In honor of Gay Pride Month, we put together a list of safe, fun, beachy destinations that anyone in the LGBTQ+ community can travel to and visit with welcome, open arms. These destinations have gay bars, a lively gay night scene, pride events, and more. Here are 5 countries with beautiful beaches to fill your travel needs.
Curaçao. This beautiful island surrounded by impeccable beaches is an active member of the IGLTA (International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association).
San Juan. Considered one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly Caribbean islands, San Juan, Puerto Rico is an excellent choice with its beautiful, white sand beaches. San Juan is also full of a rich history.
San Juan Puerto Rico
Aruba. Known for its perfect weather (it is generally unscathed by hurricanes unlike other Caribbean destinations), Aruba is welcoming of everyone. It is considered to have top notch hospitality and with friendly locals. The beaches here are stunning.
Aruba
Sydney. Home to two world famous surfing beaches, Manly Beach and Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia, is a perfect destination. They host a three-week Mardi Gras gay festival every year that draws a large crowd.
Manly Beach, Sydney Australia
New Zealand. Lonely Planet has dubbed New Zealand as a top “inclusive and progressive” gay-friendly travel destination. New Zealand has incredible beaches, beautiful, diverse landscapes, wonderful national parks, excellent hiking trails, and surfing.
New Zealand
There are countries that are considered even safer and more gay friendly than our list; however, we did not include them in the list because they are not beachy travel destinations. Sweden is considered the most LGBTQ+ friendly country in the world. Canada and Portugal are also considered very safe and friendly for the LGBTQ+ community to live in and visit.
Of course, unfortunately, there is the other end of the spectrum. If you are part of the LGBTQ+ community, here are 5 Caribbean destinations that you should avoid for various reasons. Either, members of the LGBTQ+ community are not welcome or the countries still have laws that make same sex displays of affection a crime punishable by law. Some even carry long term sentences, including life in prison if caught engaging in same sex intercourse. Avoid the following Caribbean beach destinations:
Jamaica
Maldives
St. Lucia
Sri Lanka
Barbados
There are places that are considered more dangerous than the ones on our list, including Nigeria (Africa) and Saudi Arabia; however, our list consists of well known tourist Caribbean countries that are known for their beaches rather than the top 5 unsafe LGBTQ+ destinations overall.
