Tips for LGBT Travelers

Planning a trip can be a daunting task, but for a gay traveler, it can be even more difficult. There are limited resources for the LGBT community , so Travel Channel has put together a quick list of gay travel guides, websites and other resources to help you plan your next gay vacation.

Gay and Lesbian Travel Guides

Tips for LGBT Travelers

Inti St Clair / Getty Images

When planning a trip, some travelers enjoy the flexibility of having a travel guide on-hand to highlight important travel tips and must-see sights. Damron and Spartacus travel guides are our picks for top gay travel resources; both are chock-full of gay-owned or gay-friendly destinations, accommodations, restaurants, bars and more.

Damron , a popular travel source since 1964, publishes the Men's Travel Guide and Women's Traveller each year. Damron lists thousands of gay-friendly businesses in the US, Canada, Costa Rica, the Caribbean, South America, Europe and Asia. Accommodations, bars, bookstores, gyms and a calendar of events are just some of the info you’ll find inside these guides. Damron also has a travel app. Gay Scout by Damron is available for travelers who enjoy sightseeing and exploring without carrying extra weight.

The Spartacus International Gay Guide is another annual travel guide for planning your gay getaway. Spartacus, much like Damron, also has other guides that travelers can purchase, including the International Hotel & Restaurant Guide . This comprehensive international travel guide is sometimes difficult to find at US bookstores because it’s published by a German company.

Even though we suggest LGBT travelers check Damron and Spartacus travel guides and their websites, we also suggest looking at more familiar brands, such as Frommer's , Shermans Travel and Lonely Planet . These travel guides offer great general information, but in most cases, also provide insightful travel tips for “friends of Dorothy.” So you really can’t go wrong with picking up a mainstream travel guide.


LGBT Online Travel Sites

Tips for LGBT Travelers

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In addition to travel guides in print, online travel websites can reduce the stress of planning a trip. Out Traveler covers the pulse of LGBT travel, including hot trends, topics and destinations. The website provides travelers with city guides and vacation packages.

IGLTA, the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association , is another great resource to find LGBT businesses and destinations. This site provides the best locations and packages for individual, group, corporate and student travel. It has dozens of links to hotels, cities, countries, travel agents and tour operators around the world. IGLTA publishes its annual member directory, a listing of businesses around the world. All businesses are listed in alphabetical order by country for ease of use.

Another useful travel aid is Passport Magazine , available in print and on the interwebs. This magazine covers all the regular gay travel faire with a keen focus on business travel, and international destinations and events. Yes, there is a Passport Magazine app, but it’s only useful if you’re looking for aspiration, or if you want to check out the magazine on your iPhone or iPad. Passport is a great travel resource with in-depth articles about exotic destinations, travel gear and much more.

In addition to Passport Magazine, GayCities is a popular website to check out for gay travel information. Plan your next getaway using more than 200 extensive city guides, a LGBT events calendar and other unique features. Register to become part of the GayCities community and connect with other travelers. Ask questions and get real answers from locals or travelers in the know. For the tech savvy, check out the nifty GayCities app.

Gay-ville may not have a mobile app yet, but it’s a great website to get tips from locals, pick up the local lingo and find low-cost accommodations in a few gay-friendly destinations around the world, including Rio de Janeiro, Mykonos, Berlin and Sydney. Don’t be startled, but this website appears to be more popular among gay travelers in Europe. However, we’re sure you’ll be able to glean some helpful information, especially if you’re into couch surfing and crashing in a host family’s spare bedroom.

More LGBT Travel Ideas

Sydney

Sydney

Sydney has 6 gay-friendly beaches that have become popular LGBT destinations, including North Bondi Beach, Bronte Beach and Tamarama Beach. Obelisk Beach and Lady Jane Beach are popular, secluded spots for nude sunbathers. Water taxis are provided as transportation to Obelisk Beach, and during the summer, expect frequent visits from one of the famous Sydney Harbor Ice Cream Boats to help keep things cool. 960 1280

Sydney has 6 gay-friendly beaches that have become popular LGBT destinations, including North Bondi Beach, Bronte Beach and Tamarama Beach. Obelisk Beach and Lady Jane Beach are popular, secluded spots for nude sunbathers. Water taxis are provided as transportation to Obelisk Beach, and during the summer, expect frequent visits from one of the famous Sydney Harbor Ice Cream Boats to help keep things cool.

Andrew Watson/Lonely Planet Images/Getty Images

Cancun

Cancun

Cancun is a hot beach destination for spring breakers, but it’s also the location of a popular gay beach, Playa Delfines. The water is generally treacherous to swim in, but the white sand is perfect for sunning, and the view is incredible. This beach is also popular for surfing and a great place to take surfing lessons. Gay couples and singles enjoy Playa Delfines, and it has become known unofficially as the gay beach in Cancun. 960 1280

Cancun is a hot beach destination for spring breakers, but it’s also the location of a popular gay beach, Playa Delfines. The water is generally treacherous to swim in, but the white sand is perfect for sunning, and the view is incredible. This beach is also popular for surfing and a great place to take surfing lessons. Gay couples and singles enjoy Playa Delfines, and it has become known unofficially as the gay beach in Cancun.

Veronica Garbutt/Lonely Planet Images/Getty Images

Maui

Maui

We’d be remiss if we didn’t have at least one Hawaiian beach on our list. Gay and lesbians converge on “Little Beach” in Makena State Park, located about 1 mile past the Maui Prince Hotel. This beach is so secluded that you have to hike up and over a lava-flow trail to get to it, but it won’t be hard to miss. 960 1280

We’d be remiss if we didn’t have at least one Hawaiian beach on our list. Gay and lesbians converge on “Little Beach” in Makena State Park, located about 1 mile past the Maui Prince Hotel. This beach is so secluded that you have to hike up and over a lava-flow trail to get to it, but it won’t be hard to miss.

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Fire Island, New York

Fire Island, New York

Head to Fire Island’s Pines Beach if you’re looking for a fun party beach with gay-friendly shopping, hotels, vacation rentals and a vibrant nightlife. Nudity is allowed on the shore. The island plays host to several LGBT events, including the multicultural Fire Island Black Out in Cherry Grove. 960 1280

Head to Fire Island’s Pines Beach if you’re looking for a fun party beach with gay-friendly shopping, hotels, vacation rentals and a vibrant nightlife. Nudity is allowed on the shore. The island plays host to several LGBT events, including the multicultural Fire Island Black Out in Cherry Grove.

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Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv is famous for its never-ending beach line. Nearly 9 miles of blue sea, open horizon, sun and lots of people make it the perfect beach destination. The city has a few gay-friendly beaches, including Ga’ash nude beach, a popular gay beach outside Tel Aviv. Visit Hilton Beach if nude sunbathing isn’t your thing. It’s a little strip beach located near the Hilton Hotel. 960 1280

Tel Aviv is famous for its never-ending beach line. Nearly 9 miles of blue sea, open horizon, sun and lots of people make it the perfect beach destination. The city has a few gay-friendly beaches, including Ga’ash nude beach, a popular gay beach outside Tel Aviv. Visit Hilton Beach if nude sunbathing isn’t your thing. It’s a little strip beach located near the Hilton Hotel.

Niv Singer, Flickr

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Known as the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is where the boys are. Sebastian Street Gay Beach, located near most of the gay resorts, is one of the most popular beach destinations for gay tourists. Along with dozens of gay-friendly shops along the beach, the city also thrives with fun gay bars and restaurants, such as Hamburger Mary’s, a great place to start or end the night. 960 1280

Known as the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is where the boys are. Sebastian Street Gay Beach, located near most of the gay resorts, is one of the most popular beach destinations for gay tourists. Along with dozens of gay-friendly shops along the beach, the city also thrives with fun gay bars and restaurants, such as Hamburger Mary’s, a great place to start or end the night.

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Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver has a couple beaches that attract a LGBT crowd. English Bay Beach (pictured) is located on the city’s West End, close to the Davie Street Gay Village. Sunset Beach and Wreck Beach are 2 alternate beach options. However, a little hike is required to reach secluded Wreck Beach, where nudity is permitted. Take the path marked Trail No. 7 to get there. Gay and lesbian couples and singles converge on the area south of the North Arm Breakwater. 960 1280

Vancouver has a couple beaches that attract a LGBT crowd. English Bay Beach (pictured) is located on the city’s West End, close to the Davie Street Gay Village. Sunset Beach and Wreck Beach are 2 alternate beach options. However, a little hike is required to reach secluded Wreck Beach, where nudity is permitted. Take the path marked Trail No. 7 to get there. Gay and lesbian couples and singles converge on the area south of the North Arm Breakwater.

Kenny Louie, Flickr

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Eco-friendly Costa Rica has long been a vacation spot for outdoor enthusiasts, but it also has a popular gay beach, Manuel Antonio’s Playita Beach. La Playita, aka Playa Dulce Vida, is a semiprivate beach, accessible by climbing over large rocks north of Playa Espadilla. Just don’t get trapped during high tide. And just so you know, there’s no nude sunbathing in Costa Rica. After having some fun in the sun, grab a drink at Bar Tutu or the Liquid Lounge. By the way, there are gay-friendly vacation rentals and hotels available in the area. 960 1280

Eco-friendly Costa Rica has long been a vacation spot for outdoor enthusiasts, but it also has a popular gay beach, Manuel Antonio’s Playita Beach. La Playita, aka Playa Dulce Vida, is a semiprivate beach, accessible by climbing over large rocks north of Playa Espadilla. Just don’t get trapped during high tide. And just so you know, there’s no nude sunbathing in Costa Rica. After having some fun in the sun, grab a drink at Bar Tutu or the Liquid Lounge. By the way, there are gay-friendly vacation rentals and hotels available in the area.

Guiziou Franck/hemis.fr/Getty Images

Miami Beach

Miami Beach

South Beach, or SoBe, conjures up images of sunny days at the beach, a continuous flow of sexy men and women, high-end shopping on Lincoln Road, fine dining on Ocean Drive and nonstop nights of partying at popular gay bars and clubs, including Twist, Score, Palace and Mova. Every year, SoBe plays host to the world-renowned White Party in November and, in March, the Winter Party, the biggest gay beach party in North America. Check out Miami’s Haulover Beach if you’re looking for a nude beach. 960 1280

South Beach, or SoBe, conjures up images of sunny days at the beach, a continuous flow of sexy men and women, high-end shopping on Lincoln Road, fine dining on Ocean Drive and nonstop nights of partying at popular gay bars and clubs, including Twist, Score, Palace and Mova. Every year, SoBe plays host to the world-renowned White Party in November and, in March, the Winter Party, the biggest gay beach party in North America. Check out Miami’s Haulover Beach if you’re looking for a nude beach.

iStockphoto.com/Anna Bryukhanova

Brighton, East Sussex, England

Brighton, East Sussex, England

Brighton is the UK’s gay capital. The town’s seafront has bars, restaurants, nightclubs and amusement arcades between the piers. Brighton Beach has a nudist area, south of the easterly part of Kemptown, aka the “gay village.” West Beach, Telscombe Cliffs, Duke’s Mound and Shoreham are a few hot beach spots. Visit Brighton and find out why the bohemian atmosphere of this beach town has led to the largest LGBT crowds in the UK. 960 1280

Brighton is the UK’s gay capital. The town’s seafront has bars, restaurants, nightclubs and amusement arcades between the piers. Brighton Beach has a nudist area, south of the easterly part of Kemptown, aka the “gay village.” West Beach, Telscombe Cliffs, Duke’s Mound and Shoreham are a few hot beach spots. Visit Brighton and find out why the bohemian atmosphere of this beach town has led to the largest LGBT crowds in the UK.

iStockphoto.com/DagDurrichPhotography

Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza, Spain

Straight or gay, everyone knows about the small island of Ibiza’s reputation as a party haven, but it’s also known for its beaches, each with its own distinctive beauty. Figueretes, the town beach, is for sunbathers who enjoy a low-key crowd and calm sea. Es Cavallet, located on the southern side of the island, is the main gay beach, where nudity is welcomed. Visit Cala Conta for stunning sunset views. Port Des Torrent is perfect for gay couples, and Ses Salinas is known for its diverse crowd and great beach bars. 960 1280

Straight or gay, everyone knows about the small island of Ibiza’s reputation as a party haven, but it’s also known for its beaches, each with its own distinctive beauty. Figueretes, the town beach, is for sunbathers who enjoy a low-key crowd and calm sea. Es Cavallet, located on the southern side of the island, is the main gay beach, where nudity is welcomed. Visit Cala Conta for stunning sunset views. Port Des Torrent is perfect for gay couples, and Ses Salinas is known for its diverse crowd and great beach bars.

Getty

Provincetown, MA

Provincetown, MA

Provincetown, a gay and lesbian resort community at the tip of Cape Cod, ranks among the world’s great seaside vacation destinations. Along with hosting its annual Gay Pride celebration, P’town continues to improve with more upscale inns, fine art galleries and superb restaurants. Peak season for the New England town is usually July through August. Stay in the town’s West End, go for a fun bike ride and go sunbathing on Herring Cove Beach or Race Point Beach. 960 1280

Provincetown, a gay and lesbian resort community at the tip of Cape Cod, ranks among the world’s great seaside vacation destinations. Along with hosting its annual Gay Pride celebration, P’town continues to improve with more upscale inns, fine art galleries and superb restaurants. Peak season for the New England town is usually July through August. Stay in the town’s West End, go for a fun bike ride and go sunbathing on Herring Cove Beach or Race Point Beach.

Harvey Barrison, Flickr

Sitges, Spain

Sitges, Spain

Sitges’ Playa de la Bassa Rodona is increasingly becoming a straight beach, but it is packed with gay men during the peak season. This beach is located below the Picnic Restaurant and across from Hotel Calipolis. Nude sunbathers looking for more privacy should head to Playa del Muerto or Playa de las Balmins. Visit Barcelona's Barcelonetta Beach if you're looking for a quick day trip. Barcelona is only a 45-minute train ride away from Sitges. 960 1280

Sitges’ Playa de la Bassa Rodona is increasingly becoming a straight beach, but it is packed with gay men during the peak season. This beach is located below the Picnic Restaurant and across from Hotel Calipolis. Nude sunbathers looking for more privacy should head to Playa del Muerto or Playa de las Balmins. Visit Barcelona's Barcelonetta Beach if you're looking for a quick day trip. Barcelona is only a 45-minute train ride away from Sitges.

iStockphoto.com/MarcPo

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town, South Africa

Most people know about Cape Town's turbulent history, but few people know about Clifton, the small, affluent suburb located outside the city. There are 4 beaches, but the Clifton Third Beach has become the popular spot for gay sunbathers, primarily men. This paradise is a great spot to watch the sun set in the summer, but be mindful of the no-public-drinking policy. It's strictly monitored, so don't say you weren't warned. 960 1280

Most people know about Cape Town's turbulent history, but few people know about Clifton, the small, affluent suburb located outside the city. There are 4 beaches, but the Clifton Third Beach has become the popular spot for gay sunbathers, primarily men. This paradise is a great spot to watch the sun set in the summer, but be mindful of the no-public-drinking policy. It's strictly monitored, so don't say you weren't warned.

Doberman Collection/Universal Images Group/Getty Images

San Diego

San Diego

San Diego is a beach city, and Black’s Beach is the popular beach hangout for gay travelers. This is one of the oldest nude beaches in the US. The expansive beach has room for everyone, and even the dolphins and seals make an appearance offshore. Just a word of caution: The climb from the beach back up the cliffs is a tough hike. 960 1280

San Diego is a beach city, and Black’s Beach is the popular beach hangout for gay travelers. This is one of the oldest nude beaches in the US. The expansive beach has room for everyone, and even the dolphins and seals make an appearance offshore. Just a word of caution: The climb from the beach back up the cliffs is a tough hike.

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Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos has become a well-known spot for beach lovers and partygoers. The Greek island’s Elia Beach is probably one of the most gay-friendly stretches of sand in the Mediterranean. It’s a United Nations of gays from all over the world, basking in lounge chairs while sipping cocktails and gazing at the electric-blue waters. Just a word of caution: It may be wise to plan ahead. Taxis may be hard to come by, and buses and ferries stop at relatively early hours. 960 1280

Mykonos has become a well-known spot for beach lovers and partygoers. The Greek island’s Elia Beach is probably one of the most gay-friendly stretches of sand in the Mediterranean. It’s a United Nations of gays from all over the world, basking in lounge chairs while sipping cocktails and gazing at the electric-blue waters. Just a word of caution: It may be wise to plan ahead. Taxis may be hard to come by, and buses and ferries stop at relatively early hours.

Ingolf Pompe/LOOK/Getty Images

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro

We know all about the popularity of Copacabana Beach, but Ipanema Beach (pictured) is what’s really hot! Ipanema’s gay spot, Farme Gay Beach, is a little to the east of Rua Farme de Amoedo. It’s the best place to make friends with the locals outside of the bar and club scene. Party promoters often distribute fliers with discounts to gay parties and clubs. After the beach, head to the popular hangout Cafeína e Tô nem Aí for a beer or a snack. 960 1280

We know all about the popularity of Copacabana Beach, but Ipanema Beach (pictured) is what’s really hot! Ipanema’s gay spot, Farme Gay Beach, is a little to the east of Rua Farme de Amoedo. It’s the best place to make friends with the locals outside of the bar and club scene. Party promoters often distribute fliers with discounts to gay parties and clubs. After the beach, head to the popular hangout Cafeína e Tô nem Aí for a beer or a snack.

Mike Vondran, Flickr

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is already a hot spot for thousands of sunbathers, but the hot spot for the LGBT crowd is on the south end of Playa Los Muertos Beach. 960 1280

Puerto Vallarta is already a hot spot for thousands of sunbathers, but the hot spot for the LGBT crowd is on the south end of Playa Los Muertos Beach.

Thinkstock

Nice, France

Nice, France

This is not the typical gay destination in Europe, but it is slowly becoming a popular spot. Nice is now the second-most-visited city in France for gay tourists, after Paris, and with more than 35 gay outlets, we're sure there’s something for everyone. In addition the vibrant gay and lesbian club scene, this beach town has several museums, high-end shops and a famous flower market, and it plays host to the annual Pink Parade. Nice has a gay and gay-friendly beach, Coco Beach and Castel Plage, respectively. For adventurous sunbathers, there are 2 more gay beaches located outside the small French town. 960 1280

This is not the typical gay destination in Europe, but it is slowly becoming a popular spot. Nice is now the second-most-visited city in France for gay tourists, after Paris, and with more than 35 gay outlets, we're sure there’s something for everyone. In addition the vibrant gay and lesbian club scene, this beach town has several museums, high-end shops and a famous flower market, and it plays host to the annual Pink Parade. Nice has a gay and gay-friendly beach, Coco Beach and Castel Plage, respectively. For adventurous sunbathers, there are 2 more gay beaches located outside the small French town.

Pascal Blachier, Flickr

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth is the quintessential beach town, with dozens of small shops, restaurants that serve up fresh seafood from the Chesapeake Bay, and a boardwalk with a few amusement thrills and arcades. Poodle Beach is the gay section on Rehoboth Beach. It can get crowded here during the peak season, but there is an energetic social scene. Lesbians prefer North Shores Beach. And after the beach, most gay men grab a few beers or cocktails at the Aqua Grill or Blue Moon, 2 of the town’s popular gay hangouts. 960 1280

Rehoboth is the quintessential beach town, with dozens of small shops, restaurants that serve up fresh seafood from the Chesapeake Bay, and a boardwalk with a few amusement thrills and arcades. Poodle Beach is the gay section on Rehoboth Beach. It can get crowded here during the peak season, but there is an energetic social scene. Lesbians prefer North Shores Beach. And after the beach, most gay men grab a few beers or cocktails at the Aqua Grill or Blue Moon, 2 of the town’s popular gay hangouts.

Linda D. Epstein/McClatchy-Tribune/Getty Images

Best Gay Beach Destinations 20 Photos

RSVP Vacations, Two men kayaking

RSVP Vacations, Two men kayaking

RSVP Vacations : Self-proclaimed “originator of the gay and lesbian cruise concept,” RSVP Cruises has welcomed more than 35,000 LGBT guests since its opening in 1985. Their focus is on fun, including kayaking, shopping, and after-hours activities like gay bingo, leather and underwear parties or costume contests. 960 1280

RSVP Vacations : Self-proclaimed “originator of the gay and lesbian cruise concept,” RSVP Cruises has welcomed more than 35,000 LGBT guests since its opening in 1985. Their focus is on fun, including kayaking, shopping, and after-hours activities like gay bingo, leather and underwear parties or costume contests.

RSVP Vacations/GBG Photography

The Red Sea

The Red Sea

Undersea Expeditions : Explore the world, underwater! Undersea Expeditions’ exquisite scuba vacations provide gay and lesbian travelers with a unique way to see the world. Novice and experienced divers can take scuba trips to Maldives Indian Ocean, Philippines Coral Triangle, Egypt’s Red Sea and other fun destinations. 960 1280

Undersea Expeditions : Explore the world, underwater! Undersea Expeditions’ exquisite scuba vacations provide gay and lesbian travelers with a unique way to see the world. Novice and experienced divers can take scuba trips to Maldives Indian Ocean, Philippines Coral Triangle, Egypt’s Red Sea and other fun destinations.

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Aquafest Cruises

Aquafest Cruises

Aquafest Cruises : Aquafest is one of the largest sellers of gay and lesbian group cruises in the US. Afternoon T-dances, single get-togethers and gay beach parties are just a couple organized activities. This travel company also helps schedule smaller gay and lesbian groups on world-class cruise lines. Let the fun begin! 960 1280

Aquafest Cruises : Aquafest is one of the largest sellers of gay and lesbian group cruises in the US. Afternoon T-dances, single get-togethers and gay beach parties are just a couple organized activities. This travel company also helps schedule smaller gay and lesbian groups on world-class cruise lines. Let the fun begin!

Marc Garcia

Atlantis Events, Afternoon T-Dance

Atlantis Events, Afternoon T-Dance

Atlantis Events : Atlantis prides itself on being the largest gay and lesbian tour operator in the world, attracting 20,000 travelers each year.  Book 1 of their cruises on a top-rated ship, and explore Rome, Mykonos, Istanbul, St. Barths, Barbados, Copenhagen and many more fun destinations. 960 1280

Atlantis Events : Atlantis prides itself on being the largest gay and lesbian tour operator in the world, attracting 20,000 travelers each year.  Book 1 of their cruises on a top-rated ship, and explore Rome, Mykonos, Istanbul, St. Barths, Barbados, Copenhagen and many more fun destinations.

Atlantis Events

Alyson Adventures, two women on safari

Alyson Adventures, two women on safari

Sweet : Sweet mixes the best in lesbian travel with environmental awareness, allowing guests to enjoy the world, while also making it a better place. All of their vacations are carbon neutral, yet they still travel to amazing destinations. And yes, there are top-notch lesbian entertainers and wild parties, but they also raise money for worthy causes. 960 1280

Sweet : Sweet mixes the best in lesbian travel with environmental awareness, allowing guests to enjoy the world, while also making it a better place. All of their vacations are carbon neutral, yet they still travel to amazing destinations. And yes, there are top-notch lesbian entertainers and wild parties, but they also raise money for worthy causes.

Andrew Broan

Hanns Ebensten Travel, Gay traveler in Southeast Asia

Hanns Ebensten Travel, Gay traveler in Southeast Asia

Hanns Ebensten Travel : Hanns Ebensten Travel creates trips to take travelers to exotic destinations, including Southeast Asia, Egypt, Israel, Peru and Namibia. Small groups, personal touches and a unique style set them apart from other tour companies. 960 1280

Hanns Ebensten Travel : Hanns Ebensten Travel creates trips to take travelers to exotic destinations, including Southeast Asia, Egypt, Israel, Peru and Namibia. Small groups, personal touches and a unique style set them apart from other tour companies.

Chuck Fleck

Alyson Adventures, Camping in the Swiss Alps

Alyson Adventures, Camping in the Swiss Alps

Alyson Adventures : This tour company is about small, intimate groups for outdoor adventures, which include hiking in the Swiss Alps or scuba diving in the Caribbean. Alyson Adventures offers active getaways for gay men, lesbians and their friends. 960 1280

Alyson Adventures : This tour company is about small, intimate groups for outdoor adventures, which include hiking in the Swiss Alps or scuba diving in the Caribbean. Alyson Adventures offers active getaways for gay men, lesbians and their friends.

Andrew Broan

Olivia, Women on the beach

Olivia, Women on the beach

Olivia : Olivia has been the leader in lesbian cruises and resort vacations for the last 20 years. They charter entire ships or rent out entire resorts. Costa Rica, Whales and Sea of Cortez, Barcelona to Rome and Splendor of Scandinavia and Russia are a few of their charter cruises. An additional perk is that travelers can connect with other ladies on their boat beforehand via Olivia’s social networking site. 960 1280

Olivia : Olivia has been the leader in lesbian cruises and resort vacations for the last 20 years. They charter entire ships or rent out entire resorts. Costa Rica, Whales and Sea of Cortez, Barcelona to Rome and Splendor of Scandinavia and Russia are a few of their charter cruises. An additional perk is that travelers can connect with other ladies on their boat beforehand via Olivia’s social networking site.

Olivia

Two men walking on the beach

Two men walking on the beach

Source Events : For almost 10 years, Source Events has customized trips for gay travelers, taking them to places like the Caribbean Islands, South Africa, Austria and Machu Picchu. This tour company is the perfect choice if you’re adventurous and a thrill-seeker. 960 1280

Source Events : For almost 10 years, Source Events has customized trips for gay travelers, taking them to places like the Caribbean Islands, South Africa, Austria and Machu Picchu. This tour company is the perfect choice if you’re adventurous and a thrill-seeker.

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Pied Piper Travel, Friends on a cruiseship's deck

Pied Piper Travel, Friends on a cruiseship's deck

Pied Piper Travel : Each trip with Pied Piper Travel offers exquisite dining, elegant events, special shore excursions and other personal touches that make their trips anything but mainstream.  Book your reservations with this tour company to visit Bermuda, Australia, the French Riviera, Panama, the Canary Islands, Croatia, Alaska and many more destinations. 960 1280

Pied Piper Travel : Each trip with Pied Piper Travel offers exquisite dining, elegant events, special shore excursions and other personal touches that make their trips anything but mainstream.  Book your reservations with this tour company to visit Bermuda, Australia, the French Riviera, Panama, the Canary Islands, Croatia, Alaska and many more destinations.

Pied Piper Travel

Best Gay Cruises 10 Photos

Astoria Waldorf Spa (Carefree, Arizona)

Astoria Waldorf Spa (Carefree, Arizona)

Relax at this upscale spa at The Boulders, located in Carefree, AZ. Get a turquoise clay wrap, an avocado citrus scrub, hot stone message, back wax or chakra balancing. The Astoria Waldorf Spa is the perfect combination of traditional and outré, upscale and low-key, active and relaxing. 960 1280

Relax at this upscale spa at The Boulders, located in Carefree, AZ. Get a turquoise clay wrap, an avocado citrus scrub, hot stone message, back wax or chakra balancing. The Astoria Waldorf Spa is the perfect combination of traditional and outré, upscale and low-key, active and relaxing.

The Boulders Resort

CLAY Health Club + Spa (New York, New York)

CLAY Health Club + Spa (New York, New York)

NYC’s Clay Health Club & Spa is a full-service spa that offers patrons exercise classes, nutrition programs and personal trainers. The eye and neck mask, green tea peel and Thai massage are a few unique spa services you can try out at the 40-room Inn. The spa offers a membership and is opened to the public. 960 1280

NYC’s Clay Health Club & Spa is a full-service spa that offers patrons exercise classes, nutrition programs and personal trainers. The eye and neck mask, green tea peel and Thai massage are a few unique spa services you can try out at the 40-room Inn. The spa offers a membership and is opened to the public.

CLAY Health Club + Spa

Exhale Spa (Atlantic City, New Jersey)

Exhale Spa (Atlantic City, New Jersey)

Socialize, detox and unwind at the Exhale Spa located at the Atlantic City’s Revel Resort. This spa has 32 therapy rooms for facials, massages and body-slimming treatments. Enjoy a drink from the bar and relax near the bask spa pool. In addition to taking care of the body, Exhale Spa also offers Core Fusion and yoga classes that are physically and mentally challenging. 960 1280

Socialize, detox and unwind at the Exhale Spa located at the Atlantic City’s Revel Resort. This spa has 32 therapy rooms for facials, massages and body-slimming treatments. Enjoy a drink from the bar and relax near the bask spa pool. In addition to taking care of the body, Exhale Spa also offers Core Fusion and yoga classes that are physically and mentally challenging.

Revel Resort

Aire Ancient Baths (New York, New York)

Aire Ancient Baths (New York, New York)

Go on a relaxing retreat to Aire Ancient Baths . Try a session of thermal-bathing rituals that date back to the Greek and Roman baths in the 5th century B.C. Start off in the warm-water pool, then the hot-water pool, the high-steam room and lastly the cold-water pool. We recommend guests book the “Bath & Acoustic” package to enjoy the baths and a relaxing massage, while enjoying the soothing sound of a Flamenco Roots concert. 960 1280

Go on a relaxing retreat to Aire Ancient Baths . Try a session of thermal-bathing rituals that date back to the Greek and Roman baths in the 5th century B.C. Start off in the warm-water pool, then the hot-water pool, the high-steam room and lastly the cold-water pool. We recommend guests book the “Bath & Acoustic” package to enjoy the baths and a relaxing massage, while enjoying the soothing sound of a Flamenco Roots concert.

Aire Ancient Baths

Life Balance Spa (Tucson, Arizona)

Life Balance Spa (Tucson, Arizona)

Outdoor spa treatments, skin care and body renewal rituals are just a few spa treatments available at the Life Balance Spa at the Miraval Resort and Spa. Get a bamboo body smoother, desert rain scrub, aqua Zen massage and more. Try the Ultimate Ayurvedic Treatment, which includes Shirodhara therapy to relax and balance your nervous system. 960 1280

Outdoor spa treatments, skin care and body renewal rituals are just a few spa treatments available at the Life Balance Spa at the Miraval Resort and Spa. Get a bamboo body smoother, desert rain scrub, aqua Zen massage and more. Try the Ultimate Ayurvedic Treatment, which includes Shirodhara therapy to relax and balance your nervous system.

Miraval Resort and Spa

Nidah Spa (Santa Fa, New Mexico)

Nidah Spa (Santa Fa, New Mexico)

Inside Santa Fe’s Eldorado Hotel, Nidah Spa helps guests rejuvenate with treatments, using natural, local ingredients like stones, plants and herbs. A chocolate peppermint sugar scrub, a turquoise-gemstone massage and a chile-honey body wrap are just some of the many treatments guests can expect when checking into this spa.

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Inside Santa Fe’s Eldorado Hotel, Nidah Spa helps guests rejuvenate with treatments, using natural, local ingredients like stones, plants and herbs. A chocolate peppermint sugar scrub, a turquoise-gemstone massage and a chile-honey body wrap are just some of the many treatments guests can expect when checking into this spa.

Eldorado Hotel & Spa

Grand Resort and Spa (Ft. Lauderdale, Florida)

Grand Resort and Spa (Ft. Lauderdale, Florida)

Visit Ft. Lauderdale Beach’s largest gay-owned men’s resort. Grand Resort has a fitness center, clothing-optional courtyard, 10-man Jacuzzi and a hair salon. The award-winning spa offers various packages, including the 5-night Pampered Getaway package with your choice of a 50-minute Swedish or deep tissue massage, a facial, a body scrub (glacier salt body scrub or a “Jack Black” signature body scrub), an exfoliating manicure, standard pedicure and a complimentary bottle of champagne. 960 1280

Visit Ft. Lauderdale Beach’s largest gay-owned men’s resort. Grand Resort has a fitness center, clothing-optional courtyard, 10-man Jacuzzi and a hair salon. The award-winning spa offers various packages, including the 5-night Pampered Getaway package with your choice of a 50-minute Swedish or deep tissue massage, a facial, a body scrub (glacier salt body scrub or a “Jack Black” signature body scrub), an exfoliating manicure, standard pedicure and a complimentary bottle of champagne.

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San Francisco Spa (San Francisco)

San Francisco Spa (San Francisco)

Part of the gay-friendly Kimpton Hotels, Hotel Monaco’s San Francisco Spa uses organic, eco-friendly ingredients in a peaceful setting. Among the fragrant treatments is the lavender dreams body scrub and chamomile body scrub. Try the sunless tanning treatment if you want to sport a nice tan without baking in the sun. 960 1280

Part of the gay-friendly Kimpton Hotels, Hotel Monaco’s San Francisco Spa uses organic, eco-friendly ingredients in a peaceful setting. Among the fragrant treatments is the lavender dreams body scrub and chamomile body scrub. Try the sunless tanning treatment if you want to sport a nice tan without baking in the sun.

Robert Bengston

Spa Kea Lani (Maui)

Spa Kea Lani (Maui)

Try Hawaii’s signature Lomilomi massage at 5,500-square-foot Spa Kea Lani at the Fairmont Kea Lani, located in Maui. You can use their outdoor, ocean-side cabana for a secluded treatment. The sun on Maui can be crazy strong, which is one of the reasons why the Ho’ona (soothing) Facial is one of the spa’s most popular requests. 960 1280

Try Hawaii’s signature Lomilomi massage at 5,500-square-foot Spa Kea Lani at the Fairmont Kea Lani, located in Maui. You can use their outdoor, ocean-side cabana for a secluded treatment. The sun on Maui can be crazy strong, which is one of the reasons why the Ho’ona (soothing) Facial is one of the spa’s most popular requests.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

The Spa at the Mandarin Hotel (Washington, DC)

The Spa at the Mandarin Hotel (Washington, DC)

Located in Washington, DC, The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental , offers an Oriental Bamboo Massage in a Zen-Nirvana themed room, heavy on the Buddha accessories and forest green ornaments. The Jade Enzyme Facial exfoliates dead skin and enhances the rejuvenation process. It’s a full-throttle spa experience that lives up to the hype to wow the most finicky spa connoisseurs. 960 1280

Located in Washington, DC, The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental , offers an Oriental Bamboo Massage in a Zen-Nirvana themed room, heavy on the Buddha accessories and forest green ornaments. The Jade Enzyme Facial exfoliates dead skin and enhances the rejuvenation process. It’s a full-throttle spa experience that lives up to the hype to wow the most finicky spa connoisseurs.

George Apostolidis

Spa Montage (Beverly Hills, California)

Spa Montage (Beverly Hills, California)

Located in the center of the “Golden Triangle” around Rodeo Drive, this 20,000-square-foot facility has separate private lounges for men and women with skylights and a fireplace, and locker rooms with steam, sauna, whirlpool and Swiss showers. Spa Montage provides fitness classes, Holistic spa services, facial therapies to address shaving irritation and more. We suggest the Montage Beverly Hills’ signature Day of Indulgence package. 960 1280

Located in the center of the “Golden Triangle” around Rodeo Drive, this 20,000-square-foot facility has separate private lounges for men and women with skylights and a fireplace, and locker rooms with steam, sauna, whirlpool and Swiss showers. Spa Montage provides fitness classes, Holistic spa services, facial therapies to address shaving irritation and more. We suggest the Montage Beverly Hills’ signature Day of Indulgence package.

Spa Montage a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts

Shui Spa (Provincetown, Massachusetts)

Shui Spa (Provincetown, Massachusetts)

Experience a tranquil, comfortable, unisex full-service spa environment at Shui Spa in Provincetown, MA. Special features include a warm mineral therapy tub, sauna and steam room. The spa also offers various packages, massages, healthy food menu, body treatments, and energy treatments to reduce stress, release toxins in your system and help you rejuvenate. 960 1280

Experience a tranquil, comfortable, unisex full-service spa environment at Shui Spa in Provincetown, MA. Special features include a warm mineral therapy tub, sauna and steam room. The spa also offers various packages, massages, healthy food menu, body treatments, and energy treatments to reduce stress, release toxins in your system and help you rejuvenate.

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Sir Spa (Chicago, Illinois)

Sir Spa (Chicago, Illinois)

Chicago's Sir Spa offers special packages for a relaxing birthday party or an intimate date with that special someone. Guests will enjoy the private Grooming Club Lounge for mingling before, during and after treatments. A scalp massage, in-grown hair treatment, reflexology massage and a 4-layer face treatment are just a few of the many different ways Sir Spa helps its customers renew and rejuvenate. 960 1280

Chicago's Sir Spa offers special packages for a relaxing birthday party or an intimate date with that special someone. Guests will enjoy the private Grooming Club Lounge for mingling before, during and after treatments. A scalp massage, in-grown hair treatment, reflexology massage and a 4-layer face treatment are just a few of the many different ways Sir Spa helps its customers renew and rejuvenate.

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AWAY Spa (Vieques, Puerto Rico)

AWAY Spa (Vieques, Puerto Rico)

AWAY Spa at the W Retreat & Spa, in Vieques, Puerto Rico, features a full-service beauty menu, covering hair, nails and waxing --just to name a few. A special mani/pedi section is perfect for social gatherings with friends or a great way to meet new ones. Treatment suites feature garden settings, some with ocean views and private outdoor shower areas. We suggest the My Away Massage to ease backaches, especially after a long flight. 960 1280

AWAY Spa at the W Retreat & Spa, in Vieques, Puerto Rico, features a full-service beauty menu, covering hair, nails and waxing --just to name a few. A special mani/pedi section is perfect for social gatherings with friends or a great way to meet new ones. Treatment suites feature garden settings, some with ocean views and private outdoor shower areas. We suggest the My Away Massage to ease backaches, especially after a long flight.

W Retreat & Spa

Best Gay-Friendly Spas 14 Photos

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