Top gay-friendly hotels

One of the benefits of our amazing gay lifestyle is that we love to travel, we go to all these amazing events and parties. But not always we are sure that we are booking a truly gay or gay-friendly hotel.
GayOut went and scanned all the hotels around the world and found the best gay hotels or gay friendly hotels. Many of the hotels on our list are completely targeted at us the gay travelers, book these hotels to meet fellow gay travelers (and maybe enjoy a fling or two during your trip).
Most important - once you book a hotel via GayOut you are sure you were always be welcome and accepted wherever you go. Enjoy your trip!

If you visited one of these hotels, and discovered they are not gay-friendly please update us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we will remove it from our website.

Top Gay‑Friendly Hotels and Resorts for lgbtq+Q+ Travelers

Traveling is so much more fun when you know you’re welcome exactly as you are. These days, gay-friendly (or gay-inclusive) hotels and resorts can be found in almost every corner of the globe – from bustling city centers during Pride celebrations to tranquil men-only beach retreats where clothing is optional and freedom is the dress code. Whether you’re chasing the high-energy nightlife of a big city or longing for a laid-back escape with your partner (or a few new friends) by the pool, there’s a place out there with a rainbow flag and a room key waiting for you. In this guide, we’ll journey through some of the top destinations and accommodations that roll out the welcome mat for lgbtq+Q+ travelers. Pack your bags (don’t forget your Pride gear), and let’s explore some incredible gay-friendly and gay-inclusive hotels, resorts, and even men-only getaways around the world. 🌈

Pride Party Capitals: City Hotels Where the Celebration Never Stops

When Pride season kicks off, certain cities around the world become the place to be. It’s not just about the parades – it’s the festivals, the nightlife, the sense of history, and of course, the welcoming hotels right in the heart of the action. If you’re planning a trip around a major Pride event, consider these urban hotspots and their lgbtq+Q+ friendly places to stay:

• New York City, USA – The Birthplace of Pride: There’s an electric charge in NYC come June, with Pride Month events all over the city culminating in one of the world’s largest Pride marches. Staying in Manhattan means you won’t miss a beat. You can sip cocktails with a view at The Standard, High Line – a trendy hotel in the Meatpacking District known for its queer art events, drag brunches, and wild Pride parties. It’s literally perched above the route of the Pride March as it heads down to the Village, so you might even watch the parade from the hotel’s windows before joining the crowd. The Standard (and similar hip hotels in NYC) doesn’t just tolerate lgbtq+Q+ guests, it actively celebrates them – hosting events and proudly flying the rainbow flag. If you prefer to be nearer to Hell’s Kitchen nightlife or the historic Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village, there are plenty of gay-friendly options there too. Big chains like Marriott, Hyatt, and Hilton all have properties around Midtown and downtown that market special Pride packages, light up their facades in rainbow colors, and train their staff to be welcoming to all. In New York, basically any good hotel in a central location will be lgbtq+Q-inclusive, but a smaller boutique spot that explicitly courts queer travelers can add that extra bit of comfort – you know the fellow guests on the rooftop bar are likely family, and the hotel might even hand out pronoun pins or pride swag at check-in. And trust me, after dancing till 4am at an underground queer warehouse party in Brooklyn or bar-hopping in the West Village, coming back to a hotel where the night staff ask how your Pride was (instead of giving side-eye) feels fantastic.
  
  
• San Francisco, USA – Rainbow History and Modern Luxury: San Francisco’s Castro district was waving rainbow flags long before it was cool – this city has been an lgbtq+Q+ haven for decades. During Pride (which usually happens in late June), the whole city is in celebration mode. You might want to stay near the Castro or SoMa to be close to events and nightlife. A highly-rated option is Hotel Zetta near Union Square – it’s hip and techy, but also within a quick streetcar or rideshare to the Castro’s bars and the Civic Center where the parade festival happens. Hotel Zetta prides itself on inclusive service (zero tolerance for any discrimination) and even features local queer art in its décor. If you’d rather stay in the Castro, there are smaller gay-owned guesthouses like Parker Guest House or Beck’s Motor Lodge (a retro-style motel that’s basically on the edge of the gayborhood). These spots have been popular with gay travelers for ages, offering a friendly, communal vibe – think complimentary wine socials in the evenings where you can meet other guests before heading out to the Castro’s legendary bars like Twin Peaks or Midnight Sun. San Francisco is also home to the Fairmont San Francisco (up on Nob Hill) which isn’t specifically gay-focused but deserves a shoutout: back in 2019 it famously hosted WorldPride’s kick-off and even painted a huge rainbow on its iconic façade. It’s a prime example that many mainstream luxury hotels actively support the community. At SF Pride, you could be at a leather-themed dance party at Folsom Street one night and a glam drag brunch the next morning – whatever your itinerary, you’ll find an inclusive hotel ready to pamper you afterward.
  
  
• Madrid, Spain – Chueca’s Inclusive Vibe: Europe has its share of Pride meccas, and Madrid is easily one of the biggest. Madrid Orgullo (MADO) in early July draws millions to the streets, turning neighborhoods like Chueca into all-night block parties. For convenience, you’ll want to stay in Chueca or very nearby, since that’s gay ground zero. A top recommendation is Room Mate Óscar, a stylish boutique hotel right on Plaza Pedro Zerolo (which is Pride party central). This hotel is famous for its rooftop pool and bar – during Pride week it becomes a scene of its own, with gorgeous panoramic views of the city and plenty of attractive folks sipping cocktails in their speedos. Óscar is super lgbtq+Q-friendly (Room Mate Hotels are known for it), so much so that even outside of Pride season you might find a drag show happening in the lobby or a queer art exhibition on the walls. Another fabulous option is Hotel Puerta América, a five-star design hotel slightly outside Chueca but only a short ride away. Each floor of this hotel was designed by a different famous architect – it’s like sleeping in an art museum. They explicitly market to lgbtq+Q travelers and often host afterparties during Pride. Even better, they’re minutes from Chueca’s bars when you’re ready to dive into the fray, but offer a quiet luxurious retreat when you need to recharge. Madrid’s gay nightlife (the clubs of Calle de las Infantas, the bear parties in Lavapiés, the drag queen galas, you name it) can easily keep you out till sunrise. Knowing you have a welcoming, air-conditioned oasis to stumble back to – maybe with 24-hour room service for that post-clubbing pizza craving – is a must. In Madrid, inclusivity isn’t an afterthought; even the taxi drivers are used to ferrying around glitter-covered Pride revelers and most hotels train their staff to not bat an eye if you request a double bed for you and your same-sex partner.
  
  
• London, UK – Soho Nights and City Lights: London’s Pride in July brings a festive parade to central London and a massive crowd in Trafalgar Square. The city’s lgbtq+Q+ nightlife is spread across areas like Soho, Vauxhall, and beyond. For convenience, staying around Soho is ideal – it’s both the historic gay district and very central for sightseeing. There are plenty of gay-friendly hotels around Soho and Piccadilly; one standout is Hazlitt’s, a quirky boutique hotel on Frith Street. It’s not a “gay hotel” per se, but it’s popular among lgbtq+Q travelers for its charm and because it’s literally around the corner from Old Compton Street’s gay bars. If you prefer modern and chic, W London in Leicester Square is a solid bet – the W chain actively courts lgbtq+Q guests (expect Pride flag welcome sweets or themed cocktails in June), and this location puts you walking distance from Soho’s nightlife (and the Pride parade route). Plus, their lobby bar gets delightfully playful – I once wandered in during Pride weekend to find a DJ spinning and people in rainbow attire dancing before heading out. London’s scene is so diverse – one night you might end up at a pop music gay club in Soho, another at a fetish party under a Vauxhall railway arch – and your hotel should be a place that doesn’t just accept that, but maybe even gives you a nod and a wink when you walk in at 3am with smeared glitter on your cheeks. Many of London’s hotels, from big names like The Savoy to smaller inns, are part of the city’s Pride initiative, meaning they’ve pledged inclusive practices. It shows – you’ll feel just as comfortable walking in with your same-sex partner as any other guest.
  
  
• Berlin, Germany – Queer Capital of Cool: Berlin’s queer scene is legendary and utterly unique. From the anything-goes techno temple of Berghain to the cheeky cabaret at Schwuz, there’s something for everyone here. Berlin Pride (known as CSD – Christopher Street Day) in July is huge, but even outside of Pride month the city feels like one continuous lgbtq+Q+ celebration. For accommodations, you can actually stay in the heart of the gay district, Schöneberg, where the streets are lined with rainbow flags year-round. A popular choice is the Axel Hotel Berlin, part of the hetero-friendly Axel chain. It’s practically a part of the scene – there’s a rooftop jacuzzi where you might end up chatting with other guests over a beer, and a wellness club (sauna/steam room) that’s as much a social space as a relaxation area. Axel’s location is fantastic: walk out the door and you’re minutes from classic bars like Tom’s, Hafen, or even the iconic fetish shop Mr. B if that’s your thing. If you want something a bit edgier and artsier (very Berlin style), consider Soho House Berlin in Mitte. It’s a members’ club and hotel that has become an lgbtq+Q hotspot for creatives. They have queer film nights, they’ve hosted drag balls, and the general vibe is inclusive and bohemian. Waking up there, you could easily rub shoulders with a famous DJ or a traveling artist at the breakfast table – everyone’s welcome as long as they vibe with the inclusive ethos. No matter where you stay in Berlin, you’ll likely end up taking a late-night U-Bahn back to the hotel surrounded by friendly strangers, some in harnesses and some in high heels, all coexisting happily. That’s Berlin for you – and your hotel will have seen it all, so you can confidently strut through the lobby at dawn with your new club friends and not get a single raised eyebrow from the front desk.
  
  

Of course, these are just a few examples. Other Pride capital cities worth mentioning include São Paulo, Brazil – home to the world’s largest Pride parade (millions attend, absolutely bonkers energy) – where international hotels like the Renaissance or Hilton in the Paulista Avenue area go all out with Pride décor and sometimes even float sponsorships. Toronto, Canada is another, with the whole Church Street village turning into a pedestrian festival; hotels near downtown like the boutique Anndore House or chains like Courtyard by Marriott Toronto Downtown (which is steps from the gay village) are known to be popular with Pride-goers and often have great rates and rainbow flags flying proudly. No matter the city, during Pride time the rule is: book early! The best lgbtq+Q-friendly hotels fill up fast with other travelers who want that perfect mix of location and welcoming atmosphere.

Sun, Sand & Rainbow Flags: Beach Escapes and Island Getaways

Sometimes you just want a vacation – real relaxation with a side of party – and gay-friendly beach towns or islands are perfect for that. There’s something magical about a tropical sunset when you’re surrounded by your community, perhaps gearing up for a night of dancing under the stars. Let’s talk about some sunny destinations and resorts that are big hits with lgbtq+Q+ travelers:

• Mykonos, Greece – The Original Gay Island Paradise: Mykonos has been a beloved gay destination since at least the 1970s, and it’s only gotten more fabulous. In the summer, especially around late August when the famous XLSIOR festival takes place, the island is swarming with gay travelers from all over the world. Think boat parties by day and massive club events by night, all set against that classic Cycladic backdrop of whitewashed buildings and blue seas. The island offers many gay-friendly hotels, but one stands out as almost a rite of passage: Elysium Hotel. Perched on a hill overlooking Mykonos Town, Elysium is a gay men-only hotel that’s known for its sunset drag shows and poolside happy hours. Even travelers staying elsewhere often come up to Elysium’s terrace for the show – it’s that much of a scene (imagine gorgeous views, strong cocktails, drag queens serving high camp, and a crowd that gets more boisterous with each round of shots). As a guest, you’ll be right in the middle of it. By day, you can recover at the pool or walk down to Elia Beach, the unofficial gay beach where clothing is optional beyond a certain rock outcropping (don’t be shocked when you see a cluster of guys in the nude soaking up the sun – it’s part of the experience). Other notable accommodations include the Axel Beach Hotel Mykonos (yes, Axel opened a resort near the popular gay Jackie O’ Beach club, offering that reliably welcoming Axel vibe in a chic setting) and many boutique villas and guesthouses that explicitly market to lgbtq+Q folks. The key takeaway: in Mykonos, you’re never far from other gay travelers, and the whole island operates with an easy, open acceptance. The hardest decision you’ll have to make is which party to hit and which stylish swimwear to flaunt.
  
  
• Maspalomas, Gran Canaria – Europe’s Gay Resort Haven: If Mykonos is the classy queen of gay travel, Gran Canaria is perhaps the playful king. This Spanish island off the coast of Africa is like a year-round summer camp for lgbtq+Q+ adults. The epicenter is Maspalomas, specifically the Yumbo Centrum – a shopping center by day that turns into a multi-level gay nightlife extravaganza by night (trust me, it’s surreal and amazing). Pride in Maspalomas (held in May, plus a Winter Pride in November) is one of the most celebrated in Europe – imagine drag shows, foam parties, and street festivals every night for a week. Many visitors choose men-only or gay-only resorts here, of which there are dozens. Two high-end mentions: Fahana Hotel and Mar Bianco, both of which are relatively new 5-star gay men-only hotels in Maspalomas that have been getting rave reviews. Fahana is a lush, modern boutique resort with a clothing-optional pool area and stylish design – it’s like someone took a luxury spa and decided to fill it exclusively with gay men on holiday. Mar Bianco offers fully furnished luxury apartments in a resort setting, also men-only and clothing-optional, with multiple jacuzzis and a private vibe. For a more budget-friendly but super social experience, Axel Beach Maspalomas is right by the Yumbo and always packed with a young, international crowd (plus they host pool parties during Pride). By day, everyone flocks to Kiosk #7 at Maspalomas Beach, the famous gay nude beach area nestled in the sand dunes – it’s an experience to wander through the dunes and suddenly see hundreds of queer folks by the water. You might make a dozen new friends (or admirers) just during that beach trip. Gran Canaria’s appeal is how liberating it feels: PDA is everywhere, literally every business in the area is openly gay-friendly (rainbow stickers on restaurant doors, drag queens passing out flyers for cabarets, the works), and you can truly let your hair down. It’s the kind of place where you may check into your resort and within an hour you’re chatting with your poolside neighbors, planning the night out together. And when you eventually (inevitably) dance on a bar at 2am in the Yumbo, you’ll be glad you chose a hotel where you’re free to bring back a guest or five for a nightcap without any judgment.
  
  
• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Latin America’s lgbtq+Q Beach Mecca: On Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta (or PV to regulars) has earned a reputation as one of the friendliest places on the planet for lgbtq+Q+ travelers. The Zona Romántica neighborhood is PV’s vibrant gayborhood, packed with bars, clubs, cafés, and yes, an actual gay beach. Playa Los Muertos is the main beach in town, and its Blue Chairs section (named after an early gay beach club with blue loungers) has been a gay gathering spot forever. Nowadays the swankier Mantamar Beach Club (with its infinity pool and DJ sets) is the daytime place to be – it’s attached to the Almar Resort, a luxury gay-focused resort that cascades down the hillside just above the beach. Staying at Almar means you can take an elevator straight down to the beach club; by day it’s all about sunbathing with a cocktail in hand, and by night the same space turns into a sexy open-air nightclub under the stars. They often have themed parties (White Party, foam parties, top DJs, you name it). Another top choice in PV is Casa Cupula, an intimate, upscale boutique hotel up the hill from Zona Romántica. Casa Cupula is hetero-friendly but mostly you’ll find lgbtq+Q guests, and it’s known for its personal service and lively Sunday brunch drag shows. The vibe there is like staying at a rich friend’s mansion – if that friend had an amazing tropical terrace, multiple pools, and a clothing-optional rooftop sundeck. What’s special about Puerto Vallarta is that it manages to feel like a cozy community and a wild party town at the same time. You can walk from your hotel to a mix of quaint Mexican restaurants, gay cantinas, energetic clubs (ranging from Latin beats at CC Slaughters to male strip shows at Wet Dreams bar – yep, PV has it all). And no matter where you go, you’ll find locals and tourists intermingling and an incredibly open atmosphere. Many local hotels, even if not exclusively gay, are proud to call themselves gay-friendly because they know PV’s reputation. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to find a hotel in the central Zona Romántica that isn’t used to lgbtq+Q guests. From budget inns to luxury condos, they’re all competing to be the most welcoming. The city even has an annual Bear Week and other niche lgbtq+Q festivals, and many accommodations will tailor their marketing to those crowds when the time comes. Basically, Puerto Vallarta’s motto could be “No shirt, no shoes, no problem – just be yourself and enjoy.”
  
  
• Key West, Florida, USA – One Human Family in the Tropics: Down at the very tip of the Florida Keys, Key West has long proclaimed its values with the official motto “One Human Family.” This quirky, colorful island city was lgbtq+Q-friendly back when the rest of Florida was… well, less so. It’s the kind of place where drag queens are beloved local celebrities and the Pride parade sometimes features a “Sea to Sea Rainbow” flag that stretches from the Atlantic to the Gulf of Mexico across Duval Street. Key West is relatively small, so many guesthouses here are either gay-owned, gay-oriented, or proudly inclusive. Two iconic all-male resorts to know: Island House and Alexander’s Guesthouse. Island House is practically legendary – a men-only, clothing-optional resort with a pool and hot tub that are open 24/7 (yes, you can take a dip at 3am after stumbling back from the club). They’ve got a fun-loving social scene: nude pool parties, a 24-hour café where the happy hour drinks flow freely (imagine complimentary top-shelf cocktails each evening, it gets everyone mingling fast), and a steam room that tends to become quite the hub of activity. Despite some frisky vibes, Island House is also a place people just chill and make friends; it’s common to see a group of guests who met that week end up hitting the town together at night. Meanwhile, Alexander’s Guesthouse is also men-only (actually they welcome all lgbtq+Q adults, not just men, but it has a gay male majority clientele) and offers a more bed-and-breakfast style experience – charming Victorian house, friendly hosts who cook breakfast, and a laid-back pool area. Many couples love Alexander’s for its romantic vibe, while Island House is perhaps more for singles or extroverts. During the day, guests from all the gay resorts often converge on Fort Zachary Taylor Beach or the clothing-optional section of Higgs Beach, or they go snorkeling and catch sunset cruises (Key West’s sunset celebrations are awesome and super gay-friendly too). As evening falls, everyone strolls down Duval Street, where bars like Bourbon Street Pub and 801 Bourbon (Saloon) keep the party going with drag shows and male dancers. You can safely assume any hotel or B&B you pick in Key West – even if it’s not specifically gay-marketed – will be absolutely fine with lgbtq+Q guests. The entire town embraces its queer legacy (heck, it elected an openly gay mayor in the 1980s, way ahead of the curve). The bottom line: Key West wraps you in a warm, accepting hug the moment you arrive, and its resorts and hotels are integral to that experience.
  
  
• Sitges, Spain – Beachside Fun Close to Barcelona: This charming beach town about 40 minutes from Barcelona has been a gay getaway for decades. Sitges boasts its own Pride in June and a huge international bear week in September, not to mention a general summer season full of nightlife and beach lounging. The town is small and easy to walk, with Playa de la Bassa Rodona as the main gay beach (packed with guys during peak season) and a dozen or so gay bars that get busy every night. For accommodations, Parrots Hotel is smack in the center of town and is gay-managed – it’s part of the little Parrots empire that includes a popular pub and terrace cafe. It’s not luxury (the rooms are fairly basic), but the convenience and friendliness have made it a go-to for many repeat visitors. They even give a discount at Parrots Pub for hotel guests, so it feels like an all-in-one package of fun. Another option is to stay at one of the beachfront hotels like Hotel Calipolis – not specifically gay, but due to location it gets a lot of lgbtq+Q clientele and is supportive. Waking up in a sea-view room there, you can literally spot where you’ll roll out your towel on the gay beach below. Also, if you happen to visit during Carnival (February), Sitges throws one of the craziest, gayest Carnival celebrations in the world – every hotel in town fills up with revelers in flamboyant costumes, and the entire place becomes a non-stop party. It’s an underrated time to go for sure, and hotels love it because they’re absolutely on board with the outrageousness (they often have pre-party gatherings in lobbies with guests all dressed up and taking shots together). Sitges proves that you don’t need a huge city to have a thriving gay scene – a friendly seaside town can do the trick.
  
  
• Pattaya & Phuket, Thailand – Southeast Asia’s Sun and Fun: Thailand has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most lgbtq+Q-friendly countries in Asia, and it might soon be the first in the region to legalize same-sex marriage. Beach-wise, Phuket and Pattaya are two destinations gay travelers flock to for that mix of relaxation and party. Pattaya, a few hours from Bangkok, has a gay scene centered around Boyztown and Jomtien Beach’s Dongtan area. There are smaller men-only hotels like Amazon Resort or Villa Odyssey catering to gay men, but one of the most famous spots isn’t a hotel at all – it’s Jomtien’s Dongtan Beach itself, which has a long-running gay section with rainbow umbrellas. Many mainstream resorts in Pattaya – such as the large Royal Cliff Beach Hotel or Avani Pattaya – have caught on and make sure to note they welcome lgbtq+Q travelers, often hosting pride pool events or at least having staff knowledgeable about the scene. Meanwhile in Phuket (especially around Patong), there’s a lively gay nightlife street (Soi Paradise) and some dedicated gay guesthouses, but most people just pick any nice resort by Patong or Karon Beach and enjoy the generally open atmosphere. One particularly unique place in Southeast Asia: MEN’s Resort and Spa in Siem Reap, Cambodia (not a beach, but worth a mention). It’s a gay men-only hotel catering to travelers visiting the Angkor Wat temples – proof that even in more conservative parts of the world, little lgbtq+Q oases exist. The owners there created an environment where after a day of temple touring you can lounge by a clothing-optional pool and chat with other gay travelers from around the globe. In short, the tropical region has pockets of gay-friendly bliss – and more are popping up as local attitudes become even more accepting. Wherever you see that a country is making progress (like Thailand currently), you’ll often see an uptick in hotels advertising themselves as “gay-friendly” to capture that market. Always read recent reviews to make sure, but chances are you’ll find plenty of choices where you can enjoy that famed Asian hospitality with your partner or friends and feel completely comfortable.
  
  

We could go on and on – there are so many more sun-soaked lgbtq+Q favorites: Tel Aviv, Israel, for example, where each June the city hosts a massive beachside Pride party and practically every hotel along the Mediterranean waterfront is decked out in rainbow colors. Tel Aviv is an interesting case because it doesn’t have “gay hotels” in the traditional sense; instead, the entire city’s hospitality industry is on board. Large beachfront properties like the Hilton (right by the gay beach at Hilton Bay) and trendy boutiques like the Brown Beach House or Fabric Hotel actively compete for lgbtq+Q tourists, offering Pride week packages and even serving special Pride cocktails in their lounges. Local smaller inns, such as Inta Hotel in Jaffa or Pink House TLV (when it was operating), explicitly market to gay visitors too. During Tel Aviv Pride week, you’ll find a mix of international lgbtq+Q folks at these hotels, all comparing notes on the next party or where the best after-hours club is. And because Israeli society in Tel Aviv is very gay-friendly, you can walk through the lobby in full drag or decked out for the night and you’ll probably get a thumbs-up from the concierge. It’s that kind of energy.

Men-Only Hotels and All-Gay Resorts: A World of Their Own

We’ve touched on men-only resorts a few times, but they really deserve their own spotlight. These are the places specifically created for gay travelers to feel 100% free – often clothing-optional, usually full of men (and sometimes women, if it’s an all-lgbtq+ clientele) who want a social atmosphere where they don’t have to filter themselves at all. The result can be incredibly liberating. It’s like a bubble where being gay is not just accepted, it’s the default, and it can be an awesome way to make new friends or enjoy a romantic escape without any straight folks around. Here are a few of the iconic all-gay stays (mostly men-only) around the world and what to expect:

• Palm Springs, California, USA – Desert Oasis of Gay Resorts: Palm Springs might just have the highest concentration of gay resorts in the world. This small city in the California desert became a gay haven mid-20th century and has kept that status ever since. The Warm Sands and Arenas Road areas are dotted with clothing-optional gay male resorts, each with its own flavor. For instance, InnDulge is a classy mid-century modern resort where the owners host evening social hours – picture a circle of guys around a firepit, sipping wine, chatting about everything from local hiking trails to last night’s flirtations at the bar. It’s laid-back and friendly. Then there’s Santiago Resort, which Nomadic Boys (a gay travel blog) praised as one of the most gorgeous – it’s men-only, clothing-optional, with a large pool, hot tub, and even an outdoor misting shower in the gardens. The design and mountain views give it a peaceful, almost spa retreat vibe, but don’t worry, things can still get frisky under the desert sun (or in the evening by the pool when someone decides to start a little impromptu skinny dip party). Another legendary spot: The Hacienda at Warm Sands, known for luxury service (they literally have a 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio, which is wild) and a quiet atmosphere – great for couples who want tranquility with the option to be nude and social if they choose. On the flip side, if you’re looking for something less quiet, All World’s Resort is a clothing-optional compound that is more about playtime and cruising (it doubles as a sort of outdoor sauna/bathhouse for visitors). And a mention for the ladies: while Palm Springs’ gay resorts are male-focused, every year in April the city hosts The Dinah Shore Weekend, the biggest lesbian/queer women event perhaps in the world. During that weekend, mainstream hotels like the Hilton or Margaritaville are taken over by thousands of women for pool parties and concerts. It’s not a permanent resort, but for those few days those hotels become essentially lesbian resorts. Palm Springs shows that whether you want a relaxed, upscale experience or a playful social scene, there’s a place tailored for you. The common thread is you’ll be surrounded by community. It’s a pretty cool feeling to float in a pool with palm trees swaying above and realize everyone around you is family in some way – and you don’t have to wonder or second-guess if the couple next to you is gay, or if it’s okay to steal a kiss with your partner in the hot tub. It’s all understood and embraced.
  
  
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA – America’s Gay Resort Capital of the East: Fort Lauderdale might surprise some, but it has essentially become the East Coast’s answer to Palm Springs when it comes to gay resorts. The city’s suburb of Wilton Manors is an lgbtq+Q+ hotbed with dozens of bars and queer-owned businesses, and nearby you’ll find multiple clothing-optional gay hotels catering to predominantly male guests. One of the most famous is The Grand Resort and Spa, an all-male resort near the beach which gained a bit of fame for once being featured on RuPaul’s Drag Race (the winners of challenges in early seasons won trips there, complete with RuPaul intoning, “A luxurious stay at the Grand Resort and Spa…!”). Grand Resort lives up to its name with a full-service spa on-site – yes, you can get a legitimate deep tissue massage or facial treatment in between your sunbathing sessions. They also host social events for guests, like weekend happy hours, and even the occasional “nude weekend” where most of the property becomes clothing-optional and they throw poolside parties under the stars. The guest mix is diverse (all ages, all body types, all nationalities), which many people love because it feels inclusive and not overly scene-y. Just a block or two away are Pineapple Point (an absolutely gorgeous gay men’s resort in a lush, secluded setting – think Balinese teak furnishings, outdoor showers, multiple pools; many consider it one of the best clothing-optional gay resorts in the world for its luxury level and convivial atmosphere) and The Worthington Complex, which is actually three merged gay resorts (Worthington, Alcazar, Villa Venice) that together create a sort of adult gay playground with three pools, two hot tubs, and, rumor has it, a certain clothing-optional solarium on the roof where guests sometimes get… adventurous. The vibe at the Worthington complex is very social – it’s easy to strike up a conversation in the pool or make a new buddy in the common area (which might then lead to more, ahem, private hangouts). The fact that you have access to facilities of all three interconnected resorts means more men to meet and more nooks and crannies to explore. Also in Fort Lauderdale, The Cabanas Guesthouse & Spa is a delightful men’s clothing-optional B&B that comes with its own small spa (with services like mud wraps and aromatherapy). It’s located along the Intracoastal waterway, so some rooms have waterfront views and you can even kayak from their private dock. One cool thing about Fort Lauderdale is how integrated the gay resorts are with the local scene: by day you’ll see guys from your hotel at the gay Sebastian Street Beach (the city’s unofficial gay beach by the Ritz-Carlton), and by night you’ll run into them again in the clubs on Wilton Drive. Many of the resorts organize or inform guests about nightlife events, so you might end up as part of a little posse going out together. The sense of camaraderie can be real – I’ve had friends who went alone to FLL, stayed at a gay resort, and left with a whole new friend group they still keep in touch with. It’s that kind of place.
  
  
• Provincetown, Massachusetts, USA – Summer Camp for Queers: P-town is a small New England seaside town at the tip of Cape Cod, and every summer it becomes an lgbtq+Q+ wonderland. It’s one of those rare places where men-only and women-only inns have coexisted for decades alongside mixed accommodations. If you’re a gay man, Boatslip Resort is iconic for one reason: the daily Tea Dance. Every afternoon around 4pm in summer, the deck of the Boatslip (which is a waterfront hotel) fills up with hundreds of people for a giant dance party as the sun starts to lower. It’s basically the social event of each day – and as a guest, you get free entry. After Tea Dance, people often go freshen up (or nap) and then head out again for late-night fun at clubs like the A-House. Staying at the Boatslip means you’re at the center of it all; the rooms are modest (this is more a beach party motel than a luxury resort), but you step outside and you’re on the bustling Commercial Street. For lesbians/queer women, Provincetown historically had places like Gabriel’s or Carpe Diem which, while not strictly women-only, were very women-centric and filled with lesbian travelers especially during themed weeks (like Women’s Week in October or the Girl Splash events). In recent years, the lines have blurred and most guesthouses welcome all, but there are definitely weeks where one gender dominates based on the theme events. Another well-known P-town spot is Crown & Anchor, which is a hotel plus a complex of bars and a cabaret – if you want to be steeped in nightlife (drag shows, piano bar, leather nights, you name it) and then literally just walk upstairs to crash, this is your jam. It can get loud, but some folks want exactly that energy. Provincetown’s charm is in the community feel: at many B&Bs, owners will organize family-style breakfasts or cocktail hours. At Frog Meadow Farm (actually in Vermont, but thinking of B&Bs reminds me) – a clothing-optional gay men’s guesthouse on a rural farm – the hosts join guests for communal dinners. P-town similarly encourages that bond among guests. You arrive and by the end of the week it’s hard to walk down Commercial Street without bumping into people you’ve met. In the context of men-only or all-gay accommodations, it enhances that summer-camp vibe – everyone’s part of the club, literally wearing their Camp Lightbulb or Bear Week or Leather Weekend tags depending on the theme week, and hotels embrace it by often decorating or scheduling events around the themes. Essentially, whether you’re at a luxurious resort or a rustic guesthouse, the draw of a men-only or all-gay environment is the instant comfort and kinship it creates. It’s not for everyone – some lgbtq+Q travelers actually prefer mixed settings or more privacy – but those who love it often swear by it and plan their vacations around those special places.
  
  

Europe has its share of exclusively gay resorts too beyond Gran Canaria: The Late Birds Lisbon, for example, is an upscale gay men’s guesthouse in Lisbon, Portugal with a beautiful garden pool. It’s smaller and more low-key, but staying there is like joining a little family for a few days – the owner even takes guests out on walking tours or to dinner if you want. There’s also a clothing-optional gay hotel in the UK (in Cornwall) called Ventura Boutique and many in Germany and the Netherlands catering to the fetish crowd when events like Easter in Berlin or Amsterdam Leather Pride happen. But by and large, the concept of “gay resort” is most prolific in North America and certain sunny parts of Europe.

One more example from across the globe: Bali, Indonesia doesn’t have all-gay resorts (the country’s not as open overall), but nearby Phuket, Thailand has CC’s Hideaway which is very gay-popular and even hosts events for Pride. And in Australia, while there aren’t classic “gay resorts”, during Sydney Mardi Gras, hotels like the QT Sydney or Kimpton Margot become de facto queer hubs with special packages, rainbow decorations in the lobby, and pool parties on the rooftop leading up to the Mardi Gras Parade.

Embracing Inclusivity Everywhere (Events, Hotspots, and Hospitality Trends)

The travel industry has come a long way. Not too many years ago, lgbtq+Q+ travelers had to do a ton of homework to figure out if a hotel was safe or welcoming – would the couple at the check-in get strange looks if they requested one bed? Would two women feel comfortable enjoying a romantic dinner at the resort restaurant? Those concerns are fading fast in many parts of the world as major hotel brands and independent hoteliers alike actively court the lgbtq+Q+ community.

Inclusive Amenities & Programs: These days, you’ll find that big chains often have diversity training for staff and some even have dedicated lgbtq+Q travel ambassadors. For instance, Accor Hotels (which includes brands like Sofitel, Fairmont, Raffles, etc.) rolled out a “Travel Proud” program to certify their hotels as lgbtq+Q-friendly – meaning staff underwent training to understand our community’s needs better. Marriott did a whole “Love Travels” campaign, and Hilton has been a long-time sponsor of Pride events in various cities. The practical effect is that if you book into, say, a Hilton, Hyatt, or W Hotel in a known gay-friendly destination, chances are high they’ve got small but meaningful touches ready: maybe a Pride guide in your room, concierge knowledge of the local gay scene, or simply the assurance that if you call down asking for an extra robe for your boyfriend, nobody’s going to make it awkward. Some hotels even go above and beyond: the W Hotel in Amsterdam famously hosts a huge Pride party on its rooftop with drag performances, essentially turning the hotel itself into part of the celebration. And The Standard Hotel group (beyond NYC, they have properties in LA, Miami, etc.) is known for partnering with queer artists and hosting lgbtq+Q events year-round, not just during Pride. In Paris, a hip hotel like The Hoxton collaborates with local queer organizers to host mix-and-mingle nights or small exhibitions, reinforcing that year-round welcome. It’s not just marketing fluff – these initiatives tend to be run by queer employees or consultants who know that authenticity is key. As a traveler, when you walk into a hotel lobby and see a little Pride flag sticker by the door or a sign that says “We are an inclusive property – we welcome all identities,” you immediately breathe a sigh of relief.

Events and Hotel Tie-ins: Another cool trend is hotels tying into local lgbtq+Q events beyond Pride. For example, during Southern Decadence (New Orleans’ big Labor Day gay festival), several French Quarter hotels become unofficial party bases, with courtyards decked out in rainbow decorations and sometimes clothing-optional pool parties during the day. In Atlanta, for Black Gay Pride over Labor Day, you’ll see downtown hotels hosting convention-like events, pageants, and pool gatherings. They know their audience is coming and they roll with it. The same is true for more niche gatherings: gay ski weeks in Aspen or Whistler see hotels offering group discounts and après-ski events just for us; Carnival in Rio has gay-focused travel groups blocking rooms in Copacabana hotels and throwing their own mini-balls at the hotel ballroom in between samba parades. The fact that hotels are not just tolerating but actively inviting these happenings shows how far we’ve come. It also means you can incorporate these events into your travel with confidence that lodging won’t be an issue – there are partners in place to make you feel at home.

Beyond Gay-Friendly – Truly lgbtq+Q+ Inclusive: It’s worth noting that “gay-friendly” should and often does imply friendly to the entire lgbtq+Q spectrum. Most of the places we’ve talked about are indeed welcoming to lesbian, bisexual, trans, nonbinary travelers as well. Some segments, like the men-only resorts, are obviously specific, but in general an inclusive hotel is one that any queer traveler can walk into and know they’ll be respected and comfortable. I’ve seen hotels put in the effort by, for instance, training staff to avoid assuming pronouns (they’ll say “Welcome, guests” instead of “ladies and gentlemen” at an event), or by hiring diverse staff including trans folks so that guests see themselves represented. A truly inclusive resort might also partner with local lgbtq+Q businesses – maybe the hotel pastry chef is sourcing from a lesbian-owned bakery, or they recommend a local queer tour guide for city excursions. These details might not be obvious at first glance, but you can often feel when a place has an authentic connection to the community versus just slapping a rainbow sticker up for the month of June.

Safety and Legal Context: While we’re celebrating all these awesome destinations and hotels, a quick reality check: not everywhere in the world is as accepting. It’s always smart to be aware of the local laws and attitudes. Even within otherwise gay-friendly countries, there can be regions less open. What’s great though is that within the microcosm of a gay-friendly resort or hotel, you often find a bubble of safety even if outside it might not be as free. For instance, a resort in the Caribbean (where some islands sadly still have homophobic laws) that advertises as lgbtq+Q-welcoming usually has staff who will go out of their way to make sure you’re comfortable inside the property. There are also fully chartered gay cruises and resort takeovers by companies like Atlantis or VACAYA, where they’ll essentially rent an entire cruise ship or an all-inclusive resort in, say, Mexico or the Dominican Republic, and fill it with lgbtq+Q guests and events. During those weeks, even if the country’s laws aren’t the best, you’re in a private world of 1000+ gay and lesbian revelers having the time of their lives. It’s another route to consider for those who want a carefree vibe.

All in all, the trend is clear: the list of gay-friendly and gay-inclusive hotels and resorts is growing every year. From luxury five-star hotels in big cities to remote eco-lodges run by queer owners, the options span every style and budget. We even see new developments like entire residential-style resorts marketed to lgbtq+Q seniors (ensuring safe, affirming travel in one’s golden years) and trans-specific travel packages offered by some progressive hotels that include things like makeup services or private swim times for trans guests who might feel shy initially. The world of lgbtq+Q+ travel is blossoming and becoming beautifully diverse.

Final Thoughts: Your Journey, Your Community, Your Home Away From Home

Traveling as an lgbtq+Q+ person is no longer just about finding a place that won’t judge – it’s about enjoying the same range of experiences as anyone else, with the bonus of having a built-in global community. Whether you’re dancing until dawn with thousands at a Pride festival or snoozing by a secluded pool in a men-only resort where the loudest noise is a hummingbird fluttering by, the goal is to feel free, safe, and happy. And guess what? There are so many hotels and resorts out there that want to make that happen for you.

The hotels we’ve talked about – and the events and hotspots around them – are special because of the people who flock to them: people like you who value being themselves. You might check in as a stranger, but you leave having shared shots at the bar with new friends, or having swapped Instagram handles with that cute couple you chatted with in the hot tub. In many of these places, it’s not uncommon to find guests returning year after year, around the same week, essentially turning it into a reunion tradition. That’s the kind of loyalty and comfort a truly gay-friendly resort can inspire.

One moment you’ll always remember is arriving at a hotel for the first time – maybe it’s somewhere far-flung you’ve dreamed of – and seeing that rainbow sticker on the door, or a Pride flag flying at the reception, or even just the warm smile of a staff member who clocks your two rainbow luggage tags and gives a little nod. That’s the instant relief of okay, I belong here. It’s priceless.

So go ahead: follow the rainbow. Plan that trip to the city that’s always excited you, or that beach town known for its queer nightlife, or that all-inclusive resort that’s throwing a Pride week special. You have more options than ever, and more support than ever. From the whirl of Pride parades and circuit parties to the serenity of a private cabana with your love, the spectrum of gay-friendly travel experiences is as colorful as, well, a Pride flag.

Pack your fabulous outfits, pack your authentic self, and remember that around the world there are hotels with doors wide open, waiting to say “welcome.” Safe travels and happy gaycationing! And who knows – maybe we’ll bump into each other at the hotel bar of one of these places someday, raising a toast to love, life, and adventure. Cheers! 

Last Updated: 11 November 2025

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