Hotel in Stirling Terrace, Albany, Western Australia, Western Australia
Old Firestation Backpackers Albany
Housed in Albany's charming 1908 heritage fire station building on historic Stirling Terrace, this friendly hostel is the best budget option in Albany. Character-filled dorm rooms and private rooms, communal kitchen, lounge, and a relaxed atmosphere popular with travellers on the southern WA circuit between Perth and Esperance.
Old Firestation Backpackers Albany is Albany's most distinctive budget accommodation option, housed in the town's 1908 heritage fire station building at 168 Stirling Terrace on the historic main street of Albany, Western Australia. The conversion of the former fire station into a hostel preserves the character of the original structure — with its period façade and heritage details — while providing functional budget accommodation for travellers exploring the Albany region and completing the popular circuit between Perth and Esperance along Western Australia's southern coastline.
Albany is one of Western Australia's oldest and most historically significant towns, established as a British settlement in 1826 — predating the Swan River Colony that became Perth. Stirling Terrace itself is a beautifully preserved heritage streetscape lined with Federation-era buildings, and the hostel's position on this street reflects the surrounding architectural character. The Albany Convict Gaol and Museum, the Brig Amity replica vessel at the waterfront, and Albany Heritage Park are all within walking distance. The National Anzac Centre on Mount Clarence — one of Australia's most powerful commemorative museums — is a short drive or an uphill walk from the town centre.
Accommodation consists of dormitory rooms and private rooms, all retaining something of the heritage atmosphere of the converted building. The communal kitchen, lounge, and garden provide comfortable shared spaces. Bicycle hire is available at the property — a practical option for exploring Albany's foreshore, Princess Royal Harbour, and the recreational trails around the town's two harbours. Laundry facilities and Wi-Fi are on-site.
Albany's natural environment draws most visitors. Whale watching in King George Sound is a celebrated seasonal activity from June to October, when southern right whales and humpback whales pass through during their annual migration. Torndirrup National Park, 15 kilometres south, contains the dramatic Natural Bridge, the Blowholes, and The Gap rock platform. The Cheynes Beach Whaling Station — now the Whale World Museum — is approximately 20 kilometres east. Most travellers completing the southern WA circuit spend a minimum of two nights in Albany given the density of attractions in the region.
Amenities
- Heritage building
- Communal kitchen
- Lounge
- Garden
- Laundry
- Wi-Fi
- Bike hire
Location
168 Stirling Terrace, Albany WA 6330
Highlights
- Housed in Albany's 1908 heritage fire station building on the historic Stirling Terrace streetscape
- Prime base for whale watching in King George Sound (June–October) during southern right whale migration
- Walking distance to the National Anzac Centre, Albany Convict Gaol, and Brig Amity replica
- Bicycle hire on-site for exploring Albany's foreshore and Princess Royal Harbour trails
- Budget dorm beds from approximately AUD 30 per night with garden and communal lounge
Tips
- Book accommodation ahead for the whale watching season (June–October) — Albany fills quickly, particularly in August and September.
- The National Anzac Centre on Mount Clarence is one of Australia's most significant war memorial museums — allow 2–3 hours for the full experience.
- Hire a bike from the hostel to explore Princess Royal Harbour foreshore and the scenic walking and cycling trail to the town's lookout points.
- Torndirrup National Park is 15 minutes south by car — visit The Gap, Natural Bridge, and the Blowholes, and wear sturdy footwear on the rock platforms.
- Stock up on food and fuel in Albany before heading east toward Esperance — the southern coastal drive is spectacular but remote, so allow at least two days.
FAQ
When is the best time to visit Albany for whale watching?
Southern right whales and humpbacks pass through King George Sound between June and October. The peak of the humpback migration is typically August to September, when numbers are highest. Whale watching tours depart from Albany's Princess Royal Harbour and can be booked locally.
What heritage sites are within walking distance of the hostel?
Stirling Terrace itself is a heritage streetscape. Within walking distance are the Albany Convict Gaol and Museum, the Brig Amity replica at the waterfront, and Albany Heritage Park. The National Anzac Centre on Mount Clarence is approximately 2.5 kilometres from the hostel — a short drive or a steep uphill walk.
Is Albany well-positioned on the Perth–Esperance coastal route?
Yes, Albany is the most significant town on the southern WA coast between Perth and Esperance. Most travellers completing this circuit spend one to two nights here. The distance from Perth is approximately 415 kilometres (around 4.5 hours), and Esperance is approximately 480 kilometres further east along the South Coast Highway.
Accessibility
The hostel is housed in a 1908 heritage building, which may present access limitations for guests with mobility or wheelchair requirements. Original building layouts from this era typically include step entries and narrow corridors. Guests with mobility requirements are strongly advised to contact the hostel directly to discuss access arrangements before booking. Bicycle hire is available on-site but may not be suitable for all guests.