NAHA Awards 2026
The NAHA Awards celebrate outstanding hostels across North America in a way that is fair, fun, and evolving. The goal is to recognize excellence while keeping the tone light and community focused.
Award Process
Hostels may self nominate or nominate others
• Written nomination required, supporting documents encouraged
• Awards subcommittee organizes submissions
• Independent selection committee chooses winners
• Top 3 nominees announced per category
• 1 winner per category announced at the awards banquet
Best Vibes
Awarded to the hostel where guests never want to leave. This award recognizes an outstanding atmosphere built on community, connection, and staff energy that turns strangers into friends and creates a genuinely memorable social experience.
Eco Warrior
Celebrates leadership in sustainability and environmental responsibility. This award recognizes hostels that actively reduce their environmental impact through conservation, waste reduction, and thoughtful operational practices, while still delivering a great guest experience.
Inclusive Haven
Honors a hostel that creates a welcoming, accessible, and affirming space for all travelers. This award recognizes intentional practices around accessibility and or LGBTQ+ inclusivity that make guests feel safe, respected, and valued.
Best Facilities
Honors excellence in cleanliness, design, comfort, and amenities. This award recognizes hostels that demonstrate how well maintained, thoughtfully designed facilities directly support and elevate the guest experience.
Good Neighbor
Recognizes a hostel that meaningfully supports and engages its local community. This award honors strong local partnerships, community focused programs, and positive contributions that extend beyond the hostel’s walls.
Hostel of the Year
The highest honor. Awarded to a hostel that demonstrates excellence across guest experience, operations, culture, community impact, and sustainability, and serves as a standout example of what a great hostel can be.