What makes a resort one of the best gay resorts in 2026?

The best gay resorts offer inclusive service, comfortable rooms, safe surroundings and a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ+ guests. They combine good location, warm hospitality and a relaxed environment where you can be yourself.

Are gay resorts only for gay men?

Not at all. Many resorts on this list welcome LGBTQ+ travellers of all identities, including lesbian, bisexual, trans, non-binary and queer guests.

Is it safe to travel to these gay resorts?

Yes. All six destinations have strong LGBTQ+ reputations and are known for safety, acceptance and inclusive service.

Which resort is best for couples?

The Scarlet and Casa Cupula are excellent for couples who want calm surroundings and comfortable spaces designed for slower, more intimate holidays.

Which resort is best for solo LGBTQ+ travellers?

AxelBeach Maspalomas and Ritual Torremolinos both offer friendly, social pool scenes that make it easy to meet people.

Are these gay resorts family-friendly?

Most of the resorts listed are adults-only, making them ideal for peaceful escapes and romantic holidays rather than family travel.

When is the best time to visit a gay resort?

Winter sun destinations like Puerto Vallarta and Gran Canaria offer warm weather year-round, while Cornwall is best from late spring to early autumn.

Can Wide Awake Holidays customise a trip to these resorts?

Yes. We tailor your holiday to your needs, whether you want flights, transfers, activities or fully protected holiday packages.

How do I choose the right gay resort for me?

Think about the mood you want — lively, laid-back, luxury or beach. Each resort has its own energy, so matching that to your travel style is important.

Are these resorts good for LGBTQ+ honeymoons?

Absolutely. Casa Cupula, Almar and The Scarlet are especially popular for honeymoon-style escapes thanks to their scenery, comfort and warm hospitality.

Finding the best gay resorts can change the way you holiday. When you stay somewhere built around inclusion, warmth and comfort, the whole trip feels lighter and more joyful. These six resorts stand out because they offer LGBTQ+ travellers places where safety, relaxation and community all come together. Each destination brings something different, so you can choose the atmosphere that suits you best.

Travelling should feel easy. It should feel open. And it should feel like you can be yourself from the moment you check in. That’s exactly what these resorts deliver, whether you enjoy peaceful beach days, social pool scenes or stylish boutique comfort.

Once you’ve picked your favourite from these best gay resorts, our guide to the best gay beach resorts worldwide takes you even deeper into sun-soaked, LGBT+ specific stays

A Quick Look at What Makes These Resorts Special

Travellers choose LGBTQ+ friendly resorts for many reasons. Some want to meet like-minded people. Others want a destination where they feel safe and respected. Many simply want to enjoy a holiday without having to second-guess how staff or other guests may react. These resorts offer clear reassurance: you belong here.

You’ll find warm hospitality, inclusive design, comfortable rooms and the option to unwind at your own pace. Some resorts feel lively and social, while others feel calm and restorative. Each one lifts the pressure off travelling and gives you space to relax.

For wider destination research, the LGBTQ+ travel insights from IGLTA offer global guidance, community stories and updates on inclusive travel trends.

Before diving into individual destinations, here’s a simple truth: when you know you’re welcome, everything else feels easier.

Almar Resort is one of the best gay resorts in Mexico and remains a favourite for LGBT+ travellers who want sun, style and a warm, carefree atmosphere. Its location in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica puts you right in the heart of the city’s queer community, and the energy here feels instantly welcoming. The resort has a modern beachfront setting, adults-only vibe and a sense of freedom that many guests mention again and again. You can spend your days between the pool, the beach and the rooftop, all while feeling comfortable and included.

The suites are spacious, clean and designed for easy relaxation. Many rooms feature ocean views, so you can wake up to the sound of the waves each day. Staff are friendly, attentive and used to hosting international LGBTQ+ guests, which helps create a smooth, relaxed holiday from the moment you arrive. The resort’s atmosphere strikes the right balance between lively and laid-back, ensuring you can mix, mingle or simply unwind in peace.

Why Almar stands out

Right on Los Muertos Beach, next to the city’s gay beach clubs.
Adults-only environment with stylish rooms and great sea views.
Lively vibe, yet you can easily find quieter corners to relax.
Ideal for groups, couples and solo travellers looking for comfort.
Close to bars, restaurants and Puerto Vallarta’s famous nightlife.

If you want even more options on the sand, our round-up of 5 amazing gay beach resorts highlights extra coastal hotels that still work brilliantly for 2026 travel.

How Gay Friendly is Puerto Vallarta & Almar?

Puerto Vallarta is often considered the gay capital of Latin America, known for its warm local culture and year-round welcome. The Zona Romántica in particular is a thriving LGBTQ+ hub with beaches, bars, dance clubs and cafés that openly embrace queer travellers. You’ll find it easy to meet people, explore safely and feel confident wherever you go.

Almar fits seamlessly into this environment. The resort openly celebrates LGBTQ+ guests, from the design of its spaces to the tone of its service. Many travellers say it’s one of the most comfortable places they’ve stayed because everything feels easy, friendly and free of judgement. If you want beachfront living with inclusive hospitality and a great social atmosphere, Almar is a strong choice.

Blue Chairs Resort sits directly on the LGBTQ+ stretch of Los Muertos Beach, making it a long-time favourite with queer travellers seeking fun, sunshine and connection. It has a simple, relaxed feel that appeals to people who enjoy a social scene without a luxury price tag. Many guests come back year after year because they love the rooftop bar, the beach club and the friendly atmosphere that makes it easy to meet new people. Everything feels open, casual and welcoming.

Rooms are straightforward but comfortable, giving you the basics you need for a beach holiday in one of the most inclusive areas of Mexico. Because the resort attracts a diverse LGBTQ+ crowd, the atmosphere can vary from quiet weekday mornings to lively weekend afternoons. You can join the social energy or simply unwind with a drink while watching the sunset. Blue Chairs is ideal for travellers who value community, beach access and a warm environment over high-end amenities.

Why Blue Chairs works

Located right on the gay section of Playa de los Muertos.
Rooftop bar and beach club create a fun, social vibe.
A great option for budget-friendly LGBTQ+ beach holidays.
Easy to meet other travellers thanks to the open, friendly setting.
Close to bars, restaurants and LGBTQ+ nightlife in Zona Romántica.

How Gay Friendly is the Resort & Area?

This part of Puerto Vallarta is known globally for its inclusive energy and welcoming community. The beach outside Blue Chairs is often filled with LGBTQ+ travellers, couples, friends and relaxed holidaymakers who love the sunshine and the open atmosphere. Safety and acceptance here are strong, which is why the area remains so popular.

Blue Chairs complements this with a familiar, easygoing environment. Staff are used to hosting queer guests from around the world, and the social spaces help everyone feel included. If you want a simple, friendly resort that sits at the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ scene, Blue Chairs is a classic choice.

Casa Cupula is a boutique LGBT+ hotel that blends privacy, style and comfort in a hillside setting overlooking Puerto Vallarta. It’s known for warm hospitality and a relaxed, upscale feel that appeals to guests who enjoy thoughtful service without formality. Because the property is smaller than the beachfront resorts, it creates a more intimate and peaceful atmosphere. Many people choose Casa Cupula when they want a balance of social energy and calm, plus the option to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s lively queer nightlife nearby.

Suites are stylishly decorated, spacious and well-maintained, with several offering stunning ocean views. The pool area is a highlight, especially for guests looking for a quiet space to unwind after exploring the city. Staff are attentive and knowledgeable about the LGBTQ+ scene, so they can offer helpful recommendations tailored to your interests. Casa Cupula has earned a loyal following due to its warmth and attention to detail.

Why Casa Cupula shines

Boutique property with a calm, stylish atmosphere.
Ideal for travellers who want a quieter experience.
Luxurious suites, many with beautiful views of the bay.
Attentive staff who understand LGBTQ+ needs and preferences.
Close to the beaches and nightlife while still feeling peaceful.

How Gay Friendly is the Vibe?

Casa Cupula is proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated, and the entire property is built around inclusion and comfort. It attracts guests from across the community who appreciate an environment that feels both celebratory and calm. Staff use thoughtful, respectful service that helps guests feel at home from the moment they arrive.

Puerto Vallarta’s reputation for queer friendliness adds even more confidence. You’ll find it easy to explore the local beaches, shops and bars, knowing the community around you is supportive and open. Casa Cupula is an excellent choice for travellers who want a refined, welcoming retreat with a strong sense of LGBTQ+ belonging.

The Scarlet is an adults-only, eco-minded hotel perched on the cliffs of Mawgan Porth, offering a peaceful coastal retreat that feels both refined and deeply relaxing. It isn’t a traditional “gay resort,” but it has earned a strong following among LGBTQ+ guests thanks to its inclusive service, serene atmosphere and thoughtful design. The focus here is on calm, connection and well-being. You can spend your days exploring Cornish beaches, relaxing in the spa or enjoying quiet moments in the gardens.

Rooms are bright, modern and designed to frame the natural beauty outside. The spa is one of the hotel’s standout features, offering outdoor hot tubs, cliff-top sauna spaces and soothing treatments that help you disconnect from busy life. Because The Scarlet draws an adult-only crowd, the environment stays peaceful, even during peak season. It’s the ideal place for couples seeking quality time or for solo travellers who value calm and restorative surroundings.

Why The Scarlet is a gem

Tranquil, adult-only environment perfect for rest and reconnection.
Eco-conscious design with stunning views over Mawgan Porth beach.
Exceptional spa facilities with cliff-top hot tubs.
Quiet, scenic location ideal for nature-based getaways.
Consistently welcoming to LGBTQ+ guests seeking a safe retreat.

How Gay Friendly is The Scarlet?

While not marketed as a gay resort, The Scarlet is proudly inclusive and warmly welcomes LGBTQ+ travellers. Staff treat everyone with the same level of care and respect, creating a calm and comfortable atmosphere. Guests often say that the tranquil setting and thoughtful service help them feel grounded and fully at ease.

Cornwall itself is known for its relaxed, open attitude toward LGBTQ+ visitors, especially in destinations like Newquay and coastal towns around the north shore. The Scarlet fits naturally into this landscape. If you’re looking for a quiet, scenic escape that still feels inclusive and safe, this is a wonderful option.

If you’re looking for one of the best gay resorts in Europe with sunshine all year, AxelBeach Maspalomas delivers a fun, social and easygoing escape. The atmosphere is lively without feeling overwhelming, and the location places you close to Gran Canaria’s most iconic LGBTQ+ hotspots. The property blends apartment-style comfort with a relaxed resort feel, so you have freedom and space while still enjoying a sense of community. Many travellers love the pool area, the friendly staff and the open, welcoming vibe.

With its mix of privacy and social energy, this is a great pick for solo travellers, couples and groups who want a warm, reliable destination that always feels inclusive. The layout is simple, the vibe is upbeat, and everything you need is either on-site or just a short walk away.

Why AxelBeach stands out

Centrally located in Maspalomas, close to the Yumbo Centre and Playa del Inglés.
Adults-only atmosphere with a relaxed, social pool scene.
Apartment-style suites with kitchenettes, giving you flexibility and comfort.
A consistently welcoming environment for all LGBTQ+ identities.
Easy access to Gran Canaria’s beaches, nightlife and year-round sunshine.

How Gay Friendly is Gran Canaria & AxelBeach Maspalomas?

Gran Canaria has long been one of Europe’s safest and most celebrated queer destinations. Maspalomas hosts famous LGBTQ+ festivals, drag shows, Pride events and a nightlife scene that draws visitors from across the world. The island is known for its warm, open culture, and travellers often say they feel accepted the moment they arrive.

AxelBeach fits naturally into this environment. Staff are trained, inclusive and approachable. The guest mix is wonderfully diverse, and the resort regularly attracts travellers from across the LGBTQ+ community. You can relax by the pool, wander to the dunes, or head out for dinner knowing you’re in a destination that genuinely embraces queer visitors.

If you want reliable sunshine, a friendly scene and a destination that has welcomed LGBTQ+ travellers for decades, AxelBeach Maspalomas is a strong choice.

Hotel Ritual Torremolinos is one of the most recognisable LGBTQ+ hotels in Europe and offers a bright, social and easygoing atmosphere right on the Costa del Sol. It’s an adults-only property designed specifically with queer travellers in mind, and the vibe is warm, open and relaxed from the moment you arrive. Many guests love the combination of beach access, stylish facilities and a lively social scene that still feels comfortable and inclusive. Everything here is built to help you unwind, meet people and enjoy the sunshine.

The property features modern rooms, a great rooftop with panoramic views and an inviting pool area that becomes a natural social hub. Ritual is known for its friendly staff, casual energy and the freedom it gives you to enjoy your holiday your way. You can relax quietly by the pool, join the rooftop events or spend your afternoons exploring the beaches and cafés nearby. The location is excellent because you have easy access to both the coast and the nightlife.

Why Ritual Torremolinos stands out

Adults-only atmosphere tailored to LGBTQ+ travellers.
Rooftop pool and sky bar with sweeping sea views.
Direct access to Bajondillo Beach via a private lift.
Lively but still relaxed, making it ideal for mixing and unwinding.
Close to La Nogalera, the heart of Torremolinos’ LGBTQ+ nightlife.

If your priority is the coastline itself, you might also enjoy our guide to the top LGBT+ beaches in the world, from Europe to long-haul island escapes.

How Gay Friendly is Torremolinos & Ritual?

Torremolinos has been a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ travel in Spain for decades. It’s a place with deep queer history, famous Pride celebrations and a welcoming local community that embraces diversity. The La Nogalera district is packed with LGBTQ+ bars, clubs and cafés, and it’s just a short walk from the hotel. Visitors often say they feel safe, seen and instantly comfortable here.

Hotel Ritual is one of the area’s most LGBTQ+ centred properties. Staff are warm, understanding and experienced in hosting travellers from across the community. The resort brings together people from all identities and ages, which helps create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. You can explore freely, socialise comfortably and enjoy your holiday without pressure or judgement. If you want sun, connection and one of Europe’s most established LGBTQ+ destinations, Ritual Torremolinos is an excellent choice.

How we chose these resorts

We looked for resorts that:

Explicitly welcome LGBTQ+ guests or market themselves as gay or LGBTQ+ friendly.
Offer a range of experiences: beach, relaxation, nightlife, wellness, community and luxury.
Have good reputation or recent recognition among queer travellers.
Are accessible from Europe (for ease of travel from the UK) — but also represent global variety.

We avoided one-off check-ins: each resort listed has history in welcoming queer travellers and is part of the broader LGBTQ+ travel conversation.

For readers comparing this 2026 list with last year’s favourites, our guide to the best gay resorts and LGBT+ hotels in 2025 shows how the scene has evolved and which classics still deserve a spot.

What’s changed for 2025/2026 — and why now is a great time to book

Demand for LGBTQ+ friendly travel keeps rising. More resorts worldwide are investing in inclusive hospitality.
Travellers now expect more than “tolerance” — they want pride, comfort, style, community. Many resorts now deliver.
All-inclusive and boutique programmes have made queer travel easier and more accessible. Less planning, more living.

If you’ve held back booking because you weren’t sure about safety or vibe — now is a great time. The choices are stronger than ever.

Your Booking is Always Protected

Booking with Wide Awake Holidays gives you something every LGBTQ+ traveller deserves: clarity, reassurance and full financial protection from the moment your holiday is confirmed. We know that travel should never feel uncertain, so every package is built with strong, transparent safeguards that keep your money — and your plans — protected.

All holiday packages include protections that cover you if your travel plans change unexpectedly. You’ll receive written confirmation outlining your cover, the elements within your package, and the security that applies to your booking. There are no hidden conditions, no confusing terms and no last-minute surprises. You can book with confidence, knowing your holiday is supported by reliable protection from start to finish.

We also make communication easy. You’ll always have a named point of contact, clear documents and a simple support process if you ever need help. LGBTQ+ travellers often tell us how much they value having a travel agency that understands their needs and offers reassurance without judgement. Your comfort, safety and peace of mind will always come first.

When you book with us, you’re not just buying a holiday — you’re securing a protected, tailored experience built around you.

Where Will You Go Next?

These six resorts show what’s possible when a destination embraces inclusivity, comfort and connection. Whether you want beach days, gentle luxury, lively pool scenes or peaceful coastal escapes, there’s a resort on this list ready to welcome you warmly. If you’d like help choosing the right destination, or you want a trip perfectly tailored to your style, we’re here to plan every detail for you.

📧 reservations@wideawakeholidays.co.uk
🌐 www.wideawakeholidays.co.uk
📞 01495 400947

What makes a resort one of the best gay resorts in 2026?
The best gay resorts offer inclusive service, comfortable rooms, safe surroundings and a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ+ guests. They combine good location, warm hospitality and a relaxed environment where you can be yourself.
Are gay resorts only for gay men?
Not at all. Many resorts on this list welcome LGBTQ+ travellers of all identities, including lesbian, bisexual, trans, non-binary and queer guests.
Is it safe to travel to these gay resorts?
Yes. All six destinations have strong LGBTQ+ reputations and are known for safety, acceptance and inclusive service.
Which resort is best for couples?
The Scarlet and Casa Cupula are excellent for couples who want calm surroundings and comfortable spaces designed for slower, more intimate holidays.
Which resort is best for solo LGBTQ+ travellers?
AxelBeach Maspalomas and Ritual Torremolinos both offer friendly, social pool scenes that make it easy to meet people.
Are these gay resorts family-friendly?
Most of the resorts listed are adults-only, making them ideal for peaceful escapes and romantic holidays rather than family travel.
When is the best time to visit a gay resort?
Winter sun destinations like Puerto Vallarta and Gran Canaria offer warm weather year-round, while Cornwall is best from late spring to early autumn.
Can Wide Awake Holidays customise a trip to these resorts?
Yes. We tailor your holiday to your needs, whether you want flights, transfers, activities or fully protected holiday packages.
How do I choose the right gay resort for me?
Think about the mood you want — lively, laid-back, luxury or beach. Each resort has its own energy, so matching that to your travel style is important.
Are these resorts good for LGBTQ+ honeymoons?
Absolutely. Casa Cupula, Almar and The Scarlet are especially popular for honeymoon-style escapes thanks to their scenery, comfort and warm hospitality.