How to Choose Best Destination for an LGBTQ+ Honeymoon

Many destinations actively welcome LGBTQ+ travelers – but queer couples looking to celebrate their unions should still take a close look and choose the best destination for an LGBTQ+ honeymoon, according to Love Inc., a wedding publication focused on inclusivity. Its first-ever National LGBTQ+ Honeymoon Travel Safety Index, launched last fall, ranks all 50 states and the nation’s capital based on safety and overall welcoming vibes. 

Among the top 10 U.S. destinations for LGBTQ+ honeymooners, according to the study, are Washington, D.C., Hawaii, Massachusetts and Oregon. At the other end were states including West Virginia, South Dakota, Alabama and North Dakota. 

“Every couple deserves a honeymoon that’s not only romantic but also safe,” said Love Inc. founder and editor-in-chief Brittny Drye. “Anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, rising hate crimes and book bans aren’t just political talking points. They have real consequences for our community, and especially for the wedding industry at large.”’

Best Destination for an LGBTQ+ Honeymoon

California also ranks in the top 10, and couples can find opportunities to celebrate romance in a variety of destinations in the Golden State.

Even Florida, which is not in the top ten, is home to several welcoming destinations — including Key West, where properties such as the Hyatt Centric Key West offer romance packages, and La Concha Key West, Autograph Collection, which provides proximity to LGBTQ+ nightlife. Further north, in Fort Lauderdale, options include the male-only The Grand Resort & Spa and beachfront B Ocean Resort and Beach House Fort Lauderdale, a Hilton Resort. In DelRay Beach, meanwhile, Crane’s Beach House is known for its involvement with the LGBTQ+ community and offers hotel suites and villas. 

Welcoming International Destinations

Outside of the United States, travel experts recommend a variety of destinations for LGBTQ+ honeymooners – including Japan, Thailand and South Africa, along with tried-and-true European destinations in Paris, London, Berlin and Amsterdam as well as Greece and Portugal.

The Caribbean and Mexico for Queer Couples

Closer to home, the Caribbean – especially Aruba and Curaçao – and Mexico – particularly Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas – continue to attract LGBTQ+ honeymooners seeking sun and a warm welcome.

Corazon Cabo Resort & Spa attracts honeymooners with expansive ocean-view suites and private sunset sails. At the same time, the Thompson Zihuatanejo earns praise for its inclusivity and beautiful, beachfront design. Along the Riviera Maya, the adults-only UNICO 20°87° Riviera Maya delivers a polished, all-inclusive experience with a variety of honeymoon packages. 

Elsewhere in the region, Elite Island Resorts, which operates properties in the Caribbean and Panama, has forged an increasingly high profile among LGBTQ+ travelers at Hammock Cove Antigua, where private dining and wine tastings are among the romantic offerings. 

This article originally appeared in TravelPulse.

Contact My Journey Begins Travel to plan and book an LGBTQ+ honeymoon.