The Best Gay Resorts for Your Next Vacay

Gaycation — all you ever wanted. Gaycation — have to just get away! But how reliable is that search for “gay resorts near me,” really?

Worry no more! We’ve compiled some of the most stunning resorts from around the world that aren’t just LGBTQ-friendly; they’re known for being some of the most embracing and accommodating destinations you could spend your gay dollars at.

Why a gay destination matters

Everyone deserves a break. But it’s not always easy for the queer community to travel just anywhere. We have to be mindful about where we’re going so we know we’ll be accepted and comfortable being ourselves.

That’s why gay all-inclusive resorts are so freeing (aside from the plethora of clothing-optional resorts, but we’ll get there). Surrounding yourself with gay men, lesbians, and queer people like yourself is ideal for really letting go and having the best possible experience on your vacation.

15 popular gay resorts around the world

Already thinking about what to pack? Pick any one of these 15 phenomenal gay resorts as your destination, and you’re guaranteed to need at least a Speedo or two to show the other beachgoers what you’re really packin’.

1. The Grand Resort and Spa — Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale is the king of beachfront resort towns that embrace the queens. The all-male Grand Resort and Spa is a testament to this — consistently one of the favorite resorts of gay men. And remember when we said we’d get to the clothing-optional resorts? This is one of ’em. It looks like you’ll have fewer Speedos to pack, after all.

2. Casa Cupula — Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta has no shortage of fabulous gay bars and LGBTQ-friendly entertainment, making it the perfect pick for a gay ol’ getaway. But Casa Cupula really takes things to a whole new level of luxury as one of the premier gay spa and hotel combos in the area. 

You’re welcome to relax poolside at the casa if you’d like, but it’s conveniently located near some of the best nightlife in the area, too, allowing you to choose your own adventure. 

3. Palm Mountain Resort and Spa — Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs is another gay haven with enough queer-friendly spots to use up every last day of your PTO. Speaking of getting used up, the Palm Springs Resort will help you get it with group getaways, a glorious spa experience, and a stunning mountain view. 

4. Hotel Ritual Torremolinos — Costa del Sol, Spain

Let’s take a trip across the pond for an option that will satisfy your love of tops and tapas. The Hotel Ritual Torremolinos in Costa del Sol, Spain, is an adults-only resort and a beautiful ocean-adjacent option. 

Get a romantic room with a sea view and fall in love with Spain, or maybe fall in love with one of the locals? Remember: “Eat Pray Love” was based on a true story.

5. Key West (in general) — Florida

Gay men love Key West just as much as Key West loves gay men. Honestly, this hot vacation spot is much like Puerto Vallarta: You’ll struggle to find a place that isn’t LGBTQ-friendly. They cater to divas and dolls from across the globe, so travelers can rest easy knowing they’ll be well taken care of no matter where they stay.

6. Axel Beach Maspalomas — Gran Canaria, Spain

Another adults-only option in Spain that’s perfect for the gays. It’s also another conveniently located resort and spa with plenty of gay bars and nightlife within walking distance. Visit their website, and you’ll see that they not only accept us gays — they’re downright living for us.

7. Ocean Edge Resort — Brewster, Massachusetts

It’s time to swap out the thong for a turtleneck with a visit to a New England resort. Ocean Edge Resort in Cape Cod is a bit more low-key than other entries on our list. Still, variety is the spice of life, and it’s an excellent fit if you’re looking for something gay-friendly without the late nights and rowdy events. 

That doesn’t mean they don’t have fun here — quite the opposite. But it’ll probably be more wining and dining than sixty-nining if you catch our very obvious drift.

8. La Concha Renaissance Resort — San Juan, Puerto Rico

La Concha’s claim to fame is being both the perfect beachfront resort and a hoppin’ option for some enjoyable gay nightlife. Located in a trendy part of San Juan, it’s ideal for those who want to relax by the pool during the day and turn up at night. You’ll always have something to do.

9. Cavallo Point — San Francisco, California

San Francisco has a reputation for being one of the most gay-friendly destinations in the world. So, it’s no surprise that Cavallo Point landed on this list of gay-friendly, all-inclusive resorts. This entry nails the spa aspect, offering everything from spa treatments to full wellness retreats. If R&R is on your radar, you can’t go wrong with this LGBTQ-friendly vacation spot.

10. Fairmont Orchid — Kohala Coast, Hawaii

Hawaii is known for some of the world’s most breathtaking resorts and vacation spots. But as far as gay vacationers go, the Fairmont Orchid is the flower that makes the bouquet. It’s true to its title as a luxury resort, providing everything from daily activities to a full-service spa, dining, and even golf. 

This entry is more family-friendly, however, so you may want to do some research on their website to see if it’s the place for you to kiki in Hawaii.

11. The Lodge at Blue Sky — Park City, Utah

Utah? You betcha! The Lodge at Blue Sky is a sleeper hit and a gay oasis in an unexpected location. It’s the top-rated resort in Utah and an option that finally has something for the snow bunnies among us.

The resort embraces winter wholeheartedly with one-of-a-kind experiences like snowshoeing and skiing. If you only love winter from a distance, the resort features plenty of dining and indoor activities throughout the snowy season. 

12. Secrets the Vine — Cancun, Mexico

This is one of the luxury resorts that focuses on facilitating a romantic getaway with that special someone (or someones). They’re definitely first in line after a gay wedding for your honeymoon, but the Caribbean views, stellar service, and constant entertainment make it an excellent choice, even if you’re just celebrating some time off of work. 

13. The Dunes Resort — Douglas, Michigan

You said you wanted gay, right? Well, it can’t get any gayer than the fabulous Dunes Resort in Douglas, MI.

Their entire MO is “Come exactly as you are and be yourself, no matter who you love.” It’s a beautiful sentiment, but they really put it into practice with their impressive lineup of queer events. If you’re looking for a place where sex and sexuality reign supreme, then you’re going to have the time of your life at The Dunes Resort.

14. Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa — Riviera Maya, Mexico

If you won’t settle for anything less than a tropical paradise, book your stay at Grand Palladium. This all-inclusive five-star hotel boasts beautiful scenery, live music, theater shows, and even a cabaret! It’s another family-friendly choice, but the upscale nature of the hotel makes it feel like the epitome of adult luxury.

15. Surfside Hotel & Suites — Provincetown, Massachusetts

Go figure that one of the gay-friendly resorts on this list would be located in the homosexual haven that is Provincetown, Massachusetts. 

Of the choices on our list, this one is probably the most demure. But sometimes, a no-fuss opportunity to vibe out on a beach is just what the doctor ordered. Plus, what better place to hang out and meet cute guys? With all the local Provincetown gay bars and nightlife, they’re right in your backyard.