1. Summary
This article outlines the best gay-friendly Caribbean destinations for travelers looking for welcoming environments. Explore the top islands, resorts, and experiences tailored for LGBTQ+ couples seeking adventure and relaxation.
With its fun-in-the-sun destinations, carefree attitude, and myriad couples-oriented resorts, the Caribbean seems an ideal vacation spot for gay and lesbian couples. However, not all Caribbean islands are created equal. Some regions, notably the French, Dutch, and U.S. islands, embrace same-sex couples, while others, like Jamaica, Barbados, and the Cayman Islands, are known for their homophobic attitudes. Nevertheless, here are our top picks for the most welcoming Caribbean destinations for gay travelers:
Saba
The tiny island of Saba is recognized for its diving, hiking, and outdoor activities, and is quickly establishing a reputation as a haven of tolerance in the Caribbean. Importantly, Saba was the first place in the Caribbean where same-sex couples could legally wed. The island hosts a vibrant gay and lesbian community and several dive operators provide special outings for LGBTQ+ travelers.
St. Barts
St. Barts, known for its laissez-faire French culture and abundant private villas, is considered one of the most gay-friendly islands in the Caribbean. It offers an escape from the typical cruise-ship crowds, featuring a blend of celebrities, yacht enthusiasts, exclusive shopping, and an exciting nightlife, making St. Barts fabulous.
St. Martin/St. Maarten
Both Dutch St. Maarten and French St. Martin are well-regarded for their gay-friendly reputation, providing numerous private villa rentals, beaches, and bars where gay and straight couples can coexist harmoniously. Although an incident in 2004 slightly tarnished St. Maarten’s reputation, local tourism officials responded quickly. The island remains a top choice for many gay Caribbean travelers looking for inclusive environments. Furthermore, clothing-optional beaches and resorts on the French side are additional benefits, and same-sex marriage is legal here.
Puerto Rico
In Puerto Rico, gay travelers will discover the Caribbean’s only significant gay nightlife scene. San Juan features the Atlantic Beach Hotel and Bar, which sits on a gay beach and hosts a weekly drag show, along with clubs like Eros. Across the mainland and Vieques, numerous gay-friendly resorts await, and gay travelers in Puerto Rico benefit from U.S. antidiscrimination laws, including recent Supreme Court rulings legalizing same-sex marriage.
U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands, especially St. Croix, has become a hotspot for gay travelers. Many visitors are drawn to the welcoming Sand Castle on the Beach Resort in Frederiksted. Expect a friendly and tolerant atmosphere throughout the U.S.V.I. Although public displays of affection may be met with some scrutiny, the overall response is typically positive. In alignment with Puerto Rico, U.S. law legalizes same-sex marriages here.
Curacao
Curacao stands out for its public embrace of gay travelers, promoting a “live and let live” atmosphere. The Curacao Tourist Board actively markets gay-friendly hotels and attractions. Furthermore, same-sex couples can legally marry on the island, making it an attractive destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Aruba
Aruba, like its Dutch Caribbean neighbors, is renowned as one of the gay-friendliest destinations in the islands. The Bucuti and Tara Beach Resorts and the gay-owned Little David Guesthouse are prime examples of welcoming accommodations. Similarly, the island’s district of Oranjestad showcases its diversity with the premier gay bar, District 7. Consequently, Aruba is celebrated for its open acceptance and vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
The Mexican Caribbean
Quintana Roo, which includes Cancun, Cozumel, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya, recognizes same-sex marriages performed in Mexico City. Consequently, Cancun has developed a reputation as a gay-friendly destination, featuring gay nightclubs downtown and informal gay beaches in the Hotel Zone, particularly Playa Delfines. Events such as the annual Cancún International Gay Festival in May further enhance its appeal.
Cuba
Cuba’s gay community has become more visible as the nation engages further with the world. Notably, Mariela Castro, daughter of Fidel Castro, advocates for LGBT rights through the Cuban National Center for Sex Education. The district of Vedado in Havana is recognized as a gay neighborhood, while Mi Cayito serves as an unofficial gay beach. Some casas particulares (B&Bs) are known to be LGBTQ+ friendly. Although discrimination persists, Cuba has made significant progress since the time when LGBT individuals faced severe persecution.
Unfriendly Islands
It’s important to note that several formerly British West Indies nations, including Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago, continue to enforce outdated “buggery” laws. These islands exhibit varying levels of intolerance towards gay and lesbian residents and travelers, which often ranges from mild disdain to outright hostility and criminal prosecution.
