Gay Mykonos
Mykonos has reached iconic status as a LGBT destination. It is the place to go gay in the Mediterranean, with gay travelers flocking from all corners of the earth to shake loose and let go in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
The island of Mykonos is a part of the Cyclades chain, smack dab in the middle of the Aegean Sea. Despite development to cater to international tourists, the island has retained its Cycladian charm. The cosmopolitan Mykonos Town still has whitewashed walls that create a labyrinth of narrow alleys, with colorful paint accenting each building.
The Island of the Winds offers an ever-changing feast of options, with the days centered on exploring the island’s many beaches and nights full of dancing and drinking, interrupted only by the sunrise. The climate provides virtually year-round sun, and to avoid the bottlenecks in price and space of July and August, opt for May, June or September for your visit.
Transportation options include renting a jeep or car to more fully explore the island, or opt for a small scooter or ATV. Another option is simply jumping on one of Plati Yalos’s boats that ferry people to the southern beaches in a fun and convenient manner. Don’t count on taxis, however: There are only 30 on the entire island, so the wait is far longer than the ride!
Mykonos Gay Scene
Mykonos is the gayest of the Greek and Spanish island getaways. For better or worse, you will definitely not be the only gay on the island! With this gay influx comes the necessary infrastructure: chic gay bars, pounding clubs, and heaps of gay-welcoming hotels.
Mykonos Town is the focus of the flourishing gay scene, with stylish bars popping up next to more traditional tavernas. There are more than 100 restaurants to sink your teeth into, so prepare to feast. For a delightfully fresh meal, visit Daniele’s (at Basoulas), a local favorite for many years. Or for a refreshingly simple bite, escape from town with a 5 minute walk to Niko’s Taverna right on Megali Ammos Beach.
Once night falls, things really start to heat up, with music playing as the sun shimmers at the horizon. The classic gay bar on the island is Pierro’s, regularly overflowing with revelers, and the views from Elyseum Hotel are worth the pricey drinks. Jackie O, near the Paraportiani Church, is a smooth and wonderfully cozy lounge bar, which fits nicely alongside the lively Babylon, where dance music and soft purple light welcomes a crowd inside and outside on the patio.
There are more than 30 beaches on the island, and while the most popular beach, Paradise, is all-straight, there are plenty of gay spots. Opt for “Super Paradise,” known locally as Plintri, with magnificent crystal-clear water and a more secluded feel. The end of the beach is totally gay – including gay sunbathing on the rocks. Elia is also very popular with the gays, although it’s bigger and more mixed. Shining sun, copious food, and a thriving nightlife – it’s made for gay!
Gay-Friendly Dining
The island offers some of the most unique dishes in some of the finest gay friendly restaurants.
Kounelas
This fresh-fish taverna has been around forever and is the hangout of many of Mykonos’ fishermen. The is as seasonal as things get. The food of the day depends on what fish were caught that day. Go on days when there hasn’t been much wind. Little wind means that there will be a lot of fresh fish.
Chez Maria’s
This 30-year-old garden restaurant is the perfect place to lose yourself in Greek culture and cuisine. Enjoy traditional Greek food that has been lovingly prepared in a picture book candle lit atmosphere. The lively atmosphere shouldn’t be missed either. Don’t be surprised if there is live music and dancing. Actually, you should be up there dancing too.
Mediterraneo
Sophisticated cuisine competes with gorgeous views and an elegant dining room in this classic Greek restaurant. The subtle hand of Head Chef Simos Avrambos is on display in the well-balanced dishes this fantastic restaurant serves up. When being seated you will have to choose between having a view of the gorgeous hotel pool or beautiful Mykonos Bay.
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