8 Cheapest Hostels & Budget Stays Within 15 Mins of Zrce (2026 Guide)

1. Moon Rocks Hostel (Novalja)

This is arguably the most famous hostel in Novalja. It is practically an institution. It feels more like a party resort than a hostel. They have their own restaurant, a massive terrace, and it is always packed with festival-goers.

• Location: Center of Novalja. The shuttle bus stop is very close.
• Vibe: Social and loud. Easy to meet people.
• Price Estimate: €40-€60 per night (Peak Season).

2. The Big Yellow House

True to its name, it is big and yellow. This spot is run by travelers for travelers. It has a massive 24/7 bar on the ground floor which is a major meeting point for pre-drinks. It is located right by the sea on the edge of Novalja.

• Location: 15-minute walk to the town center, right next to the bus stop for Zrce.
• Vibe: Chill during the day, party at night.
• Price Estimate: €35-€50 per night.

3. Hostel Timun

If you want to be in the absolute center of the action, this is it. Hostel Timun is located inside the Hotel Loza complex right on the main promenade of Novalja. You step out of the door and you are surrounded by bars and restaurants.

• Location: Novalja waterfront (Riva).
• Vibe: Busy. Do not expect silence.
• Price Estimate: €45-€65 per night.

4. Camping Straško (Glamping/Tents)

If regular hostels are too expensive, look at Straško. It is one of the biggest campsites in Croatia. You can pitch your own tent (super cheap) or rent a glamping tent/mobile home with friends. It is located in a pine forest right on the beach.

• Location: 2km from Novalja center. There is a tourist train that takes you to town.
• Vibe: Nature and chill. Good for recovering.
• Price Estimate: €20-€30 (Camping pitch).

5. Gajac Private “Sobe” (Rooms)

Gajac is the apartment village next to Zrce. It doesn’t have official “hostels,” but many locals rent out single rooms (called “Sobe”) in their houses. This is often cheaper than a hostel bunk.

• Location: Walking distance to Fresh Island festival (15-20 mins).
• Vibe: Quiet and private.
• Price Estimate: €30-€45 per person.

6. Hostel Zrce

Despite the name, it is actually in Novalja, not on the beach. It is a solid budget option with clean facilities. It is a bit more basic than Moon Rocks, but it does the job if you just need a bed.

• Location: Novalja town.
• Vibe: Functional and simple.
• Price Estimate: €35-€50 per night.

7. Skuncini Stani (Stara Novalja)

This is for those who have a car or don’t mind a longer shuttle ride. Stara Novalja is quieter and cheaper. You can find large guest houses here that rent rooms to groups for a fraction of the Novalja price.

• Location: 10-minute drive from Zrce.
• Vibe: Relaxed.
• Price Estimate: €25-€40 per night.

8. Sleeping in Zadar (The Commuter Hack)

This is the extreme budget option. Some students stay in Zadar (where the hostel prices are much lower) and take the bus to the festival. It is a long journey (1 hour+), but if you are absolutely broke, it works.

• Location: Zadar (Mainland).
• Vibe: City life.
• Price Estimate: €20-€30 per night (Lazy Monkey Hostel is a good pick here).

Price Comparison (July Peak Season)

Here is what you can expect to pay per night during the festival week.