Hostels in California

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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

Kiota Inn & Event Center Sutter Creek, An Ascend Collection Hotel - California
No reviews

Kiota Inn & Event Center Sutter Creek, An Ascend Collection Hotel

hostel, Sutter Creek
Kiota Inn & Event Center Sutter Creek, An Ascend Collection Hotel is located in Sutter Creek, a short distance from the city center, offering convenient access to local attractions. This pet-friendly inn provides on-site dining at its restaurant, evening drinks at the bar, complimentary Wi-Fi, free parking, a fitness center, and event facilities.
Green Tortoise Hostel - California
9.2 5932 reviews

Green Tortoise Hostel

hostel, San Francisco
The Green Tortoise Hostel is located in San Francisco's lively North Beach Little Italy district, just a 3-minute walk from City Lights Bookstore and the entertainment district. It has excellent user, location, and cleanliness ratings.
The hostel has a central hub for socializing called the Grand Ballroom. It offers free breakfast, Wi-Fi, a 24/7 kitchen, and nightly social events, as well as a fitness center, sauna, and bar.
Samesun Ocean Beach Hotel & Hostel - California
9.4 5307 reviews

Samesun Ocean Beach Hotel & Hostel

hostel, San Diego
Samesun Ocean Beach is a beachfront hostel in San Diego's Ocean Beach district, just a 3-minute walk from the beach and a short drive from Sunset Cliffs Beach. The hostel is located in a laid-back neighborhood known for its eclectic shops, restaurants, and lively nightlife. The hostel has a shared lounge and terrace, providing opportunities for socializing with other travelers. The hostel offers a shared kitchen, 24-hour front desk, free WiFi, ATM, and luggage storage, making it convenient for guests.
Courtyard By Marriott Santa Monica - California
No reviews

Courtyard By Marriott Santa Monica

hostel, Santa Monica
The Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica offers a convenient stay in Santa Monica, California, minutes from downtown and walking distance to Ocean Avenue.
This 3-star hotel features an outdoor pool, fitness center, on-site restaurant and bar, and free Wi-Fi, providing guests with numerous amenities for a comfortable stay.

Top cities

Best California hostels with a locker

California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach - California
8.3 83 reviews

California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach

hostel, San Diego
California Dreams Hostel - Ocean Beach offers a convenient stay in San Diego's Point Loma district, placing you about a 10-minute drive from Balboa Park and the San Diego Convention Center.
This hostel provides free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, an outdoor swimming pool, bicycle rentals, and a video game room, with complimentary continental breakfast and free on-site parking.
Arrowhead Ranch Retreat And Conference Center - California
9.1 154 reviews

Arrowhead Ranch Retreat And Conference Center

hostel, Lake Arrowhead
Arrowhead Ranch Retreat and Conference Center is located in Lake Arrowhead, California, approximately 24 miles from attractions like the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain and Big Bear Marina.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom lodge sleeps up to seven guests and offers amenities including air conditioning, parking, a microwave, flat-screen TVs, and mountain views.
Hi Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel - California
9.1 12565 reviews

Hi Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel

hostel, Santa Monica
Hi Los Angeles - Santa Monica Hostel is located in Santa Monica, just steps from the beach and the Third Street Promenade, putting you right in the heart of the action. The hostel has excellent user, location, and cleanliness ratings, ensuring a pleasant and comfortable stay. This hostel is the largest purpose-built hostel in the US, offering a range of rooms. It features a bar, fitness center, terrace, garden, and kitchen, along with a concierge service, tours, and events, making it easy to explore Santa Monica and connect with fellow travelers.
Hostel Style Shared Room - California
9.5 737 reviews

Hostel Style Shared Room

hostel, Daly City
Hostel Style Shared Room is located in Daly City, a short drive from San Francisco landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and the University of San Francisco, and offers a convenient base for exploring the city while enjoying a quieter, more affordable atmosphere. The hostel has earned excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hostel features a shared kitchen and lounge, perfect for connecting with fellow travelers. Amenities include air conditioning, a fitness center, free Wi-Fi, evening entertainment, and luggage storage, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in California

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

    California offers tons of budget-friendly options for backpackers. Hiking in Yosemite National Park (though entrance fees apply) is incredible, and you can camp affordably within the park or in nearby areas. Exploring beaches like Huntington Beach or Pfeiffer Beach is free, and you can easily pack your own lunches. Many state parks have low entrance fees or free access, offering stunning scenery and hiking trails. For city exploration, walking around areas like Venice Beach or the Mission District in San Francisco is free and offers a great cultural experience.
  • What are the best hostels in California?

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

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

    While Yosemite and the Golden Gate Bridge are iconic, consider exploring hidden gems like the Avenue of the Giants (a scenic redwood drive), the McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (a breathtaking waterfall cascading directly onto the beach), or the quirky town of Julian (known for its apple pies and gold-mining history). Channel Islands National Park offers incredible wildlife viewing and hiking, a more secluded experience than many other California destinations.
  • What are the best hostels with a pool in California?

  • What are the best nightlife spots in California?

    California's nightlife varies wildly by city. In Los Angeles, areas like Hollywood and West Hollywood offer a range of clubs and bars. San Francisco's Mission District has a vibrant, eclectic nightlife scene. In San Diego, Gaslamp Quarter is known for its lively bars and clubs. The nightlife in each area tends to have different vibes, so research what appeals to you most.
  • What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in California?

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

    A full California experience is subjective, but at least two weeks allows for a good balance of exploration. A shorter trip might focus on one region, like Southern California or Northern California. A longer trip, a month or more, lets you explore the state's diverse regions more thoroughly, from the mountains to the coast.
  • 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 Hi San Diego Downtown Hostel.

  • Does California offer any iconic natural events?

    Yes! The California poppy super bloom (wildflowers) in the spring is a spectacular sight, though its timing varies year to year. Whale watching season (typically December to May) along the coast offers opportunities to see gray whales migrating. The annual salmon run in various rivers is another impressive natural event.
  • 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.

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

    Absolutely! Many places offer surfing lessons along the coast. Wine country offers wine-tasting tours and blending workshops. You can find pottery classes, cooking classes focusing on Californian cuisine, and even dance workshops across the state. Check local listings for specific offerings in the areas you'll be visiting.
  • What are the best hostels with parking in California?

  • How can you dive deeper into the culture and connect with locals in California?

    Visiting local farmers' markets is a great way to interact with people and experience the local food scene. Taking a class (cooking, surfing, art) will put you in contact with locals who share your interests. Staying in smaller towns or communities rather than large cities can offer more opportunities to connect with residents.
  • Which restaurants and bars in California offer the best local cuisine?

    That depends on the region! In San Francisco, try a classic sourdough bread bowl of clam chowder. In Los Angeles, explore diverse options from tacos to Korean BBQ. In Northern California, find farm-to-table restaurants showcasing seasonal ingredients. In Southern California, try fresh seafood restaurants along the coast. Local breweries are also abundant throughout the state, offering tastes of California craft beer.
  • What unique packing tips should you keep in mind for California?

    California's weather varies dramatically by region and season. Pack layers! Even in summer, evenings can get cool, especially in coastal areas or mountainous regions. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as are sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. If you plan on hiking, bring appropriate gear. Consider a reusable water bottle, as staying hydrated is important, particularly during warmer months.

Nearby regions

Best California hostels with air conditioning

Ith Hermosa Beach Surf Hostel Lax - California
8.9 4229 reviews

Ith Hermosa Beach Surf Hostel Lax

hostel, Hermosa Beach
ITH Surf City Hostel Hermosa Beach is located just a block from the beach in Hermosa Beach, close to Los Angeles and Long Beach. The hostel has received high ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel features shared rooms with free linens and towels. Guests can enjoy a free breakfast, a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and the option to rent surfboards and bicycles.
Murphys Inn Motel - California
No reviews

Murphys Inn Motel

hostel, Murphys
Murphys Inn Motel is located in downtown Murphys, within walking distance of attractions like Milliaire Winery, Murphys Creek Theatre, and Hatcher Winery. The 2-star hotel offers a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers exploring this charming town.
The motel features a variety of amenities to enhance your stay, including an outdoor swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and on-site parking. Guests can also enjoy laundry service and a garden.
Days Inn By Wyndham Woodland - California
No reviews

Days Inn By Wyndham Woodland

hostel, Woodland
The Days Inn by Wyndham Woodland is located just outside the city center, about 2 kilometers away, offering easy access to both Woodland's attractions and the surrounding area. This 2-star hotel provides a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers visiting the area.
The hotel features a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with amenities to ensure a pleasant stay. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, free parking, and the on-site restaurant, along with free Wi-Fi, laundry service, and bilingual staff.

Neighborhoods and points of interest in California

Best California hostels with laundry available

Ith San Diego Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel - California
8.6 2274 reviews

Ith San Diego Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel

hostel, San Diego
The Ith Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel San Diego is located in Pacific Beach, just a short distance from Belmont Amusement Park and SeaWorld San Diego. It has very good user ratings, an excellent location rating, and a good cleanliness rating. The hostel offers a variety of shared rooms and private rooms. The hostel features a swimming pool, a terrace, a garden, a bar, a fitness center, a kitchen, and a lounge with workstations.
Stay Classy - California
9.3 2838 reviews

Stay Classy

hostel, San Diego
Stay Classy is located in downtown San Diego, just a short walk from the San Diego Convention Center and within a 2-mile radius of popular attractions like the USS Midway Museum and Balboa Park. The hostel has received excellent ratings for cleanliness and user experience, and a very good rating for its location.
The hostel offers a shared kitchen and lounge, perfect for connecting with fellow travelers. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a fitness center, a pool table, and a concierge service.
Ostel | Figueroa Corridor - California
9.7 1 review

Ostel | Figueroa Corridor

hostel, Los Angeles
Ostel offers affordable rooms near Downtown Los Angeles, conveniently located near the University of Southern California and Koreatown, providing easy access to public transportation.
This Los Angeles lodging features fully furnished shared rooms in a four-plex, including Wi-Fi, utilities, weekly cleaning of common areas, most with private bathrooms, on-site laundry, and parking.
Adelaide Hostel - California
8.0 1377 reviews

Adelaide Hostel

hostel, San Francisco
Adelaide Hostel is located in San Francisco, a 5-minute walk from Union Square and approximately 26,400 feet from the Golden Gate Bridge, with Pier 39 and Fisherman's Wharf a 10-minute drive away.
This lodging offers free Wi-Fi in all rooms, lockers and linens in dormitory accommodations, access to shared bathrooms, a communal kitchen with a fridge, microwave, and dishwasher, a launderette, and laptops for guest use.
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