Our Top 9 Locations for LGBTQ+ Destination Weddings
Planning a wedding is a fun and exciting time in a couple’s life. You want to have the perfect day surrounded by all of your loved ones. For same-sex couples, it should not be daunting to plan the destination wedding of your dreams. There are currently 30 countries around the world that have legalized same-sex marriages and many are the perfect backdrop for your wedding.
At Shoreline Destinations we are proud to serve and celebrate with LGBTQ+ couples. The destination options available to couples are endless and we’re here to help you find the perfect location to say “I do”.
So whether you’re planning a gay wedding, lesbian wedding, LGBTQ+ wedding, commitment ceremony, etc., we simply call them WEDDINGS and will make sure yours is unforgettable!
Below are our favorite LGBTQ+ friendly destination wedding spots in the Caribbean and Mexico!
ARUBA
Aruba is known for having warm and sunny weather all year, making it a great country for a destination wedding. It was also the first country in the Caribbean to allow gay civil partnerships, so you will feel very welcomed here.
With more than 90 nationalities, Aruba prides itself in diversity and welcomes all races and religions. Aruba also has Dutch roots and the Netherlands was the first country to legalize gay marriage in 2001. Therefore, Arubans typically have a cosmopolitan worldview and an open-minded and progressive mindset. You and your partner can feel comfortable walking hand and hand on this incredible island.
CANCUN / RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO
There is no shortage of resorts to pick from in Cancun or the Riviera Maya area. You and your guests can spend time at the beach before donning your best clothes for the wedding. It is also one of the easier destinations to get to, no matter where you are flying in from.
Cancun and the Riviera Maya area are very gay-friendly & accepting of same sex couples. Whether you are looking for incredible nightlife or something with more of a laid-back vibe, we can help you find the best resort in this area for you and your guests.
COSTA RICA
With over 1,300 miles of unspoiled coastline, Costa Rica is an ideal location for beach weddings. You’ll love the mountain backdrops, rainforest, hidden waterfalls, volcanos, and unique excursions. Whether you are looking for adventure or tranquility, you and your guests will find it in Costa Rica.
As of May 26, 2020, same-sex marriage became legal in Costa Rica and many resorts all over the country also offer symbolic ceremonies. Although Costa Ricans are still fairly conservative, they know how to treat others with respect and hospitality. Manuel Antonio is one of the friendliest LGBTQ+ areas and is even home to a gay nude beach.
CURACAO
The island of Curacao offers dramatic landscapes, crystal clear blue water, and streets filled with bright colored buildings and artwork. Their motto is “Live and Let Live” and this applies to everyone.
Curacao is considered by many as the LGBTQ+ capital of the Caribbean. Like Aruba, Curacao also has Dutch roots and the Netherlands was the first country to legalize gay marriage in 2001. Although legalized same-sex marriage doesn’t exist here, they do offer symbolic ceremonies and vow renewals for same-sex couples. Curacao also has the highest member rate in the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association, which makes it the highest in the Caribbean.
LOS CABOS, MEXICO
Los Cabos is one of our favorite destinations for LGBTQ+ weddings because of its world-class resorts and sophisticated and glamorous beach culture. It’s an easy flight from major US airports and your guests will enjoy visiting the famous Arch of Cabo San Luca, San Jose del Cabo, and more.
In Los Cabos, you and your fiancé will be welcomed with warm Mexican hospitality. Cabos San Lucas also offers LGBTQ+ friendly nightlife that your guests may appreciate.
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PUERTO VALLARTA, MEXICO
With stunning bay and mountain views, Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s highest-rated resort towns. Your guests will enjoy nearby activities like zip-lining through the forest, strolling the boardwalks to watch artists, snorkeling, and more.
Puerto Vallarta has been a go-to wedding destination for LGBTQ+ couples for some time. In 2017, GayTravel.com honored it as the first city in Mexico to be Gay Travel Approved®. Many even consider Puerto Vallarta the San Francisco of Mexico.
PUNTA CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Punta Cana is known for its golden sand, clear water, and long stretches of beaches. It’s also a great place for adventure, whether you prefer zip lining, a catamaran, or fishing, there is so much to do here. Punta Cana also has over 70 hotels and many of them are all-inclusive so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
Although there are gay-friendly bars and nightclubs in downtown Punta Cana, most enjoy spending time at the resorts that cater to LGBTQ+ couples and romantic getaways.
St. MARTIN / St. MAARTEN
St. Martin / St. Maarten is a split island, which is dually controlled by the French and Dutch and is known for its beautiful beaches and warm, calm waters. St. Martin is the French side and offers glamorous shopping and clothing-optional beaches. St. Maarten is the Dutch side and is home to open-minded people, lively nightlife, and exotic drinks.
As a dual-nation island, acceptance is a part of the culture. It is a great choice for those looking for accepting locals and resorts.
Turks & Caicos
Turks & Caicos is known for one of the most famous beaches in the world, Grace Bay Beach. This pristine beach with turquoise water has even been voted the #1 beach in the world by TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards. In Turks & Caicos your guests will enjoy relaxing on the unspoiled beaches and snorkeling, as the island has the third-largest reef system in the world.
Although Turks & Caicos may not be completely gay-friendly, there are many resorts that welcome LGBTQ+ couples and offer symbolic ceremonies. If you and your guests are looking for a destination to spend time together and relax, Turks & Caicos may be an option to consider….just make sure you have a healthy budget as there are very few all inclusive resorts and most wedding options will have “a la carte” pricing. We will help you navigate the options to determine if Turks and Caicos is a good fit for your LGBTQ+ wedding.
Ready to start planning the destination wedding of your dreams?
Simply schedule a FREE consultation with one of our travel advisors. Our team will help you narrow down the perfect destination and resort.
When you plan with Shoreline Destinations, you’ll get:
Resort Selection - Our team is here to find the perfect destination and resort for you and your guests!
Dedicated Agent - When you plan with us, you’ll have a dedicated travel agent from beginning to end.
Competitive Pricing - With our industry connections, we’ll ensure you are receiving the best possible pricing and benefits.
Personalized Ceremony - We don’t have set packages. At Shoreline Destinations every ceremony is unique and completely customized.
Guest Reservations - We love getting to know all of your guests, helping them select the perfect room, and answering all their questions.
Guest Activities - Want a fire dancer at your welcome reception? Group snorkeling trip? Bring us your ideas and we’ll have some too!
Cheers to all things love and travel!
- Andrea Norfolk
