Best LGBTQ+ Travel Destinations

Traveling offers the chance to let loose, immerse yourself in new cultures, and create memories. For LGBTQ+ travelers, the journey involves more than just finding new landscapes. It is about finding welcoming spaces and vibrant communities where individuality is celebrated and safety is paramount. Nobody wants to be caught up in antigay protests or receiving cold treatment from the locals.

Luckily, the world is becoming more inclusive, and gone are the days of limited options. Today, an incredible array of destinations cater specifically to LGBTQ+ travelers, offering experiences beyond the typical vacation. This guide will unveil some of these havens, ensuring your adventure is filled with connection, fun, self-discovery, and the boundless spirit of the LGBTQ+ community.

New York

The Stonewall Uprising of 1969 in NYC was a significant event for the LGBTQIA+ community, signifying a shift towards acceptance and paving the way for the inaugural Pride parade. Today, you have the opportunity to visit the Stonewall Inn and honour those who protested in the past for the rights of the LGBTQ community.

You have the opportunity to explore top museum exhibits, indulge in shopping, and experience top-notch shows. With its sizeable queer community, lively gay nightlife, and progressive residents, New York City welcomes you with open arms, ready to provide an unforgettable experience.

San Francisco

San Francisco is often referred to as the "Gay Mecca" of the world due to its reputation as one of the most famous queer-friendly cities. Every individual who identifies as queer should make a point to visit the city at least once. The large gay clubs and colorful crosswalks in Castro Street are always busy with drag queens and party attendees, and the city hosts some of the world's biggest Pride and Leather events. Moreover, the city boasts numerous gay bars and organizations, along with a sizable and politically engaged queer community.

If clubs are not your thing, there are plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, along with numerous excellent restaurants and museums to explore. Attractions include the expansive Golden Gate Park, the lively Ferry Building, and the coastal shops at Pier 39 or Fisherman's Wharf. You can also discover unique and eccentric lodging, shopping, and dining choices to suit all budgets.

Even though there are numerous queer artists and activists in the city, there is an increasing community in surrounding areas, especially across the bay in Oakland. In addition to other points of interest, you will also discover the renowned White Horse Inn, one of the longest-running gay bars in America.

Zipolite

Located along the rugged Oaxacan coast of Mexico, Zipolite is surrounded by impressive sea stacks and rocky cliffs, part of a series of simple beach towns with no high-rise buildings or branded resorts.

For a long time, Bohemians, surfers, yoga enthusiasts, and free spirits have been enjoying vacations in this area and the nearby Mazunte. Despite being less crowded and expensive compared to Puerto Vallarta or Tulum, this old fishing village is now home to various trendy boutique hotels like El Alquimista and Hotel Noga.
Numerous LGBTQ+ tourists visit Playa del Amor beach to enjoy its welcoming atmosphere, stunning scenery, cliffs, and large rocks. Throughout the day, particularly at sundown, this small beach on the eastern side of town provides a pleasant combination of mingling and privacy, as a casual beach bar serves micheladas and fresh coconuts.

Tel Aviv

With its endless beaches and more than nine miles of azure sea, sun, and horizon, Tel Aviv is the perfect beach resort. Numerous beaches in the city are gay-friendly, including Hilton Beach and Ga'ash Nude Beach. Apart from beachcombing, Tel Aviv is a gay destination.
Shpagat is one of the most well-liked gay night spots. The city also flourishes with trendy, stylish neighborhoods rich in culture, like artistic Florentin, the stylish Neve Tzedek, the historic Kerem HaTeimanim, the charming Jaffa, and the up-and-coming Shapira.

Montevideo

Uruguay made history as the first Latin American country to legalize civil unions for same-sex couples in 2008, followed by legalizing same-sex marriage in 2013. The city is recognized for its cultural diversity and equality, boasting a range of events, groups, and locations focused on the LGBTQ+ community, as well as businesses owned by queer individuals.

September is recognized as Diversity Month and ends with a Diversity March. Additionally, Montevideo provides convenient access to some of the world's most pristine and picturesque beaches, like Playa Pocitos, Playa Malvin, Ramirez Beach, Playa del Buceo, and `Playa La Mulata.

Planning Your Trip

Whatever destination you choose, the following key considerations will ensure a safe and enjoyable LGBTQ+ vacation.