What You Can Expect When Booking With Wide Awake Holidays
We believe that sometimes gay-friendly is not friendly enough. As a gay-owned travel company in the UK, we understand what our community needs. All holidays booked through us come with:
- ATOL protection and membership of Protected Trust Services
- Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance (SAFI)
- Supplier Failure Insurance (SFI)
- Access to 200+ suppliers and operators
- Tailor-made packages built to suit your travel style
- A genuinely personal service that doesn’t end once you book
If you're curious about global LGBT+ travel safety, ILGA World publishes detailed maps showing where legal protections exist.
Now, let’s dive into the world’s top destinations.
Gay Beach Resorts in Spain
Spain continues to be one of the most popular choices for LGBTQ+ travellers. From party vibes in
Sitges to laid-back luxury in
Ibiza, the Spanish coastline has something for everyone.
AxelBeach Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
This
adults-only gay resort in Playa del Inglés is famous for its inclusive atmosphere and fabulous pool parties. The vibe is sociable, fun, and flirty. You’ll find an outdoor gym, wellness centre, and a buzzing Sky Bar.
Check out our latest deals on AxelBeach Maspalomas.
How Gay Friendly is Spain?
- Homosexuality legal since 1979
- Same-sex marriage recognised since 2005
- Comprehensive anti-discrimination laws
- Employment protections for LGBT+ staff nationwide
- Equal age of consent (16)
- Strong public support for LGBT rights, especially in urban areas and coastal destinations
Gay Beach Resorts in Greece
Greece blends culture with coastline and has become an increasingly welcoming space for LGBTQ+ travellers.
Mykonos remains the crown jewel.
Elysium Hotel, Mykonos
Elysium is not just a hotel; it's a Mykonos institution. This gay-exclusive hotel hosts iconic sunset drag shows and boasts stunning views over the Aegean. Its infinity pool is perfect for daytime lounging.
Want an offer? Ask us about summer packages to Elysium Hotel.
How Gay Friendly is Greece?
- Homosexuality decriminalised in 1951
- Civil unions for same-sex couples since 2015
- Anti-discrimination laws apply to sexuality and gender identity
- Some employment protections in place
- Equal age of consent (15)
- Public opinion is increasingly accepting, especially on popular islands
Gay Beach Resorts in Mexico
Mexico is a great destination for a summer escape, and
Puerto Vallarta is its LGBTQ+ capital. With its Zona Romantica district and warm Pacific waters, it’s ideal for beach lovers.
Almar Resort, Puerto Vallarta
This adults-only, gay-exclusive resort sits right on Los Muertos Beach. Its rooftop bar, The Top, is one of the most famous sunset spots in town. Expect luxury with a local twist.
We often have Almar Resort offers—ask us for current deals.
How Gay Friendly is Mexico?
- Homosexuality legal since 1871
- Same-sex marriage legal in all states as of 2022
- Federal anti-discrimination protections exist
- Mixed employment protections (varies by state)
- Equal age of consent (18)
- Puerto Vallarta is very LGBT+ friendly; other areas can be more conservative
Gay Beach Resorts in Thailand
Thailand is known for its hospitality, and the gay scene in
Phuket and
Koh Samui is thriving. It offers a tropical escape with a welcoming vibe.
The COAST Adults Only Resort & Spa, Koh Phangan
While not gay-exclusive, this adults-only resort is popular with gay travellers seeking peace and luxury. It’s just steps from the beach and offers stylish villas, a modern gym, and an infinity pool with sea views.
Ask about our tailor-made Thai summer getaways to The COAST.
How Gay Friendly is Thailand?
- Homosexuality decriminalised in 1956
- Civil partnership legislation passed in 2024
- Anti-discrimination protections under gender equality laws
- Employment protection is evolving
- Equal age of consent (18)
- Generally tolerant, especially in tourist areas
Gay Beach Resorts in the USA
From
Key West to
Palm Springs, the USA offers many gay-friendly beach options. Miami Beach in particular combines luxury, nightlife, and cultural flair.
AxelBeach Miami South Beach
AxelHotels brought their brand to the USA with this South Beach resort. Located just two blocks from the beach, it mixes Art Deco style with a strong community feel. Expect pool parties and sleek interiors.
We often feature Miami Beach as part of multi-stop USA trips—ask for options.
How Gay Friendly is the USA?
- Homosexuality legal nationwide
- Same-sex marriage legal since 2015
- Federal anti-discrimination laws include sexuality and gender identity
- Employment protections in most states
- Equal age of consent (varies by state but generally 16–18)
- Public opinion widely supportive in urban and coastal areas
Gay Beach Resorts in Portugal
Portugal is rising fast on the list of top gay summer escapes. Its Algarve coastline and cities like Lisbon offer beauty, safety, and LGBTQ+ culture.
The Late Birds, Lisbon
While not a beach resort in the traditional sense, The Late Birds is a men-only urban guesthouse with a heated pool and garden. It’s ideal for combining beach days with nightlife.
If you're curious about offers, we have summer specials for The Late Birds.
How Gay Friendly is Portugal?
- Homosexuality decriminalised in 1982
- Same-sex marriage legal since 2010
- Comprehensive anti-discrimination laws
- Full employment protections
- Equal age of consent (16)
- Lisbon and the Algarve are very accepting of LGBT+ visitors
Gay Beach Resorts in France
France’s Côte d'Azur has long been a haven for LGBTQ+ travellers. Its sandy beaches, stylish towns, and open-minded attitude make it ideal for couples and solo travellers alike.
Hotel Amour Nice
This trendy boutique hotel near the beachfront is LGBTQ+ welcoming and known for its artistic flair. While not gay-exclusive, it’s popular among queer travellers for its relaxed vibe and modern style.
Let us know if you'd like to explore our Côte d'Azur hotel deals.
How Gay Friendly is France?
- Homosexuality decriminalised in 1791
- Same-sex marriage legal since 2013
- Strong anti-discrimination protections
- Full employment protections nationwide
- Equal age of consent (15)
- Generally very supportive public opinion, especially in coastal and urban areas
What Makes a Great Gay Beach Resort?
Choosing the right place isn’t just about sunbeds and cocktails. Consider:
- Exclusivity: Fully gay or adult-only? Both offer advantages.
- Location: Do you want to be near gay nightlife or prefer peace?
- Facilities: Look for spas, rooftop bars, gyms, or private beaches.
- Vibe: Social or secluded? Romantic or raucous?
Your ideal resort will reflect your travel style. And with Wide Awake Holidays, you can trust that we understand your needs.
Why Book with Wide Awake Holidays?
Here’s why more travellers are switching to us:
- We’re gay-owned: We get it, because we live it.
- We’re UK-based: Book in British pounds with financial protection.
- We’re tailor-made: You get a personal travel expert from the start.
- We’re protected: With ATOL, PTS, SAFI and SFI, your money is safe.
You can travel with confidence knowing that we’ve got your back, from the moment you enquire until you land back home.
Ready for Your Summer Escape?
You deserve more than just another holiday. You deserve to feel completely yourself while watching the sun dip below the horizon. Let Wide Awake Holidays help you find the gay beach resort that fits your style, your pace, and your story.
To speak to someone who really gets what you want from your holiday, give us a call on 01495 400947 or use the holiday enquiry form on our website. Let’s start planning your best summer yet.
