Featured Gay Friendly Hotels in Caribbean

Caribbean Image

Curacao Marriott Beach Resort

Escape to the sun-kissed waters of the Southern Caribbean our resort. Set on six oceanfront acres near Willemstad, our all-new hotel offers the waryes

Gay Caribbean

Looking to plan your next vacation? The Caribbean is an ideal destination for gay travelers seeking beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively music. With year-round beautiful weather, the Caribbean is a popular choice for vacationers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

To get to the Caribbean, the easiest way is by plane, with most major Caribbean cities having airports. Smaller airlines and charter boats also offer connections between islands once you are in the area. With 700 islands to choose from, there is no shortage of options for travelers, including hotspots like Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Bermuda, Barbados, Punta Cana, and St Kitts.

The Caribbean also offers unique customs and cultures that make each island stand out. Puerto Rico, for instance, is known for their saying, “Live Boricua!”, which means to be one's most authentic self and to be full of spirit. In fact, Puerto Rico has been named Gaytravel’s island destination for 2022.

puerto rico
Photo Credit: Jonathan Lampel

When in the Caribbean, there's no better opportunity to explore the sealife through snorkeling and diving, or the jungle life through ziplines and ropes. Adrenaline seekers can have Captain Jack Sparrow adventures throughout the islands with exciting activities that will make you feel like you're in a Pirates of The Caribbean movie.

GayTravel.com is committed to promoting Destination Equality, an effort to raise funds and awareness for Caribbean LGBT communities. Donations go directly to the Caribbean Vulnerable Communities (CVC), a non-profit that works to strengthen local organizations and increase acceptance and rights for the LGBTQ+ community across the region.

What do you want to discover?

What's the Gay Scene Like?

Best Time to Visit The Caribbean

Top Things to See and Do in The Caribbean

MUST DO: Attractions & Activities

MUST EAT: Gay-Friendly Dining

MUST VISIT: Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife

Travel Safety Tips

Local Expert: Gay Scene in The Caribbean

If you're a gay traveler looking for a destination that is welcoming and inclusive, there are several islands in the Caribbean that are known for their LGBT-friendly locals and vibrant gay scenes. St. Martin, St. Barts, Puerto Rico, Aruba, and Curacao are all popular destinations that have made significant progress in promoting LGBTQ values.

Other islands, like St. Croix and Martinique, may not have a large gay scene but are still welcoming and inclusive to LGBT travelers. While they may not specifically cater to gay crowds, these islands offer a relaxed and low-key atmosphere that many gay travelers find appealing.

No matter which island you choose, the Caribbean is a beautiful and welcoming destination for all travelers, and with the growing acceptance of LGBTQ values across the region, there are more options than ever before for gay travelers to enjoy a memorable vacation in the sun.

Best Time to Visit The Caribbean

If you're planning a trip to the Caribbean, the best time to visit would be during May, June, and November, as they fall outside of the rainy season. During these months, visitors can expect sunny blue skies and lower humidity levels, making it the ideal time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities.

While these months may be quieter in terms of tourism, if you prefer a livelier atmosphere, it's recommended to visit during the peak tourist season from December through April. During this time, the islands are bustling with activity, and there are plenty of events and festivals to enjoy.

Regardless of when you choose to visit, the Caribbean offers a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere, with something for every type of traveler. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, an adventure-packed vacation, or a relaxing beach escape, the Caribbean is the perfect destination to unwind and soak up the sun.

Top Things to See and Do in The Caribbean

The Caribbean is a destination that caters to all types of travelers, regardless of age or interests. Whether you're traveling with your family, honeymooning with your loved one, or looking for a retirement destination, the Caribbean has something for everyone.

Families can keep their kids occupied with a wide range of activities, including water sports, beach games, and interactive nature experiences. Newlyweds can indulge in romantic activities like sunset cruises, couples massages, and candlelit dinners on the beach. Retirees can celebrate their hard work and enjoy their golden years in a relaxing and welcoming environment.

With its diverse landscapes, the Caribbean offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration, from lush jungles to pristine beaches. Whether you're looking to hike through the rainforest, go scuba diving in crystal-clear waters, or simply relax on the beach with a good book, the Caribbean has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation. 

scuba diving
Photo Credit: Jesse Van Vliet

MUST DO Caribbean Attractions & Activities

If you're looking for adventure and excitement, the Caribbean has plenty of activities to keep you busy. With so much to see and do, it can be difficult to fit everything into your schedule. While relaxing by the pool is always an option, the Caribbean offers a wide range of activities to fill your day. Here are the three "S's" of activities to enjoy in the Caribbean:

Sailing - With its beautiful easterly trade winds, the Caribbean is the perfect destination for sailing enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a luxury mahogany sailboat or a small hobie cat, there are plenty of options for getting out on the water and exploring the stunning coastline.

sailing
Photo Credit: Christian Lendl

Snorkeling - With crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, snorkeling is a must-do activity in the Caribbean. Explore the colorful coral reefs and swim alongside tropical fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating creatures.

Sunbathing - Of course, one of the main draws of the Caribbean is its sunny, warm weather and beautiful beaches. Soak up the sun on soft sandy beaches and cool off with a refreshing dip in the clear blue waters. Whether you're looking for a lively beach with plenty of activities or a secluded spot for some peace and quiet, the Caribbean has it all.

Additionally, the Caribbean offers some of the best opportunities for snorkeling and swimming with stingrays. The clear waters provide perfect visibility to observe the colorful marine life in the coral reefs, making snorkeling a popular activity for tourists. Many day cruises are available for snorkeling and sometimes even include an open bar for a fun-filled experience.

For a more unique and thrilling experience, swimming with stingrays is a must-do activity in the Caribbean. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is not offered in many places and is sure to be a highlight of your trip. Even the most adventurous travelers will be amazed by the sight of these majestic creatures up close. Swimming with stingrays is suitable for all ages, making it a popular activity for families and groups of friends.

MUST EAT Caribbean Gay-Friendly Dining

If you're a foodie, the Caribbean is the perfect destination for you! With a fusion of cultures and influences, the cuisine in the Caribbean is a must-try. Seafood is a staple in most Caribbean dishes, with access to the freshest fish available in the Caribbean Sea. From Coucou and Flying Fish to Conch Fritters and Salt Fish, there are many classic Caribbean dishes that you must try.

Plantains and Jerk Chicken are other popular dishes that you can find almost everywhere in the Caribbean. Each island has its unique specialty dishes, and here are some of the top restaurants to enjoy authentic Caribbean cuisine:

SUI-Ren (Turks and Caicos)

Sheer Rocks (Antigua)

Jade Mountain Club (St. Lucia)

Elements Restaurant (Aruba)

1919 Resturant (Puerto Rico)

Lime Out (St. John)

If you're looking to satisfy your taste buds with the best of the Caribbean, make sure to check out these restaurants on your next trip.

MUST VISIT Caribbean Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife

In addition to San Juan, there are other Caribbean destinations that offer vibrant LGBTQ nightlife scenes. In St. Martin, visitors can explore the famous Gay Cupecoy Beach, known for its lively atmosphere and stunning sunsets. The island also boasts several gay-friendly bars and nightclubs, such as Eros and Rainbow Café.

Curacao is another popular destination for LGBTQ travelers looking for a fun nightlife scene. The island's capital, Willemstad, has several gay-friendly bars and clubs, including Floris Suite Hotel's Rainbow Lounge and Cabana Beach.

In addition to these destinations, many other Caribbean islands offer LGBTQ-friendly nightlife options, including dance clubs, karaoke bars, and drag shows. It's important to do some research and connect with local LGBTQ communities to find the best spots and events during your visit.

Beyond Puerto Rico, the Caribbean is known for its unique music and dancing. Reggae, salsa, and calypso music all started in the Caribbean and have produced very famous artists including Bob Marley, Rihanna, and Nicky Minaj. Music is embedded in the Caribbean culture and has created a backbone for a fun nightlife culture. 

Jost Van Dyke in the British virgin islands is known for their shores lined with beach bars. Whether having a drink under the sun or shots under the moon, the party lasts all day and night in Jost Van Dyke. Make sure to visit Soggy Dollar Beach Bar. Ranked one of the best beach bars in the world with their world-famous “painkillers,” this bar is a must-see.  This island is the perfect place to place your toes in the water, sit in the sand, and enjoy a drink in your hand. 

It's important to note that gambling laws and regulations vary by islands in the Caribbean. While Aruba may have a vibrant gambling scene, other islands may have limited options or restrictions on gambling altogether. It's always best to research and understand the local laws and regulations before engaging in any activities.

Travel Safety Tips

What is the most progressive Caribbean island?

It's important to note that "progressive" can mean different things to different people, and there isn't necessarily one Caribbean island that is universally considered the most progressive. However, Curaçao is often praised for its diversity and acceptance of different cultures, lifestyles, and religions. The island has a strong LGBTQ+ community and hosts an annual pride parade. The country also legalized same-sex marriage in 2012, making it the first island in the Caribbean to do so.

Destinations within Caribbean

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