The Most LGBTQ+ Friendly Countries in the World: Where to Find the Best Gay Holiday Resorts

The world has opened its arms wider than ever to LGBTQ+ travellers, and nowhere is this more visible than in the rise of gay holiday resorts. From sun-drenched coastlines to vibrant city escapes, more destinations are embracing diversity, creating safe and stylish spaces for everyone under the rainbow. But where do you find the most genuinely inclusive experiences — not just tolerance, but real welcome?

This guide explores the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world, spotlighting resorts, beaches, and cities that go beyond surface-level acceptance. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a Pride celebration abroad, or your first trip with a partner, you’ll discover destinations that make you feel at home the moment you arrive. For tailor-made LGBT+ escapes built around you, explore our gay holidays overview.

Why These Countries Stand Out

What makes a country truly gay-friendly isn’t just laws or nightlife — it’s the culture. It’s the smile at check-in, the effortless acceptance at dinner, and the freedom to hold hands without a second thought. The destinations below combine equality, safety, and style, backed by communities that have built welcoming spaces over decades.

Here’s where you’ll find the world’s best gay holiday resorts — and why these countries continue to set the standard for inclusive travel. Every trip we design is protected and personal — start with our latest inspiration on the blog.

Spain: Europe’s Trailblazer for LGBTQ+ Inclusion

Spain remains one of the most progressive and joyful places on earth for gay travellers. Since legalising same-sex marriage in 2005, the country has woven LGBTQ+ rights into its social fabric. From the legendary energy of Madrid Pride — one of the largest in the world — to tranquil beach towns that celebrate queer identity, Spain has perfected the art of inclusion.

Best Gay Holiday Resorts in Spain

1. AxelBeach Maspalomas (Gran Canaria)

A cornerstone of Spain’s gay holiday scene, AxelBeach Maspalomas blends resort luxury with community spirit. Its adults-only design, palm-framed pool, and nightly events draw a global crowd looking for both fun and relaxation. Gran Canaria is a year-round classic — try our deep dives on best all-inclusive resorts and beaches & sunshine picks.

2. Ritual Torremolinos (Costa del Sol)

Just minutes from the iconic Bajondillo Beach, Ritual Torremolinos is a sprawling, men-only resort with panoramic sea views, rooftop pools, and a lively social atmosphere. The hotel also hosts themed nights throughout the year, keeping the energy high and the vibe effortlessly inclusive.

3. ME Sitges Terramar (Sitges)

Sitges, just 30 minutes from Barcelona, has been a gay haven since the 1960s. ME Sitges Terramar offers modern design, private balconies, and direct beach access — perfect for couples looking for a blend of luxury and local culture.

Each of these resorts balances style, safety, and open celebration — a mix that makes Spain not only a leader in gay holiday resorts, but a blueprint for what inclusive hospitality should look like.

How Gay-Friendly Is Spain?

Extremely. Spain consistently ranks among the world’s top LGBTQ+ destinations thanks to strong anti-discrimination laws and visible queer representation. Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia feature thriving gay districts, while smaller communities like Sitges and Gran Canaria’s Yumbo Centre are world-famous hubs of acceptance. You’ll find Pride events, queer film festivals, and inclusive nightlife in nearly every major city.

Spain is more than a destination — it’s a statement of how far the world has come in celebrating love and identity. From its progressive cities to its legendary beaches, it remains one of the most welcoming and unforgettable places for gay travellers anywhere. Planning Spain? See our city break guide to gay holidays to Madrid and our coastal favourite, gay holidays to Sitges.

Thailand: Asia’s Open-Hearted Haven

Thailand’s reputation as the Land of Smiles extends naturally to the LGBTQ+ community. Though same-sex marriage only recently gained legal recognition, the social climate has long been remarkably accepting. You’ll find queer-friendly spaces not just in Bangkok and Phuket, but across islands and rural regions where the emphasis is on kindness, respect, and joy.

Best Gay Holiday Resorts in Thailand

1. The Banyan Tree Phuket (Phuket)

This luxury resort merges authentic Thai architecture with impeccable service. Known for its tranquil lagoon villas and private pools, it’s an ideal retreat for couples seeking seclusion and sophistication. While not exclusively gay, the staff’s inclusive training ensures every guest feels completely at ease.

2. The Pride Hotel Bangkok

Located near Silom’s vibrant nightlife, The Pride Hotel embraces diversity from lobby to rooftop. Rainbow décor touches and a staff of proud LGBTQ+ locals make it more than a hotel — it’s a celebration of identity and community.

3. Anantara Chiang Mai Resort (Chiang Mai)

For travellers who crave a slower pace, Anantara delivers riverside serenity, wellness treatments, and understated luxury. It’s also a short ride from the city’s inclusive coffee houses and annual Chiang Mai Pride parade. Design your island time with our guide to gay holidays to Phuket.

How Gay-Friendly Is Thailand?

Thailand ranks among Asia’s most progressive nations for LGBTQ+ rights. Same-sex unions are legally recognised, and public sentiment strongly supports equality. Bangkok’s Silom Soi 2 and Soi 4 remain legendary for their open-air bars and dance clubs, while Phuket hosts the colourful Pride by the Beach each year.

Thailand offers more than nightlife; it’s a sanctuary of balance — blending ancient spirituality, natural beauty, and unfiltered acceptance.

Portugal: Europe’s Hidden Gem of Warmth and Welcome

Portugal may surprise some as a top-tier LGBTQ+ destination, but it has quickly risen through the ranks thanks to progressive reforms, cultural openness, and stylish gay holiday resorts along its scenic coastlines. Beyond Lisbon’s nightlife and Porto’s charm lies a network of inclusive retreats designed for travellers who love sunshine with sophistication.

Best Gay Holiday Resorts in Portugal

1. The Late Birds Lisbon

One of Europe’s best-known boutique gay resorts, The Late Birds blends historic architecture with a modern sensibility. With just 16 rooms, a pool courtyard, and attentive service, it feels like a private club for the global LGBTQ+ community.

2. Memmo Baleeira Hotel (Sagres, Algarve)

Perched on the cliffs of Portugal’s southern coast, this design-forward resort attracts surfers, couples, and digital nomads alike. It’s not explicitly gay, but it’s proudly inclusive, with staff trained in equality awareness.

3. Casa da Pérgola Guesthouse (Cascais)

A charming retreat in one of Portugal’s most elegant seaside towns, this guesthouse combines vintage glamour with modern comfort. Couples stroll hand-in-hand to the marina without a second glance — proof of Cascais’s effortless acceptance. Fancy travelling with a crew? Check out our hosted gay group tours.

How Gay-Friendly Is Portugal?

Portugal consistently ranks within Europe’s top ten countries for LGBTQ+ equality. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2010, and anti-discrimination laws are robustly enforced. Lisbon’s Bairro Alto district is a vibrant mix of rooftop bars, drag shows, and inclusive lounges, while the Algarve’s beaches attract a laid-back, global queer crowd.

Portugal’s understated luxury, safety, and natural beauty make it one of the most satisfying destinations for a relaxing yet sophisticated gay holiday.

Canada: North America’s Model of Modern Inclusion

Few countries embody equality as seamlessly as Canada. Legal same-sex marriage since 2005, robust anti-discrimination laws, and a culture grounded in respect make it a shining example of LGBTQ+ inclusion. From coast to coast, travellers will find cities and resorts that not only welcome but celebrate diversity.

Best Gay Holiday Resorts in Canada

1. The Frobisher Inn (Iqaluit, Nunavut)

For travellers seeking something extraordinary, The Frobisher Inn delivers arctic adventure with northern hospitality. While not exclusively gay, it symbolises Canada’s inclusive spirit — even in remote regions, visitors find warmth and respect.

2. The Gladstone House (Toronto)

Toronto’s Queen West district is home to this art-inspired boutique hotel, featuring exhibitions by queer artists and a vibrant community energy. Steps away, Church and Wellesley — Toronto’s gay village — offers bars, cabarets, and the legendary Pride festival each June.

3. The Burrard (Vancouver)

Retro-cool, eco-friendly, and brilliantly central, The Burrard epitomises Vancouver’s easygoing charm. With free bikes and lush courtyards, it’s perfect for couples who want adventure by day and cocktails by night.

How Gay-Friendly Is Canada?

Exceptionally. Canada ranks among ILGA-Europe’s global top five for LGBTQ+ safety and equality. Major cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver boast thriving gay districts, world-famous Pride events, and deeply embedded queer cultures. Beyond urban life, smaller destinations like Whistler and Prince Edward Island also welcome gay travellers with open arms.

From mountain chalets to urban hotels, Canada combines breathtaking scenery with an authenticity that makes every traveller feel at home.

Greece: Timeless Beauty with a Modern Queer Heart

Greece’s mythology has long celebrated love in all its forms, and today’s country continues that tradition with pride. While its journey toward full equality continues, social acceptance has soared, especially in tourist hubs. For many, Greece represents freedom — of expression, of identity, and of love beneath the Aegean sun.

Best Gay Holiday Resorts in Greece

1. Elysium Hotel (Mykonos)

A jewel among gay holiday resorts, Elysium is perched above Mykonos Town with panoramic sea views, daily sunset shows, and a famously open atmosphere. It’s not just a resort — it’s a community, with pool parties and cocktail evenings that attract guests from around the globe.

2. Kouros Hotel & Suites (Mykonos)

Chic and refined, Kouros balances elegance with warmth. Staff are welcoming to all guests, and its stylish infinity pool overlooking the old harbour sets the tone for relaxed indulgence.

3. Cavo Tagoo (Santorini)

For couples seeking romance, Cavo Tagoo’s cliffside suites and private plunge pools offer cinematic beauty. Though not gay-exclusive, it’s a sanctuary where every guest is treated with equal care and grace.

How Gay-Friendly Is Greece?

Greece has made impressive strides in LGBTQ+ rights, recently legalising same-sex marriage and enhancing protections for trans citizens. Mykonos, Ios, and Santorini are leading examples of inclusive tourism done right — where openness is part of the island DNA. Even in Athens, vibrant nightlife and Pride events draw both locals and visitors together. Island life calling? Start with Mykonos ideas and resorts.

With its natural splendour, warm hospitality, and genuine acceptance, Greece remains one of Europe’s most beloved destinations for gay travellers seeking both connection and culture.

Jamie Says:

"We’ve all had that anxious moment before checking in — wondering if the smiles will still be there once they see who’s holding hands. That’s why we do what we do. We remove uncertainty so you can simply relax and enjoy your time together.”

Jamie Wake, Managing Director

Booking Protections & Peace of Mind

For LGBTQ+ travellers, choosing the right holiday isn’t only about where you’ll stay — it’s about how you’ll be treated and how secure you’ll feel. At Wide Awake Holidays, every package includes full ABTA and ATOL protection, ensuring your money, flights, and accommodation are safeguarded from the moment you book.

More importantly, every partner property is personally vetted for inclusivity. Our team checks each resort for staff training, local reputation, and genuine support for LGBTQ+ guests. That means you never have to second-guess whether your honeymoon suite, beach cabana, or spa weekend will welcome you both equally.

Inclusive travel should never be left to chance — and with Wide Awake Holidays, it isn’t.

Ready to Plan Your Gay Holiday for Singles?

Across continents, from Spain’s golden sands to Canada’s modern cities, the most gay holiday resorts share one thing: authenticity. They’re not just beautiful places to stay — they’re proof that travel can be both luxurious and liberating.

Each country featured here has taken real steps toward equality, and every resort mentioned goes beyond surface-level gestures. They’ve built communities where love — in every form — is celebrated, not tolerated.

As you plan your next adventure, think less about ticking destinations off a list and more about how you want to feel. Do you crave beachside bliss, cultural immersion, or a blend of both? Wherever you choose, know that the world is ready to welcome you — fully, proudly, and joyfully.

When you’re ready to start planning, the team at Wide Awake Holidays will help craft a bespoke itinerary that fits your dreams and comfort level perfectly. From luxury villas to boutique resorts, your next chapter of travel begins with people who understand exactly what matters most.

Your Journey Starts Here

Every journey tells a story — and yours deserves to be joyful, authentic, and completely secure. Wherever you go next, let it be somewhere that celebrates you.

When you’re ready, connect with Wide Awake Holidays to plan your next LGBTQ+ adventure. Your world is waiting — and it’s more welcoming than ever.

Get in touch today and let’s design your perfect trip together.



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