As one of the most progressive states in the nation and home to an LGBTQ+ population north of two million, California is a top queer-friendly destination. No matter what you’re looking for—whether it’s a romantic farm-to-table dinner at a celebrated restaurant, glamping in the midst of California’s world-famous scenery, or a raging pool party in the desert—the Golden State can deliver the perfect experience.
Read on to learn more about seven ideal destinations for an LGBTQ+ getaway, listed from north to south.
1. Guerneville
Discover a more rustic side of Northern California’s LGBTQ+ scene in Guerneville, a tucked-away hamlet set among majestic redwood forests about 90 minutes north of San Francisco. For pinch-me-perfect romantic settings to enjoy with any partner, book a stay at the Mission Revival–style The Stavrand, or the chic Boon Hotel + Spa. For a truly easygoing stay, Highlands Resort offers a wide array of homey cabins and suites and promotes an “unplugged” approach to relaxation. At night, catch the action at the landmark Rainbow Cattle Co., a party destination since 1979, or the Bar at the R3 Hotel, another longtime favorite of the LGBTQ+ crowd. (More: LGBTQ+ Escapes in Guerneville)
2. San Francisco
The City by the Bay is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the world, with dozens of gay-friendly businesses sprinkled citywide. Learn more about the history of the gay movement at the GLBT History Museum, or on a guided “Cruisin’ the Castro” historical walking tour. June is Pride Month, which culminates on the last weekend when up to a million visitors flock to the city for the annual (and outrageous) San Francisco Pride celebration. If you are new to the city’s gay scene, Twin Peaks Tavern is a legendary haunt, and The Parker Guest House, Joie de Vivre Hotels (Hotel Kabuki and The Laurel Inn), and the W are just a few of the city’s gay-friendly hotels. (More: LGBTQ+ Travel in San Francisco)
3. San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo County does not lag behind its neighbors to the north and south when it comes to welcoming the LGBTQ+ community. White Water and Cambria Beach Lodge in Cambria, San Luis Creek Lodge in San Luis Obispo, and (for those in search of a particularly rosy experience) the Madonna Inn, also in San Luis Obispo, are all ideal spots for a getaway. Both cities also have their share of can’t-miss restaurants that often serve up more than just delicious meals, including Luna Red and Novo Restaurant (where you’ll find a live DJ and dancing on weekends) in San Luis Obispo and Robin’s Restaurant in Cambria, which offers year-round live music. For a shopping adventure, visit Junk Girls, where nostalgic ephemera and vintage objects are repurposed into pieces of art and home decor in SLO.
4. West Hollywood
As the center of LGBTQ+ Los Angeles, it goes without saying that West Hollywood has excellent restaurants, hotels, and shopping on every corner. As for nightlife, consider The Abbey, one of the most famous gay bars and nightclubs in the world. Or, turn up the volume at the aptly named Girl Bar, if you’re looking for a glamorous, high-energy dance night out. Round out the weekend with drag queen bingo nights held every Sunday at Hamburger Mary’s. In late May, the One City One Pride festival sponsors free events around the city, and come June, West Hollywood becomes the home base for the L.A. Pride Festival and Parade. (More: LGBTQ+ West Hollywood)
5. Laguna Beach
A historic arts colony with a long-established gay community, Laguna Beach is Orange County’s leading LGBTQ+ city. Stay in such gay-friendly spots as the Surf and Sand Resort, a spectacular oceanfront luxury hotel that’s also home to the intimate Aquaterra Spa. Swim and surf in secluded coves and sunny beaches (including such gay-popular stretches as West Beach and Mountain Road Beach), then take in some art at the Laguna Art Museum and Laguna’s numerous galleries. At night, catch performances at the acclaimed Laguna Playhouse, then see bands and hang with the locals at the Marine Room Tavern, which has been in business since 1934 and is especially lively during Laguna’s busy summer months. (More: Laguna Beach for LGBTQ+ Travel)
6. The Deserts
There’s no question that the Palm Springs area ranks as one of the world’s top destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers. Many LGBTQ+ Pride events take place in November here, instead of the traditional June; the Greater Palm Springs Pride event kicks off the season early in the fall month with an eye-popping parade and block party. Other events include the Desert Hot Springs Pride Festival in mid-November, LGBTQ Days in March, and the Dinah Shore Weekend/Palm Springs Women’s Weekend in early April; “The Dinah” is considered the world’s largest lesbian happening. A few weeks later, it’s the guys’ turn, and time for the Palm Springs White Party, the area’s biggest annual gay event. (More: LGBTQ+ Travel in the Deserts)
7. San Diego
Blessed with sunny beaches and plenty of cultural attractions, San Diego is an appealing destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. Hillcrest, a retro-hip enclave located northwest of Balboa Park, is the city’s unquestioned LGBTQ+ hub. Dig into classic American comfort foods at Gossip Grill, then dance the night away at The Rail, San Diego’s oldest gay bar. The neighborhood is also home to Hillcrest Brewing Company, a proudly gay brewery and restaurant—some say the nation’s first—and is near Balboa Park’s San Diego LGBTQ Pride Parade and Festival, a three-day celebration in July that draws 300,000 people. For more suggestions on where to stay, check out San Diego Travel’s guide to LGBTQ+ Friendly Lodging. (More: San Diego LGBTQ+ Getaways)
