunities, we’d like to introduce two wonderful hostels in El Nido:
- Happiness Hostel
- SPIN Designer – 5 Star Hostel
HOT OFF THE PRESS: our new guide to the best hostels in El Nido (+ party hostel).
1. Happiness Hostel
This stunning premiere hostel is for the cost-conscious traveller, yet doesn’t lack awesome design and friendly atmosphere.
Happiness Hostel will surely tempt you with the Happiness Beach Bar offering a delicious drink and variety of yummy dishes.
Hang out on the big lounge where you’ll find books, board games and Wi-fi.
The staff go above and beyond to make your stay memorable. Ask them anything about trips and booking!
Location: a tricycle ride away from the city centre and all of the top sights. Just one road away from the beach.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. SPIN Designer
Our only 5 star hostel and one of the best hostels in the Philippines, SPIN Designer, resonates unique design.
Each room in the building is stunning in its own way. It will be hard to decide where to spend your time!
Note the many green efforts and get excited for the many adventurous outdoor activities from cliff climbing too surfing. Whatever you fancy!
Rustle up something tasty in the shared kitchen and relax knowing there is 24 hour CCTV security.
There’s so much more to entice you. Best pop over to our full guide to SPIN Designer here.
Location: Hit the beach in just a few minutes from SPIN. It’s the perfect place for surf lovers.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is renowned for its stunning natural attractions, such as the Subterranean River National Park, a majestic underground river winding through massive limestone caves. Tourists can enjoy a variety of activities, including boat trips, exploring lush forests, and sunbathing on golden beaches.
Read more: We have a detailed guide to the best hostels in Puerto Princesa.
- Guni Guni Hostel – best for solo travelers
- B&R Hostel and Bar – best for social butterflies
- Green Turtle Backpackers Guesthouse – best for backpackers
1. Guni Guni Hostel
Nestled in the heart of Puerto Princesa, Guni Guni Hostel is one of the best hostels in Puerto Princesa. An ideal option for backpackers and solo travellers, this place has everything to make your trip memorable!
There is a resto-bar at Guni Guni Hostel where guests can meet other travellers, locals, and artists while enjoying good food, great cocktails, and ice-cold beers that fit any budget.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. B&R Hostel and Bar
For all the social butterflies out there, we have an amazing recommendation for one of the best hostels in Puerto Princesa.
B&R Hostel and Bar is a family-operated hotel and bar that is located in Bacungan. It offers incredible accommodation services and plenty of opportunities for an unforgettable nightlife experience while enjoying the cocktails at the bar and interacting with new people.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Green Turtle Backpackers Guesthouse
Green Turtle Backpackers Guesthouse is a popular beach and dive resort in Puerto Princesa. It is known for its beautiful white sand beach, crystal clear waters, and abundant marine life.
The resort offers a wide range of activities and amenities including diving, snorkeling, kayaking, boat tours, fishing, and more. Green Turtle is a great place for a relaxing beach holiday.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Cebu
Cebu is another fairly sized city, surrounded by over 150 smaller islands. It’s home to many 16th-century Spanish landmarks and is the gateway to snorkelling with whale sharks.
This contrasting destination has two hostels worth a mention:
Read: the complete guide to best hostels in Cebu.
1. Murals Hostel and Cafe
Murals Hostel and Cafe is a backpackers haven and
“A bed between adventures”
Digital nomads will appreciate the shared works spaces, free coffee and fast Wi-fi.
What else?
- Privacy bunks w/ curtain & big lockers
- Live acoustic music on the rooftop
- Free breakfast
- Guard on the door at night
Location: From here Ayala shopping mall is a 20-minute walk. Great restaurants at the Bonifacio centre are 15-minutes away.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. HappyNest Hostel
Smile and be happy thanks to the handy location and homely environment at HappyNest Hostel.
Female solo travellers will surely love the female only dorms. The privacy curtains are an added bonus.
Your Instagram feed will likely be going nuts thanks to the chic design everywhere you turn.
Although breakfast isn’t included, it is possible to order food here. Reception is open 24/7 and there is no curfew.
Location: located just 5-minute walk from Pier 1 Cebu City, with easy access to nearby towns such as Ormoc, Bohol and Camotes.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Moalboal
Moalboal is a paradise for divers, offering some of the most stunning and surreal sights both onshore and underwater. Here are its best (above water) hostels:
We also have a guide with more details: best hostels in Moalboal.
Moalboal Shaka Traveler’s Place
We think there might be a typo and this should actually read ‘palace’. I mean, look at it!
Yep, that beach you can see happens to be private and only accessible by paying guests. You can also enjoy the view from a splendid rooftop!
Moalboal Shaka Traveler’s Place is an adult-only accommodation perfect for couples and female solo travellers.
Borrow some snorkel equipment, marvel at the coral outside the doorstep and enjoy a meal at the restaurant.
The 24-hour reception also works as a tour desk. It’s run by friendly staff so don’t be shy.
Location: you’re practically on the beach, so what more to you need? The centre of Moalboal is reachable by foot if you have to venture out.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
Best Hostels in Dumaguete
The lush Rizal boulevard of Dumaguete is lined with many bars and restaurants – the place for social and nightlife vibes.
You could describe this as the Maldives of the Philippines. It’s no wonder when you see the floating huts and insanely beautiful coastline.
What about cool hostels in Dumaguete? Choose between:
1. Sies Hostel
Sies Hostel is a cosy place offering basic 4 and 6-bed dorms.
Dump yours bags and venture to the spacious rooftop. Enjoy awesome views and pet the friendly hostel rescue dog.
It’s also possible to enjoy a BBQ up here and use the projector to screen a movie. Sound nice, right?
Bonus: there’s a free water station so make sure you re-use that plastic bottle.
Location: walkable distance to the centre of Dumaguete without being in the craziness of it all.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
2. AivyMaes Divers Paradise Resort Dauin
Calling all scuba divers and wannabe wetsuit-maids!
AivyMaes Divers Paradise Resort Dauin does exactly what it says in the name: it offers beach side accommodation, affordable diving courses and fun dives. Absolute walk in dives, heaven for macro/muck dives.
It also offers sightseeing: Pulangbato falls, Casaroro Falls and twin lakes.
The dive sites are ranked in the top ten in the Philippines and Apo Island is just 30mins boat ride away. Amazing.
All the rooms are within beautiful wooden huts to give you that beach-life vibe. Everyone gets their own hammock lined balcony, too!
Linen and a towel is included, along with a personal water station and mosquito net.
Common kitchen, free coffee, tea all day and complimentary bread/pastries every morning, Feels like home!
Location: situated in Poblacion 1 Dauin. Right on the beach! A supermarket and cafe is close-by and it’s possible to walk to central Dauin and short bus ride to central Dumaguete.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
Best Hostels in Siquijor: Love Shack Hostel
Let’s not beat around the bus. Love Shack Hostel is the ONLY place to stay in Siquijor because of the:
- Local artists and bands that play here
- Earth Cafe w/ local beers & cocktails
- Board games & library
- Unlimited BBQ every Friday
- Free breakfast (simple)
Discounts can be had at local body massage places and with windsurfing and diving lessons.
Each room is within a detached hut complete with air-con, lockers and linen and towel.
Location: On Paliton road, a 3-minute walk from famous Paliton Marine Sanctuary – a stunning white sand stretch of beach. Shops, bars, ATM machines and restaurants are all close-by.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
Best Hostels in Bohol
You may or may not have heard of the Chocolate Hills in Bohol. This unusual geological formation is well worth a visit. And so too are the coral reefs and chilled hostels in the area.
We worked hard and settled on this collection:
- Red Picnic Hostel
- Spinning Cat Hostel
- LHOYJEAN Garden Hostel
- Moon Fools Hostel
- Bohol Coco Farm
- B-hol Huts (Closed)
Read more: We have a detailed guide about the best hostels in Bohol.
1. Red Picnic Hostel
Red Picnic Hostel provides a variety of options for accommodation, ranging from Deluxe Queen Rooms to dormitory rooms. All of them are carefully furnished and have the necessary amenities, such as clean sheets and bunk bed curtains for added privacy. The hostel also has a shared bathroom and shower that are kept spotless.
Travelers can take advantage of the free parking, the garden and terrace, and the pool. The bar and the billiard tables are great for socializing and having fun. And, lastly, a complimentary breakfast can be enjoyed each morning.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. Spinning Cat Hostel
Spinning Cat Hostel is a cozy and laid-back hostel located in Bohol and it offers guests a unique stay in the heart of the island, with easy access to the beach and nearby attractions.
Guests can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and island hopping. Make sure to ask their front desk for tours.
This hostel is perfect for backpackers and digital nomads.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. LHOYJEAN Garden Hostel
LHOYJEAN Garden Hostel has a homey atmosphere and enhanced privacy and it is perfect for those who travel in couples.
It offers budget double room options and is not very far from a variety of tourist locations, including the infamous Chocolate Hills. The area is famous for hiking, and you can rent a bike or a car through the rental service available at the hostel.
Check prices at: Booking.com | Hostelz.com
4. Moon Fool Hostel
Eco warriors and green adventurers prepare for Moon Fool Hostel on Panglao Island.
Spread over 6 rooms, a maximum of 38 guests can stay at one given time. Do you love that cosy feel as much as we do?
Each dorm is made up of pod-style beds, and the private rooms are spacious and colourful.
Smile and enjoy:
- Free breakfast (simple, vegan friendly)
- Activities & sightseeing opportunities
- Good Air-con and Wi-fi
Location: right in the middle of tourist hub Alona Beach. Right outside are restaurants, cafes and a convenient store.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
5. Bohol Coco Farm
Forget squeaky bunk beds, Bohol Coco Farm treats their guests to single beds each with their own nightstand and mosquito net.
It’s a simple hostel with a great atmosphere and lovely staff.
Set in 2.5 hectares of land, there is plenty of space to stretch out! Either that or relax in a hammock. What a tough life.
The restuaurant is pretty special, too. The food is organic and harvested from the hostel’s own farm!
Location: Alona Beach is 6km from the property. It easy to rent a motorbike and explore further.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
6. B-hol Huts – CLOSED
B-hol Huts is all about budget rooms, cosy beds and a relaxing atmosphere.
There are a mix of single and bunkbeds here. It’s a top choice for solo travellers that like to mingle.
It’s the owners that make this place what it is. They are super accommodating and offer each guest free water and breakfast.
Note: an extra 12% tax is added on arrival.
Location: situated in Panglao, Boho-Panglao International Airport is only 2.4km from the hostel.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Boracay
Last but not least, let’s venture to the small island of Boracay in central Philippines. Is it too obvious to say it’s known for beautiful beaches and resorts?
Well, it is!
And luckily for you, there are 3 awesome hostels to choose from:
- Chillax Flashpackers Boracay
- CLOSED: W Hostel Boracay (party hostel)
- Frendz Resort & Hostel
UPDATE: check out our new guide to the best hostels in Boracay – party hostel included.
1. Chillax Flashpackers Boracay
Not only is this a Flashpackers, but it’s an ECO flashpackers created from up-cycled materials and shipping containers.
Chillax Flashpackers Boracay also has a swimming pool made from an old construction dumpster!
Chillax in the self-contained rooms and wind down in the…
- Cinema room
- 2 gardens
- Roof deck
- Bar & Grill
- Games room
Make sure you ask the awesome staff about organised beach trips.
Location: the best beach in Boracay, Diniwad Beach, is less than 200m away. The City Mall is also only 400m by foot.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. CLOSED: W Hostel Boracay
Sorry dear readers, W Hostel has closed its doors.
Calling all party hostel lovers! W Hostel Boracay is for you if you’re in search of a good time.
Every Wednesday and Sunday there is a party on the rooftop. This is also where you’ll find a tempting swimming pool.
The industrial-style dorms all have pod-beds and big lockers under the beds. Private rooms have their own bathroom.
There’s also a common kitchen, media room with TV, games console and darts.
Location: within walking distance of both White Beach Boracay and Bulabog Beach.
3. Frendz Resort & Hostel
Frendz Resort & Hostel is family run and have won multiple awards for its excellent condition and amenities.
These guys have sorted designated beach chairs at White Beach especially for you, how nice is that?
What else?
- FREE pasta nights
- Live Music (every Weds & Sun)
- Boat trips (Tues & Fri)
- DISCOUNTS @ partner restaurants, dive shops & kite-surfing schools
Rooms range from budget-friendly options to deluxe private rooms.
Mingle in the huge and beautifully designed social space and find new friends.
Location: excellent! Just 2-minutes from a prime spot on White Beach, between station 1 and 2.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Our Favorite Hostels in Philippines put on a map + sights
Below we have put ALL of the best hostels in the Philippines mentioned in this article on a map.
That’s because we want to make your planning as hassle free and straight forward as possible!
We’ve marked them as follows:
- 5 Star Hostels: Black with White Star
- Design Hostels: Blue
- Backpacker-Type Hostel: Orange
- Other recommendations: Purple
Any questions about hostels in Philippines? 🤔
Join our Facebook Group!
Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥
FAQ
More Hostels in Asia
There are many, many awesome hostels in Asia to be discovered and enjoyed, including out-of-this-world 5 star hostels.
Easy: find all of the best hostels in Asia here.
We’ve gone one step further and created these awesome guides to nearby destinations to the Philippines:
- best hostels in Taipei, Taiwan
- best hostels in Hong Kong
- best hostels in Hanoi, Vietnam
- best hostels in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- best hostels in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- best hostels in Singapore
- best hostels in Thailand
- best hostels in Cambodia
Destination not Listed?
Besides the listed accommodation, we also put together the best hostels in the world; the 5 Star Hostels.
We stayed in a former winery in Santorini, in a former jail-now 5 Star Hostel and many more. And we share all of these unique budget accommodations with you.
Make sure you check out our guides “best hostels in“. Here we cover many more destinations.
Update: We now cover as well curated ‘3 best hostels’ guides to cities with no 5 Star Hostels such as Paris, Tokyo and Sydney.
Summary
By now you should have the answer to your question where to stay in the Philippines. Which of the best hostels in the Philippines have you fallen in love with? Let us know!
It is an incredibly beautiful collection of islands!
This guide is your shortcut to your hostel-picks, saving you lots of time in your accommodation research.
And for sure, it gives you the security of a top-hostel choice without any bad surprises.
Any questions?
Then please please leave a comment below. We would be thrilled to hear from you and to help a fellow backpacker.
Have fun & Safe travels!
– – –
pin it now, read it later
CLOSED: Haven Backpackers Hostel
Update: This hostel has closed. We’ve kept this content here for your information.
If you’re looking for a budget accommodation offering great tours, Haven Backpackers Hostel is the one for you.
Cheaper rates equals less luxury, but it’s still without doubt a great hostel in Manila.
There’s a free breakfast on offer, and dorm beds still come with that privacy curtain. Boom!
Location: this one if further from the party scene and closer to the Cultural Centre and National Museum (less than 5km). It’s also only 6km from Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
CLOSED: Lampara Siargao Boutique Hostel
Update: This hostel has permanently closed. We’ve kept this content here for your information.
How do you fancy a beachfront boutique hostel nearby the world-famous surf break Cloud 9?
Lampara Siargao Boutique Hostel features just 2 cosy mixed dorms spread over a 2-storey communal space.
Each room has 8-beds – equipped with a black out curtain – and a private bathroom.
Make use of the beanbag and hammock lounge, dining area and board games. If you’re lucky there will also be a BBQ night being held whilst you’re there.
Location: just 200 metres from the main road full of restaurants and cafes. It’s far enough away from the noise of General Luna so you can enjoy a quiet night’s sleep.
