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Gay Bali Travel

Gay Bali Travel established in a year 2000. Its just months becoming very well known for the single, couple, group travellers to Bali. Because we treated all of the clients in personal and professional touch. 

On our hands we would like to introduce the beautiful of Bali with their unique cultures and of course introduce the LGBT lifestyle in Bali.

We will make your trip just beyond of your expectation. Just contact us and your dream will come true.

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Blue Karma – Umalas

Bali Private Pool Villa

Idr 4.380.000 / night.

Bali Cultural Tours

Rp 350.000 / person, lets celebration special day in bali..

Bali is just small island but has everything with international standard, to celebrate your special day.

Gay Bali Travel could provided any requests such as DJ’s, venue and any entertaiments.

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Ultimate Gay Travel Guide To Bali, Indonesia

There’s Bali, then there’s the real Bali . The Bali we know conjures screensaver worthy images of beaches, centuries-old temples, pampering villas and spas and maybe a healer or two. Those who have actually visited the island will argue that’s just scratching the surface. Bali is detox and spiritual quests, participating in a Hindu ceremony, rainforest trekking and learning local customs and language, and it’s a haven for gay travelers, especially with the thriving LGBT scene. Here’s our gay travel guide to Bali.

First, right off the bat, we should mention if you’re gangbusters explorative, you will inevitably (and perhaps unfortunately) discover the real “real” Bali . This includes the lack of a waste management system, giving locals no option but to throw garbage into the rivers, which carries trash into the ocean, monster waves spitting them back onto shore, sea water deemed so bad that skin disorders are a threat, particularly after monsoon season (Indonesia was listed as 2nd worst country with poorly managed plastic waste in 2015 ).

Threats are a reality with Al Qaeda’s objection of the 80 percent Hindu population and the Westerners who support the destination (while Indonesia is the largest Muslim community in the world, Bali is a predominately Hindu-practiced island nation). The 2002 and 2005 bombings still resonate with Americans.

Traffic-choked roads worsen as the rise of motorbikes create further chaos, road rage and destroy the environment. So, now… Bali. Paradise or trouble in Paradise?

Bali gets a lot of slack. While the island may be quickly developing, the infrastructure is not. And there are people like me who notice the buzzkill.

But like the rainbow that emerges after the Balinese rain clouds, Bali is slowly— very slowly—making adjustments. Indonesia is holding onto real democracy and change, a country reimagined after the collapse of the New Order in 1999. While some problems may take years to tackle, the current president Joko Widodo is aware . And he’s not the only one who wants to eat, pray and love Bali.

Hotels belonging to Bali Hotels Association practice sustainable ecological waste management, and traffic control is being explored. Furthermore, security checks are enforced at all resorts, popular restaurants and attractions, every vehicle as well as roster of guests carefully investigated. In fact, the search is so thorough security officials often check under hoods, under the cars and inside trunks, so safety is never questioned.

Thanks to gorgeous resorts, scenery and just pure fabulousness of Bali island life, the gay scene is burgeoning with international visitors. The gay strip— Dhyana Pura—is home to gay bars and gay friendly establishments, and the resorts, beaches, restaurants and attractions are unarguably paradise for the LGBT community. In fact, one doesn’t necessarily need a gay travel guide to Bali; it’s already pretty gay.

I also won’t hesitate to say Bali is one of the most exciting destinations I’ve visited. The dynamic street culture is infectious. Exoticism is rich from beach to rain forest. Centuries-old rituals are still practiced today and ancient temples are ubiquitous, as well as moss-covered stone shrines. The Balinese people are some of the most friendliest and altruistic people on this planet. Indonesian food—if you’re a fan of spice—gets high marks.

Reputable hotel groups have set up camp here due to the unforgettable, commanding landscape and influx of starry-eyed visitors. There’s so much to see in Bali—the size of Singapore with a population of five million—that the average time spent here (10 days) may not be enough. With that said, many visit and actually never leave, evident with the wealth of ex-pats drawn to the people, food and customs—and the fact it’s inexpensive to live there.

From the cultural point of Ubud to the sublime coast of Nusa Dua, each of Bali’s 8 regencies (some would equate to neighborhoods in a city) are unique, impressing those who like diversity with their one-stop destinations. Ultimately, Bali is hedonism, a place of soul-searching and finding it, whether with a romantic partner or yourself and no one will argue that’s the real Bali. Here’s our gay travel guide to Bali based on popular regions.

Ultimate Gay Travel Guide to Bali

While the island is sprawling with endless areas of interest, some are better equipped for tourism, one of which is Seminyak, the most visited regency in Bali, and with good reason. It serves as a hub of terrific hotels and villas, local boutique designer shops, miles of beach and easy access from the airport (about fifteen minutes). But don’t expect glam. The narrow streets are a traffic nightmare, cramped with speedy motorbikes and wandering dogs almost 24-7 and the beaches are trashy (and I mean this literally regarding the floating debris, especially at night).

Even walking along the street, the curbs and sidewalks are littered with flower offerings, small boxes or “boats” typically made from coconut leaves and filled with flower petals and the humidity tends to capture the days-old garbage. In fact, on my first outing, it felt as if there was a huge festival the night before and nobody bothered to clean up. It turns out, well, that’s how the streets look every day! Nevertheless, Seminyak does harbor some of the island’s best sunsets, hotels keep their beachfront tidy and the camp-fed “gay” street is novelty alone.

+ Looking forward to dinner at the delicious Sarong tomorrow evening. One of my favs. #Bali #permissionistriumph #Sarong pic.twitter.com/yPymzNlDI3 — Adriano Di Prato (@AdrianoDiPrato) January 15, 2019

Speaking of gays, they come to Seminyak in droves. You’ll find a healthy variety at Café Bali , a restaurant that looks like a colonial doll house of sorts with a large outdoor deck, or at Sarong , a trendy restaurant offering a modern approach to street food. It was nice to find Seminyak offered some cosmopolitan flair. I was impressed with the diverse clientele: I heard conversations in German, Japanese and the heaviest of accents (from Australia to the deep south of the states!) proved Bali is on the international bucket list.

In Seminyak, there’s a gay “beach” though it’s reputation of cruising precedes it (which is great if that’s how you roll!). You’re better off at Ku De Ta , a casual hangout favored by both hetero and homo alike, known for beachfront cabanas, a South Beach-style scene with lounge grooves and killer cocktails to boot. A newer option is Potato Head, just down the road, similar atmosphere, same concept. Both bars truly took me from the bustling streets to melt away with a stiff drink.

Legian is a suburban 7 beach area on the west coast of Bali just north of Kuta & south of Seminyak the area between Melasti & Dhyana Pura. pic.twitter.com/BFtP8f8eBx — THE HAVEN Seminyak (@thehavenbali) March 6, 2017

The strongest indication Seminyak lures the LGBT community is the fact it’s the only place with gay nightlife in Bali. You’ll find the motherload on Dhyana Pura, a tiny street home to a string of small gay bars. Mixwell is the preferred watering hole as the staff is friendliest and the DJ seems to know what the crowd wants. My idea to rise early for the sunset was foiled when the bar really didn’t pick up until after midnight. Every fifteen minutes, a drag queen commanded the audience with American pop songs and local go-go boys strut on the bar in the skimpiest and campiest of outfits. So wrong it was just right. What makes this strip exciting is that the streetfront bars allow the patrons to flood out into the street, particularly on the weekends: tourists (both gay and straight) pause to socialize, flirt and get a nice dose of the free shows at the bars.

There’s no shortage of pampering hotels and villas in Seminyak and you’ll find a diverse range of accommodations, whether it’s the old-school queen of luxury at Legian or the new W Bali.

Physically at home, mentally poolside at @WBali . #WEscapes #Daydreaming pic.twitter.com/hnaOK7ESNS — W Hotels (@WHotels) July 14, 2020

W managed to muscle its way onto the beach, bringing its signature amenities and design gays live for. The design is a contemporary approach to traditional Balinese, and it’s eye candy with fun amenities (oxygen-filled lounge, three-story beach bar).

I wanted to go medium local and stayed at Anantara Resort & Spa , a Thai brand that opened on the beach about a decade ago. The comfortably chic boutique is a three-minute walk to the gay strip so my stumbling walks home were short and sweet without having to hop on the back of someone’s moped for chump change.

Most of the 60 suites have fantastic ocean views but that was the least of my concerns considering the delightful amenities all the suites are equipped with, including a large outdoor veranda with private jacuzzi tub, large shower with various pressure settings, separate vanity with ample closet space and the cuteness of the welcome fruit inside a large birdcage. We can’t not include this hotel in our gay travel guide to Bali.

Jimbaran Bay

Jimbaran Bay, Pantai Nelayan Tersembunyi Di Bali Selatan https://t.co/iWT6rIhhEB #travelblog pic.twitter.com/xxSWT4Z0kf — Fahmi (@catperku) June 21, 2020

Romance is completely amped up at Jimbaran Bay on the southern peninsula, only a twenty-minute drive from Seminyak. While it shares the same coast, I found the beaches substantially nicer here, and a pace that truly captured “island time.” The shore hosts a number of seafood restaurants, trademark “beds on the beach” and unforgettable sunsets. In fact, these are the three main highlights of the area, considering a shortage of healers, nightlife, rice paddies, jungle treks and money boys. It’s a compact paradise luring foodies to the bustling morning fish markets and surfers to the wealth of great waves, giving a more “retro” feel to the Balinese coast.

The scent of fresh seafood lingers in the salt-stung air, and the perpetual sound of crashing waves creates Zen. Even the two luxury resorts here are attractions in themselves, for both locals and visitors alike. It was the best detox from Seminyak, and I finally had time to crack open my beach book, Robinson Crusoe.

If you’re looking for sprawling and fab, Ayana Resort and Spa is a 200-acre, 368-room property that’s so tricked-out, you don’t have to leave the premises and, quite frankly, most guests don’t. I felt like a passing traveler in a self-contained village.

Do you know that sleep is key for overall health and wellbeing? That is why our ultra luxurious villas are set on the scenic Jimbaran Bay cliffs amongst the lush tropical gardens, and offer world-class facilities and uncompromised privacy. #AYANAresort #Bali pic.twitter.com/hXTR5238tZ — AYANA Hotels (@AyanaResort) April 6, 2020

There are five pools (both fresh- and salt-water), 12 restaurants and lounges, two glass-wedding chapels, a sliver of private beach, tucked away hales , award-winning, 236,000-square-foot spa (that includes a truly pampering, 12-course aquatherapy circuit) and a sports facility that includes fitness center, jogging path, yoga pavilion, tennis courts and 18-hole golf putting course.

If you think that’s enough to keep you busy, they throw in surprises. For instance, during my stay, guest yogi Jacqui Cooper, a medal-winning aerial skiing Olympian and certified instructor, taught a free outdoor class to fifty guests.

To really do Ayana right, splurge on one of the 78 free-standing, cliff-top villas . They start at 3,225 square-feet and include a 24-hour butler (you’re given a cell should you need anything), private infinity-edge plunge pool, sunbeds and gazebos and your own waterfall garden. If that’s not privileged enough, there’s a separate room entirely for the soaking bathtub, about the same size of the living area. I felt quite liliputian in such quarters but I also felt rightfully like a prince in my own kingdom.

Formerly the Ritz Carlton, the property became Ayana two years ago and repeat visitors will notice the sheer awesomeness of the year-old Rock Bar. An open-top bar—with cocktails created by Michelin-star F&B executive Marc Dobbels—is set on a cliff outcrop where crashing waves, 360-degree views and sublime sunset (happy hour is popular here) create an atmosphere challenging to duplicate. Don’t even get me started on the stargazing. It’s one of the main reasons we actually wrote this gay travel guide to Bali… it must have been in the stars!

The 147 villas at Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay are modeled after typical Balinese homes (of the swankier variety), completely rustic with private plunge pools and views of the Bay. The resort is intimate and simple, understated elegance with a signature Beds on the Beach so fine-toothed you’ll think it was specially crafted for you. It includes pampering hale on the coast, a terrific degustation menu under the stars while torch-baring canoes roll out in the ocean before you.

Sonho de hoje: começar o dia com esse café da manhã em uma da villas privativas do @FSBali , em Jimbaran Bay. ?: alexpreview (via IG) https://t.co/Fd6G3RMJtq #DreamWithFS #Indonesia pic.twitter.com/X46koUTfL8 — Four Seasons Brasil (@FourSeasonsBR) July 31, 2020

If you want to feel the “old-school” atmosphere of Bali, head to Balangan Beach , a hedonistic strip of sandy beach and home to surfer competitions, $20-a-room hotels on stilts and not much more. It’s wildly idyllic and bare-boned, with little shading so don’t forget your sunscreen. Visit Aluwatu, home of one of Bali’s biggest and most important shrines, and you’ll experience traditional choreographed dances at sunset. Like to ride waves? The breaks here have been named one of the best surfing spots in the world, so we just have to include it in our gay guide to Bali.

The Ubud Rice fields are just so peaceful and an amazing place to just sit reflect and meditate ??‍♂️ — marcusmeetsworld via IG // Fam, what are some of your self-care practices during this pandemic? Let us know in the comments. #travelnoire #stayhome pic.twitter.com/zg94v6CH6z — Travel Noire (@TravelNoire) April 28, 2020

Locals, including ex-pats, won’t exactly admit Eat, Pray, Love ruined Ubud but their eyes will tell a different story. The location for the blockbuster film is more overrun with tourists, which means longer lines at favorite haunts, cheesy tours and thrice as many roaring motorbikes. If there’s one redemptive note to the instant tourism boom in the small, inland village high in the foothills is that tourists truly fall in love with Ubud, and the small town itself hasn’t changed, which is why we need to include it in our gay guide to Bali.

Ubud is the heart and cultural pulse of Bali. There’s something so magical here, you’re bound to feel a wonderful sensation right away. It’s traditionally been known to inspire and incite artists, writers, hippies, the spiritual variety and, more recently, me. Retreats and ancient temples abound in unspoiled rain forestry. Winding roads are lined with decades-old art studios and old-school vendors while large, stringy root hang from leafy trees, creating a setting only found in fables.

So we tried Babi Guling at Ibu Oka (Ubud) because of an episode in Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations. It really tastes good ? pic.twitter.com/2tIHC818y7 — Nirvana in Fire (@LinShu__) September 25, 2019

Most villas and resorts perch along the Ayung River, harboring views into the jungle, of rice terraces and gorges. 14th century temples in the Sacred Monkey Forest are home to hundreds of free-roaming, Balinese Macaques monkeys, known to be ubersacred (both the monkeys and the temple) in this neck of the woods. And culinary treats of all kinds—fresh juices, family-run Indonesian restaurants, outdoor BBQ and even suckling pig—make Ubud a fascinating foodie destination. Make a bee-line to Ibu Oka , which the late Anthony Bourdain declared his favorite suckling pig place ever. Get there early as seats fill up fast. Even at 11 am, I stood in line, waiting to work on my appetite on crispy pork skin and savory meat.

Mozaic marches to a more fine-dining beat. It’s touted as the best restaurant in Ubud, heck even all of Bali, thanks to chef Chris Salans (graduate of French Laundry), who opened ten years ago. Mozaic features a six-course tasting menu in a stylish, outdoor venue in the jungle.

A sunset pic we took @ the #Amandari resort, where we stayed for a few days last time in #Bali . Review: https://t.co/mgc0PEFmI9 @Amanresorts pic.twitter.com/EnXf7gRE2B — TravelPlusStyle.com (@TravelPStyle) January 25, 2017

If you come to Ubud and see a temple, ride a motorbike, chill in a resort’s infinity pool and indulge in a streetside $5 massage then you haven’t truly experienced Ubud. To fully understand the culture, one must immerse himself by participating in pastimes, activities and attractions most hotels offer.

The chic, 30-suites Amandari was able to arrange a traditional blessing ceremony with a local priest for me. This ceremony is generally offered during an important day (birthday or wedding), a Karma cleansing, if you will, and was performed just outside Amandari’s main entrance. After the priest sang a variety of prayers, I was blessed by him, sprinkled with water and dry rice, and finally I made all sorts of offerings ( canag ) to the God, and was able to ask for wishes. One wish I should have made was to stop the rain, which comes every day in rainy season due to its location, but the random showers never last a handful of hours.

The 60-room Four Seasons Sayan , where Julia Roberts stayed during filming, is at the base of the river. The design of the resort is quite commanding (note the signature, disc-shaped lily pond roof) and botany lovers will appreciate the well-kept landscape chockfull of stag-horn ferns, thumbergia vines, herb and gardens and Banyan trees. Just imagine the invigorating, floral scents.

eat pray love ⭐⭐ a primeira hora é tão chata que quase desisti, a segunda melhora um pouco mas nada espetacular. o que vale a pena é a elizabeth andando de bicicleta, comendo pizza e falando francês. pic.twitter.com/fcHTEpGI6F — laura ミ☆ (@latinsroses) December 24, 2020

The resort pays tribute to the Balinese farmer by offering “Live Like a Local” excursion. After an hour-long, scenic trek in the jungle and village, I had breakfast in a bale by a sprawling rice paddy then planted some of my own. Don’t worry, it gets better. After a few hours of dirtying hands, I was whisked away to the spa villa to experience batukali (stone bathing ritual), which comprises a stone scrub and massage. It’s perhaps more posh than the way of the traditional farmer but thematic nonetheless. This was followed by a riverfront, nasi campur (mixed rice) lunch in a private bale and included a gorgeous scrapbook memento with nasi campur recipes and photos of the day’s journey.

COMO Shambala #Bali , adds a whole new dimension of opulence to your standard wellness retreat. http://t.co/PSEvD3BDHY pic.twitter.com/K2BrvTPjJj — Travel+Leisure Southeast Asia (@TravLeisureAsia) May 14, 2014

Well off the beaten-path is COMO Shambhala Estate just on the outskirts of Ubud, reached by one road (as in, a one-way road shared both directions). The remote location reflects its level of exclusivity, high in the mountains, about 3,400 feet, right on the edge of a cliff that drops down to Ayung river. It’s home to a natural sacred spring bursting with holy water, creating a handful of pools for natural dipping (ancient texts indicate this is one of seven springs women have to visit before getting married).

There’s only 30 villas, most of which are always booked, thanks to its rustic-chic design (stone walls, thatch roofs, green grounds and most of the villas face a whole hillside of terraced rice paddies), personal butler attendant and holistic program that includes unlimited yoga and pilates classes from some of the world’s top experts. COMO is regarded as the best of the best for the best, as visitors have included Donna Karan, Calvin Klein and Edward Norton. Don’t expect tacky guest speakers and group meditations as this is not that sort of retreat; the spirituality comes from within and it’s one of the reasons we need to include in our ultimate gay guide to Bali.

A perfect place to stay at East Bali is Amankila. pic.twitter.com/tO6o9xvwhj — P O S I T I V I T Y (@RightDisplay) October 22, 2020

Visit the Karangasem regency on the east coast, and you’ll still see Bali pre-tourism boom. It’s chockfull of caged-up, cock-fighting roosters, rice fields, home-cum-“street”-front shops and arguably the most smiles in the entire archipelago. Karangasem is as old-school as Bali gets, and we’re talking a thousand years. In fact, the small village of Tenganan was the first to be settled in the 11th century and still retains traditions and customs that haven’t changed from the get-go.

Those who live in the village (about 200 families) never leave, and if they marry someone outside their ring, they must move out. Tenganan is also home to ecat, a type of tapestry that’s hand-woven and takes up to two years to make. This is the village that originally gave birth to ecat and is one of few places where production exists… and out of weavers’ shops for that matter. The art form is so intricate and difficult that no one has learned how to duplicate it correctly. Being that Tenganan was the first settlement in Bali, it’s also home to some of the oldest temples and shrines.

Winding pathways lead to secluded stilted suites at #Amankila , where the air is veiled with the tropical scent of frangipani and the magnificent three-tier infinity pool appears to tumble down to black sand beach below. https://t.co/I6Wh956tue pic.twitter.com/uvtLpyRwVa — Aman (@Amanresorts) October 29, 2020

Tradition lingers outside the village. I was fortunate to visit Bali during Usabha Ketiga—meaning “the rituals of the third month” according to the Balinese calendar—where a celebration of dancing, offerings and drinking took place on the side of the street—literally. Cars and motorbikes actually dodged the festival on the edge of the street, the same exact spot where the festival had taken place for centuries, and the road was just an impediment. Visiting shrines and temples are de riguer for locals but tourists should plan to visit one during a celebration, which is much more moving.

A charming, oceanside resort town exists but affluent travelers will prefer the 30-year old Amankila resort. The 34 stilted, thatch-roof, free-standing suites (200 square feet) are bridged by raised walkways, completely removed in its own oasis. Aman groupies may recognize the resort by its signature, three-tiered, infinity swimming pool set into the cliff, facing the sea and flowing into the other down a stepped gradient, similar to terraced rice paddies.

#Amankila ’s 3-tier infinity pool tumbles down to the beach below, as views across the Lombok Strait disappear beyond the horizon. Immersed in the beauty of these natural surroundings, Balinese dishes are served, created from locally sourced ingredients. https://t.co/I6Wh956tue pic.twitter.com/l5qW6AGXo9 — Aman (@Amanresorts) November 21, 2020

The streamlined staff enhance the atmosphere while the design is noteworthy in itself: tall, stone walls covered with fern and moss, angular structures and thoughtful composition, commanding views anywhere you stand, private cabanas (or bales ) throughout the property. At the base of the cliff on which the resort rests is the Beach Club where myriad watersports are offered as well as another pool at a whopping 135 feet. After an exhausting, eight-mile bike ride throughout the regency (mountain bikes provided by the resort), there really wasn’t a better place to come back to than Amankila. Under the band of stars (the light pollution is low, thus constellations wildly pop from the sky), it’s an unrivaled experience, and one of the reasons we need to include in our gay guide to Bali.

What’s not to love @ConradBali with a lagoon access room, blue skies, giant swimming pools, excellent service, delicious food and hot weather. Will certainly be switching off for the next few days #hothotel #conrad #bali pic.twitter.com/8Mn6yDqjPE — TheDesignAir (@thedesignair) September 22, 2019

If for some unearthly reason you have to get away from the belly of Bali, head to Nusa Dua, a self-contained, gated resort complex on the east side of the island. In all fairness, Nusa Dua was conceived in the late seventies as the first development specifically designed for tourism—it’s this region that put Bali on the map internationally!

Also, the best beaches of Bali are arguably here, should you need winning snapshots for your Instagram.

Like to hang at @HiltonHotels ? These are the 52 best, including the Conrad Bali: https://t.co/ceZGanVcTL pic.twitter.com/UqGMOYXIhq — ForbesLife (@ForbesLife) August 12, 2019

Resorts (most fit for large conventions or weddings) line the sandy coast, all considered high end. There’s also a small shopping center—Bali Connections—and a golf course. The best beach is probably at the base of St Regis, open only three years and still feeling quite new. While one would gripe that there’s no Balinese culture found within the property, most won’t turn down the chic pool with swim-up bar, 24-hour butler service and indulgent Remede Spa. Grand Hyatt recently went through a major renovation and Amanusa is still a luxury hotel junkie’s poison. Further up the coast, just on the border, is Conrad Bali , which has the biggest pools in all of Bali (the lagoon pool is 40,000 square feet).

The new Conrad Suites may be underwhelming with design but it’s the perks—private 2,000-square-foot pool, fee-free cabanas, free laundry and dry cleaning and 15% percent off all F&B—that matter.

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Bali, Indonesia’s paradise island, offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences. Explore stunning temples like Uluwatu and Tanah Lot, perched atop dramatic cliffs. Unwind on the sun-kissed beaches of Kuta, Seminyak, or Nusa Dua. Immerse yourself in the local culture with visits to traditional villages and vibrant markets. Embark on adventurous activities such as surfing, diving, or hiking Mount Batur at sunrise. Pamper yourself with indulgent spa treatments and yoga retreats amidst lush landscapes. Discover the artistic side of Bali in Ubud’s galleries and dance performances. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, Bali’s diverse attractions and warm hospitality create an idyllic and enriching destination for travelers of all ages.

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Gay Bali - Kuta & Seminyak

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Bali, the "Island of the Gods," has an estimated 20,000 puras (temples) and shrines. Unlike the predominantly Muslim peoples of other Indonesian islands, Balinese are Hindu and animist, making their culture unique, and quite different from that of neighboring Java. Interwoven with art and ritual, Balinese Hinduism has produced a graceful people, decorous in their behavior, in harmony with their land, at ease with themselves and one another. Self-assured, curious and genuinely friendly, they bathe naked at rivers in rural areas, but outsiders should await an invitation before joining in. Sexuality is seen quite differently than in the West, and though tolerant and gay-friendly, Balinese themselves rarely embrace gay lifestyles as an identity.

The tourist-popular Seminyak-Kuta-Legian area is mostly a place for foreign visitors and off-island Indonesians to play, and young guys arrive here from all over Indonesia for the freedom to live more openly. Some of those might sideline as freelance 'money boys' for tourists, and the Javanese are well represented among local drag divas.

Androgyny figures prominently among the mythical figures of traditional music and dance, and homosexuality is not listed among the various sins. So while marriage and children are vital to full participation in village life, same-sex intimacies are no big deal for the young and unmarried. Even after they yield to family pressures to produce children, many continue to have relationships with men. Blogs tell of flings with horny locals, but encounters might involve only playful flirtations. Some knowledge of Balinese or Indonesian can be helpful outside tourist zones, where English is the most commonly spoken foreign language.

Food is inexpensive, with a wide variety of foreign cuisines to complement the intriguingly different flavors of Balinese food with their complex blendings of spices and fragrant roots. Unlike Indian Hindu preferences for vegetarian food, the Balinese eat meat, including pork, not eaten elsewhere in Indonesia where Islam predominates. Fresh fruit and seafood are plentiful, and young green coconut milk is a daily staple, considered very good for health.

The town of Ubud , set among the rice paddies and steep ravines of the central foothills, is the cultural center of the island, with museums, art galleries and performance spaces, but there are others scattered across the island. See the Bali-Indonesia and BaliGuide  websites for listings.

The Kecak Fire Dance , Balinese dance and music drama based on the Hindu Ramayana , employs gamelan suara, storytellers, and a choir of a hundred or more men sitting in concentric circles. Performances can be seen by members of the Taman Kaja Community at Pura Dalem Taman Kaja, Jalan Raya Ubud.

The Bali Theatre mega-stage complex at the Bali Safari & Marine Park in Gianyar, presents grand productions with over 150 dancers and performers along with puppets and animals.

Neighborhoods/ gay scene

Seminyak, North Kuta and nearby areas along the coast, to the west of the capital city of Denpasar, are the heart of the island's newer tourist district, home to most of its gay and gay-friendly businesses, north of the more established parts of Kuta between here and the airport. Jalan Laksmana (also known as Jalan Kayu Aya), at its center, is Bali’s ‘Eat Street,’ just east from the coast at Legian Beach, with plenty of restaurant options, and some fashion boutiques too. 

To the south a bit, along a short strip on Jalan Camplung Tanduk (formerly Dhyana Pura), there are a half dozen or so gay bars all in a row. Also marketing themselves to gay men, sometimes exclusively, are a number of Seminyak resorts, some with clothing-optional pools. The area has several men-for-men massage spas as well, one with a sauna. See below for listings.

Batu Belig Beach , on Jalan Pantai Batu Belig near W Retreat , north of Seminyak, was known as the ‘Gay Beach’ but according to recent reports you might find more guys at Berawa Beach these days. The Double Six Beach , a small strip of sand near the Double Six Hotel , can be found where rainbow flags flap above beach chairs and umbrellas for rent, and cold drinks can be bought. Also nearby is the  Blue Ocean Restaurant on Pantai Double Six, once a hippy hangout in what was the middle of nowhere in those days.

Getting here

The Ngurah Rai International Airport  (aka Denpasar ) is located just to the south of Kuta, on the isthmus at the southernmost part of the island. Lt.Col. Wisnu Airfield is found in north-west Bali. Thirty-day non-renewable visas are issued on arrival for Europeans, North Americans, Australians and Kiwis among others from 169 countries . 

There are plenty of public taxis for the trip to town. Fixed-fare tickets for anywhere on the island can be purchased at the ticketing booth, and a driver will be assigned to you. Hotel shuttles and  transfers are often available too, free, or for as little as $15-20 to Seminyak resorts.

Getting around

Besides Blue Bird metered taxis, there are "bemo" minivans to get you around quite inexpensively in Kuta and beyond. Bali street maps are hard to follow, but drivers generally know the resort, restaurant and nightclub locations. 

Motorbike, moped and car rentals are widely available for those with an international permit, but Bali can be informal about traffic rules, roads are crowded, and they drive on the left -- so first-timers might want to resist that temptation, and hire a seasoned driver to handle the roads.

Cheap and easy bus services link Bali to all major cities on Java and Lombok and to ferries for sea crossings to other islands. Perama , and Safari Dharma are two bus company options.

The rupiah (Rp) is the official currency of Indonesia (code IDR). Indonesians also use the word "perak" ('silver'). Each rupiah was subdivided into 100 sen, but with inflation (one US dollar equals around 13,650 rupiah in early 2020) sen are now obsolete. ATM machines are to be found at banks and other locations in major cities. Inform your home bank of plans before leaving for credit card transactions and cash withdrawals to work smoothly, and for info on partner banks or ATM networks to save on fees. US dollars are widely accepted, but exchange rates vary widely, and crisp new hundred dollar bills are preferred over old, damaged, or smaller denominations. 

Media & Resources

Wolfy Gay Bali and Nomadic Boys are websites with gay guides and travel listings.

The Bali Guide , My Bali Guide , and the Bali Bible websites have general public information on where to eat, sleep, shop and party in Bali. 

Utopia , and Travel Gay Asia , the gay Asia travel websites, also have up-to-date listings for Bali, including explorations of the "real" Bali, away from the commercial Kuta scene. They also list gay-friendly resorts all over the island from central mountain jungles around Ubud to the North or East Bali coasts.

Bali Medika is a modern clinic providing GP consultation and sexual health care at international standards.

Indoleft.org is maintained by the Asia Pacific Solidarity Network (APSN), "a network of activists building solidarity with and support for movements for social justice, genuine democracy and self-determination in the Asia Pacific region."

Bali Sun , Bali Times , Indonesia Expat and Seminyak Times are English language news sources for Bali and elsewhere in the country.

Utopia reports that some Indonesian ISPs block gay content websites, and suggest avoiding Telkomsel or Indosat SIM cards, or hotels that use these providers. The locals have found other ways to get around the problem, so ask around.

Recreational drugs are a big deal to authorities in Indonesia, as the recent marijuana case of Jed Texas illustrates.

Other useful sites for visitors include: the Bali Tourism Board ,  Lonely Planet/ Bali, Bali by Hotels, and the Bali Travel Guide . 

The Arma Museum , Bali Music and Dance , Bali Spirit , Bali Sutra , Bali Theatre , Indonesia Travel (the official Ministry of Tourism website) and UNESCO websites have traditional culture listings , including Legong , Kecak and Barong dance performances.

The Beat/ Bali is a bi-weekly print, and daily internet magazine and facebook page about the clubs and entertainments scenes of this island, and Jakarta too. They also have a radio station, Radio Plus 98.5FM , with internet live stream and archive shows.

The Yak is a slick fashion, culture, food, music, travel and lifestyle magazine about Bali and beyond.

See the Jonathan Copeland blog for photo essays of Bali sights.

Our gay Bali listings page has a map of gay and gay-friendly businesses.

Going Out The gayest bars and nightclubs are clustered along a short strip of Jalan Camplung Tanduk (formerly called Dhyana Pura).

Bali Joe (Jalan Camplung Tanduk, 8), gay/mixed crowd, men/women, sofas, bar/lounge, drag shows, go-go dancers on the bar. See their gallery .

Bottoms Up Bar (Jalan Camplung Tanduk 10), gay club, men/women mix, drag shows, go-go boys and shower dancers. May be closed.

Cafe ChicoRico (Jalan Kunti 7, Kuta), daytime cafe with WiFi from 11am, lunch and dinner, gay-popular evening cocktails and snacks.

F Bar (Jalan Camplung Tanduk 10), aka Face Bar , gay pub, drag shows, go-go boys and ladyboys, theme parties.

M.A.N Resort   (Jalan Padma Utara, Gg Bujangga, Legian, Kuta), cafe/ bar at boutique day club exclusively for men, restaurant cocktails, lunch and dinner; also spa sauna, whirlpool, steam room, meditation room, foam room, and massage services.

Mixwell (Jalan Camplung Tanduk 6), cocktail bar, terrace, DJs, dancing, mixed men/women early crowd, drag shows, go-go boys, theme parties.

Red Ruby (Jalan Raya Pettitenget 919, Seminyak), Western dining w/ Asian twist, cocktail lounge, live Jazz and Blues, dancing, DJs play rotating nights of Hip Hop, RnB, EDM, House, Techno and other music genres.

Sea Vu Play (Jalan Petitenget at Taman Ganesha), Australian/Mediterranean food, drinks and music, TV sports, outdoor tables under the palms; weekly parties include drag shows.

Seven Elephant , a local entertainment/ events company, throws unrestrained and raucously fun events in association with different venues, collectives, musicians, artists and brands, local and foreign, for unique party experiences.

Other mostly straight but gay-popular nearby establishments include:

The Double Six Club, at the eponymous luxury beach resort, the after-2am dance club of choice for many gay people and friends, with bungie jump alongside, and pool too.

The Ka De Ta (Jalan Laksman Oberoi 9), popular Seminyak beachfront restaurant and nightclub with international DJs and performers.

The Potato Head Beach Club (Jalan Petitenget), next to the W Retreat hotel resort; gay-friendly and known for distinctive old window shutters of many colors and sizes -- a nice place for cocktails by the pool, relaxing music and great sunsets.

Sky Garden (Jalan Legian 61, Kuta), nightly mixed bar on 4th floor of nightclub complex, with restaurant service and dancing; former location of Club Pride gay dance nights.

CLOSED: DIX Club , gay/mixed bar/lounge, divas, go-go boys; Koh , underground EDM dance club; After a series at Electrik/Red Ruby/Terrace , the Koh team are now nomadic between venues for one-off dance parties ; Mint , Tech/House/Electronic music dance club, international DJs. Their Terrace Bar became Electrik , then Red Ruby .

Spas, Massage Services and Sauna

Banana Spa: Bali Men’s Club (Jalan Drupadi, 69), gay day spa/ club next to the Harris Hotel ; massage services, swimming pool, sun deck, barista coffees, beer, wine and juice bar, free WiFi, all-day breakfast, burgers, ice cream and snacks.

Elegantz Spa & Sauna (Jalan Tangkuban Perahu 18, Kerobokan), man-to-man Balinese warm oil and body-to-body massages, body scrubs, sauna, dark room, steam, plunge pool, TV lounge, smoking terrace, and cafe.

M2 Spa (Jalan Petitenget 41B, Kerobokan), men's club provides massage and spa services, sauna, Jacuzzi, garden plunge pool, and TV lounge with WiFi.

M.A.N Resort Dayclub Spa & Sauna | Cafe and Bar (Jalan Padma Utara), men's pool, sauna, massage; restaurant, bar and guest rooms.

Several other spas, including Adam’s Apple , Antique , Baliman Healing Spa ,  Bonita , Coco Grande , Jari Menari, and  teMAN, also offer man-to-man massage services of many varieties, plus scrubs and facials -- all at hard-to-resist prices.

CLOSED: Fantasie Gym & Sauna (Jalan Tangkuban Perahu 101, Kerobokan), gay men's sauna/gym, dark room, cabins, maze, cruise/play area, bar.

Lodgings Of the dozen Seminyak resorts we listed for gay men until recently, some with clothing-optional pools, all have now either closed or gone mainstream, at least online. One of them requested we remove their listing altogether - see the bottom of this page.

Green Chaka Paradise (Petitenget 41, Seminyak Beach), private 2-bedroom villa, short walk to beach, restaurants, bars; clothing-optional mineral water swimming pool and water-massage, lush garden, laundry, satellite-TV, WiFi.

Spartacvs Bali (Jalan Pura Telaga Waja Petitenget), boutique resort near beach and restaurants; pool-side bar, Jacuzzi, massage services.

Sunclad Villa (Jalan Umalas Klecung 10, Kuta), secluded private villa, kitchen, pool/Jacuzzi, garden, steam sauna, satellite TV, WiFi.

Villa Angelo (Jalan Petitenget 884), friendly guesthouse, five guest rooms, pool, terraces, tropical garden, cable TV/ Apple TV; near beach and commercial area of bars, restaurants and shops.

Villa Layang Bulan (Gang Daksina 10b/ Jalan Batu Belig), adult resort/spa, villas and private rooms, pool, garden, home-cooked Western and Asian meals, motor-bike and car rentals; near beach, restaurants and massage services.

Villa Burgis (Jalan Drupadi Gang Cempaka 14, Seminyak), over 30 Balinese-style 1 to 6 ensuite-bedroom villas in four seperate but central Seminyak locations; each with large private pool, sun bathing terrace, lush tropical garden/lawn, fully-equipped kitchen, bar, living/ dining facilities, and most with BBQ and gazebo.

The Wood Double Six Villa (Jalan Baik Baik, Gang Taman Sari 7), six villa rooms, pool, gardens, WiFi, room service.

The Seminyak coast has plenty of luxury resort options. With beachside gourmet dining, infinity pools, spas, lush tropical gardens, tour and concierge services and every other kind of amenity, you hardly need to wander -- and the central gay nightlife and restaurant scene isn't far away. Browse these websites to check out a few: Anantara Seminyak Resort , Double-Six , The FuramaXclusive Ocean Beach , Grand Balisani Suites , The Legian , The Oberoi,   The Royal Beach , The Semaya ,  The Seminyak , and  W Retreat Hotel Bali .

On the north coast Bali au Naturel (Jalan Airsanih, Tejakula, Desa Bondalem) offeris a tranquil escape from the busy Kuta scene; two swimming pools, whirlpool, small gym, tropical gardens, and massage services.

Some other resorts are less expensive, and there are many private full-service villas for rent all around the area. See more hotels and guesthouses , and some restaurant options -- from beach cafes, noodle shops and BBQ/burger joints to some of the finest world-class dining establishments -- at our map & listings pages.

Lazy Monkey Guesthouse Lombok Senggigi (Jalan Pantai Batu Belig Gg Papuan 8), men-only studio apartments near Batu Belig Beach; private garden, pool, deck. Former Zen 4 Men .

Phil’s Place (Gang Melati 40), gay men-only boutique hotel near gay clubs; central pool, garden gazebo, breakfast, cable TV/ DVD, massage services.

Travel alert - January 2020.

“Gay is a human right, right? But if it violates order, it can’t be ignored because we don’t legalise same-sex marriages.” -Putu Astawa, Head of the Bali Provincial Tourism Office ( IndonesiaExpat , January 14, 2020).

Anti-LGBT sentiments and the persecution of gay men have made the news in Java and elsewhere in Indonesia for several years now, but Bali, has generally been seen as more tolerant. Local media headlines this month, however, and the initial reactions of local authorities, suggest there is reason to be concerned that this island is no longer immune to harsh attitudes that plague the rest of the country.

The Angelo Bali Gay Guesthouse is at the center of this storm - a villa described as an all-male, small and luxurious guesthouse, where clothing is optional. Local police representative I Gusti Agung Ketut Suryanegara, of the Satpol PP in Badung, has said “We will follow up on this issue" - but added in comments to the Merdeka reporter, “Their website highlights the villa as specifically for the gay [community], here in Bali we don’t recognize that culture.” The head of the Badung Cultural Agency, I Made Badra, told the Tribun Bali, that the existence of such a villa is “ tainting Bali’s tourism reputation," and Gede Ricky Sukarta, of the Bali Villa Association (BVA), is reported in the Bali Post to have said that "the accommodation’s marketing approach was not ethically appropriate."

In their news report, Coconuts wrote: "the villa and its alleged specialty don’t seem especially troubling, but authorities on the island seem unhappy about its existence. Should they find evidence backing the allegations, Suryanegara said Satpol PP would urge the villa to tone down its gay-exclusive marketing, but he did not say if local authorities would shutter the guesthouse (possibly on the grounds that homosexuality is not illegal in Bali or most of Indonesia)." The Bali Times also has a report, and The International Business Times concluded that "Closing LGBT- friendly establishments would impact a significant part of the island’s economy... it remains to be seen if those that hold attitudes of intolerance and homophobia in Indonesia are willing to accept the drop in tourist income if well-heeled LGBT folks move on to friendlier beaches."

Pink News reported that another three villas catering to gay guests are now being investigated, and we here at Xtra received a request this month from the owners of a Bali guesthouse, asking to have their listing deleted from our website. We did so, and then went looking to see what was going on, as they had given no reasons. Of the dozen Kuta/Seminyak resorts we listed for gay men until recently, some with clothing-optional pools, all have now either closed or gone mainstream, at least online. It also appears that some Bali gay bars have tamed their websites and facebook galleries lately, with fewer sexy dancers or images of male couples to be seen.

Bali Gay Clubs & Bars | An LGBTQIA+ Guide to Bali Nightlife

Do you have aN LGBTQIA+ NIGHTLIFE TRAVEL tip that you’d love for us to include in this guide, or maybe you’ve noticed something that’s not quite right?  let us know your thoughts BY CLICKING here !

Welcome to Bali, the Island of the Gods! Known for its stunning beaches, lush rice paddies, and vibrant culture, Bali is a tropical paradise that attracts visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind or explore all that this beautiful island has to offer, Bali has something for everyone.

One of Bali’s main draws is its thriving LGBTQIA+ scene, which has been growing in recent years. From bustling nightclubs to laid-back beach bars, Bali has a variety of LGBTQIA+ friendly venues that cater to all tastes and interests. Here are some of the best places to check out:

Mixwell is a vibrant gay bar located in the heart of Bali’s gay district in Seminyak. This lively venue welcomes people of all sexual orientations and offers a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Enjoy fabulous drag shows, lively music, and signature cocktails, making Mixwell an unforgettable spot for an exciting night out.

Address : Jl. Camplung Tanduk No. 6, Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia More Info : https://www.instagram.com/mixwellbarbaliofficial/?hl=en Cost : Prices vary by event

La Favela is a unique and eclectic venue located in the heart of Seminyak. The bar is known for its quirky decor and regularly hosts themed events and parties. With a mix of locals and tourists, La Favela has a lively and welcoming atmosphere that makes it a great spot for a night out. Address : Jl. Laksamana Oberoi No.177X, Seminyak, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia More Info: https://www.lafavelabali.com/ Cost : Entry fees vary depending on the event, drinks are reasonably priced

Sky Garden Club

If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, the Sky Garden Rooftop Lounge is the place to be. Located in the heart of Kuta, the lounge offers stunning views of the city and regularly hosts live music and DJ sets. With multiple floors and a variety of dance floors to choose from, the Sky Garden Rooftop Lounge is the perfect spot for a night out with friends.

Address : Jl. Legian No.61, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia More Info : https://www.facebook.com/clubskygardenbali Cost : Entry fees vary depending on the event, drinks can be on the pricier side

POTATO HEAD BEACH CLUB

Located in the vibrant area of Seminyak, Potato Head Beach Club is a popular LGBTQIA+ friendly beachfront venue that offers a lively atmosphere and breathtaking ocean views. Dance the night away to the tunes of talented DJs, sip delicious cocktails, and enjoy the vibrant ambience. With regular events and parties, this beach club is a must-visit for a fun-filled night out.

Address : Jalan Petitenget no. 51B, Seminyak, Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali, 80361, Indonesia More Inf o: https://seminyak.potatohead.co/ Cost : Prices vary by event

There you have it, a guide to some of the best LGBTQIA+ friendly venues in Bali. Whether you’re looking for a wild night out or a more laid-back experience, Bali has something for everyone. So grab your friends, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable night out on this beautiful island!

Gay Bali Guide | An LGBTQIA+ Guide To Bali

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...And remember queen, always drink responsibly and in moderation, and of course, only if you're of the legal drinking age in your area. If alcohol abuse is something you or someone you care about is struggling with, you can find support here . More of a spring chicken than a seasoned queen, and not old enough to view this one?Don't fret! We've got tons of other super cool queer articles here !

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Tips for Gay and Lesbian Travelers in Bali

The Balinese are Hindu, unlike the rest of Indonesia, which is predominately Muslim. In Bali you will find a relatively rich gay scene although not one that is openly flaunted. While homosexuality is accepted, any public display of romance, whether straight or gay, is frowned upon. The Indonesian legal age of consent for straight and gay sex is 16.

Bali is now a gay-friendly place, and it is unlikely that gays will encounter any problems while on holiday, especially in the touristy areas of the south. The best place to base yourself is in Seminyak, with its open gay scene and plenty of gay-owned and gay-friendly accommodations, bars, and nightclubs. There is also a fabulous gay cruising area north of Petitenget beach.

For up-to-date information on the best places to stay and Bali's gay scene check out the following websites: www.bali-rainbows.com; www.utopia-asia.com; www.rainbowtourism.com; www.balifriendlyhotels.com; and www.baligayguide.com.

Lombok, a Muslim island, frowns upon homosexuality and you will find it difficult to find suitable accommodations and accepting people. The only exception is the Gili Islands, where there is a slightly more laid-back attitude.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Guide to Gay Friendly Hotels in Bali Indonesia (2024 Updated)

Bali  is a holiday paradise . But it’s better to know the island and your way around. You can have the best holiday of your life time exploring the whole island.  Bali is well known for being one of the most gay friendly cities in Asia. There are plenty of gay friendly hotel Bali.

Bali is an Indonesian island known for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, beaches and coral reefs. The island is home to religious sites such as cliffside Uluwatu Temple. To the south, the beachside city of Kuta has lively bars, while Seminyak, Sanur and Nusa Dua are popular resort towns. The island is also known for its yoga and meditation retreats

Indonesia is not very gay friendly at all, lacking any comprehensive pro LGBT legislation. But despite this, Bali is the gay oasis of the gay couples around the world which can have the holiday of their lifetime in this exotic island!

Top attractions to visit in Bali

Table of Contents

• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
• Mount Agung
• Waterbom Bali
• Double Six Beach
• Seminyak Beach

Best Day Tours in Bali

• Ubud : Monkey Forest – Jungle Swing – Rice Terrace – Water Temple and Waterfall
• Bali Nusa Penida Tour
• Bali Full-Day Water Temples and UNESCO Rice Terraces Tour
• ❤️Bali Instagram Tour: The Most Famous Spots

1.  Spartacvs Bali Hotel – Gay Hotels Bali

Strictly for gay men, the clothing optional Spartacvs Bali Hotel is a 5-minute walk to Petitenget Beach . Featuring an outdoor pool surrounded by tropical landscaped gardens, it offers private rooms with free Wi-Fi.

Spartacvs Bali Hotel is a 5-minute walk to Ku De Ta Restaurant. Ngurah Rai International Airport is a 30-minute drive from the hotel .

The modern and air-conditioned rooms have a satellite TV, safe and minibar. A private bathroom includes a shower and toilet. Select rooms offer a flat-screen TV.

There are only about 15 rooms, which makes the hotel small enough to be personal, yet big enough for privacy if you just want to lie around the pool without being disturbed. The clothing optional thing really is optional, some do, some don’t and there is no pressure or embarrassment either way. This is also a male-only hotel (guests and staff), so there is no worry about hiding while the cleaner passes!

The place is in close proximity to the gay  beach  which is handy and a  short   walk  to the shops and big hotels.  Short   walk  to the  beach , main road of Seminyak and to great restaurants.

The  rooms  are  comfortable  and colourful, without being 5 star glamorous.

The venue allows for total privacy and rest if you prefer that and also the opportunity to talk with other guests, if that is more your style

The garden  rooms  are favourites, so they need to be booked well in advance. Each staff member is welcoming in true Balinese style, with a sense of humour and client focus.

The food is outstanding from the  complimentary   breakfast  to our evening dining and the cocktails were very refreshing.

The  free   breakfast  is acceptable, and the lunch-dinner menu is varied with choices for Western and Balinese tastes.

The  pool  area  is great for socialising and to chill, they play gay anthems/classics in the background at times (as well as modern music) which is fun and the best part is that the  pool  is open 24/7 so cooling down after a night of partying was always welcomed.

How much does a room costs at Spartacvs Bali Hotel ?

Prices start 70 $/night for the Standard Room. Deluxe Pool Side Room is 95 $/night.

Offering pool views, this larger, air-conditioned room features a satellite TV, safe and minibar. Private bathroom includes a shower and toilet

Where to book Spartacvs Bali Hotel  – Gay Accommodation Bali– you can find the best resort deals in Bali on Booking.com and Trip.com .

2. Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak Resort – Bali Gay Friendly Hotels

Our second suggestion for a gay resort in Bali is an outstanding 5* resort will all the best possible amenities!

Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak offers a luxurious retreat 5 minutes’ stroll from Seminyak Beach. Featuring an outdoor pool, fitness centre and a spa, it provides free scheduled shuttle service to Seminyak Beach. A restaurant is available on site, while WiFi is accessible for free in all areas.

Elegantly appointed with modern interiors, air-conditioned rooms include a flat-screen cable TV, iPod dock and safe. Guests can relax on the private terrace or balcony while enjoying views of the greenery. A minibar and electric kettle are also among the in-room comforts.

The common area is clean and the layout of the  hotel  is  fantastic  – the pool is surrounded by rooms and easily accessible by those staying at the  hotel . The room is well appointed and comfortable.

Transport to Seminyak Square and Eat Street is provided by the hotel’s golf buggy.

The  rooms  are recently renovated and always clean. The   pool   view   room  is very spacious and has a great size balcony and seperate bathroom, large shower and well appointed. Tea/Coffee/Fridge/TV and Safe in the  room  together with a desk and WiFi access

The  pool  and amenities are way beyond explanation and bring more swim suits and outfits as you are very likely to spend most of your time by the  pool .

The  breakfast   buffet  is out of this world with a huge selection of both Asian and western options.  Huge variety of food and table service.

The hotels has a good gym – good size space to do an interval workout.

The hotel had 2 good sized  pools  with plenty of  pool   side beds available. The garden area with bean bags just changes the whole look of the lobby and brings out the best of the guests.

How much does a room costs at  Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak Resort ?

Prices start 130 $/night for the Deluxe Double with Pool View . The 1 Suite Bedroom   190 $/night.

This spacious suite comes with a living room and a private balcony.

Where to book Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak Resort – Gay Friendly Hotel Bali – you can find the best resort deals in Bali on Booking.com and Trip.com .

3.  Double – Six, Luxury Hotel – Seminyak – Gay Friendly Hotel Bali

This  5* hotel  is 1 minute walk from the beach . Double – Six, Luxury Hotel – Seminyak enjoys great views of the Indian Ocean. It boasts a spa centre and a variety of dining options. Free WiFi is available in all public areas.

Air conditioned rooms at Double – Six, Luxury Hotel – Seminyak are furnished with sofa sets and feature large windows. They are fitted with a flat-screen cable TV. Espresso machine and tea making facilities are also provided. En suite bathroom is equipped with luxury amenities, bath tub and shower. Guests enjoy the convenience of 24-hour on call butler and room service.

The hotel offers very extensive menu to order from & anything can be added or taken off upon request. No buffet, which was fabulous it unlimited Ala Carte. They really have everything you could think of. From Eggs Benedict to Pineapple served on ice with Honey, to Traditional Pancakes, basically you name it they have it prepared for you. If your a coffee lover the coffee granita was  amazing , but they will make any coffee you can think of, fresh juices & smoothies, iced chocolate honestly I would return just for the breakfast menu! The staff is friendly & also very attentive, they remember your room number & name, just adds to the immaculate service.

The pool has a perfect temperature we found one end was warmer than the other, so depending on what you were wanting you could choose either end. The Pool staff are also incredibly attentive, as soon as you arrived they would come over and ask where you would like to sit & they would bring the towels and pillows over to the seat & make sure you were comfortable.

Happy hour is great, runs from 4:00 – 5:30 daily & was buy one get one free. Great atmosphere as all the beach bars generally started there live music around this time & the sun would start to set.

Drinks at the rooftop bar was an awesome experience & a meal at Plantation grill are. an excellent class dining experience.

How much does a room costs at Double – Six, Luxury Hotel – Seminyak ?

Prices start 420 $/night for the Deluxe Suite with Plunge Pool . The Penthouse King is 420 $/night.

This duplex-style suite features 2 bedrooms with a shared balcony, a seating area and a kitchen

Where to book Double – Six, Luxury Hotel – Seminyak  – Gay Friendly Hotel Bali – you can find the best resort deals in Bali on Booking.com and Trip.com .

4.  Grandmas Plus Hotel Seminyak – Gay Friendly Hotel Bali

This 3* hotel  is 5 minutes walk from the beach. Just a 2-minute walk from Seminyak Beach, Grandmas Seminyak Hotel offers modern rooms with free WiFi access and flat-screen cable TVs.

Grandmas Seminyak Hotel is surrounded by the shops, restaurants and nightlife of Seminyak. It is a 25-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Featuring minimalist interiors, air-conditioned rooms come with crisp linen and a safe. Heated showers, toiletries and towels can be found in private bathrooms.

This hotel is very good value for money and it is in a good location near to shops and bars and the beach, however its around a 20 minute walk to the centre of Seminyak and an hours walk along the beach to Kuta.

The  rooms  are  small  but perfectly formed and very clean. They have TVs with lots of English speaking channels, a fridge, a safe, a desk, good lighting, and air conditioning. The bed was very comfortable with good quality linen. Two bottles of water are provided each day and there are also tea and coffee-making facilities . The shower  room  has a variety of complimentary toiletries. You can have washing done, which is charged reasonably per piece.

Breakfast is available for just 60,000 rupiah. It has very good and there was a choice of Indonesian, Continental or American. The hotel also has a  small  swimming pool, which is lovely to use in the midday heat. There is a spa on the top floor which has good deals after 6pm.

How much does a room costs at Grandmas Plus Hotel Seminyak ?

Prices start 40 $/night for the Cozy Double Room .

Air-conditioned rooms come with an flat-screen cable TV, in-room safe and private bathroom with hot showers and amenities

Where to book Grandmas Plus Hotel Seminyak  – Gay Friendly Hotel Bali – you can find the best resort deals in Bali on Booking.com and Trip.com .

5.  The Kayon Resort Bali – Lgbt Friendly Bali Hotels

Our last suggest for a gay friendly resort in Bali is a 4* resort: The Kayon Resort.

Set amidst a garden featuring a chapel and pool, The Kayon Resort features elegant rooms and villas with views over historical Petanu River and jungle. The resort offers complimentary hourly shuttle to and from central Ubud. Luxurious air conditioned rooms boast a scenic terrace, private entrance and a seating area. Fitted with flat-screen satellite TV, CD/DVD player and a laptop safe. It also includes a mosquito net, wardrobe and sofa. The room is fitted with a minibar and electric kettle. The spacious marble bathroom comes with a shower, bathtub and hairdryer. Free WiFi access is available throughout the property.

If you want to stay in  Ubud  but be close to town, yet in the jungle (like Hanging Gardens) this is the place.

The river   view   suite  which includes great  views  over the  river  which surrounds the hotel. Their amenities are also well thought out, in particular, the tote and insect repellent which was all-natural.

The bathroom is attractive with a good shower and a huge stone bath. So huge that it proved impossible to fill it more than a few inches deep, which was not ideal.

The room has a safety deposit box, a good sized bed with mosquito nets (we only saw one or two mossies and we were not bitten), a TV which we never used and a bowl of fruit. In line with prices on Bali the min bar was affordable (£3 for a can of Bintang beer).

The wifi was free and worked well, except for one day when we had to ask for the router to be re-booted.

For the complimentary breakfast, you also have a few options to choose from, Indonesia style, continental breakfast, etc. The food is nicely cooked and beautifully presented. It is much better than the buffet breakfast at a 5 star hotel. Location wise, it is outside  Ubud  center, no shops or restaurants around (you need to take the free shuttle bus to the town center); and this will enrich your  experience  & probably the exact reason why you come to  Ubud  – to enjoy a peaceful mind.

Their free yoga sessions in the morning are a good way to start the day, but note that they are very beginner-level.

How much does a room costs at The Kayon Resort ?

Prices start 250 $/night for the Suite with River View . One-Bedroom Villa with Private Poo l is 460 $/night.

Featuring parquet flooring, this lavish air conditioned villa has a private pool, terrace and seating area. Equipped with a flat-screen satellite TV, CD/DVD player and a laptop safe.The dining area is fitted with a minibar and electric kettle . The marble en suite bathroom comes with a bathtub, shower and hairdryer.

Guests enjoy: – Daily 2 bottles of beer – Daily afternoon tea – Daily yoga – Daily ricefield trekking – Scheduled shuttle to/from Ubud Centre – WiFi in all areas – Daily fruit basket – Daily 2 bottles of mineral water

Where to book The Kayon Resort – Gay Friendly Hotel Bali – you can find the best resort deals in Bali on Booking.com and Trip.com .

Sorin is a freelance travel writer. He is an experienced travel writer and traveller. Since 2012 he explored more than 60 countries on 4 continents: Asia, Europe, Africa and North America. Currently is based in Romania after spending the last 7 years in Myanmar.

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Explore Gay Rooms & Rentals in Bali

If you're a gay traveler looking for comfortable and welcoming gay accommodation in Bali, you have a wide range of options to choose from. From luxury apartments to a more affordable gay b&b, Bali has the perfect place to stay that meets your budget and preferences. Bali is an Indonesian island located in the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east. It's known for its beautiful beaches, stunning natural scenery, and rich cultural heritage. The island is home to a number of top attractions, including the iconic Tanah Lot temple, the Uluwatu Temple, and the Ubud Monkey Forest. When it comes to finding gay-friendly accommodation in Bali, there are plenty of options to choose from. Many of the island's gay accommodations offer a range of amenities, such as private rooms, entire apartments, and guest houses. Some of these properties also feature shared living spaces, kitchens, and laundry facilities, which can make your stay more comfortable and convenient. If you're interested in exploring the local LGBTQ+ scene, you'll find a number of gay bars and clubs located within walking distance of many of the gay accommodations in Bali. These venues are popular among both gay locals and visitors, and are a great way to experience the island's vibrant nightlife. No matter what type of accommodation you're looking for, you'll find plenty of gay-friendly options in Bali. So why wait? Book your stay today and start planning your perfect gay vacation in this beautiful and welcoming island. misterb&b is not affiliated, endorsed, or otherwise associated with Airbnb.

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Is Bali safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

LGBTQIA+ travellers are those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, plus queer or questioning, intersex or asexual individuals. It also includes those who identify beyond these commonly used sexualities and gender expressions. Everyone has the right to feel safe when travelling, and while Bali – and Indonesia – is generally a safe destination for queer travellers, there are some situations and issues that may present themselves to travellers who identify with one or more of these terms when visiting Bali .

As a mostly Muslim country, Indonesia's culture is quite conservative. Although homosexuality is legal in most parts of the country, there is still political tension and revisions to the country's criminal code are currently being considered, which could potentially criminalise gay sex and same-sex relationships. If these laws were passed, many advocacy groups fear it would result in a huge setback to human rights and equality. The LGBTQIA+ community in Indonesia has also been known to be targeted and harassed by police. There is increasing pressure being placed on the Indonesian government on moral issues, and in the past few years, public figures and politicians have been using anti-LGBTQIA+ rhetoric as a means to win votes.  Gay dating apps and media portraying queer behaviour as “normal” have also been banned. Same-sex marriage, civil partnerships, and adoption are all illegal, and the lack of anti-discrimination laws means that discrimination and attacks against the queer community regularly go unpunished.

Bali is predominantly Hindu and has always been more liberal and accepting of the LGBTQIA+ community. That said, sex is a taboo subject in society and public displays of affection are still frowned upon for couples – whether they're straight or queer. It's unlikely that the issue of sexuality will come about while travelling here, but it's best to use discretion when in doubt. When it comes to room sharing for LGBTQIA+ travellers, it's unlikely big hotels will have any issues with same-sex travellers sharing a bed. However, if you're staying at a small, family-run guest house or homestay and are allocated separate beds, you might feel more comfortable not drawing attention to your relationship – though Balinese locals are generally very warm and welcoming towards travellers. 

There are quite a few queer-friendly bars, restaurants and resorts in Bali, and also an (unofficial) gay strip on Jalan Camplung Tanduk Road in Seminyak at the southern end of the island. Here you'll find a number of trendy gay bars, restaurants, drag shows and queer-friendly beach bars. Outside of Bali it can be harder to find queer-friendly establishments. 

If you are travelling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a traveller of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know when you're booking your trip and we’ll arrange the rooming accordingly. There is also the option to book your own room on some tours if you don't wish to share a room.

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Holiday houseboys, to fully appreciate bali you need to book a holiday houseboy , your private gay friendly tour guide. he will be able to show you around like a local. whether you want to see the tourist sites, places off the beaten track or discover the new experiences, the holiday house is there to help you. he looks after your safety and welfare at all times., jquery(function() { _initlayerslider( '#layerslider_341_147dg2tnk81n1', {createdwith: '7.5.3', sliderversion: '7.9.11', type: 'fixedsize', skin: 'v6', usesrcset: true, skinspath: 'https://www.holidayhouseboys.com/wp-content/plugins/layerslider/assets/static/layerslider/skins/', performancemode: true}); });, if you are looking for a native driver guide from bali, then dewardana is your guy. given the small roads on the island, you will not want to drive there yourself. with dewardana behind the wheel, you are in safe hands. dewardana is one of the warm, friendliest and caring guys you will ever get the chance to meet. just check out his great testimonials below from previous happy guests. he can take you all over this exotic island. moreover he looks after his body, as his photos show. nevertheless he has his spiritual side too. treat yourself and book dewardana for that unforgettable day in bali. alternatively take his night tour and see what is on offer., dewardana is covid vaccinated, a non smoker and speaks indonesian and english., total cost for 1 full day (8 hours) with dewardana = a non refundable deposit of usd 45 by paypal or major credit card (visa, mastercard, american express) plus usd 60 in cash to dewardana after his services. total 105 us dollars., alternatively the cost for a half day (4 hours) with dewardana = a non refundable deposit of usd 25 by paypal or major credit card (visa, mastercard, american express) plus usd 40 in cash to dewardana after his services. total 65 us dollars., the cost for a gay night tour (5.5 hours) with dewardana = a non refundable deposit of usd 25 by paypal or major credit card (visa, mastercard, american express) plus usd 50 in cash to dewardana after his services. total 75 us dollars., this includes transport costs in dwardana’s car but does not include any entrance fees or any food & beverage costs., testimonials:, i was in bali for the first time over the new year’s holiday. i was able to meet up with dewardana on two different days we were able to explore seminyak and then spend some time in ubud. he was a great companion, not only was he knowledgeable and accommodating to my many requests and questions – he was fun we spent plenty of time in bali traffic, and i was never bored. he made sure that my time in bali was well spent. when i return i hope dewardana is available – edward usa, dewardana  was polite, thoughtful, considerate and professional. being my first time in bali, i felt safe with him. he started communication with me way ahead of our scheduled appointment day. he also made appropriate suggestions for the day’s itinerary. i would definitely recommend him for anyone coming to bali. – christopher, singapore, dewardana  is a very good tour guide. very gentle, considerate, polite and professional. i do like his services. thank you. – michael, taiwan, dewardana , exceeded my expectations. first of all, he was already communicating to me prior to the scheduled tour date. he accommodated my wishes and intertwine his  suggestions that made the day tour better than i imagined. he showed up on time and prepared since he knows that the temple we are going requires for everyone to wear sarong, so he brought an extra one for me to use. by doing this it saved a lot of time and money.  he went above and beyond especially when i was on line to take a picture by buying a bottled water for me to drink while waiting for my turn. these little things goes a long way. , before the day ended, he even offered to take me to a short morning tour around the city just to kill time since my flight does not leave until 4:00 pm., i would definitely recommend him and your service to anyone who plans to stay in bali and book a tour guide. this is the second time i used your service and both times they delivered an awesome service which made our trip worth remembering. – rommel, philippines, dewardana made my first trip to bali such a great first time experience. he had made contact with me before i left and wanted to know what i was interested in seeing. i did two tours with him and he was always on time and had sent me different itinerary’s the day before so i could look over them and choose what i was interested in. spending time with him in the car was very enjoyable with lots of information of places we were travelling through, it felt like i was travelling with my best friend. we had so many laughs. i felt so well looked after with him, he always made sure i had plenty of water and was watching always to make sure i didn’t fall first of all i’d like to thank you for introducing me to dew. he was absolutely amazing, accommodating and just plain personable. extremely professional and as we chatted it was great to learn about his plans and goals. he was always early and made sure we got our monies worth no matter how tired he was. over and when i might need a rest (have a slight leg disability). not everyone would care so much about you as he did. his knowledge of all the sites we visited was incredible and i learned so much. the most important thing is how safe you feel with his driving, bali isn’t the easiest place to get around and he did it with such ease and patience and i felt extremely safe at all times- i would highly recommend dewardana if you are coming to bali and need a driver/tour guide. he made my holiday one that i will always remember. – john, australia, dewardana was a kind and knowledgeable tour guide. he managed the day to my interests and gave me local insight that i otherwise would not have had. he was generous with his time and knowledge. dewardana was also available to take me to the airport on my way out of town. well worth the money. the only way to see bali. – marc, usa, “ first of all i’d like to thank you for introducing me to dew . he was absolutely amazing, accommodating and just plain personable. extremely professional and as we chatted it was great to learn about his plans and goals. he was always early and made sure we got our monies worth no matter how tired he was. ” – derrick, usa.

Gede is an experienced tour guide, covering the island of Bali. Whether it is covering the tourist attractions of Tirta Gangga, Tanah Lot Temple, the markets in Ubud or a night out in Kuta’s Beach Bars, Gede can help you. Moreover working alongside his brother, if Gede is not available, then his brother can step in his place.

Gede is 40, covid vaccinated and a non- smoker and speaks fluent indonesian and english., total cost for 1 full day (8 hours) with gede = a non refundable deposit of usd 45 by paypal or major credit card (visa, mastercard, american express) plus usd 60 in cash to gede after his services. total 105 us dollars., alternatively the total cost for a half day (4 hours) with gede = a non refundable deposit of usd 25 by paypal or major credit card (visa, mastercard, american express) and usd 40 in cash to gede after his services. total 65 us dollars., this includes transport costs in gede’s car but does not include any entrance fees or any food & beverage costs., how to book a holiday houseboy, to book any of our holiday houseboys please go to the enquiry form ., or send an email to [email protected] ., alternatively whatsapp +94-76-630-1069., remember a holiday houseboy is your gay friendly tour guide who looks after your safety and welfare at all times., please note these are guide services and not sexual services., our other destinations in indonesia are medan and surabaya ., book one or more of these amazing activities to make the most of your stay in bali., highlights of bali, bali is one of the islands of indonesia. it attracts a large tourist community. moreover it has a population of approximately 4,225,000 people. furthermore it has a network of narrow roads and spectacular scenery., besides that, bali is a highly spiritual place. understandably it houses a large hindu community. thereby evoking the spirits and traditions of a deeply religious society., and renowned for its art, look out for the balinese distinctive art forms through dance, sculpture, music and paintings. not surprisingly the indonesian international film festival is held in bali every year. in addition, other art forms such as  woodwork and metalwork can be found in ubud . this popular village is located in the centre of this paradise island. you will see the most amazing paddy fields that surround the village., ---> not withstanding, terrace farming is also important to bali in order to make the most of its limited land. accordingly the island produces rice.  it is its main staple food. in addition to rice production, water buffalo and duck farming are also popular., the one place for the must do photo shoot is the gate of heaven at pura lempuyang. stand between two huge pillars, click and post to your instagram account. it is currently the most photographed of all the temple gates in bali., for a tranquil stroll, try the tirta gangga water palace . the garden hosts many balinese statues, some of which depict local demons. there is a tiered water fountain., step across the tiles and admire the koi fish in the pond below. another place of note is the taman ujung water palace . a similar concept with gardens, statues and a koi fish pond., whilst most bali beaches are not white, you can find white sand at bukit asah and virgin beach ., finally to fully discover what this marvellous island has to offer, hire a holiday houseboy. in conclusion get the most out of your holiday., gay bali guide, for information on gay venues, please check out our very own gay bali guide ., find hotel deals & discounts in bali, find your cheapest flight.

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The 9 best gay cruises for 2024 (+ planning tips).

Dance parties, drag queen performances and fun destinations await on these LGBTQ voyages.

The Best Gay Cruises

Courtesy of The Cruise with La Demence

Embark on an all-gay or LGBTQ-friendly cruise for excellent entertainment, food and excursions.

Whether you are looking to hop aboard a Pride Week cruise with a major line or sail away with a smaller company that specializes in LGBTQ voyages, the following cruise operators promise a fun, safe and memorable vacation.

(Note: While many of these cruise lines sail to LGBTQ-friendly ports of call, travelers should research destinations to learn more about cultures, customs and safety in each location and determine what's right for them.)

Virgin Voyages

Atlantis events, brand g vacations, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean international, the cruise with la demence, source journeys.

Gabriel Goldberg | Courtesy of VACAYA

Founded by avid travelers Randle Roper, Patrick Gunn and John Finen, VACAYA bills itself as the first all-LGBT travel company in the full-ship charter/resort buyout sector of the travel industry to launch in more than 25 years.

"[VACAYA] was sparked by our own vacations, where we all had encountered two very different experiences," says Gunn. "The all-gay cruises were liberating, empowering and fun, but limited to a small spectrum of people. And while everyone loves a good time, there's more to a memorable vacation than just parties. Mainstream vacations offered more activities and destinations, and were accessible to a diverse set of people, but didn't always feel like a friendly, judgment-free environment."

As such, VACAYA set out to bring LGBTQ travelers from across the spectrum together in a welcoming, inclusive setting, while offering varied onboard activities and immersive itinerary options. Cruisers will enjoy traveling to ports around the world, in the Caribbean , the Galápagos, Europe , Antarctica and more. You can participate in shipwide events ranging from themed deck parties to performances by LGBTQ entertainers to rejuvenating yoga classes. Note that VACAYA's cruises are for adults only.

Previous cruisers had abundant praise for VACAYA's voyages, highlighting the company's responsiveness when booking and the kindhearted staff, as well as the genuine connections they made with other passengers on board. Many were also impressed by the events and entertainment options throughout their sailings.

In 2024, VACAYA will offer a number of voyages worldwide. The seven-night Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Apex in February will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, with several fun-filled days at sea in addition to stops in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Antigua. In August, VACAYA has a 12-night river cruise in Northern Europe on board Advance by Transcend Cruises; this sailing includes the Amsterdam Pride event. The 11-night Antarctica expedition on Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator in December 2024 is sold out, but you can join the waitlist.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The Virgin brand has long been known for its celebration of the LGBTQ community, and cruise line Virgin Voyages is no different. The strictly adults-only cruise operator aims to provide a unique experience, with onboard tattoo parlors, impressive live entertainment, and dining options that include more than 20 eateries and menus created by Michelin star chefs. This line gets the stamp of approval from previous LGBTQ cruisers, who praise the ships' gender-neutral bathrooms, diverse staff and onboard shows with resident drag queens.

Virgin Voyages offers gay-specific sailings through travel companies like Atlantis Events, but its more mainstream itineraries still offer a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that attracts LGBTQ cruisers year-round. Virgin hosts a number of events during Pride Month each year, including deck parties and interactive social media campaigns.

"Each June here at Virgin Voyages, we like to go big for Pride Month with larger-than-life events … all monthlong," the cruise line says in a statement on its website. "It's an important time for us – both internally within our crew and for our sailors – to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ community; who for so long has had to continually fight for equality and the right to be seen, heard and included."

Virgin Voyages sails to a variety of LGBTQ-friendly countries, including New Zealand, Greece and Spain. In June 2024, consider a seven-night sailing aboard Scarlet Lady departing from Barcelona with stops in Marseille and Cannes in France as well as Spain's Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

The world's largest gay and lesbian travel brand, Atlantis Events was founded in 1991 and welcomes more than 20,000 travelers annually on LGBTQ vacations. For its all-gay cruises, Atlantis charters megaships from popular lines like Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages in addition to smaller vessels with companies like Oceania Cruises so cruisers will have a fully immersive experience.

On board, travelers can enjoy all the perks these ships have to offer (think: pools, hot tubs, sports courts and plenty of dining choices), plus special events like drag performances, motivational speakers, LGBTQ movies on demand in each cabin and high-energy circuit parties across the ship.

"As an LGBTQ cruiser, you're looking for a ship with lots of entertainment, including dance parties and events," says Marcos Martinez, founder of Men Who Brunch, a Black gay lifestyle blog. "One of the best cruise [lines] for gay cruising is Atlantis, since you'll be able to meet hundreds of attractive men and party all day and night on the ship."

Atlantis hosts primarily gay men; women make up about 5% to 10% of bookings, according to the Atlantis website. Previous cruisers said the atmosphere on board was fun, friendly and welcoming, though some noted that the company's customer service could be better, especially when it comes to details about the cruise.

Due to the company's popularity, its three 2024 cruises are already sold out.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

Courtesy of Brand G Vacations

Specializing in all-gay river cruises – and now luxury ocean liners – Brand g Vacations was founded in 2011 and explores destinations all over the world. Chartered river cruises typically welcome between 40 and 200 LGBTQ passengers (and their straight allies), which allows cruisers to get to know one another in a smaller setting. Guests tend to skew more mature (think: 40 and older), and the line attracts both men and women.

Onboard entertainment differs slightly from larger ocean voyages: Expect more cabaret-style entertainment than massive all-night dance parties. Cruisers will also enjoy performances by drag queens, gay Broadway stars and more, on top of typical river cruise perks like sightseeing and lavish meals. Past guests recommend choosing Brand g if you're looking for a well-planned, relaxed and luxurious experience over a busier, more party-heavy vacation.

Brand g aims to provide a nearly all-inclusive cruise experience , with Mercedes or small van airport transfers, upscale hotel stays prior to embarkation, and unlimited alcoholic beverages as well as meals included in the fare. As such, prices tend to be on the high end. Plus, cruisers can feel good about their trip knowing that Brand g donates to causes in the U.S. and around the world that assist LGBTQ refugees, AIDS organizations, LGBTQ centers and more.

In 2024, Brand g sails through unique waterways around the world, including the Amazon, the Loire, the Danube, the Mekong, and the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line's small cruise ship charters also take guests to Iceland, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Croatia and other European destinations.

Read: The Top River Cruise Lines

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises sets the scene for an excellent vacation for gay travelers, from its extravagant annual Pride parties to its daily LGBTQ programming throughout the year. The mainstream line has received numerous awards for its inclusivity, receiving accolades from the Cruizie Awards, TTG Travel Awards and Travel Weekly's Magellan Awards for being one of the best cruise lines for LGBTQ passengers.

LGBTQ cruisers can start their vacations off on a high note with a special welcome party on the first night of their voyage to meet other travelers on board. After night one, there are other social events for gay cruisers to party and hang out together. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises was the first cruise line to legally marry a couple at sea in 2018, and it continues to perform same-sex marriages on its ships.

Past cruisers enjoyed their voyages with Celebrity, noting that the line was welcoming, the food was delicious, and there were plenty of areas to hang out as a group with fellow LGBTQ passengers or other companions throughout the ship.

Although all itineraries are gay-friendly, consider booking a sailing during Pride Month in June for an extra special experience. Onboard entertainment during this month includes guest entertainers, a flag raising ceremony, Celebrity's signature Pride Party at Sea and more. The Italian Riviera & France cruise will depart from Barcelona on June 8, 2024, on the new Celebrity Ascent; this 10-night Mediterranean sailing stops at ports in France, Italy and Malta. Private travel companies like VACAYA also charter Celebrity ships for all-gay voyages throughout the year.

Read: Cruise Packing List: The Top Essentials for Any Cruise

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Specifically marketed toward lesbians and LGBTQ women, Olivia has hosted more than 350,000 travelers by land and sea over five decades. Cruisers can choose between river voyages or ocean sailings to destinations around the world. On the lesbian cruises, expect a mix of nostalgic decade-themed dance parties, folk singers, writing workshops, karaoke and other activities. Cruisers can also relax poolside, spend some time in the onboard spa or take it easy in one of the ships' lounges.

Travelers who are looking to connect with others who share similar backgrounds can do so in one of Olivia's specialized programs. There are group and solo traveler meetups, as well as programs like Sisters, which is for LGBTQ women of color; Gen-O, for cruisers 40 and younger; Women in Uniform gatherings, for veterans and those currently in the armed forces; and events for OWLs (which stands for "older, wiser lesbians"). Past cruisers on Olivia's voyages report feeling a true sense of community and belonging on board, resulting in a fun, carefree trip.

In June 2024, set sail with Olivia from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Dublin on Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Or, visit the islands of Tahiti on the line's Star Breeze in September. Other cruise itineraries include Alaska, the Greek Isles, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

Read: The Best Girls Trip Ideas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International provides a welcoming and inclusive experience for LGBTQ travelers. The popular cruise line frequently partners with Atlantis Events to offer all-gay voyages throughout the year, but even the standard sailings earn praise.

Highlights of the sailings are the ships' entertainment options (including the Tony Award-winning musical "Mamma Mia!") and attentive staff, according to past cruisers. Itineraries typically include LGBTQ meetups at the beginning of each cruise for gay travelers to meet like-minded passengers. Outside of the sailing experience, Royal Caribbean has also publicly committed to supporting the LGBTQ community throughout the year, and it was the first cruise line to earn the title "Gay Traveler Approved" from GayTravel in 2016.

In 2024, consider a Royal Caribbean voyage that sails to gay-friendly destinations. "Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, [is] full of gay bars, clubs and gay beaches," says Martinez. Hop aboard Navigator of the Seas in May for a seven-night sailing round-trip from Los Angeles that stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada, Mexico. Navigator of the Seas also hosts a seven-night itinerary throughout the year that calls on Mazatlan, Mexico, as well.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of The Cruise With La Demence

According to past cruisers, if you're looking for one of the best party scenes on the open seas, consider an all-gay cruise with La Demence. Powered by a popular gay nightclub in Brussels with the same name, La Demence – French for "the madness" – primarily caters to a European crowd. Most passengers are male, though women are also welcome.

On board, passengers should expect to dance the night away at massive deck parties that last into the wee hours of the morning. The line prides itself on its top-notch DJs, impressive light setup and electric party atmosphere. Previous cruisers had high praise for the itineraries – which exclusively visit gay-friendly locations – as well as the fruity cocktails, themed nights (costumes strongly encouraged) and glamorous entertainment. Enjoy unique events like drag bingo, high heel runs and more.

La Demence sails every summer to European destinations like Greece, Italy and Malta. The 2023 cruise was chartered on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. Fares include all food and nonalcoholic beverages, plus access to all parties, shows and the onboard gym.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Source Journeys has been planning luxury vacations for LGBTQ travelers for more than 20 years. The Miami-based company, with the vision of founder and chief executive officer Craig Smith, offers small group land tours and full-charter cruises for like-minded travelers with a focus on giving back to the communities they visit. The company also supports LGBTQ organizations, such as the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and the Human Rights Campaign.

Past guests of their tours say their fellow travelers were as fun and interesting as the destinations. They appreciated the excellent personalized planning for the trips by Smith and his life partner, Rafael Rodriguez.

The company's cruises in 2024 include a seven-night Galápagos sailing in late September on a Relais & Chateau luxury yacht: Ecoventura's new ship, Evolve. The intimate ship accommodates just 20 passengers. Source Journeys is also offering a seven-night river cruise through Burgundy and Provence, France, in June on Avalon Waterways' Avalon Poetry II, as well as a seven-night voyage from Venice along the Dalmatian Coast. This ocean cruise scheduled in August is chartered on Star Clippers' masted sailing ship, Royal Clipper.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to gay cruising, gone are the days of discreet "Friends of Dorothy" meetups. The term – a euphemism that dates back to the 1950s – was once used to indicate gay social events on daily cruise line programs, without explicitly calling out members of the community on board. It's a far cry from today's LGBTQ cruising industry, which loudly and proudly celebrates passengers from all walks of life.

According to experts, LGBTQ cruising is a market that will only continue to grow. Travelers can take their pick between cruise operators tailored specifically to queer communities and major cruise lines that offer festive Pride celebrations and inclusive onboard entertainment. As travel on the high seas continues to grow in popularity for vacationers, gay and lesbian travelers should consider setting sail on a fun-filled cruise vacation for their next trip.

When planning a cruise, vacationers should first consider what their ideal sailing looks like.

Gay-friendly vs. all-gay sailings: Cruisers should think about whether they'd like to travel aboard a gay-friendly mainstream line – such as Celebrity Cruises or Virgin Voyages – or opt for an all-gay, full-ship charter with a third-party vacation company.

"Each and every LGBTQIAPK person has a different level of comfortability in their 'outness,' " says Patrick Gunn, co-founder and chief marketing officer of LGBTQ vacation company VACAYA. Of VACAYA's all-gay charters, he adds, "For one magical week, our community gets to be the majority and live life out loud in the blissful utopia VACAYA creates on a gay cruise. That single change from being an always-minority to a sudden majority can have a profoundly positive real-world effect on individuals."

• Travel style: Some cruise operators (think: Atlantis Events and La Demence) are known for their electrifying all-night parties, which may be perfect for gay groups of friends. Meanwhile, other companies like VACAYA and Olivia look to provide a more diverse selection of activities, ranging from tea dances (LGBTQ parties that, historically, included tea service) to philanthropic service activities to immersive onshore experiences.
• Ports of call: Some of the most LGBTQ- and gay-friendly destinations for cruises include: Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Sydney; Barcelona, Spain; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Helsinki; Quebec City; Auckland, New Zealand; Mykonos, Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; Amsterdam; Tel Aviv, Israel; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and San Francisco. Countries that gay travelers may want to avoid include the Maldives, Jamaica, Morocco, Malaysia and Haiti, as homosexuality is illegal in these destinations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Themed Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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