Whether you’re looking for a refined, romantic experience, or one filled with outdoor adventure, these first-class destinations across the globe may be the ideal place for your wedding or honeymoon.
EUREKA SPRINGS, ARKANSAS
This small town within the Ozark Mountains is full of scenic views of the surrounding forests and waterfalls, as well as being LGBTQ+ friendly. There are many lodging and venue options to choose from, some specifically for gay weddings. One such option is Pond Mountain Lodge, combining a lodge with a venue space for LGBTQ+ wedding services. There is also the awe-inspiring Thorncrown Chapel, located within the forest and made entirely of glass. If you’re planning on buying photography and/or videography services for the wedding, check out the queer-owned Purdy Arts Company as well. For a more extensive look at LGBTQ+ venues and other information pertaining to Eureka Springs, you can visit GayWeddingsEureka.com.
NAPLES, FLORIDA
Known as one of Florida’s most beloved destinations for its great seafood and proximity to other locations such as the Everglades, Naples is also very popular among LGBTQ+ travelers. A popular site for LGBTQ+ weddings is the Hyatt House . The venue sits on a small island downtown and provides access to the marina. The Hyatt House and its director of sales work closely with couples to create the perfect ceremony. For a beachfront venue experience, there is also the JW Marriott and La Playa Beach and Golf Resort, both LGBTQ+ friendly.
WAIHEKE ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND
Located off the coast of Auckland and surrounded by clear blue waters, Waiheke encapsulates a luxurious experience in the South Pacific. The island is full of vineyards along with small inns and farm-to-table restaurants. It is also LGBTQ+ friendly, with places such as Waiheke Island Resort and Stonyridge Vineyard. For a romantic flight touring the beautiful scenery and nearby volcanic mountains from above, climb aboard Waiheke Wings.
SCENIC ECLIPSE
For a honeymoon like no other, celebrate aboard the Scenic Eclipse on a cruise around either the Arctic or the Antarctic. As a Polar Class 6 vessel, the Eclipse is able to navigate otherwise unreachable destinations, all while guests enjoy jacuzzis, spas, and high quality dining.
MALTA
Malta combines a European metropolitan experience with the luxury of a Mediterranean island escape. A favorite hotel on this very LGBTQ+ friendly island is the 5-star InterContinental Malta, offering spas, pools, and world class dining. This is combined with experiencing the history and heritage embedded in Malta’s ancient streets, along with its natural wonders such as the Blue Lagoon. For seafood meals immersed in Malta’s local community, visit The Harbour Club.
For more amazing LGBTQ wedding and honeymoon destinations and venues, click here.
Opening Photo: Eureka Springs, Arkansas (Image by Purdy Art Company)