Discover 12 hidden LGBTQIA+-friendly beaches for your next inclusive vacation - Dinogo

Today, queer travelers flock to a variety of stunning beaches, from hidden retreats where you can sunbathe in the nude to lively party hotspots surrounded by upscale resorts and vibrant gay nightlife.

Kauai, Hawaii

Lydgate Beach Park, located in the heart of the island, attracts a diverse and lively crowd, and offers easy access to nearby bars for post-swim cocktails. There’s also a protected lagoon perfect for a safe swim.

For those seeking total tranquility, Paliku Beach (also known as Donkey Beach) is the place to be. The serene experience begins with a walk through the enchanting Tree Tunnel, a shaded path beneath dense greenery. Upon reaching the golden sands, you’ll enjoy solitude for hours, though the strong waves here can make swimming unsafe.

Paliku Beach is the perfect spot to unwind after exploring the dramatic sea cliffs of Kauai’s Napali Coast or the striking red-earth bluffs of Waimea Canyon.

Where to stay

For the ultimate luxury getaway on an island with plenty of plush resorts, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay (starting at $1,048 per night) elegantly stretches down a cliffside in the exclusive Princeville district, close to historic Hanalei, a famous filming location for the iconic musical "South Pacific." Rooms offer sweeping views of the ocean and mountains, and the Bamford Wellness Spa provides a range of relaxing treatments. For a more accessible option, the Marriott Kauai Beach Club (starting at $425 per night or 44,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) is set on an expansive 800-acre property filled with pools, gardens, and beachfront, conveniently located near Lihue Airport. This resort’s central location and wealth of amenities make it a great base for discovering both the north and south shores.

Zipolite, Mexico

Nestled among the towering sea stacks and rugged cliffs of Mexico's Oaxacan coast, Zipolite is part of a stretch of undeveloped beach villages — not a high-rise or global chain resort in sight... for now.

For years, bohemians, yoga lovers, surfers, and free spirits have flocked to Zipolite and nearby Mazunte. While less touristy and expensive than Puerto Vallarta or Tulum, this former fishing village now boasts a growing selection of chic boutique hotels, relaxed wellness retreats, and nudist-friendly resorts catering to men.

Many queer travelers come to soak up the inclusive atmosphere and breathtaking views at Playa del Amor, a clothing-optional cove shaped like a horseshoe, tucked between cliffs and giant boulders. This small, secluded beach offers the perfect balance of community and solitude throughout the day, especially at sunset, with a casual beach bar serving chilled micheladas and fresh coconuts.

Zipolite's main beach, lined with palapa-roofed ceviche stalls, stretches for about another mile, offering equally stunning views and the same relaxed vibe. You can fly from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido or Huatulco in just 75 minutes, with both locations about a 90-minute drive from Zipolite.

Where to stay

El Alquimista (starting at $174 per night) offers a serene retreat at the western end of Zipolite’s scenic beach. Its airy cabanas, complete with palapa roofs, decks, and hammocks, create a relaxed atmosphere, while the open-air restaurant, right on the sand, is among the best in the area. A short walk along the beach brings you to the intimate Hotel Noga (starting at $168 per night), which features 10 stylish bungalows equipped with organic bath products and air conditioning (a rarity in this region). The hotel also boasts a pool, a vibrant bar-restaurant, and yoga classes.

Durban, South Africa

Located on South Africa’s east coast, this vibrant and diverse port city boasts numerous oceanfront hotels and is just an hour or two by plane from Johannesburg and Cape Town. Durban is surrounded by the stunning Golden Mile beach, with lively North Beach only a short drive from the gay-friendly cafes and bars of the colorful Morningside neighborhood.

With several upscale hotels within walking distance of the beach and the iconic Whalebone Pier, Umhlanga makes for an excellent base to explore the region. From luxurious beachfront resorts to more affordable options from brands like Hilton and IHG, there's something for every traveler.

When hunger strikes, don't miss the chance to try a bunny chow, a beloved street food made by hollowing out a loaf of crusty bread and filling it with spicy curry. Durban is home to one of the world’s largest communities of Asian Indian immigrants, making it a hub for exceptional Indian cuisine.

Where to stay

Lisbon, Portugal

While Spain is known for its iconic gay beach destinations like Sitges and Ibiza, its neighbor Portugal is quickly catching up in popularity, with Lisbon, the historic and hilly capital, leading the way.

As one of Europe's best vacation bargains, Lisbon blends top-tier restaurants, well-preserved Roman ruins, dynamic art museums, and vibrant queer nightlife. Most of the latter can be found along the charming, cobbled streets of the Bairro Alto district.

Where to stay

The Lumiares (starting at $495 per night) features stylish apartment-style suites with high ceilings, expansive windows, full kitchens, and beautifully crafted furniture and textiles. The lively, inclusive bars and cafes of Bairro Alto are just a short, though hilly, walk away. South of the Tagus River, the contemporary Crowne Plaza Caparica Lisbon (starting at $146 per night or 26,000 IHG points) is perfectly situated between Lisbon’s major attractions and the queer-friendly scene at Beach 19.

Ogunquit, Maine

The renowned Ogunquit Museum of American Art and the Ogunquit Playhouse, famous for its summer stock musicals, continue to uphold the village’s rich artistic heritage.

The local queer beach scene is laid-back and lively, with the southern end of the long, sandy shore just a 10-minute walk from the town's restaurants and gay bars. You can also take a stroll along Marginal Way, a paved trail that hugs the ocean’s granite ledges, leading you to Perkins Cove, a charming fishing village filled with lobster shacks.

If you're in the mood for more variety, you're in luck: A short 45-minute drive up the coast will bring you to Portland, Maine, home to more beaches and a celebrated dining scene.

Where to stay

Quepos, Costa Rica

With its captivating blend of jungle-covered mountains, misty cloud forests, and stunning beaches, Costa Rica stands out as one of Latin America's top spots for both relaxed coastal getaways and eco-friendly adventure. After all, it's the birthplace of zip lining.

Where to stay

Saugatuck, Michigan

Rent a kayak and paddle across Kalamazoo Lake, a wide stretch of the Kalamazoo River that cuts through Saugatuck before flowing into Lake Michigan. Hop on the hand-cranked chain ferry for a short ride across the river, then climb the stairs up to Mount Baldhead for a panoramic view of the area. From there, you can walk to Oval Beach, known for its soft golden dunes and breathtaking sunset vistas (or drive directly to the beach). In the evening, catch a show at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, a renowned venue for performing arts.

Where to stay

Marseille, France

Once known for its tough image, reinforced by its role in the Oscar-winning 1971 crime thriller "The French Connection," Marseille has evolved over the years. In 2013, this multicultural city proudly hosted EuroPride.

In or near the picturesque Old Port district, you'll find a selection of delightful accommodations, plus several gay bars and restaurants that specialize in bouillabaisse, the iconic dish of Marseille.

Where to stay

Just steps from the lively Old Port and gay bars, the stylish C2 Hotel (starting at $283 per night) is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion. It features 20 uniquely designed rooms, a secluded pool, and a luxurious spa. Nearby, the Hotel Maison Montgrand Vieux Port (starting at $202 per night) exudes classic charm with 49 elegantly appointed rooms and 13 apartments spread across three historic buildings. Its romantic garden restaurant serves expertly crafted contemporary French dishes.

Santa Catarina Island, Brazil

Santa Catarina Island has become a popular gay weekend destination for those looking for a quieter, less party-focused alternative to the vibrant nightlife of Rio de Janeiro, which is less than 90 minutes away by plane. But for those who crave a bit of excitement, there are still plenty of places to dance the night away, like Jivago Social Club, Conca Club, and other queer-friendly spots in Florianopolis.

Another perk of Santa Catarina Island is its stunning natural beauty. About twice the size of Martha's Vineyard, it boasts incredible hikes through the rugged mountains of Sao Joaquim National Park and across the surreal, wind-swept sands of the Joaquina dune field.

Where to stay

Port Douglas, Australia

Port Douglas' Four Mile Beach is the go-to spot, offering sweeping views of the turquoise Coral Sea and stretches of soft golden sand perfect for a peaceful sunrise or sunset stroll.

For scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, Port Douglas offers direct access to the Great Barrier Reef. Hikers and wildlife lovers will also find the town an ideal base to explore the lush wonders of the Daintree Rainforest. For a taste of the area, check out Kylie Minogue's playful 1980s music video for "It's No Secret," which was filmed entirely in Port Douglas.

Where to stay

Set on a peaceful, remote stretch of beach near Macalister Range National Park, about 20 minutes south of Port Douglas, Turtle Cove Beach Resort (starting at $136 per night) is the perfect place to relax, swim, and enjoy drinks at the friendly beach bar. Just outside of town, the pet-friendly Pink Flamingo Resort (starting at $107 per night) offers 12 cozy rooms, most featuring kitchenettes, and a shaded pool area.

Galveston, Texas

This welcoming city of around 50,000 people is home to a handful of laid-back gay bars, and each year, it hosts the three-day Galveston Pride festival in early September. As a popular embarkation point for cruise ships, Galveston has become an ideal spot for a relaxing pre- or post-cruise getaway. Don't miss Moody Gardens, a trio of stunning glass pyramids housing a science museum, an aquarium, and a tropical rainforest.

Where to stay

Overlooking the beach and just a short stroll from the historic Pleasure Pier, the beautiful Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection (starting at $255 or 55,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night) has been Galveston’s crown jewel since its opening in 1911. Enjoy classic cocktails at the elegant Founders Bar or unwind with a relaxing spa treatment. The Tremont House, Galveston, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel (starting at $185 or 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night) sits in the heart of the picturesque downtown, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and museums.

Guam

Imagine Hawaii, but with fewer crowds and much more affordable prices. You can explore the warm, tranquil waters of Tumon Bay, go snorkeling, or hike through the lush, mountain-covered interior of the island. And along the way, you'll encounter a delightful mix of Thai, Japanese, and local Chamorro cuisines.

While it may take some effort to get to this remote paradise—located about 1,300 miles east of the Philippines—arranging a stopover in places like Hawaii, Tokyo, or Seoul can turn the journey itself into an unforgettable adventure.

Where to stay