Wake up and smell the success

WAKE Up! Byron Bay has been named best large hostel in Oceania in the 2025 HOSCAR Awards, which recognise the world’s best hostels.

Located across the road from Belongil Beach, the hostel is home to Treehouse bar and restaurant and was upgraded in 2023 to introduce a resort-style pool and outdoor area, which quickly became a favourite spot for guests to hang out.

It offers free daily yoga classes at its on-site studio and activities such as beach walks, pool volleyball, wine and cheese nights and musical bingo.

Group operations manager Kira Kraut, who has been working at the hostel since it opened in 2018, said receiving the award was a huge honour.

“It’s fantastic to see our efforts recognised on an international scale,” she said. “We’re all incredibly proud and motivated to continue providing the best experience for our guests.

“What sets us apart is our focus on delivering a well-rounded experience and bringing travellers together.

“We offer more than just a bed; our guests enjoy a variety of free social and wellness-led activities and experiences. We also focus on maintaining exceptionally clean facilities and always assisting guests with a warm, friendly approach to any requests they may have.”

Guests come from all over the world but are predominantly from Europe and are usually between 18 and 25 years old.

“In recent years, we’ve attracted more health-conscious travellers who appreciate the active, outdoor lifestyle that Byron Bay is known for,” Kraut said.

“The combination of our location near Belongil Beach and our focus on lifestyle experiences has really resonated with this more outdoorsy and health-focused crowd.”