Honeymoon Inspiration for LGBTQIA Couples
Bora Bora
Tried and true as a honeymoon destination for a reason, Bora Bora is potentially unmatched when it comes to being a dreamy tropical paradise. This island is remote —and so at the other end of your flight is an oasis you’ll have nearly all to yourself. Whether you spend your days lounging in your overwater bungalow with your new spouse or take up exploring any of the many tropical reefs, you’ll likely feel like you landed in your own private Eden.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley, California
Closer to home, Napa is the getaway for any foodie or wine aficionado. Gently rolling hills carpeted with vineyards make for an idyllic scene as you cruise on a bicycle between wineries. Peppered in between is a slew of luxury resorts and chic boutique hotels that can act as home base for your culinary escapades. If you could use a rest from world-class cuisine, Calistoga is a neighboring town known for its volcanic hot springs, mud baths and decadent spas.
Portland, Maine
Over on the other coast, Portland proves to be the hidden-in-plain-sight gem of a destination you should consider — especially if you’re an “outdoorsy” couple. Sailing and hiking are mainstays of summer, while winter brings plenty of opportunity to try skiing or snowmobiling. A walkable downtown filled year-round with friendly locals, delectable seafood and quaint shopping round out what is likely to be a locale you will dream about revisiting.
Portland, Maine
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland
The capital of the island nation, Reykjavik exudes quirky charm and has become a beacon of rainbow pride, thanks to its robust LGBTQIA+ community. Beyond the spectacular Pride festivities, it also boasts stunning modern architecture and a vibrant art scene. Chances for romance dot the destination like pointillism — consider savoring a soak in the world-famous Blue Lagoon or taking a scenic drive an hour north to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Sitges, Spain
You say, “dreamy European honeymoon,” and everyone thinks Greece or Italy. While they’re not wrong, they are overlooking the sun-kissed shores of Spain at their own peril. Specifically, Sitges, sitting just south of Barcelona, serves as the unofficial go-to beach vacay for much of Europe’s gay community. Stretches of pristine beach border cobblestone streets lined with scores of gay-friendly bars, restaurants and clubs — all just a casual stroll away from charming boutique hotels.
Sitges, Spain
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires, Argentina
If you see life as an adventure to experience, then you’ll likely see Buenos Aires as the right choice for a honeymoon destination. Buenos Aires is a party, through and through, making it the prime place to celebrate your nuptials in South America. This frenetic city has it all: clubs that rage through the night, a world-class culinary scene, breathtakingly gorgeous parks and tango halls that hum with romantic tension. If you’re particularly close with your wedding party, consider inviting them along for an LGBTQIA+-friendly group vacation.
Punta Mita, Mexico
While Puerto Vallarta is famed as the gay mecca party scene, a mere hour south is the charmingly sleepy town of Punta Mita. Serenaded by gentle surf, you could spend your entire honeymoon lounging beachside at a luxury resort — or if the urge for adventure strikes you, charter a yacht out to the uninhabited Marieta Islands for a day spent exploring the underwater ecosystems teeming with sea life. Like the ceviche you’ll sample, this getaway has different flavors; variety is the spice of life, after all.
Punta Mita, Mexico
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal
If there was any destination in the world that could give Napa a run for its money wine-wise, it’s likely Lisbon. While Portugal has some of the most progressive gay rights legislation in the world, the Portuguese capital also boasts an impressive cadre of world-class wines, strikingly cinematic scenes, enchantingly historic castles, perfect surf swells, prestigious art museums … and roaring nightlife.