Arts Factory by Nomads

This is much more than a 2-star hotel: Arts Factory was an incredible experience overall. Staying at this hostel was one of the highlights of my time in Byron Bay. From the moment I arrived, the atmosphere was relaxed, social, and full of interesting travelers from around the world. One of my favorite memories was sitting outside for a meal when several wild iguanas casually wandered beneath our table. It was such a unique and unexpected experience that perfectly captured the laid-back Australian vibe. The hostel made it incredibly easy to meet people, and I quickly found myself sharing stories, adventures, and laughs with fellow travelers who had amazing personalities and came from all walks of life. The communal spaces were welcoming and encouraged genuine connections. The location was another major advantage. Everything Byron Bay has to offer—beautiful beaches, cafes, restaurants, shops, and nightlife—was within easy walking distance. If you're looking for a memorable, social, and uniquely Australian hostel experience, I highly recommend staying here.

I will start with the few positives first. The staff at reception were friendly on arrival and the island private double tent was nice and clean. Why I would not recommend this hostel: The loud music was horrendous. One evening they played deafening drum and base music, making our tent shake. This continued until midnight, although hostal rules stayed 10pm quiet. A rave at the hostel bar was not advertised when we booked. This had the worst hostal kitchen I have ever seen. It was dirty, messy and understocked with equipment. I struggled to find a single spoon to eat my food with. The sinks were piled high with dirty plates. The ‘hippy’ aesthetic seems to be used as an excuse for dirt, mould and careless guests, expecting someone else to clear up after them. The laidback vibe is cool and unique.. but should not mean the residents act without respect to others. Smoking. Despite the mass of no smoking signs, the whole site stank of weed and tobacco. Even smoking in and on the kitchen balcony. Any police officer would have a field day in this place.. and that’s before mentioning the car park. Parking. Or lack of.. the car park was a danger zone. Drunk and high hippies roaming the road not caring when cars were coming. The car park was full of vans, many of which had people sleeping in them, seemingly using the sites facilities for free, taking away a car park spot from paying guests. We struggled to find an alternative free overnight car park spot (which is a miracle to find in Byron Bay), and ended up having to walk far. The staff should ask vans to leave when not paying. I would not recommend this hostel. The town was super cute!! But our visit was clouded by arts factory lodge.