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California hostels
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966 Hostels in California

Best California hostels with breakfast

Among the 966 hostels in California, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast

Petite Auberge - California
8.7 101 reviews

Petite Auberge

hostel, San Francisco
Petite Auberge is a hotel situated in central San Francisco, a 5-minute drive from the Moscone Centre and Oracle Park, and 400 metres from Union Square.
This establishment offers complimentary regional breakfast, free Wi-Fi, a concierge service, and 24-hour reception, with rooms featuring private bathrooms and safety deposit boxes.
Hotel Becket, Bw Signature Collection - California
No reviews

Hotel Becket, Bw Signature Collection

hostel, South Lake Tahoe
Hotel Becket, Bw Signature Collection is a hostel situated in South Lake Tahoe, 4 kilometres from the town centre and near Serenity Spa and The Shops at Heavenly Village.
This pet-friendly accommodation offers guests Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a swimming pool, garden, sauna, spa, on-site restaurant, and parking.
Sonora Aladdin Motor Inn - California
8.6 159 reviews

Sonora Aladdin Motor Inn

hostel, East Sonora
The Sonora Aladdin Motor Inn is located in East Sonora, just a short drive from attractions like the Sonora Pass and the historic Jamestown. This 2.5-star hotel offers a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the area.
The hotel features a range of amenities and facilities, including a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, and a terrace. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking, and a restaurant on-site.
Ith Mission Beach Backpacker Hostel - California
9.1 79 reviews

Ith Mission Beach Backpacker Hostel

hostel, San Diego
The ITH Mission Beach Backpacker Hostel is situated in San Diego's Mission Beach district, offering immediate access to Mission Bay Park and Belmont Park, with Mission Bay located 3.3 kilometres away and Hotel Circle 8.7 kilometres distant.
This backpackers' accommodation provides guests with complimentary grab-and-go breakfast, free Wi-Fi in all 6 rooms, on-site laundry, lockers, and free parking, alongside proximity to 5 beach bars and opportunities for surfing and bodyboarding.

Top cities

Best California hostels with a locker

Ith San Francisco Pacific Tradewinds Backpacker Hostel - California
9.4 2491 reviews

Ith San Francisco Pacific Tradewinds Backpacker Hostel

hostel, San Francisco
ITH Pacific Tradewinds Hostel is located in the Financial District, a short walk from Union Square and within a mile and a half of popular attractions like Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, and Alcatraz. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, and an excellent rating for location.
The hostel features a single bedroom and a shared kitchen and lounge, spread over 19 square metres. The hostel provides a continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and shared bathrooms with showers and hairdryers.
Hotel Indigo Napa Valley By Ihg - California
8.3 89 reviews

Hotel Indigo Napa Valley By Ihg

hostel, Napa
Hotel Indigo Napa Valley is located in Napa, California, just a short distance from the city centre and within easy reach of the renowned Napa Valley wineries. This 3.5-star hotel offers a comfortable and stylish stay for those looking to explore the region's vineyards and attractions.
The hotel features modern and contemporary design throughout, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, fitness centre, restaurant, bar, and room service.
Best Western Seven Seas - California
No reviews

Best Western Seven Seas

hostel, San Diego
The Best Western Seven Seas, a hostel in San Diego's Mission Bay district, offers convenient access to the beach and local attractions, situated just 6.5 kilometres from the San Diego Convention Center and 5.2 kilometres from the Gaslamp Quarter.
This accommodation provides complimentary Wi-Fi, on-site parking, a swimming pool, hot tub, fitness centre, restaurant, and bar, with selected rooms featuring refrigerators and cable television for guest comfort.
Santa Cruz Hostel - California
9.6 1145 reviews

Santa Cruz Hostel

hostel, Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Hostel is located just a short walk from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, in the heart of the action, with Pacific Avenue and its shops and restaurants within easy reach. It has consistently received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel has a communal feel, perfect for meeting other travellers. Guests can relax in the garden, enjoy the sunshine on the terrace, or make use of the barbecue facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in California

  • What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit in California?

    California offers tons of budget-friendly options! For stunning natural beauty, consider hiking in Yosemite National Park (though entrance fees apply, camping is relatively inexpensive), exploring Redwood National and State Parks (again, entrance fees, but camping is available), or hitting the beaches of Southern California. Many beaches are free to access, and you can easily pack your own lunch to save money. Free activities include walking the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, exploring the many parks in Los Angeles like Griffith Observatory (parking fees may apply), and strolling along the Santa Monica Pier (though some attractions on the pier are paid).
  • What are the best hostels in California?

    Among the hostels in California, Eastside Guesthouse, Samesun Ocean Beach Hotel & Hostel and Big Bear For Skiers & Boarders (Hostel Style) are the most popular ones.

  • What are some unmissable, lesser-known spots in California?

    While Yosemite and the coast are popular, consider exploring places like the Channel Islands National Park, offering incredible wildlife viewing and hiking. The Mojave National Preserve provides a starkly beautiful desert landscape with unique rock formations and opportunities for stargazing. For a quirky experience, check out the quirky town of Salvation Mountain in the Imperial Valley, a vibrant folk art environment.
  • What are the best hostels with a pool in California?

    California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach, Bposhtels Anaheim and Cheers Hostel are the best hostels with a pool in California.

  • What fun and budget-friendly events or festivals are happening in California?

    California's event scene is huge! The schedule changes yearly, but some recurring events to look for include local farmers' markets (many are free to enter), free concerts in parks during summer months in various cities, and smaller community festivals celebrating local harvests or arts. Check local listings closer to your travel dates for specific events.
  • What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in California?

  • What are the best nightlife spots in California?

    California's nightlife varies wildly by region. In Los Angeles, check out areas like Hollywood (many bars and clubs) or the Arts District (more eclectic options). San Francisco offers a lively nightlife in the Mission District (known for its Latin American vibe and bars) and North Beach (with its historic literary connections and bars). Smaller cities will have their own unique scenes; research based on your location.
  • What are the best hostels for families and kids in California?

    The best hostels for families and kids in California are Santa Cruz Hostel, Green Tortoise Hostel and Ith Big Bear Lake Hostel & Lodge.

  • What’s the ideal length of stay to get a full experience of California?

    A full experience of California is subjective and depends on your interests. To see major highlights, at least two weeks is recommended. However, exploring specific regions in depth could easily take a month or more. California is immense!
  • What are the best pet friendly hostels in California?

    The best pet friendly hostels in California are Ith Big Bear Lake Hostel & Lodge, The Hostel California and Jackass Hostel.

  • Does California offer any iconic natural events?

    Yes! The California poppy super bloom in the spring (though timing varies) is a spectacular sight. Whale watching season (different species at different times of year) along the coast is also a popular natural event. You can see gray whales migrating along the coast, and orcas and blue whales in other areas.
  • What are the best hostels with parking in California?

  • Are there special cultural workshops or experiences to explore in California?

    Absolutely! Many communities offer workshops on surfing, wine-tasting (in Napa Valley or Sonoma), pottery, and various art forms. Check local event listings and community centers for details. Many museums offer classes and workshops as well.
  • How can you dive deeper into the culture and connect with locals in California?

    Engage with local communities by visiting farmers' markets, attending free community events, striking up conversations with people you meet in cafes or shops, and trying local restaurants outside tourist hotspots. Consider staying in a locally-owned guesthouse or Airbnb instead of a large hotel chain.
  • Which restaurants and bars in California offer the best local cuisine?

    This is highly dependent on location and personal preference! In San Francisco, explore the Mission District for excellent Mexican food. In Los Angeles, look for diverse options in Koreatown or Thai Town. In smaller towns, seek out family-run restaurants and diners for authentic local flavors. Farmers' markets often have food stalls offering delicious local produce.
  • What unique packing tips should you keep in mind for California?

    California's weather varies drastically by region and season. Pack layers, including a light jacket or sweater, even in summer. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are crucial, especially during sunny periods. If you're visiting coastal areas, a light raincoat is a good idea.

Nearby regions

Best California hostels with air conditioning

Extended Stay America Suites Santa Barbara Calle Real - California
No reviews

Extended Stay America Suites Santa Barbara Calle Real

hostel, Goleta
The Extended Stay America Suites Santa Barbara Calle Real is situated in Goleta, around 3 kilometres from the city centre, close to the Santa Barbara County Public Health SB Health Care Centre and More Mesa. This 2-star hotel offers a convenient location for exploring the area.
The hotel features a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, on-site parking, and a laundry. Pets are welcome, and the hotel also offers room service.
Blue Central Stay Near Usc, Bmo Stadium & Downtown La - California
9.2 2 reviews

Blue Central Stay Near Usc, Bmo Stadium & Downtown La

hostel, Los Angeles
Hostel rental with an excellent rating of 92% based on 2 reviews. Your accommodation will be located in Los Angeles.
Facilities and services include air conditioning, a fridge and a washing machine.
Hi Sacramento Hostel - California
9.0 2342 reviews

Hi Sacramento Hostel

hostel, Sacramento
Hi Sacramento Hostel is located in the heart of Central Sacramento, just a short distance from the Old Sacramento Historic District and Sacramento International Airport. It has received excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The hostel offers a range of shared rooms, each with a private bathroom, and a fully equipped kitchen for guests to prepare their own meals. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a games room, a terrace, and a bar, making it a social and fun place to stay.
Samesun San Francisco - California
8.4 6275 reviews

Samesun San Francisco

hostel, San Francisco
Samesun San Francisco is situated in the North Beach neighbourhood, a short walk from Ghirardelli Square and Coit Tower, offering easy access to San Francisco's attractions. The hostel has received very good user ratings, with excellent scores for location and cleanliness.
The hostel offers a range of rooms, all with private bathrooms and showers. Amenities include a shared kitchen, a terrace, and a garden, as well as free Wi-Fi and parking.

Neighborhoods and points of interest in California

Best California hostels with laundry available

Hi Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel - California
9.1 12566 reviews

Hi Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel

hostel, Santa Monica
Hi Los Angeles - Santa Monica Hostel is located just a stone's throw from the famous Santa Monica beach, right next to the bustling Third Street Promenade. It has consistently received excellent ratings for location and user experience, with a very good score for cleanliness.
This large hostel offers a wide range of amenities to make your stay enjoyable, including a kitchen, terrace, garden, bar, fitness centre and parking. The hostel also has a concierge service and a social atmosphere, making it a great place to meet other travellers.
California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach - California
8.7 1731 reviews

California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach

hostel, San Diego
California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach is located in the Ocean Beach neighbourhood of San Diego, just a short distance from the beach and close to Sunset Cliffs and Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. The hostel enjoys excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
The hostel features a single bedroom with a floor area of 9 square metres. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, jacuzzi, garden, and a shared lounge, as well as a continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and evening entertainment.
Chapter San Francisco - California
No reviews

Chapter San Francisco

hostel, San Francisco
Chapter San Francisco, a hostel located in a district providing straightforward access to San Francisco's attractions, offers the "Chapter San Francisco" deal with complimentary internet and on-site parking. This accommodation also provides concierge services, ticket assistance, and laundry facilities, with air conditioning and linen service available in select rooms, alongside in-room coffee/tea making facilities and essential toiletries in some bathrooms.
This property is strictly non-smoking and features a kitchen with a fridge and microwave oven, along with room service for guest convenience.
Gaslamp Hostel - California
9.0 2805 reviews

Gaslamp Hostel

hostel, San Diego
Gaslamp Hostel is located in Downtown San Diego, within walking distance of the San Diego Convention Center, Maritime Museum of San Diego, and USS Midway Museum, making it a great base for exploring the city's attractions. It has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, and an excellent rating for location.
The hostel offers shared rooms with air conditioning and a shared lounge with free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast, a bar, and a kitchen with a fridge and microwave.
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