Best Gay Beach Resorts: Where to Go for the Ultimate LGBTQ Getaway
Best Gay Beach Resorts: Where to Go for the Ultimate LGBTQ+ Getaway
If you’ve been dreaming of sunshine, sea, and a space where you can be yourself, gay beach resorts are the perfect answer. These holidays aren’t just about cocktails and coastline—they’re about comfort, connection, and community.
Whether it’s your first gay holiday or your fiftieth, the right beach resort can turn a standard escape into something meaningful. You’ll find places where staff welcome you, where other guests get you, and where you never have to second-guess holding your partner’s hand.
Let’s explore the best gay beach resorts where you can relax, recharge, and truly belong.
1. AxelBeach Maspalomas – Gran Canaria, Spain
Gran Canaria is often called Europe’s gay beach capital—and for good reason. The island has long been a haven for LGBT+ travellers, and the AxelBeach Maspalomas is one of its most iconic resorts.
The property is adults-only and packed with social spaces, from a lively pool scene to a wellness area. It's right in the heart of Playa del Inglés, near the Yumbo Centre—a famous nightlife hub.
A short taxi ride gets you to the Maspalomas dunes and beach, where clothing-optional areas and beach bars are the norm.
Ask us about our Pride Week and Winter Sun packages for Gran Canaria.
How Gay Friendly is Spain?
- Legal since: 1979
- Marriage equality: Legal since 2005
- Discrimination protections: Strong nationwide protections
- Employment rights: Fully inclusive
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Widely accepting and supportive
2. The Island House – Nassau, Bahamas
The Bahamas may not seem like an obvious LGBT+ destination, but The Island House offers an inclusive experience within a boutique luxury setting.
This property isn't officially gay-only, but it has earned a reputation for creating a warm, open environment. With a private beach, yoga deck, and outdoor cinema, it’s the definition of laid-back elegance.
It’s ideal for couples looking to celebrate, reflect, or simply enjoy each other’s company in the sun.
Let us help you combine your stay with local experiences tailored for LGBT+ travellers.
How Gay Friendly is The Bahamas?
- Legal since: 1991 (decriminalised)
- Marriage equality: Not recognised
- Discrimination protections: None officially
- Employment rights: No federal protections
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Conservative but improving in tourist areas
3. Hotel Mercurio – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta is one of Latin America’s most welcoming cities for gay travellers. Located in the Zona Romantica, Hotel Mercurio is a friendly, affordable option with loyal guests and a strong community vibe.
It’s close to the famed Playa de los Muertos and Blue Chairs beach, where rainbow flags wave proudly and impromptu beach parties break out daily.
The hotel’s Sunday pool parties are well known among visitors and locals alike.
We can arrange extended stays and event-inclusive packages here.
How Gay Friendly is Mexico?
- Legal since: Nationwide since 2022
- Marriage equality: Fully recognised
- Discrimination protections: Federal laws apply
- Employment rights: Improving with enforcement
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Open in cities, varied in rural areas
4. Turtle Cove Beach Resort – Port Douglas, Australia
This resort markets itself as Australia’s only LGBT+ beachfront resort—and it delivers.
Turtle Cove is clothing-optional, remote enough for peace, and close enough to the Great Barrier Reef for day trips. The on-site restaurant and bar host themed nights and drag events.
It’s ideal for solo travellers, couples, or groups who want nature, privacy, and a safe space all in one.
Ask us about combining a stay here with tours of Queensland’s tropical coast.
How Gay Friendly is Australia?
- Legal since: 1997
- Marriage equality: Legal since 2017
- Discrimination protections: Strong nationwide protections
- Employment rights: Fully inclusive
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Broadly supportive
5. Casa Cúpula – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Yes, Puerto Vallarta makes the list twice—and that’s no accident. Casa Cúpula is a luxury gay resort offering hillside views, high-end amenities, and an adults-only atmosphere.
Suites are elegant, the pool is social, and the spa treatments are designed for deep relaxation.
It’s also one of the few resorts offering full Pride Week programming with drag brunches, pool parties, and rooftop events.
Let us craft a premium package for your stay, with VIP access to major Pride events.
6. Hotel Ritual – Torremolinos, Spain
Back in Spain, Hotel Ritual sits just steps from the beach and in the middle of Torremolinos’ gay nightlife district.
This adults-only hotel features a nudist rooftop, gym, and pool bar. It’s laid-back but buzzing—ideal if you like a bit of nightlife with your sea breeze.
Torremolinos is popular with British travellers, making it feel easy and familiar while still being distinctly Spanish.
Ask about our short-break deals with airport transfers and beach club entry.
Jamie Says:
"The beauty of gay beach resorts isn’t just in the sun and sand—it’s in knowing that wherever you go, you belong. These places offer more than rest. They offer reassurance."
Travel Confidently with Wide Awake Holidays
Booking through Wide Awake Holidays means more than just convenience. It means:
- Full protection through our Protected Trust Services (PTS) membership
- ATOL protection on flight-inclusive holidays
- Supplier Failure Insurance (SFI) and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance (SAFI) on tailor-made packages
- A personal touch from a gay-owned UK travel company that understands your priorities
- Access to over 200 suppliers and the ability to tailor every detail of your stay
We help you travel in a way that feels natural, safe, and personalised.
Why Gay Beach Resorts Matter
In some places, being out is still a quiet act. In others, it’s a celebration.
Gay beach resorts offer both. They give you the freedom to relax without looking over your shoulder. They give you space to connect with others who share your values. And they offer fun—from pool parties to peaceful sunsets.
Not every hotel with a rainbow sticker truly understands what LGBT+ guests need. That’s why we only work with places that go beyond tolerance. We look for real welcome.
You shouldn’t have to choose between safety and luxury. At the best gay beach resorts, you get both.
Let’s Plan Your Beach Escape
Whether you’re craving tropical seclusion or Mediterranean heat, we’ll help you find your perfect resort.
Call us on 01495 400947 or complete our holiday enquiry form today.
Let’s make your next beach holiday one where you feel completely at ease—and completely yourself.