Why choose a hostel in Bastimentos?
Bastimentos is a small Caribbean island with a laid-back energy that sets it apart from more developed destinations. The coastline faces the Caribbean Sea, and Red Frog Beach is one of the island's most visited stretches of sand. Bastimentos National Marine Park covers much of the island, protecting coral reefs, rainforest, and wildlife you can explore on foot or by water. Getting around means boats, not roads, which keeps things simple and costs easy to manage. Hostels in Bastimentos fit that pace well.
Shared dorms are the most affordable way to stay here, and they connect you with other travellers making similar trips around the islands. Private rooms at hostels give you more space without the higher price tags of hotels or private rentals. Most hostels also offer local knowledge, communal areas, and a social atmosphere that hotel-style stays rarely match.
How to find the best hostel deals in Bastimentos
Want to use the same magic that powers our award-winning flight search to score great deals on rooms online? Here are a few helpful tips to find the perfect place to stay and save in seconds.
Book in advance
The earlier you book, the better off you are. You're more likely to find a cheaper price on a hostel in Bastimentos and have more options.
…or bag a last-minute Bastimentos hostel deal.
Last-minute booking can be hit or miss, but it can pay off. Some places drop their rates shortly before check-in to attract more bookings, especially during low season.
Flexible on dates? Say hello to better rates
A little flexibility goes a long way when searching for cheap hostels. Choose weekdays over weekends, or travel during shoulder season instead of the busiest periods.
Where to base yourself in Bastimentos
Old Bank draws most travellers who book hostels in Bastimentos, sitting at the island's northwest end. It's a small Afro-Caribbean village with wooden buildings perched above the water. Water taxis run regularly between here and Bocas Town, making day trips easy. A few bars and small restaurants serve local food at prices that won't stretch your budget. Evenings here are low-key, with music drifting from open-fronted bars along the main path. Further into the island, the area around Red Frog Beach suits you if you'd rather wake up close to the water. Bastimentos National Marine Park covers much of this stretch. Snorkeling and walking jungle trails fill the days easily. Getting back to Old Bank for the evening is straightforward by foot or boat. Where you stay comes down to how much action you want each day.
Best hostels in Bastimentos
Not all hostels are the same, and the ratings on Skyscanner help you tell the difference. Each score comes from genuine guest reviews, covering the things you need to know before booking. Think location, cleanliness, service, value and overall experience.
Best all-rounder hostels
For a stay that ticks every box, you can't go past El Jaguar. It gets excellent reviews for its service, location and value.
The Bocas Corner is another solid all-rounder. Guests rate it highly for its location, service and its value, so you can expect more than just a bed for the night.
Highest-rated hostels for cleanliness
If a clean and comfortable hostel is essential, Drago Beach House - Private Beach delivers. Guests consistently rate it highly for cleanliness, with amenities like Wi-Fi and an airport shuttle.
Well-kept rooms and tidy common areas are also the norm at Surfari Bocas. Along with good cleanliness ratings, it includes air conditioning and a laundry.
Hostels with the best customer service
Good hospitality goes a long way at El Jaguar. This hostel in Bastimentos is rated highly for its customer service and comes with a ticket office and a lounge.
Travellers also often highlight the customer service at Drago Beach House - Private Beach in their reviews. Wi-Fi and tour services are some amenities here.
Centrally located hostels
A handy location is a major draw at Drago Beach House - Private Beach. With shuttle services, an airport shuttle and much more, you'll have everything you need to settle in.
Or check out Cliff's Hostel. This well-located stay offers billiards and a lounge.
Hostels close to Wizard Beach
Wizard Beach pulls travellers in with its raw, untouched stretch of sand and the kind of quiet that's hard to find. The waves here are strong, making it a favourite for surfers, while the thick jungle backdrop gives the whole place a wild, away-from-it-all feel. Staying at hostels near Wizard Beach means you're waking up close to one of the most unspoiled shorelines in the region.
With Wizard Beach on the itinerary, Bastimentos Hill Guest House makes a practical base. This hostel in Bastimentos features shuttle services and a laundry.
Or check out El Jaguar. It's close to this attraction and comes with amenities like a games room and a ticket office.
