Barracuda Backpackers

Barracuda Backpackers is a small but very homey hostel. The owner is a friendly and relaxed man who takes care of all his guests. You can take a surfboard or a bodyboard to the beach whenever you want to, there´s a great range of DVDs to watch in the TV lounge and internet is for free (but there´s only one computer). We felt really safe and secure at Barracuda, since all the doors are locked at night and cameras observe the area.

The Location

It´s located in a quiet neighbourhood right next to a big shopping mall. That´s a great advantage because you only have to walk two minutes to the next supermarket and to all the other shops. The inner city of Coffs Harbour is about ten minutes by car and the beach is ten minutes to walk.

Rooms and Bathrooms

The dorms are really good! Each room has got air condition and a fridge. The beds are comfy and it is quiet at night. The bathrooms are shared. Everything is clean and tidy. Showers and toilets get cleaned every day.
Washing machines, dryers, and clotheshorses are provided. If you need money, ask the owner if you can do some housekeeping.

Common Spaces

The hostel has a nice kitchen that is fully equipped. It´s like the kitchen at home. You don´t have to borrow plates and cutlery -- you can just take it. There is a pool table, a TV lounge, an outside sitting area, and a little pool. Since everything is very small, it is easy to meet new people. It really is like a little home and the people who stay long term become kind of a family.

Summary

Barracuda Backpackers is a very different but recommendable hostel. It´s small but very nice. The very special, familial atmosphere makes staying there a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Unfortunately it´s far from the inner city, so that you have to take a cab to get to the clubs and bars.

— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
July 2008