Top 11 Gay Friendly Hotels in West Hollywood, California

West Hollywood, known affectionately as “WeHo,” is the out-and-out proud hip-and-happening gay neighborhood of Los Angeles. WeHo packs a whole lot of queerness into its small size and has been around as long as 1984. In fact, it’s largely recognized as a leading community for LGBTQ rights. Gay travelers are assured of many a welcoming and friendly gay hotel in West Hollywood. This, in addition to a slew of hip restaurants and gay bars. What’s more, a bevy of exciting special events, including a Pride parade and a “living forward” atmosphere, is what makes WeHo such a progressive city. 

In fact, WeHo’s gay history goes back to the late 1960s. That’s when a popular rock-n-roll club introduced Sunday gay nights where gay men were allowed to dance together. This was at a time when being gay was illegal, but West Hollywood sure was open to it. In fact, that’s how the very first Tea Dances flagged off! If that wasn’t enough, West Hollywood was America’s first city with a city council majorly featuring members of the LGBTQ community. Of course, there are so many Top Things To Do In Los Angeles, such as Universal Studios Hollywood, one of the World’s Best Amusement Parks.

The Sunset Tower Hotel

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We begin the list of the best gay hotels in West Hollywood with a fabulous gay-owned property, the Sunset Tower Hotel. This amazing Art Deco gay hotel in West Hollywood lies on its northern edge and still attracts celebrities. Choose from 12 different types of 81 rooms and suites, ranging from the queen room to the swanky penthouse. Nevertheless, all rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows that boast fabulous views of the city. Moreover, they’re done up in elegant brass, rosewood, and neutral hues, with lavish bathrooms with jetted and deep-soaking bathtubs. If that wasn’t enough, you even get fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies at turndown. That’s a reason enough to snuggle up indoors for the evening at this Hollywood institution.

Coming to the amenities, the lounger-lined rooftop pool is the perfect intimate escape. Poolside cocktails and huevos rancheros are a must when perched on sunbeds here. What’s more, the hotel is as pet-friendly as it gets, with four-legged companions getting their own mini Sunset Tower beds! When you’re hungry late at night, head to the ground-floor restaurant for a burger or a heavier meal.

Sunset Marquis LA

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With a long A-list Hollywood clientele and a storied rock’n’roll history, the Sunset Marquis is one of the gayest gay friendly hotels in West Hollywood. Old-school gay Hollywood lovers will swoon over the 1960s hotel. Many A-listers and legends such as Rihanna, Elton John, and even Bette Midler have stayed here. The rock’n’roll spirit is around even today, whether it’s the digs or the rest of the hotel. Rooms and suites range from modern poolside suites to historic private Spanish-style villas, each decked to the nines. Nevertheless, almost all of them have private balconies or terraces. Plush beds aside, all bathrooms feature Frette robes and double vanities, making this a great romantic sojourn. Are you here for a special occasion? The North Villas feature full kitchens, living rooms, and private gardens.

The main pool has daybeds, cabanas, and loungers and is the centerpiece of the hotel. On the other hand, the Villa pool is tucked away at the back of the property. What’s more, both pools have their own pool bars for ordering drinks and snacks as you laze poolside. Enjoy a pampering massage at the full-service spa later on. Or, you could play pool at the semi-secret Games Room, complete with a private bar. Bar 1200, with its leather surfaces, feels decadent and almost hedonistic. Finally, the restaurant with an airy, open patio serves a hearty breakfast as well as other meals.

The West Hollywood Edition

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The West Hollywood EDITION is, without a doubt, the swankiest gay hotel in West Hollywood. Imagine being greeted by sky-high ceilings, an oversized pool table, and a super sexy bar the minute you enter. That’s gay Hollywood for you! All 240 guest rooms and suites are huge, to say the least, with modern decor and expansive outdoor terraces. Ultra-luxe details such as plush bathrobes, soft slippers, and indulgent marble bathrooms with deep-soaking bathtubs lend an air of exclusivity and serenity. Clearly, Edition is a step above WeHo’s tired hotels. In fact, its chic cosmopolitan feel makes it perfect for discerning gay travelers.

Since this hotel is so popular with the younger set, its amenities are also as such. For instance, the underground nightclub, Sunset, complete with oversized golden disco balls on the ceiling, is a great hit. Even the ground-floor restaurant is extremely popular, especially for vegetarians, with Italian classics such as arugula farro risotto. As it’s with any LA hotel worth its salt, the rooftop pool with sunbeds and a trellis-covered bar offers excellent views of the city.

1 Hotel West Hollywood

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1 Hotel is one of the chicest gay friendly hotels in West Hollywood. Its concrete exterior is covered in sprawling lush plants, making it a rather serene break from WeHo’s glitzy surroundings. Even the lower-level lobby is such, with exposed wood beams, natural-hued fabrics, lots of plants – again. Besides gorgeous looks, the leafy decor serves a higher purpose. That’s because the hotel is eco-friendly and follows a host of sustainable initiatives by the brand. The Skyline rooms are great, thus boasting floor-to-ceiling windows of downtown LA. If you want to splurge, then the suites are excellent, complete with a cozy hygge vibe. Plants hang over beds everywhere, and the rooms have swanky floor mirrors too. Finally, the bathrooms are modern with bespoke mini toiletries that are less wasteful. Did we tell you that some rooms have balconies too? Yes!

The rooftop pool is one of the most gorgeous in the city, with a glass wall lined with plants and superb views of the city. Lay back on the plush loungers after a swim and enjoy cocktails from the rooftop indoor-outdoor joint. Besides that, you have three other options to drink and dine, especially 1 Kitchen, which serves breakfast too. However, you’ll be particularly impressed with the hotel’s floor-to-roof mission. These include rooftop veggies and herbs garden and recycled materials everywhere, from room keys to hangers.

Kimpton La Peer Hotel

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Kimpton La Peer is not just a fantastic gay hotel in West Hollywood, but it’s also one of the Most Romantic Hotels in Los Angeles. The design hotel fits right into LA’s glamorous style, with huge light sconces and natural materials. Even the standard rooms are airy and bright and done up in hues of white and grey with wooden and bronze touches. However, what makes them romantic are additions such as in-room bottled service for made-to-order craft cocktails and complimentary minibars. Even standard room bathrooms are lavish, with the higher category ones even featuring deep-soaking bathtubs for two. Nevertheless, they all feature bathrobes and toiletries, with the rooms even featuring evening turndown service.

A vertical garden and olive trees make the pool feel intimate and secluded, with the sunbeds being cozy and plush for relaxing after a refreshing swim. The rooftop space is also where open-air yoga classes are hosted, but you have in-room JadeYoga mats for working out in private. Despite there being no in-house spa, the nearby Ole Henriksen spa even offers in-room services. Finally, two fabulous on-site restaurants and bars serve amazing Japanese whiskey cocktails, light bites, grab-and-go meals, and formal tasting menus, too.

Hotel Pendry West Hollywood

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Hotel Pendry is one of the most luxurious gay friendly hotels in West Hollywood. The hotel sits right in the heart of the gay town, spanning an entire city block along the mesmerizing Sunset Strip. A smartly dressed concierge team, a ridiculously good-looking clientele, and a psychedelic light installation greet you the minute you enter. Besides 149 rooms and 37 suites, the hotel also boasts 40 sleek and chic residences. If you can, go for the suites that feature eclectic artwork and curated blooms and floral arrangements. You’ll especially love the OTT yet opulent modern furnishings in vibrant golds and electric blues that lend the suites a sexy Hollywood vibe.

The rooftop pool oozes classic gay LA vibe with sunbeds under umbrellas and Bar Pendry right next door, dishing out classic cocktails. After a refreshing dip, it pays to lounge on the beds and people-watch. The modern luxury carries through to the spa, where a pampering session with massages or body treatments is a must. Besides the formidable Wolfgang Puck’s formal dining restaurant, the hotel also has an all-day casual eatery.

Hotel No. 850

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Behold the trendiest gay hotel in West Hollywood, Hotel No. 850. Staying at West Hollywood’s chicest B&B feels more like staying at an ultra-glamorous and upscale home rather than a hotel. 23 rooms range from charming solo traveler duck egg-blue carriage rooms to the one-bedroom suite with a private terrace. Nevertheless, they all feature spacious bathrooms with sleek marble fittings, waterfall showers, and Italian Bellino linens. Some even have decadent fireplaces that flicker on at the touch of a button. If you’re looking for romantic digs in the city, you’ve certainly come to the right place.

The rest of the hotel is equally charming, especially the rooftop terrace. It’s a lovely spot for a sundowner with your boo and unobstructed West Hollywood views. The place even has a complimentary mezze and wine hour every evening on this terrace. When it’s colder, the antique leather chairs in the cozy living area are perfect for curling up with a drink and your beloved by your side. It’s also where a complimentary continental breakfast is served every morning, with Greek yogurt, pastries, and fruit.

Montrose West Hollywood 

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The Montrose is one of the best gay friendly hotels in West Hollywood. This classy gay-popular hotel boasts a hipster-chic ambiance and has all the trappings for a memorable gay vacation. The serene, residential-style hotel boasts a rock-and-roll edge keeping in line with its hedonistic location. For instance, retro music posters and guitars decorate the walls everywhere. The rock-and-roll vibe continues in the rooms, with modern decor, records, and music posters as well. Aside from plush beds, you’ll also find quirky pieces of furniture, such as a hand-shaped big gold chair. Since all rooms are suites, they’re spacious too, along with private balconies and mini kitchenettes. Even bathrooms are modern and sleek with full-sized Gilchrist and Soames products. 

The rest of the hotel is similarly impressive, especially the inviting coworking spaces that make this a great hotel for gay travelers who’re here for work too. The rooftop pool and bar are perfect for a refreshing swim and a boozy libation later on. Begin your evening revelries with the on-site wine hour at the poolside bar, followed by a few rounds of cocktails. Breakfasts and dinners are in the main restaurant that serves delicious Californian fare such as salads, pizzas, and burgers.

Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire Hotel

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West Hollywood does grand and classic in the form of the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire Hotel, a lavish gay hotel in West Hollywood. The Four Seasons is as close as it gets to a European-like grand dame in Los Angeles. Moreover, it has seen an amazing clientele, from the British Royal Family all the way down to Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman. Even the smallest Signature rooms feature furnished balconies overlooking the driveway or the pool. Moreover, rooms and suites are divided into the newer Beverly Wing or the original 1928 Wilshire Wing. The standout feature is the spacious marble bathrooms with deep soaking tub and Ferragamo amenities.

Every nook and cranny of the hotel exudes decadence, like the Mediterranean-style pool that takes inspiration from Sophia Loren’s private Tuscany villa! Even the bi-level fitness center overlooks the pool deck so that you can work out with some nice skin show. Moreover, you have multiple dining spots, including a Wolfgang Punk and an all-day restaurant. There’s even a 20-minute menu for those who’re in a hurry.

Petit Ermitage

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The cozy and eclectic Petit Ermitage is one of the most picture-perfect gay-friendly hotels in West Hollywood. Located a stone’s throw from West Hollywood’s pulsating gay nightlife, this boutique gay hideaway is all about neon-signed and pin-striped Bohemian charm. Overall, the hotel is a true hidden gem in the middle of West Hollywood. All rooms and suites are decidedly romantic, mostly due to the vintage decor and glowing fireplaces. Moreover, they all have separate living areas and either kitchenettes or wet bars. Our recommendation is the Junior Suites, which have walk-out balconies overlooking the hills beyond LA. The cherry on top is the marble bathrooms with signature bar soaps with customized scents and Le Labo amenities.

Art lovers will fall in love with the 150 pieces of fantastic artwork curated for the hotel’s “Artist in Residence” program. However, the scene-stealer is the expansive rooftop, complete with a heated pool with sexy poolside cabanas by the side. The stylish cocktail bar dishing out a litany of classic cocktails and the spectacular views of Los Angeles only adds to the charm and vibe. After a swim, you might even want to catch a romantic meal at the magical and intimate leafy garden on the roof. Wrapping up the amenities are the in-suite spa treatments, free yoga on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, and the 24-hour gym.

Andaz West Hollywood

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Topping the list of the best gay hotels in West Hollywood is Andaz West Hollywood, which is one of the Top Gay-Friendly Hotels In Los Angeles. This gay-friendly hotel has a rich history of wild debauchery and is the Sunset Strip’s first highrise hotel. In fact, legendary rockers of the mid-60s such as Led Zeppelin and Jim Morrison have wild stories here! If that wasn’t enough, both gay hotspots of Mickey’s and Abbey are no more than five minutes away. Today, the vibe is decidedly more tranquil, with rooms and suites featuring Calcutta mosaics, local artwork, and balconies. If that wasn’t enough, you even have opulent marble bathrooms with deep-soaking marble bathtubs large enough for two people. The bespoke complimentary toiletries only add to the romantic and sensual vibe.

Even the rest of the hotel is slightly more sedate than its 60s vibe, but still absolutely amazing and with a bevy of amenities. The rooftop pool is the centerpiece of all the action, especially since it’s dotted with poolside cabanas and scarlet red loungers. It’s a delightful place to spend a lazy day while people-watching to the hilt. The on-site restaurant and bar serve delicious meals and cocktails, and the place even has fitness and a business center to complete its offerings.

Best Gay Neighborhoods in West Hollywood

While WeHo itself is Los Angeles’ gay neighborhood, the LGBTQ nightlife is largely focused on the amazing Santa Monica Boulevard, which is aptly dubbed Boystown! During the day, the bars and restaurants along it are perfect for endless people watching. That said, this stretch has gay bars and clubs and some very interesting cultural destinations. For instance, it’s home to LACMA (The Los Angeles County Museum of Art), the largest art museum on the West Coast. In fact, Circus of Books, a WeHo landmark with a colorful and storied LGBTQ past, shut down in 2019. However, you can check out its story on a well-made Netflix Documentary of the same name. Today, the place is Chi Chi LaRue’s Circus, an upmarket store that sells, among other things, adult accessories.

If that wasn’t enough, the place is also home to the Ole Henriksen Spa by the stars’ eponymous and openly gay Hollywood skincare guru. Even after two decades, it remains a discreet and favorite oasis for massages and body pampering treatments.

Do you want to stay near the airport? You might want to check out the Best Hotels Near Los Angeles Airport.

Best Gay Bars / Clubs in West Hollywood

• Mickey’s: The sensational, two-storeyed Mickey’s has been a staple on the WeHo gay scene for a long time now. This pulsating nightclub has a huge dance floor that sees handsome hunks dancing the night away night after night. The epic lights and sound system only makes the atmosphere all the steamier. With a host of weekday drag shows and a closing time of 4 in the morning on weekends, its no wonder that this place is so gay popular.
• The Abbey: The Abbey is a WeHo institution and is home to some of the biggest LGBTQ events in Los Angeles. This gay bar, restaurant, and nightclub boasts amazing cocktails, chic gothic decor, and lively lounge vibes. Drag shows and late-night go-go boys only make it all the better.

Best Gay Saunas in West Hollywood

• Flex LA: On the eastern edge of West Hollywood sits the gay gym and sauna of Flex LA. Not only does it have video lounges, but it also has a steam room, a gym, and an outdoor pool with a very cruisey vibe. Since it’s close to a host of gay bars such as Faultline and Eagle, it’s the perfect spot for a cruisy night out.

Best Gay Events/Shows/Tours in West Hollywood

• LA Pride: Since the time it originated in 1970, West Hollywood has been home and host of the spectacular Los Angeles Pride Parade. Taking place on the second weekend of June, this fabulous celebration has the honor of being the “first premitted” gay pride parade in the world! Think a free block party, endless gay parties at the bars in WeHo, performances by famed artists, and a vibrant parade down Santa Monica Boulevard. Although the Pride celebrations announced that they’d be changing venues for 2020 and 2021, both years went online due to the pandemic.
• Halloween Carnaval: This is WeHO’s most outrageous and free event is a must on the gaydar and the gay calendar! Thousands of costumed, and risque ones at that, revelers fill Santa Monica Boulevard in the evening. Think a vibrant parade and nightclub parties galore.