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The top 10 destinations to discover gay Mexico: from gay Acapulco to gay Puerto Vallarta

Mexico, drenched in the warm hues of terracotta and rich with bold Aztec influences, is a feast for the senses. With sun-drenched coastlines perfect for snorkelling in the Caribbean, and awe-inspiring Mayan ruins hidden deep in the jungle, Mexico offers a perfect blend of history and modernity. From the spicy aromas of street food in colonial towns to the grandeur of its towering cathedrals, Mexico’s blend of Catholic tradition and contemporary progress makes it a unique destination for the modern gay traveller. Notably, the capital Mexico City led the way in LGBTQ+ rights by legalising gay marriage in 2010 and continues to host the largest Pride parade in Latin America. However, gay travellers will find just as much allure in other dynamic cities and coastal havens, where liberal attitudes, vibrant nightlife, and welcoming atmospheres make for memorable getaways. Join us as we visit ten of the top destinations for luxury-loving gay travellers in Mexico, from the chic, sun-soaked beaches of Cancun and Playa del Carmen to the cultural treasures of Oaxaca and Mérida. Discover the cosmopolitan delights of Monterrey and Guadalajara, and experience the artistic charm of San Miguel de Allende. Whether you’re looking for a bustling gay scene in Puerto Vallarta, or the refined relaxation of boutique hotels in Mexico City, this guide offers the best places to stay in each destination. Mexico’s diversity ensures that there’s something for every traveller, whether you crave adventure, culture, or sophisticated indulgence. So, pack your bags and get ready to uncover the very best of gay Mexico.

Tailor Made Journey

Tailor-Made Mexico: The Essence of Mesoamerica

Experience the rich history, culture and gastronomy of Mexico at their most authentic, and marvel at architectural wonders such as Teotihuacán, which you take in by hot air balloon. Explore the UNESCO-designated floating gardens of Xochimilco as well on a journey that features private workshops in Puebla and with the celebrated Alebrije community in Oaxaca.

Rosewood San Miguel de Allende

Photo: David Emrich

1. Acapulco

Nicknamed “the pearl of the Pacific”, Acapulco entices visitors to the Pacific coast with its glittering sand shores and turquoise seas. Both charming and enigmatic, Acapulco by day allows visitors to bound between beach and restaurant, pausing to appreciate divine local cuisine and juicy beverages. Try Playa Condesa for a good gay company and skinny-dipping opportunities. By night, after romantic sunsets and an optional nap, Acapulco becomes one of the foremost party cities in Mexico proffering affordable, all-night partying amongst an excitable global crowd.

The gay population in Acapulco has been well established since Elizabeth Taylor and countless Hollywood celebrities made a home here in the mid-20th century. After years of quietude, the town has seen a recent resurgence of its gay scene and LGBTQ-centred businesses helping to lure ex-pats, local youngsters and international jet setters looking to retire in Mexico. In a lucha libre chokehold with Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco competes for the title of most happening Mexico gay scene. Gay-run hotels, bars and clubs are in good supply, presenting Las Vegas style drag shows alongside lavish techno club nights and beachside pop disco. Depending on your budget, stay within the old town of ‘Tradicional’ or ‘Nautica’ where mid-tier hotels overlook the boardwalk and town square, or, for a more high-end retreat, go south side for luxury lodgings a short taxi ride from town.

Photo: Christian Lambert

Where to stay in Acapulco

Las Brisas Acapulco offers a romantic retreat high above Acapulco Bay, where privacy and luxury combine for an idyllic stay. This iconic pink-hued resort is famed for its chic 1950s glamour, offering individual casitas with private pools, perfect for unwinding after a day exploring Acapulco’s gay-friendly beaches or vibrant nightlife. Las Brisas’ breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean set the scene for indulgent relaxation, while the resort’s location places you close to Acapulco’s lively gay bars and clubs. For those seeking a bit of adventure, the nearby La Quebrada cliffs provide an adrenaline-pumping experience as divers leap from dizzying heights into the sea below.

Las Brisas Acapulco

Las Brisas Acapulco

2. Cancun

The vacation destination of many a spring breaker, Cancun offers much more than beach volleyball competitions with college kids and all-inclusive cocktails… although there’s no shortage of that too. Located on the northeast coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, Cancun benefits from spectacular weather and calm seas which lap the region’s endless stretch of white sand coast. Such beauty means that Cancun sees as many as six million visitors each year, with much of the coast privatised by countless resorts and complexes in the ‘Hotel Zone’. Fret not however because Cancun’s resorts cater to all types of traveller, ranging from smaller family-run properties to all-inclusive luxury resorts complete with lazy rivers, spas, entertainment packages and more.

Inland, Cancun gets cultured; with the region’s preserved monuments and landmarks telling the story of ancient Mayan civilization. Chichén Itzá is the most well-known but other breath-taking spots include, Xel Ha, El Rey ruins and the Ek Balam pyramids. After a sweaty morning playing Indiana Jones, cool off in one of  Yucatán’s many natural pools made from limestone sinkholes. Discover the 10 most beautiful cenotes near Cancun for crystal clear cave snorkelling or opt for any other of the worthwhile things to do in Cancun. Take a tequila tour, bike tour or scuba adventure in Cozumel before winding down and watching over unbeatable sunsets at one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun.

If the question on your lips remains ‘where all the gay Mexicanos at?’ then try Playa Chac Mool and Playa Delfines, two of the top gay beaches located in a small community just outside the city centre. Away from the beaches, gay Cancun can be found within El Centro on both sides of the canal. While March sees Spring Break straightness, later in the season the Mexico gay scene takes over with the International Gay Festival in May and the Cancún Riviera Maya Gay Fall Festival in November.

Photo: Marcos Paulo Prado

Dos Ojos Cenote | Photo: Roberto Nickson

Where to stay in Cancun

At NIZUC Resort & Spa, understated luxury meets stunning natural beauty. Located in Punta Nizuc, just outside Cancun’s main hotel zone, the resort boasts sleek, modern design alongside a private beach, offering seclusion and serenity. A haven for sophisticated gay travellers, NIZUC is perfect for indulging in luxurious spa treatments or enjoying exquisite dining. Meanwhile, Atelier Playa Mujeres offers an all-inclusive, adults-only experience where art and modern luxury intertwine. Situated along a pristine stretch of beach, Atelier’s minimalist architecture and personalised service provide the ideal setting for relaxation. For those who want to be in the heart of the action, Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun offers an upscale, adults-only experience right on the Hotel Zone’s bustling strip. Its vibrant atmosphere, luxurious amenities, and proximity to Cancun’s gay bars and restaurants make it a perfect choice for travellers looking to mix luxury with the local scene.

NIZUC Resort and Spa Cancun

NIZUC Resort & Spa

3. Playa del Carmen

Drive south along that phenomenal section of coast south of Cancún and you’ll eventually come across Quintana Roo’s, Playa del Carmen, a place known by the global gay community as one of the world’s greatest LGBT+ travel destinations. While you may have thought Mexico’s beaches couldn’t get any better, the lack of Cancún’s crowds and the wind protection from Cozumel island mean that the Playa del Carmen wins out. A coastal resort on the Riviera Maya strip, gay Playa del Carmen Mexico offers a cheerful LGBT community in town, with queer fun spilling outward to its three main gay beaches. First is Mamitas Beach on the north side of Mamita’s Beach Club, then there’s Coco Beach for exceptional swimming, and finally, the cruise-happy Xangrila Beach along the Camino a Playas X-angrila 112 road, best visited early evening for more private liaisons.

Head back into town for more gay Mexican entertainment, where both gay and non-gay hotspots can provide the perfect setting to meet people. Try mingling along the 5th Avenue walking street where travellers and locals alike socialise and let loose come sundown. Want more? See our article on things to do in Riviera Maya.

Where to stay in Playa del Carmen

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel offers an exclusive retreat nestled between lush jungle and turquoise waters. This boutique hotel’s luxurious beachfront bungalows exude Mayan charm, with earthy tones and natural materials that seamlessly blend with the surrounding landscape. Close to Playa del Carmen’s lively Quinta Avenida, it offers the perfect balance of privacy and proximity to the vibrant nightlife. Meanwhile, Chablé Maroma offers a more contemporary, wellness-focused retreat, where relaxation and rejuvenation take centre stage. With its sleek design and focus on sustainability, it’s ideal for eco-conscious gay travellers. Finally, Hotel Esencia combines understated luxury with a bohemian chic vibe. Set on a secluded beach, this former private estate is perfect for those who crave both privacy and the chance to explore the surrounding cultural landmarks and local designer boutiques.

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel

Photo: Kandhal Keshvala

4. Mérida 

The oft-overlooked capital of Yucatán is Mérida City, opposite Cancun on the northwest coast. A Spanish colonial city bursting with authenticity and historic interest, Mérida is a fine alternative to the Hotel Zone of Cancun and is said to be the oldest inhabited city in all of North, South and Central America. The city is also proudly populated by 60 per cent indigenous Mayans and considered one of the safest and cleanest cities in the region. Different from other gay Mexico resort towns, Mérida is rather more isolated and on arrival, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back into a time when Spanish conquistadors met with Mayan civilization. Mayan language, culture and ritual remain preserved in the city, with modern Mérida embracing traditional art, cuisine and awareness of indigenous issues. Cheaper and with a higher standard of living than anywhere else in the region, ‘The White City’ blends authenticity and luxury to create a dream getaway that will take you from Mayan ruins to heritage spots with the added option of a gay cruise around northern Yucatán’s outstanding coastline.

As for the gay bars Merida Mexico has in store, most are located in ‘Centro’ on Calle 60, but it’s easy to meet like-minded people in the many cantinas, restaurants and straight bars around town. Outside of Gay Merida, you’ll find acceptance and friendly tour operators to help ensure your time is memorable for all the right reasons.

Photo: Dayana Brooke

Photo: Anastase Maragos

Where to stay in Mérida

For an immersion in Yucatán’s cultural heritage, Chablé Yucatán offers an unparalleled luxury experience within a restored hacienda. Located just outside Mérida, the hotel features sprawling grounds and modern villas, each with its own private pool. Its world-class spa is a perfect haven after exploring the nearby Mayan ruins. For those looking to stay closer to the city, Hacienda Xcanatun, Angsana Heritage Collection merges colonial elegance with contemporary comforts in a beautifully restored 18th-century hacienda. Closer still to Mérida’s historical centre is Diez Diez Collection, an intimate boutique hotel with cutting-edge design that appeals to the modern traveller. With its sleek interiors and proximity to Mérida’s gay-friendly bars and art galleries, it’s the ideal spot for a sophisticated urban retreat.

Chable Yucatan Merida

Chablé Yucatan Merida

5. Mexico City

A dynamic megacity boasting world-class museums, luxury hotels and wild nightlife, Mexico City grants good times all around. While Mexico City lies inland, it more than makes up for its lack of beaches by offering an array of cultural sights, from pre-hispanic pyramids to Frida Kahlo’s old residence. Revel in the contrast between the city’s imperial architecture and its modern-day disarray, keeping your wits about you as you manoeuvre through the city’s infamous traffic, staying aware of air pollution and petty thieves. Loosen up a little however and you’ll soon find yourself tempted by the thronging food stalls of Mercado Roma to fill up before visiting cultural institutions such as the grand Palacio de Bellas Artes or the futuristic Museo Soumaya. If a slow day beckons, take in the local talent and impressive architecture in the chic neighbourhoods of Roma and Condesa, enjoying the vibe in the area’s lively cafés and parks.

After a full day of the finer things, night time has us grinding hot and sweaty in one of the many gay bars Mexico City has on offer, most likely located in the famed Zona Rosa or Polanco neighbourhoods, two key meeting points for the local and international LGBTQ community. Based in Colonia Juaréz, the Pink Zone just happens to be in the centre of the city’s hippest district, an area where new restaurants and boutiques seem to be popping up daily. The historic hotels in the area, such as Hotel Geneve, are also happily affordable. The annual Mexico City Pride – the largest of its kind in the whole of Latin America – takes place in March, but it is winter that sees Mexico City’s festival season begin in earnest, with parties and parades taking over the streets. Check out our full Mexico City travel guide or make a beeline for the best gay bars in Mexico City to get the lowdown from the locals.

Photo: Emir Saldierna

Photo: Tania Calderon

Where to stay in Mexico City

Set in the heart of Mexico City’s most upscale neighbourhood, The Ritz-Carlton Mexico City offers breathtaking views of Chapultepec Park and an elegant blend of modern luxury and traditional Mexican craftsmanship. With its proximity to the city’s best museums, parks, and the vibrant gay nightlife of Zona Rosa, it’s an ideal base for exploring. Casa Polanco Hotel Boutique provides a more intimate setting, housed in a beautifully restored mansion. This chic property combines old-world charm with contemporary luxury, offering travellers a stylish retreat in the leafy Polanco district. For those seeking a high-end yet welcoming atmosphere, Las Alcobas, A Luxury Collection Hotel offers sophisticated design and personalised service just steps from some of the city’s best restaurants and shopping destinations.

Casa Polanco Hotel Boutique Mexico City

Casa Polanco Hotel Boutique

Mr. Hudson highlight image

The annual March for Sexual and Gender Diversity is at the centre of Oaxaca’s LGBT+ offerings, a parade which raises awareness of issues facing the city’s pre-Hispanic gender fluid (‘muxe’) population

6. Oaxaca 

While Mexico City might filch Oaxaca’s fair share of visitors, this southern city rewards those who make it here with impressive Spanish colonial architecture, famous cuisine and a leisurely atmosphere. The annual March for Sexual and Gender Diversity is at the centre of Oaxaca’s LGBT+ offerings, a parade which raises awareness of issues facing the city’s pre-Hispanic gender fluid (‘muxe’) population, as recognised in Zapotec cultures for centuries and surprisingly normalised by the local Catholic church. Oaxaca Pride in March brings another chance to parade in good company, although, thanks to the city’s relative size, you’ll find it to be rather more low key than Mexico City’s offering.

Nevertheless, gay Oaxaca is slowly gaining renown among queer travellers looking for more intimate nightlife and cultural experiences. Expect plenty of gay clubs and bars, interspersed with day trips exploring the city’s ancient Mayan ruins, churches, and preserved town centre. Try the local Mezcal anywhere in the city, foregoing that second round to browse the myriad art galleries and museums in the area north of Zócalo Square. If a beach trip is needed, Oaxaca state can provide. Travel south until you meet the sea, opting for the pot-friendly gay beach of Playa Zipolite between Puerto Escondido and Huatulco resort (which has its own selection of gay beach areas). Alternatively, feel the breeze come off the North Pacific as you drive the length of the coastline, passing through multiple climate zones over several hours before reaching Acapulco in the west (8 hours) or the queer and trans-inclusive indigenous town of Juchitán de Zaragoza in the east (4 hours).

Read up on the many wonders of Oaxaca (pronounced wah-hah-Kah, FYI) with our dedicated Oaxaca travel guide.

Photo: Lorraine Mojica

Where to stay in Oaxaca

For an intimate experience in the heart of Oaxaca, Hotel Escondido Oaxaca offers a perfect mix of traditional Oaxacan architecture and contemporary design. The stylish boutique hotel is a peaceful oasis just minutes from the vibrant gay-friendly bars, art galleries, and local markets of downtown Oaxaca. Alternatively, Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca provides a more polished and spacious setting, ideal for those who want to explore Oaxaca’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying modern luxuries.

Hotel Escondido Oaxaca

Hotel Escondido Oaxaca

Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca

Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca

7. Guadalajara

Promisingly nicknamed the ‘San Francisco of Mexico’ Guadalajara offers something that other cities in Mexico can’t. Out, proud and up for a party, gay Guadalajara balances its hedonism with a fair amount of historic beauty and a dash of urban grit. Its countless cobblestone plazas stand as centres to both modern design and tradition. It’s only come nightfall when Guadalajara reveals its true gay self and gay Mexicans come out of the closet to party in the city’s historic centre, also known as the ‘gay ghetto’ or ‘Zona Rosa’, where parties overflow into the streets and drag queens and go-go boys dance to pop hits on improvised platforms. Alternative gay nightlife lies in upscale suburbs around the city, but it is smart to stay wary when passing through quiet streets late at night, wherever you choose to go.

Visit in February to get involved with Guadalajara’s month-long carnival to mark the start of Lent. At all other times, while away time wandering the old district for high-end coffee houses and delectable street food, taking a day trip to nearby gay beach paradise Puerto Vallarta. If you have more time, discover more of the top things to do in gay Guadalajara.

Where to stay in Guadalajara

Located in the upscale Andares district, Hyatt Regency Andares Guadalajara provides luxurious accommodations in the city’s most fashionable shopping and dining area, making it perfect for those who love to explore Guadalajara’s sophisticated scene. For a more intimate stay, Casa Habita in the trendy Americana neighbourhood offers a boutique experience with a cool, minimalist design aesthetic. Close to the city’s gay bars and nightclubs, it’s ideal for travellers wanting to mix urban exploration with chic comfort. For unparalleled luxury, JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara offers a blend of contemporary elegance and traditional Mexican warmth, right in the heart of the city.

JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara

JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara

8. San Miguel de Allende

Heading next to central Mexico, 300 kilometres north of Mexico City to be precise, we come to UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Miguel de Allende, a charming neo-gothic town where everyone’s an artist. Inspired by the year-round sunshine, beautiful surroundings and the friendly ambience, the locals ply their paintings from stucco houses along hilly cobblestone streets, revelling in the newfound popularity of their small city. Come to San Miguel de Allende to see Mexico at its most serene, where ex-pats and travellers enjoy long-term stays while undertaking Spanish immersion language courses and culinary classes in utmost affordability. Choose between a short hotel stay or a long-term vacation casita, taking trips into Mexico City (3.5 hours by bus) whenever a big party beckons.

In a region known for its colonial silver-mining history, San Miguel de Allende is a perfectly preserved example of old Mexico, set apart from the drug violence that has marred much of the country, elevated by 6,500 feet overlooking the tranquil Laja River. A walkable city with summer temperatures of between 20-27 degrees Celsius, gay San Miguel de Allende is a delight much of the year, despite high rainfall from June to September. Fill your days moseying the quaint streets and touring the hippest bars with our San Miguel de Allende travel guide as your trusty companion.

Rosewood San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende | Photo: Rosewood

Where to stay in San Miguel de Allende

Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel combines colonial elegance with modern comfort. Nestled in the heart of San Miguel de Allende, this charming hotel provides a luxurious retreat amid the town’s historic cobbled streets and vibrant art galleries. For a more contemporary stay, NUMU Boutique Hotel offers sleek design and personalised service, perfectly complementing San Miguel’s bohemian atmosphere. Meanwhile, Hotel Matilda presents a sophisticated, art-forward experience, blending modern aesthetics with traditional Mexican elements, making it a favourite among luxury travellers.

Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel, San Miguel de Allende

Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel

Hotel Matilda San Miguel de Allende

Hotel Matilda

9. Monterrey

As Mexico’s third-largest city, home to the nation’s most macho and conservative cultures, Monterrey is often passed over for larger and more liberal climes. But that would be to miss out on the city’s uber-modern architecture and high living standards where a burgeoning gay scene helps push progressive attitudes, in annual events such as the Monterrey Pride Festival and the LGBT-friendly Monterrey International Film Festival. While flying largely under the radar by day, by night gay Monterrey lights up, bringing a rainbow of colour to Monterrey’s streets.

While public displays of affection between same-sex couples may garner confusion or curiosity and drug violence is still an issue in less-developed areas, Monterrey is generally a safe place to be if you pack your common sense. Spend your days sightseeing across the historic city centre, starting at the Macroplaza and surrounding museums and galleries, before sampling divine food and drink atop the city’s luxury sky bars. When night falls, hunt down the city’s surprising number of gay bars and clubs. When home time comes calling, stay safe on Monterrey’s streets by getting a ride share back to your hotel.

Where to stay in Monterrey

In the dynamic city of Monterrey, JW Marriott Hotel Monterrey Valle offers sophisticated comfort and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, all within the city’s upscale business district. Meanwhile, Live Aqua Monterrey provides an immersive sensory experience, with sleek design and proximity to Monterrey’s best shopping and dining options while Grand Fiesta Americana Monterrey next door serves up contemporary elegance.

JW Marriott Hotel Monterrey Valle

JW Marriott Hotel Monterrey Valle

Mr. Hudson highlight image

Winter sees Puerto Vallarta at its busiest when top drag performers from Provincetown escape the chill of the US and descend on the city’s myriad gay-run venues, bars and clubs

10. Puerto Vallarta

Last but not least we’ve got Puerto Vallarta, the lovable gay haven on Bahía de Banderas bay boasting beaches, fine dining and diverse nightlife, all backgrounded by the verdant Sierra Madre mountains. The once-secret vacation spot of Elizabeth Taylor and her illicit lover, Puerto Vallarta now stands as a gay mecca for LGBTQ travellers the world over. If a romantic affair is what you’re after, this beach city can provide. Go from boutique-browsing to world-class dining in and around the walkable town centre, slowing down to revel in peachy sunsets along the lengthy malecón (promenade).

Gay Puerto Vallarta came of age sometime in the 90s when Club Paco Paco opened its doors and gorgeous young gays showed up in droves to top up their tans. Today the entire city is certified gay-friendly with the gay village growing outwards every day. Take your pick of big and beautiful gay clubs, cocktail lounges, gay hotels and spas all within the historic Zona Romantico among your global queer family. Winter sees Vallarta at its busiest when top drag performers from Provincetown escape the chill of the US and descend on the city’s myriad gay-run venues, bars and clubs. Opt for a gay cruise, gay bingo or drag show, with interludes of horseback riding, jungle trekking and hot spring dipping.

We here at Mr Hudson have a lot of love for Puerto Vallarta, the crown jewel of Mexico’s coast (in our humble opinion!). Join us as we drool over the best Puerto Vallarta day trips, checking off our list of the top things to do in Puerto Vallarta and taking our advice on where to stay with our article on top Puerto Vallarta gay hotels.

Photo: Pascal Van De Vendel

Photo: Roberto Nickson

Where to stay on the Riviera Nayarit

Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit offers an opulent all-inclusive experience on the stunning Riviera Nayarit. With its expansive suites, world-class spa, and proximity to the vibrant gay nightlife of Puerto Vallarta, it’s a favourite for those seeking both relaxation and excitement. For a more secluded and exclusive stay, One&Only Mandarina offers ultra-luxurious villas nestled in lush jungle with private plunge pools and breathtaking views. Perfect for travellers looking to unwind in style, it’s an oasis of tranquility close enough to Puerto Vallarta’s gay scene, yet far enough to feel worlds apart.

One&Only Mandarina

One&Only Mandarina

Want to simplify luxury travel planning?

Whether you want a resort vacation, wildlife safari, city break, luxury cruise, wellness retreat, honeymoon, once-in-a-lifetime adventure or weekend escape, the trip curation experts at Mr Hudson make travel planning a breeze. Find out how we can handle the finer details of vacationing in style.

Photo: Douglas Sanchez

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