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Discover the 10 best gay beaches in North America (and where to stay)

What’s better than an afternoon spent on America’s sunniest shores, cooling off with a skinny dip in well-oiled gay company? Not much, we say. Whether touring Canada, road-tripping in the US or running south of the border, liberal gay beaches luckily come in good supply, allowing for frolicking and all kinds of ballgames with like-minded locals and internationals. So before the tide goes too far out, we bring you a rundown of the 10 best gay beaches in North America from the Pacific coast of Vancouver to the year-round tropical retreat of the Florida Keys.

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Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica | Photo: Atanas Malamov

1. Higgs Beach, Key West, USA

Despite Miami being a firm contender for the state’s gay crown, Key West is not without its options, hogging many of the best gay beaches in Florida on its sandy shores. Of these, Higgs Beach is among our firm favourites as the de facto gay beach on the island for the gay community to socialise, snorkel and sun it up to their heart’s content in the company of Florida’s hottest men. Find Higgs Beach at the end of Reynolds Street, where the wide beachfront comes complete with calm and shallow waters, a wooden pier and bathroom facilities. To your west is Higgs Beach Dog Park while also nearby you’ll find the Key West AIDS Memorial and the slavery-era African Cemetery. Stay longer in paradise with a busy schedule covering the top things to do in Key West.

Key West | Photo: Meric Dagli

Photo: Stefan Schranz

Where to stay in the Florida Keys

When visiting Higgs Beach in Key West, your stay should reflect the laid-back yet luxurious spirit of the Florida Keys. For ultimate seclusion, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa offers an idyllic escape just offshore on a private island. With thatched-roof bungalows and a world-class spa, this adults-only resort is a serene hideaway. Though it’s a short drive from Key West, the detour is worthwhile for travellers seeking tranquil luxury. If you prefer to stay within the heart of Key West, Hyatt Centric Key West Resort and Spa places you steps away from the island’s vibrant culture. Located near the Historic Seaport, this contemporary resort offers luxury waterfront views, chic décor, and proximity to Higgs Beach, making it ideal for those who want both beach relaxation and access to the island’s gay-friendly nightlife and culture.

Little Palm Resort and Spa Florida Keys

Little Palm Resort and Spa

2. Wreck Beach, Vancouver, Canada

From south to north, our second gay beach to mention is Vancouver City’s Wreck Beach, a bohemian surprise on the Pacific Coast. Sheltered by forest and hidden 400-steps below a huge cliff face, this undeveloped, 6-kilometre stretch of beach is totally removed from the stress of the city, freeing Vancouverites with its clothing-optional policy. Now protected under the Wreck Beach Preservation Society (WBPS) set up by a group of protesting naturists in the 1970s, the beach now acts as a haven for the gay community just 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, holding various events throughout the year, including the wintertime Polar Bear Swimmers contest and the annual Body Acceptance Day. Plan your time in Vancouver with our full Vancouver travel guide.

Where to stay in Vancouver

For an opulent stay while visiting Wreck Beach, considered one of the most liberating beaches in Vancouver, check into Fairmont Pacific Rim. Situated along the waterfront, it combines modern luxury with a commitment to art and design, featuring a vast collection of local art and sophisticated dining options. The nearby Rosewood Hotel Georgia exudes old-world glamour with a contemporary twist, making it a favourite for discerning travellers. Though both hotels are a short drive from Wreck Beach, the journey through Vancouver’s scenic landscapes is an enjoyable prelude to the beach’s natural beauty. For a more intimate luxury experience, the boutique Wedgewood Hotel & Spa offers a serene escape in the heart of the city, with a European-style spa perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach.

Rosewood Hotel Georgia Vancouver

Rosewood Hotel Georgia

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Mexico’s gayest resort town, Puerto Vallarta has been a community outpost since the 1970s when the Love Boat docked here and gay icon Elizabeth Taylor graced its shores

3. Playa Los Muertos, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

There’s certainly no shortage of beautiful beaches south of the US border, but its Playa Los Muertos in Puerto Vallarta that steals all the thunder. Mexico’s gayest resort town, Puerto Vallarta has been a community outpost since the 1970s when the Love Boat docked here and gay icon Elizabeth Taylor graced its shores. Playa Los Muertos is just one of the many hidden beaches here, made famous as a gay destination thanks to Blue Chairs, the town’s first gay resort. Serving cocktails and Mexican fare from dawn until late, the resort is also known for its go-go boys, drag shows and scandalous antics on the rooftop bar. Besides beach-bumming, cover the many things to do in Puerto Vallarta within the preserved Old Town or escape the bustle by boating out to Yelapa, a secluded paradise for honeymooners and couples.

Photo: Afvzi

Where to stay on the Riviera Nayarit

Playa Los Muertos in Puerto Vallarta is famed for its gay-friendly atmosphere and vibrant energy. For a luxurious retreat away from the hustle yet close to the beach’s lively scene, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit offers all-inclusive opulence with sprawling ocean views, exquisite gastronomy, and impeccable service. A short drive from the beach, it’s perfect for those seeking tranquillity without compromising proximity to Puerto Vallarta’s famous LGBTQ+ nightlife. For those desiring more exclusivity, One&Only Mandarina is set amidst the unspoilt natural beauty of the Riviera Nayarit. While it’s further from Playa Los Muertos, the remote location, lush jungle setting, and award-winning design make it a breathtaking retreat worth the journey.

One&Only Mandarina

One&Only Mandarina

4. 12th Street Beach, Miami, USA

Arguably the best gay beach Miami has to offer, 12th Street Beach is an ever-popular meeting point serving the city’s most gorgeous queers throughout the year. Located in the middle of Lummus Park along Ocean Drive, 12th Street Beach has all the facilities to keep you amused, including volleyball courts, weightlifting equipment and a whole host of bars and restaurants nearby, notably the famed Palace Bar. Besides striking up a volleyball tournament with the local talent, there are countless other events to get involved in such as the Winter Party Festival, White Party and of course Miami Beach Pride, the largest gay celebration in the region. Refer to our full Miami travel guide for advice on things to do, attractions to visit and nightlife to go wild for!

Miami Beach | Photo: Denys Kostyuchenko

Photo: Jess Vide

Where to stay in Miami Beach

For those heading to 12th Street Beach, Miami’s most popular gay beach, the luxurious Setai Miami Beach is an ideal option. Blending Art Deco and Asian influences, this oceanfront oasis offers sophisticated luxury with impeccable service. Situated just minutes from the beach, it allows easy access to both the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene and Miami’s cultural highlights. Another excellent choice is 1 Hotel South Beach, renowned for its sustainable design and eco-luxury experience. This oceanfront property, set on 600 feet of pristine beach, is perfect for the eco-conscious traveller without compromising on luxury. For a truly unique experience, consider the glamorous Faena Hotel Miami Beach, where art and opulence merge seamlessly. Its cultural offerings, including immersive art installations and live performances, provide an unforgettable stay.

The Setai, Miami Beach

The Setai, Miami Beach

1 Hotel South Beach Miami

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Baker Beach in the Presidio district is the place to go nude in friendly company, all in view of the bay’s famed Golden Gate Bridge

5. Baker Beach, San Francisco, USA

The best city in the world to be gay, San Francisco has a long legacy of activism alongside a ton of mighty fine institutions all geared towards the LGBTQ+ community. Of these, Baker Beach in the Presidio district is the place to go nude in friendly company, all in view of the bay’s famed Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands opposite. Move to the northern end of the beach for the gay bit, an area popular among locals for picnics and relaxing in cliff surroundings. After dusk, the fun continues into the evening, particularly in The Castro gaybourhood as explored in our San Francisco travel guide.

Baker Beach, San Francisco | Photo: Grant Cai

Where to stay in San Francisco

If you’re visiting the iconic Baker Beach, famous for its stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and casual LGBTQ+ scene, consider staying at Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco. Located in the heart of downtown, this hotel offers unrivalled luxury with easy access to both Baker Beach and the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Another excellent option is The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco, a historic gem nestled in Nob Hill. Its refined atmosphere and impeccable service make it worth the drive to the beach. For the contemporary luxury traveller, The St. Regis San Francisco offers cutting-edge design, high-end amenities, and easy access to the city’s most stylish districts. Although further from Baker Beach, all these hotels provide world-class service and amenities that make the slight detour an easy choice.

Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco

Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco

6. Playita Beach, Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Sneaking a Costa Rica offering into the mix, though technically not in North America, Playita Beach in Manuel Antonio is so impressive we couldn’t not mention it. Though Manuel Antonio National Park comes edged by hundreds of secluded beaches all along the coast to Uvita’s Playa Ballena, arrive on the 7-kilometre Playa Espadilla for something a little special. Fill up on seafood and rent a Sea-doo from the main section, jetting north to reach the more undeveloped and surfer-friendly beachfront also known as ‘the gay end’. Enjoy various gay parties on certain vacations or scramble over the rocks at low tide for the more exclusive nudist offering of Playa La Macha, sometimes going by the name Playa Dulce Vide. Alternatively, get here via the walking trail down from the cliff road. Discover more of the nation’s best natural attractions with our Costa Rica travel guide.

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica | Photo: Etienne Delorieux

Photo: Alex Azabache

Where to stay in Costa Rica

For travellers exploring Playita Beach in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, Kura Boutique Hotel offers an unparalleled blend of eco-luxury and intimate seclusion. With its chic design and focus on sustainability, Kura caters to discerning travellers seeking romance and luxury amidst nature. Alternatively, the adults-only Hotel Three Sixty offers 360-degree views of the rainforest and ocean from its clifftop setting. Though a bit further from Playita Beach, the serene surroundings and exceptional service make it a must-stay for those craving tranquillity with a touch of adventure.

Kura Boutique Hotel Costa Rica

Kura Boutique Hotel

7. Pines Beach, Fire Island, NY, USA

A pinnacle destination among the New York gay scene for nearly 100 years, Fire Island remains the ultimate city escape on the south shore of Long Island. The island is split between two queer communities, one in the Pines and the other in Cherry Grove, the latter notorious for its parties and the more developed of the two. Within either enclave however you’ll find a neat selection of gay beaches and a diverse mix of ages, professions, nationalities and kinks. Pines Beach in particular is a strong base for action, with sand once blessed by Liza Minelli, Alan Cumming and Calvin Klein. It’s here where anything goes, whether it’s streaking into the sea, enabling your Grindr GPS at the Pavilion, or go-go dancing at the Sip n Twirl.

Where to stay on Fire Island

For visitors to Pines Beach on Fire Island, The Madison Fire Island Pines offers a chic, upscale retreat just steps from the island’s iconic gay scene. This stylish guesthouse blends boutique charm with modern luxury, featuring sophisticated décor and a rooftop deck with sweeping views of the ocean. The Madison is perfectly situated to give you quick access to both the beach and the vibrant nightlife for which Fire Island Pines is known.

The Madison Fire Island Pines

The Madison Fire Island Pines

8. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, USA

Move over Provincetown because there’s a new contender for the Atlantic Coast’s top LGBT beach, located in the friendly state of Delaware on a peninsula east of Washington DC. Here you’ll find gay Rehoboth Beach, a windswept coastal town filled with over 200 gay owned and operated businesses, tax-free shopping and pretty stretches of beach in walking distance from town. Meaning ‘a place for all’, Rehoboth is one for the community as well as President Joe Biden who has a summer beach house based on the North Shore. Though Biden may mingle in different circles, find the male gay community on the sand near Queen Street to the south end of the boardwalk, on an area known as Poodle Beach, while North Shore Beach within Cape Henlopen State Park is one for the lesbians.

Photo: StockSnap

9. Ginger Rogers Beach, Los Angeles, USA

Ticking off our list of the 10 best gay things to do in Los Angeles you’ll soon take the plunge into Los Angeles gay beach scene, starting and ending on Ginger Rogers Beach if you know what’s good for you. Otherwise known as Will Rogers State Beach and the only gay beach in Los Angeles City proper, here you’ll find the sunny stomping ground of the West Hollywood gay crowd, at its most lively on the weekend. Take the Santa Monica Blue Bus 9 to Santa Monica State Beach, following the vast stretch of palm-edged shorefront towards Lifeguard Tower 18 where the gay crowd congregates. For a stylish entrance, bike here and cut across the beach on its designated bike paths.

Where to stay in Santa Monica

For a luxurious stay near Ginger Rogers Beach, Shutters On The Beach is the ultimate in seaside elegance. With its Cape Cod-inspired design and prime location right on Santa Monica Beach, this hotel offers easy access to the best of Southern California’s coastal charm. Just next door, Casa Del Mar blends old-world glamour with modern luxury, offering ocean views and a chic, contemporary vibe. For travellers seeking a more modern twist on luxury, Santa Monica Proper Hotel stands out for its striking architecture and wellness-focused offerings, including a rooftop pool with panoramic views. All three hotels provide excellent proximity to Ginger Rogers Beach and the Santa Monica gay scene.

Santa Monica Proper Hotel

Santa Monica Proper Hotel

10. Sebastian Street Beach, Fort Lauderdale, USA

Lastly, there’s Sebastian Street Beach, the most popular gay beach in the already super gay city of Fort Lauderdale. Found off of Sebastian Street near the Ritz Carlton, this gay beach comes lined by gay hotels and resorts from Sunrise Boulevard all the way to Las Olas. As well as indulging in Happy Hour cocktails with cute local men along the shorefront, consider taking the short cab ride to Wilton Manor, later on, to get in amongst Fort Lauderdale’s most happening gaybourhood. One of the most gay friendly beach towns in the US, we of course had to create the dedicated Fort Lauderdale travel guide.

Photo: Justin Snyder

Where to stay in Fort Lauderdale

Just steps from Sebastian Street Beach, Fort Lauderdale’s premier gay beach, Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale offers contemporary luxury with breathtaking ocean views, a full-service spa, and elegant design throughout. For those seeking a more classic luxury experience, The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale provides timeless sophistication, with spacious rooms and private balconies overlooking the Atlantic. Both properties are perfectly located for those wanting to experience the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, fine dining, and beachside relaxation that Fort Lauderdale is renowned for.

Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale

Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale

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