Love and marriage may be the ultimate gift, but just beyond those cherished vows and celebratory toasts comes the unforgettable honeymoon. Unlike the nuptials themselves, the honeymoon is intimate; a private dessert for two. It’s chapter one of a love story. Better still, it’s the newlyweds’ first chance to voyage together in wedded harmony. For LGBTQ+ couples, planning a romantic honeymoon comes with familiar choices—beach or city, resort or B&B, adventure or light recreation—plus considerations about feeling welcome as well as safe.
After all, there are only 34 countries where same-sex marriage is legal. Though the list keeps growing, with Chile, Cuba, Estonia, and Slovenia recently joining the love-is-love train. And according to IGLTA (International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association), queer couples tend to be avid travelers who are eager to support the local LGBTQ+ community even in nations where marriage equality has yet to arrive. Whether the happy newlyweds are going classic with a twist or venturing further abroad, here are seven fabulous destinations beckoning LGBTQ+ honeymooners.
All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Puerto Vallarta
Marriage equality became legal across Mexico in 2022, but it’s been legal in Puerto Vallarta’s home state of Jalisco since 2016. It’s a testament to the decades-long inclusive attitude that helped make Puerto Vallarta a go-to locale for same-sex betrothed duos and newlyweds. Opportunities for romance are everywhere, from ocean excursions, waterfall hikes, and beach leisure; to malecon (boardwalk) strolls, food tours, and hot Zona Romantica nights at spots like The Palm Cabaret and lesbian-owned Elixir Mixology Bar.
Stay: Puerto Vallarta is home to several gay hotels and beach clubs, but Almar Resort offers the only luxury LGBTQ+ beachfront experience. With huge rooms in both its low- and high-rise buildings, newlyweds are steps away from the sands of gay-centric Los Muertos beach, with all-day access to the resort’s flirty Mantamar Beach Club.
New Orleans
What’s your fancy, newlyweds? Music, food, culture, nightlife—all are on the menu in New Orleans. LGBTQ+ couples can start by exploring the French Quarter, home to world-famous dining and cocktail culture and swinging live-music venues. The steamy NOLA heat never slows down the parties around Bourbon and St. Ann streets, where you’ll find the busiest cluster of gay bars. (There are plenty more in the Marigny neighborhood and beyond.) A romantic ride on the St. Charles streetcar is a reason to see more of the city, rolling under the giant oak trees towards the picturesque Garden District and Uptown’s outstanding restaurants.
Stay here: For high luxury with a view, check into the new-in-2021 Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans. It’s one of the few hotel towers in town, sporting a glam rooftop pool, observation deck, sumptuous spa, and several dining options, with sparkling libations flowing nightly at the Chandelier Bar.
Oahu, Hawaii
The Aloha State feels like a world away from everywhere, making Hawaii a top contender for honeymooners eager to escape the real world. It’s also beloved by the LGBTQ+ community for enacting marriage equality way back in 2013. The question is, which island to choose for a spectacular Hawaiian honeymoon? There’s no wrong answer, but queer travelers are sure to appreciate the variety of city, mountain, and beach fun of Oahu. Honolulu, the state capital, is home to culture and great museums, refined dining, and favorite gay bars like Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand and Bacchus Waikiki, and Scarlet for weekend drag shows and dancing. For tropical getaways, there’s the gay beach in Kapiolani Park, Diamond Head for hearty hikes, and the North Shore for surfing and easy-breezy outdoor dining.
