9 Top LGBTQ+ Honeymoon Destinations: Greece, South Africa, and Israel Make the List

Reported by Xiao Wanning / Compiled from multiple sources | Photos / All courtesy of CNN

As societal values become more diverse, the term "homosexuality" has gradually gained wider acceptance. Nowadays, many countries have legalized same-sex marriage, such as the Netherlands, Belgium, and Portugal. With same-sex marriage increasingly recognized, honeymoon destinations tailored for LGBTQ+ couples have naturally emerged. CNN has compiled a list of LGBTQ+ honeymoon spots—let’s take a look at what makes these destinations unique.

▲ Some villages in Israel are open and welcoming to LGBTQ+ individuals.

1. South Africa, Cape Town
Cape Town, which enjoys almost year-round sunshine, not only boasts a pleasant climate but also has De Waterkant, a dedicated LGBTQ+ village. All the bars, cafés, hotels, and more here are specially designed for the LGBTQ+ community.

2. Greece, Mykonos Island & Lesvos Island
The term "lesbian" originates from Lesvos Island (Lesbos), making it an even more fitting choice for LGBTQ+ honeymoons. Additionally, Elia Beach on Mykonos Island is a famous nudist beach and a popular attraction.

▲ Miami Beach is generally a very LGBTQ+-friendly destination.

3. United States, Miami & Florida Keys
Haulover Beach is well-known among many LGBTQ+ travelers. It regularly hosts LGBTQ+ events and has even been the site of an LGBTQ+ film festival. Overall, it’s a very LGBTQ+-friendly place.

4. Israel, Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv doesn’t have a dedicated LGBTQ+ village, but the entire city is extremely LGBTQ+-friendly. In fact, on Tel Aviv’s bustling Rothschild Boulevard, you can often see LGBTQ+ couples holding hands.

▲ Cape Town in South Africa has a dedicated LGBTQ+ village.

5. United Kingdom, Brighton
Brighton’s legendary Club Revenge has been a staple in the LGBTQ+ community for over 20 years—it’s a must-visit among top honeymoon destinations.

6. Thailand, Phuket
Patong Town hosts an annual LGBTQ+ outdoor kissing event, commonly known as The Paradise Complex.

▲ Bondi Beach in Sydney is known as the first LGBTQ+ surfing beach.

7. Mexico, Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, located along the Pacific coast, is home to at least ten LGBTQ+-friendly bars that come alive especially at night.

8. Sydney
Sydney is a highly LGBTQ+-friendly city. Oxford Street and Taylor Square are must-visit spots for the community, and Bondi Beach—the first LGBTQ+ surfing beach—is also located here.

9. Spain, Sitges Town
The annual World Congress of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender People is held here, making this town especially meaningful for the LGBTQ+ community.