17 Welcoming Gay Friendly Honeymoon Destinations for LGBTQ+ Couples

A honeymoon is the perfect idyllic tonic for newlyweds immediately after their wedding, where loving couples can celebrate their nuptials together in usually an exotic or romantic location. And this applies for a same sex marriage within the LGBTQIA+ community who may already have battled the heteronormative attitude and intolerance simply marrying their true love life partner.

While attitudes and receptiveness are changing, parts of the world still criminalise homosexuality which clearly will not be truly welcoming to gay tourism nor deserve the pink pound. Your honeymoon should be the time of relaxation where you can show your love freely and openly, so being gay friendly is a key element of that.

Finding a place to honeymoon that feels both romantic, safe and secure is essential. You and your partner should be able to relax and enjoy the experience without worry.

No matter where you choose to go, it’s important to ensure that you and your partner are comfortable and safe. Do your research, talk to other couples, and plan ahead. We have compiled a list of the best gay friendly honeymoon destinations to inspire you for that perfect honeymoon that is memorable, romantic, and worry-free!

We’ve given each location the equality score from Equaldex based on factors including if homosexuality and gay marriage is legal for nationals, laws on same sex adoption, protection from discrimination, plus public opinion on gay rights. For reference the UK scored 82% as there is no legal Non-binary gender recognition and Conversion Therapy is not banned. I’d also like to point out that the countries tourism workers are likely to be more welcoming than the national opinions so the scores should not sway your decision.

I’ve noted if gay marriage is not legal at the time of writing with a confirmed fact check from government sources, so this guide can also be used to plan a destination wedding. Please note, often you can have a symbolic ceremony in these destinations, it just will not be legal.

Bora Bora is one of the best gay honeymoon destinations and a tropical paradise

French Polynesia

Equality Score: 100% (French Law applies)

Best time to go: May-September

French Polynesia would be the place to visit if you’re looking for the ideal gay honeymoon destination and a relaxing beach break. You can choose a beautiful array of island locations from Tahiti to Bora Bora where you can fully enjoy what the islands have to offer including picturesque beaches, local wildlife, spa, Tiki parties and luxury hotels.

The islands of Tahiti and Bora Bora are particularly LGBT friendly with discrimination laws and equal marriage rights so you can feel completely confident to take a trip there hence top right on our list. Taking a once in a lifetime trip here with your new spouse would allow you to enjoy water sports, snorkelling and romantic cabin accommodation above the blue water.

If you’re looking to book your honeymoon trip to this iconic honeymoon destination then the best time to visit would be between May-September due to the tropical climate.

Trunk Bay on St John island, US Virgin Islands

US Virgin Islands

Equality Score: 93%

Best time to go: April-May (hurricane season is June to November)

The US Virgin Islands are a group of islands located in the Caribbean Sea and are an insular area of the United States. The islands are comprised of three main islands: Saint Croix, Saint John, and Saint Thomas, and are known for their beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse culture.

It doesn’t appear on many lists of luxury honeymoon destinations, but the US Virgin Islands are a worthy honeymoon destination for gay couples seeking a romantic getaway in the Caribbean. With its stunning shores, private islands, and cosy accommodations, a trip here is sure to be a truly unforgettable experience.

From the panoramic views to the serene atmosphere, this is an idyllic spot for newlyweds to start their lives together. Take a stroll down the pristine beaches, explore the tropical rainforest, and soak up the sun, it’s the perfect paradise for two.

Rainbow Road in Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland

Equality Score: 90%

Best time to go: July-August for warmer weather, September-March for the Northern lights

Okay, not what you were thinking of perhaps? But intimate settings and outstanding natural beauty make Iceland the perfect destination for couples. As one of the few countries in history with an openly gay Head of State, Iceland has been a trailblazer for LGBT rights. In addition to hosting an annual Pride festival, Reykjavik is also home to a few gay clubs, making it an excellent honeymoon destination.

There are several unmissable tourist destinations in the country, along with luxury hotels and an active food scene. The Blue Lagoon, watching the Northern Lights up close, venturing to an ever-changing glacier, and even observing whales are just a few of the incredible experiences you can enjoy during your trip.

Tumon bay beach, Guam

Guam

Equality Score: 86%

Best time to go: Dry season is January -May

Guam is absolutely beautiful and relatively unknown in the Honeymoon world, but with strong gay rights, lots of secluded beaches, snorkelling and historical sites what’s not to love? It might be the tranquil paradise you are longing for so deserves further research. Plus if you are looking for a honeymoon in the early parts of the year it’s good to have affordable options.

Guam offers a unique and relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of outdoor activities, beautiful sunsets and friendly locals. The island is a great destination for couples looking for a memorable and romantic experience. Whether you are looking to explore the island’s culture, relax on its beaches or take in its stunning scenery, Guam is the perfect destination for your honeymoon.

Rio’s famous Ipanema beach is gay friendly

Rio de Janeiro – Brazil

Equality Score: 82%

Best time to go: November-March (Carnival is February or March)

We consider Brazil to be one of the most desirable and best LGBT honeymoon destinations in the world because of its vibrant culture and exciting nightlife. The buzz and bustle of Brazilian life as well as the abundant culture make this city an ideal honeymoon destination for adventurous couples.

No trip to Rio de Janeiro is complete without visiting the magnificent Christ the Redeemer statue and the striking Sugarloaf Mountain. Culture enthusiasts should also make a stop at the world-renowned Botanical Gardens, the Municipal Theatre to take in the stunning architecture and a show, and the National History Museum to dive into Brazil’s personal and colonial history. When exploring the city, be sure to book a tour of the Favelas, allowing tourists to experience the vibrant culture of the shanty towns.

If you’re looking for a great LGBT experience in Rio, then you should definitely check out Ipanema and Copacabana for their renowned gay beaches. But don’t forget about Reserva Beach in Barra da Tijuca – it’s a great spot too! For an authentic Rio LGBT experience, take a stroll along the Rua Teixeira de Melo, a great place to soak up the city’s culture.

Waterfall in Kauai, Hawaii

Hawaii

Equality Score: 81%

Best time to go: March-September

LGBT couples looking for the best gay honeymoon destinations should consider saying Aloha to Hawaii which offers a luxury honeymoon experiences year-round. In addition to a stunning natural environment, the beaches are gorgeous and the locals are friendly.

If you can tear yourself away from your luxury hotel or resort, consider snorkelling, visiting an active volcano, swimming with dolphins, or even visiting the rainforest. Oahu has a lively gay scene, including nightclubs, for those who want to have a little party in the early morning hours.

Cuba

Equality Score: 81%

Best time to go: October-April

Cuba made same sex marriages and adoption legal in 2022, but that puts it ahead of almost all Caribbean Islands, including British overseas territories that have not implemented the UK’s equality laws.

But crucially the home of Mojitos and Cigars is a wonderful destination to consider. From the rich cultural delights of Havana, to the beach getaways of the Caribbean sea.

There is something for everyone in Cuba.

From Havana’s bustling nightlife and excellent restaurants, to the relaxing white sand beaches of Varadero, Cuba is a great place to visit.

For those looking to experience the unique Cuban culture, there are many opportunities. From watching classic Cuban films in the capital, to taking a tour of old Havana, the city has plenty to offer.

For those looking to indulge in Cuban cuisine, the country has some of the best restaurants in the Caribbean. From the well-known Paladar restaurants, to the more traditional eateries, Cuban cuisine is a must-try for any visitor.

For those looking for a little adventure, Cuba has some great activities. From hiking in the Sierra Maestra Mountains, to swimming with dolphins in the Caribbean Sea, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

No matter what you’re looking for, Cuba is a great place to visit. With its unique culture, delicious food, and exciting activities, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Lazing on a hammock in tropical Fiji may be exactly what you are looking for

Fiji

Equality Score: 8o% (gay marriage not legal)

Best time to go: June – September

Fiji is an incredible destination, the islands will take your breath away and the locals are so welcoming. There’s no shortage of things to do on the mainland either.

If you’re considering a visit to Fiji, it’s important to do your research like all locations. There is a great choice of resorts for every budget from intimate to big, with soft white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.

You may choose to explore the stunning coral reefs, go fishing, take a boat cruise, take a dip in the hot springs, explore the local markets for souvenirs, visit one of the many waterfalls, or just relax and soak up the sun on the beach.

The Fijian culture is very unique and is prominently visible in the way they live and in their art. A visit to one of the many cultural villages is a must as it allows you to gain an insight into the traditional ways of living.

Fiji is an exciting destination for all honeymooners and is sure to create life-long memories.

Mexico

Equality Score: 78%

Best time to go: November-April

Mexico is definitely a top destination to visit for its diverse regions, vast landscapes and popular cuisine. The best LGBT friendly honeymoon destinations to visit would be Cancun, Tulum, Puerta Vallarta and Riviera Maya.

Honeymooners can experience the best of Mexico’s culture with a range of local cuisine to sample, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches, your days will be filled with adventure. Explore the vibrant markets for unique souvenirs made by local artisans, as well as tasty street food. Then, take a sailing excursion, indulge in tequila in Tequila, and visit the 8th-century abandoned city, Teotihuacan, to appreciate the region’s history.

Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations, with a bustling gay nightlife scene for honeymooners looking to paint the town in rainbow colours.

Cape Town and Table Mountain

Cape Town – South Africa

Equality Score: 76%

Best time to go: November to March

Cape town may not be on the top of your list for gay honeymoons, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised. The gay scene is thriving including full equal rights for all sexualities and amazing nightlife. Other townships in the country may be far behind concerning gay rights but Cape Town holds the flag for the LGBT community in South Africa.

There are many incredible places that honeymooners can visit but a must-see location that you’ll have to visit is Table Mountain. You can either take the easy route via a cable car to the top of the mountain or challenge yourself to trek to the summit. You also can’t miss stunning white beaches like Boulder’s Beach where you can share your space with the local penguins.

Couples eager to discover city life will not be disappointed by the city’s colourful assortment of attractions. Explore the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, and the rainbow streets of Bo-Kaap. Cape Town is also close to wine country and safari locations so you have the choice of travelling away from the capital for a completely new experience.

Cape Verde

Equality Score: 69% (gay marriage is not recognised for nationals)

Best time to go: April/May or October/November

Cape Verde is another affordable alternative that can still be the honeymoon of a lifetime. From beautiful beaches to amazing mountain hikes, and numerous water sports available such as windsurfing, snorkelling, and kayaking.

Couples can also explore the rich culture of the country by visiting local markets, museums, and art galleries. After a long day of activities, couples can relax in one of the many luxurious spa resorts or take a sunset stroll along the shore. Whether it’s the perfect romantic atmosphere or the stunning natural beauty of the country, Cape Verde is the perfect destination for a budget-friendly honeymoon.

Seychelles

Equality Score: 68% (gay marriage is not recognised for nationals)

Best time to go: April/May or October/November

It’s no surprise that Seychelles are one of the most popular gay honeymoon destinations in the Indian Ocean. This is because it’s one of the only places where being LGBTQ+ is legal in the Indian Ocean.

There are four main islands, Mahé, Praslin, Silhouette, and La Digue, that offer amazing accommodations for couples, as well as incredible beaches. On Bird Island, the northernmost sea turtle nesting site, you can see giant tortoises and turtles nesting together for the first time. Visits are best made between April and September when the weather is dry and the temperatures are high, but not humid.

Molyvos town on Lesbos, Greek Islands

Greece

Equality Score: 62%

Best time to go: May-September

Greece is the ideal honeymoon spot for European couples who want a closer-to-home LGBT-friendly destination. History fans will be in awe at the ancient historical sites in the capital. The breath-taking Acropolis and its museum are particularly noteworthy.

Mykonos and Santorini are the most LGBT-friendly islands in Greece. Santorini is a sight to behold, with its white buildings topped with blue roofs contrasting against the deep azure of the ocean. Mykonos is a destination for night owls, with its vibrant nightlife attracting many celebrities.

A honeymoon in Greece allows you to experience island hopping, historical culture, amazing Greek food, and the stunning natural beauty of the Aegean Sea and white sandy beaches.

If you feel adventurous, you can pop to the Greek Island of Lesbos, which is where the word lesbian comes from. It’s the birthplace of erotic poet Sappho, and her tiny hometown of Eresos has 3 lesbian bars, gay friendly hotels and hosts festivals which have become a yearly pilgrimage for gay women. It is one of the iconic lesbian honeymoon destinations.

Philippines

Equality Score: 58% (same sex marriage is not recognised for nationals)

Best time to go: December to February

The Philippines is made up of 7,641 islands and is a tropical country with a wide diversity of topography. It has mountain ranges, lowlands, coastal plains, and many islands. The climate is tropical and there is significant rainfall in most areas. The country is also home to some of the world’s most bio-diverse ecosystems, including the rainforests of Luzon and Mindanao.

The Philippines has a rich culture, with influences from its Spanish and American colonial periods, as well as from its indigenous peoples. The cuisine is diverse and includes flavours from across the world. The country is also home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and world-class surfing spots, which attract many tourists from around the world. The Philippines is a popular tourist destination and is known for its welcoming hospitality.

The Philippines is also a popular destination for travellers in general, so good choice for the active honeymoon. There are many activities to enjoy, from scuba diving and snorkelling to trekking and wildlife watching. Many of the country’s national parks are teeming with wildlife and lush vegetation.

Thailand offers a balance between stunning beaches and jaw-dropping tourist attractions like the Emerald Buddha temple

Thailand

Equality Score: 52% (same sex marriage is not recognised for nationals)

Best time to go: November – April

Thailand is an ideal spot for LGBT honeymooners to spend their special time. There may not be legalised gay marriage, but the country is still welcoming of same-sex couples. You won’t get any strange looks when choosing a place to stay. Plus, there is so much to do here. From the tranquil islands to the vibrant cities, there’s something for everyone! Whether you want to take it easy or explore a new place, Thailand has you covered.

Travelling to Thailand offers couples the chance to gaze over stunning temples, trek the mountainous terrain on foot or by kayak, and even tour the remarkable palace. Indulge in the famed Thai massage or take a romantic Thai cooking class together. You’ll get to experience delectable local delicacies, including the world’s best street food – all at an affordable price. Make the most of your trip and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Bali – Indonesia

Equality Score: 33% (gay marriage is not recognised for nationals)

Best time to go: May, June and September

Bali is a haven for the LGBTQ+ community in Indonesia and a hot spot for gay travellers in the region. Though locals don’t necessarily identify as queer, same-sex relationships are accepted and LGBTQ+ visitors are welcomed with open arms.

However, it’s best to keep public displays of affection to a minimum, regardless of your sexual orientation. And to be transparent, LGBT rights in Indonesia for Muslims are very poor in areas governed by sharia-based laws, with public caning and open homophobia in the last decade. Bali is a lot more free and open as it is Hindu, but it’s worth noting if strong advocates of gay rights.

For honeymooners, you should visit the Seminyak area as the unofficial “gay street” The Jalan Camplung Tanduk is filled with many gay bars, drag shows and more attractions. There is even a gay sauna in the area.

Bali also offers some beautiful sightseeing locations which are perfect for honeymooners. There is an activity for everyone as adventurers can enjoy the hikes through the tropical rainforest, surfers can ride the smooth waves and shoppers can indulge in the affordable stores and spa treatments.

The Maldives

Equality Score: 31% (Homosexuality and same sex marriage illegal)

Best time to go: November-April

It may be surprising to learn that despite its strict laws, the Maldives is a popular choice for a gay honeymoon due to its friendly atmosphere and welcoming nature.

It is only in a handful of other countries that you can find luxurious huts perched above the ocean floor, and the laid-back and friendly atmosphere of the resorts is the perfect opportunity to relax with your significant other and enjoy the romance and the blue azure waters together. If possible, choose a property that lets you fly by seaplane to your Maldives resort.

Where should you avoid?

Most of Africa and the Middle East, Asia, and even parts of South America and the Caribbean are not particularly gay friendly or even criminalise same sex relationships where Sharia Law applies.