Top 11 Gay Friendly Hotels in Hawaii

Hawaii is synonymous with paradise, and it’s easy to see why. With craggy volcanoes, lush jungles, coral reefs, and turquoise waves hitting the white-sand beaches, it’s no wonder this place is a haven for beach-loving travelers. What’s more, Hawaii even has a history of being super gay-friendly, having legalized homosexuality way back in 1973. In fact, it was only the 6th U.S. state to do so! What’s more, LGBTQ travelers will find many choices for a gay hotel in Hawaii, ranging from luxury hotels and private residences to B&Bs and inns. Of the main islands of Big Island, Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and Moloka‘i, the Big Island has more gay-owned places to stay. It also hosts Honolulu Pride, the biggest LGBTQ event in Hawaii. But the other islands aren’t far behind either.

Maui also hosts a spectacular Pride parade as well as LGBTQ dinners and hiking expeditions. Kauai, meanwhile, has not one but two gay beaches! They are Secret Beach and Donkey Beach, both of which are known for their seclusion and beauty. Plus, Maui also has a gay beach, Little Beach, while Kauai also hosts Kona Pride! In fact, Kauai is hailed as one of the Most Welcoming Gay-Friendly Islands. When it comes to gay bars and clubs, there’s a tie between Kailua-Kona on the Big Island’s western coast and the Polynesian capital of Honolulu on Oahu. Kauai comes a close third, especially with bars on its northern coast. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to one of the top 11 gay-friendly hotels in Hawaii.

Volcano Village Estates, Island of Hawaii

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A lovely, intimate gay hotel in Hawaii is Volcano Village Estates. Housed in a 1930s estate, the gay-owned modern hotel lies just a mile from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park entrance. It’s where lies Kilauea, the most active and youngest Hawaiian shield volcano and one of the perfect Places For Lava Lovers. A gravelly road leads to the main Queen Anne house, with a few guest cottages scattered in the lush gardens with shaded trees. Cottage 44 is easily the most romantic of them all, with a jacuzzi tub and a fireplace. The Master Suite has the most artful tile work and an attractive bay window if you want to stay in the main house. Do you and your partner want to indulge in long and romantic cooking sessions? Go for the Ohia, the former gardener’s cottage with a full kitchen and a covered lanai.

Since this is a boutique property in the heart of the mountains, it doesn’t have a spa, gym, or pool – but the fact is that you don’t need any. Privacy is the real gem here, along with the lush natural surroundings where you can take long walks or enjoy bubble baths in the jacuzzi tubs on chilly Volcano nights. That said, the continental breakfast is delicious, with homemade bread, local fruit, and juice local fruit.

Hana Maui Resort, Maui

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Hana Maui Resort is easily one of the most intimate and exclusive gay hotels in Hawaii. Formerly known as Travaasa, this hotel lies at the end of the iconic epic Road to Hana – it’s literally like a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow! Gay travelers will love this all-inclusive resort located on the grounds of an old sugar plantation. Enjoy the local delicacy of banana bread, which you’re served upon arrival. With no clocks or TVs (don’t worry, there’s still Wi-Fi), this resort feels like a world away, perfect for LGBTQ travelers who want to get away from the bustle. The sea ranch cottages are great, complete with rustic furnishings, hot tubs for languorous soaks, and huge screened patios. Are you celebrating your honeymoon or an anniversary? The Ocean bungalow with a huge lanai offers the best ocean views.

If you get out of your decadent rooms, head straight to the open-air Preserve Kitchen + Bar. It offers the most delicious meals, with sweeping views of Hana Bay serving as the perfect accompaniment. Enjoy massages and body treatments at The Spa or dive into the outdoor infinity pool when you want to unwind. After a swim, sipping cocktails on the sun loungers or enjoying a soak in the hot tub seems all the more perfect. Energetic gay travelers, on the other hand, will love engaging in the slew of outdoor activities such as canoeing, bicycle rides, standup paddleboarding, and more.

Moana Surfrider, Oahu

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Gay travelers looking for a romantic Honolulu won’t find a more romantic gay hotel in Hawaii than Moana Surfrider. The century-old grand and imposing Waikiki Beach radiates a historic, yet modern grandeur feel. Think a grand staircase and white columns in the lobby and hanging cage lanterns on a gorgeous porch. The massive leafy seaside banyan tree is taking center stage that’s also a century old, maybe even more. It’s this idyllic vibe that’s very popular with gay travelers. Rooms and suites here boast swanky mod-cons and even more amazing sea views. If you want the best ocean views, go for the tower rooms facing the Diamond Head crater. Are you looking to splurge? The breathtaking Apuakehau Suite has shutter walls open to sweeping Pacific views and even a private whirlpool tub.

In fact, this property hosts LGBTQ weddings too, and it’s no surprise, given its dreamy ambiance. The seaside pool that’s sprinkled with white chairs and umbrellas is the perfect place to unwind. Take your stress off with massages and body treatments at the Moana Lani Spa. Are you feeling energetic? The hotel even offers stande0up paddleboarding and surfing lessons, plus guided historical walks! The best bit is that one of the World’s Most Amazing Shopping Malls, Ala Moana, is a mere five-minute drive from the hotel! So, we can imagine why this is considered one of the Top Gay-Friendly Hotels In Honolulu.

Hawaii Island Retreat, Island of Hawaii

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One of the most luxurious gay hotels in Hawaii is Hawaii Island Retreat, which lies at the northern tip of the Big Island. The resort sits amidst acres of forests, lawns, and gardens, making it perfect for outdoors-loving gay travelers. It’s also the ideal base for a peaceful getaway due to its serene surroundings and the fact that it’s a popular gay wedding venue. The main house itself is handsome and contemporary, with stairwells and open lanais around a central courtyard. With just nine rooms in the main house, staying here is an intimate and exclusive experience. Plus, there are five yurts that are funkier with antique plantation dressers, tables, and spacious bathrooms. If you’re looking for something unique, then the modern yurts are the way to go.

The rest of the hotel is equally impressive, especially the infinity-edged pool around which the yurts lie. Explore the library and enjoy a movie in the theater room, which lies in the main building. When you want to unwind, a massage or a body treatment at the spa does the trick. Excellent family-style meals are great for dining traditionally, and some terrific restaurants are a short drive away in Hawi.

Four Seasons Resort At Wailea, Maui

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Four Seasons is one gay hotel in Hawaii that’s still ultra-luxurious, despite having existed since the 90s. Surrounded by lush greenery at the southern end of Wailea Beach, the Four Seasons is where gay travelers stay when they’re in the mood to splurge. The spacious rooms and suites here feature mod-cons but are decked out with original Hawaiian artwork and potted plants. The swanky marble bathrooms are like plush dens of luxury, complete with deep-soaking bathtubs and bespoke toiletries. Just draw yourselves a bubble bath and pop open a bottle of bubbly with your beloved by your side. That said, the signature Four Seasons Bed is the epicenter of decadence, complete with temperature regulating technology and a pillow menu. If you want to go all out, splurge on the absolute best ocean-view rooms, which cost more than 1000 USD!

Despite the huge size of the resort, the service is absolutely top-notch. The food scene is particularly amazing, what with the beachside Italian Ferraro and the Wolfgang Puck outpost Spago. Begin your day with a poolside breakfast, after which dive right into the divine pool, which is considered one of Maui’s Best Hotel Pools. Do you want some quiet time? Spend time at the adults-only Serenity Pool, followed by a relaxing session at the spa on the beach.

Polynesian Hostel Beach Club, Oahu

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Are you looking for budget gay hotels in Hawaii? Then the Polynesian Hostel Beach Club is more than perfect for you. This fabulous gay-friendly hostel right lies at the southern end of Waikiki Beach. In fact, it’s close to most of the Top Things To Do In Honolulu, making it an excellent base to explore the city. If that wasn’t enough, the thrilling gay beach of Queens Surf is a mere five-minute walk. This friendly Honolulu hotel screams ‘aloha!’ with its attitude, decor, and sigs. LGBTQ travelers choose between private rooms and dorms, with a maximum staying/booking time of 14 days at a time.

That said, the hostel’s socials take the cake here, making this ideal for social butterflies and outgoing travelers. The common area with tables, a small TV, tables, and hammocks is a great place to swap stories with fellow travelers, Hawaii-style. Begin your day with a hearty free pancake breakfast and help yourself with the free coffee that’s available in the lobby all day. Enjoy a gay day at the beach by renting beach gear at the hostel. Are you interested in exploring the island? These guys conduct some amazing popular and very economical tours such as scuba trips and North Shore tours. Can you believe that their sunrise hike costs just one dollar? Finally, wrap up your day by experience the free hula shows and soaking in some Hawaiian culture.

Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, Island of Hawaii

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Nestled in a spectacular setting in the historic town of Hilo is Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, a luxurious gay hotel in Hawaii. A multi-million-dollar renovation later, this amazing hotel really lives up to its promise. Firstly, it’s longe been popular for its amazing location overlooking Coconut Island Park. In fact, it’s just over an hour from Mauna Kea, one of the World’s Best Astronomical Observatories. Secondly, it’s one of the most affordable hotels in the historic town even after the renovation! This is especially a big deal since it’s an oceanfront accommodation too.

Even then, the resort overflows with amenities, including a lobby lounge and a restaurant that serves excellent food in a gorgeous setting. The pool deck overlooks the ocean, complete with sun loungers to relax after a swim. Other facilities include free Wi-Fi in the lobby, free parking, and even a coin-op laundry. The rooms and suites are impressive, with new carpets, stylish beds, and gleaming bath fixtures. If you want to splurge here, book an ocean-facing room!

Andaz At Wailea Resort, Maui

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Andaz is synonymous with excellent quality, and Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort is no exception. One of the most modern gay hotels in Hawaii, this one is a design-loving gay traveler’s absolute dream. A lantern-lit pathway leads to the sprawling open-air lobby. A central sandpit sits right outside, complete with treelike pillars and loungers lining it. They perfectly frame the Atlantic Ocean and make an excellent first impression.

Choose from a host of sleek rooms and suites, all of which feature rough-hewn stone, marble, and gleaming woods, making them feel like slick city spaces. White shutters with the ocean visible right outside, gray rugs, and teak furniture make for a relaxed vibe, as do the opulent bathrooms with deep-soaking tubs large enough for two people. With a complimentary minibar with snacks and drinks, you can have a private party right in your cozy room. The best bit? All rooms come with private lanais, while the ocean villas enjoy a direct pool and beach access.

Located right on Mokapu Beach, there’s a lot to love about this hotel. Dig into delicious meals, including an epic breakfast buffet at the all-day restaurant. There is not one but four amazing pools where you can enjoy swimming and lounging on the sunbeds while sipping drinks from the Bumbye Beach Bar. Do you love soaking up the culture of the place? Andaz has a hoard of cultural lessons such as lei-making and coconut-husking. Finally, wind up your day with a soothing massage at the apothecary-style ‘Awili Spa. It’s no wonder this is one of the Top Gay-Friendly Hotels in Maui too.

Queen Kapiolani Hotel, Oahu

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Queens should stay at Queen Kapiolani Hotel, an excellent gay hotel in Hawaii in Honolulu. Not only does it offer jaw-dropping views of Diamond Head, but also it’s within walking distance of most sights to explore in the city. In fact, the gay-friendly Queen’s Beach is a mere two-minute walk from the hotel! The rooms and suites might have a slightly dated decor, but the vibe is warmly Hawaiian. Plus, they have all sorts of mod-cons, including comfy beds, immaculate bathrooms with deep-soaking tubs, fridges, and huge flatscreen TVs. In fact, many rooms come with balconies and boast spectacular views of the ocean.

Gay travelers will love the 50’s Miami and Vegas vibe at the hotel, complete with palm-tree-painted walls and gold-lettered signage. The backdrop is the exotic flowers and palm trees of Hawaii, making for a very picturesque and scenic backdrop. Besides nods to local heritage like paintings, the hotel even has a surf-and-snorkel shop in the lobby. What’s more, the bike rental allows you to explore the town on your own. Don’t forget to enjoy a day at the spa, which doles out traditional Hawaiian treatments. The standout here is, without a doubt, the third-floor pool with sweeping views of the ocean and Diamond Head.

Volcano Eco Retreat, Island of Hawaii

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Selcuded? Check. A gay retreat? Check. Clothing optional? Triple check! Welcome to Volcano Eco Retreat, an indulgent hideaway on the Big Island and one of the sexiest gay hotels in Hawaii. Get your kit off in peace, privacy, and quiet at this clothing-optional retreat in the middle of a fern and ohia forest. Boasting Polynesian and Hawaiian-inspired décor, this place also offers beach access. Now, what more could you want? Rooms at this gay nudist haven are in the form of sprawling individual bungalows, complete with all the amenities. Think TVs, fridges, king-size beds, lanais, and even a fireplace for getting cozy at night. Even the showers in the bathrooms are exquisite, especially when it’s a shower-for-two!

Besides having all amenities, all bungalows, and the resort, is also eco-friendly. Begin your day with a delicious fresh breakfast, which includes morning coffee service in your room. During the day, stroll around and relax in the lush gardens, which boast gorgeous views of the island at the edge. Soak your stresses away at the luxury spa, but the real ticket here is the six-man spa! After all, what can be better than muscled men in a steamy environment to loosen up those muscles – and inhibitions?

Hilo Bay Bed & Breakfast, Island of Hawaii

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Sitting atop this list is Hilo Bay Bed & Breakfast, a welcoming gay-friendly B&B housed in a dapper 1912 house. With just four rooms, an intimate gay stay doesn’t get any better than this. Run by cute couple Matthew and Danny, this former plantation home-turned-tasteful inn retains much historical architecture. Think original kitchen cabinets and hardwood floors. There are four unique rooms to pick from, each with its own private and spotless bathroom. What’s more, each room is furnished with collectibles and antiques, thus giving every space its own story.

The rest of the B&B is equally charming, especially the communal facilities such as a shared kitchen/dining area. It’s where a delicious, full-cooked breakfast is served every morning. Cheerful front and back lanais, each with views of the quaint town of Hilo, complete the lovely place.

Best Gay Neighborhoods in Hawaii

Hawaii has the reputation of having a gay “beach-hood!” Behold Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, which is the epicenter of gay life in the Polynesian capital. It’s also where most of the Best Hotels in Honolulu lie. The turquoise waters, palm trees, white sand beach, and the smattering of beach bars and clubs make it all the better. It’s also the place from where a host of gay catamaran cruises take off, as does the Shaxi Pride Tour, which is an LGBTQ Pride bar tour around Honolulu. But, the city’s LGBTQ friendliness doesn’t stop at that; it even has a gay beach, the Queen’s Surf Beach, as well as queer rock climbing expeditions. The icing on the cake is the Pride community picnic and the enthralling LeiBear Day Weekend. If you want to stay near the airport, here are the Best Hotels Near Honolulu Airport.

Despite Maui being very gay-friendly, its gay scene isn’t as buzzing as the Big Island since it’s smaller. So, it doesn’t have any gay-specific clubs or bars, except Betty’s. However, the island’s “aloha” spirit welcomes gay travelers welcomed everywhere. That said, most of the island’s gay-friendly bars lie around Lahaina and Kihei on Maui’s western coast. Finally, when it comes to Kauai, most of its gay bars lie around the town of Kapa’a, which lies north of the Wailua River. Moreover, most of Kauai’s gay-friendly beaches lie between Lihue and Kapa’a. Did you also know that Kauai is considered one of the Best US Winter Vacation spots too? Yes!

Are you in Maui for a short while? Check out these Best Hotels Near Kahului Airport.

Best Gay Bars / Clubs in Hawaii

• Bar Acuda: Located in Kauai, Acuda is a hip spot with a strong LGBTQ+ following. Besides expert cocktails, it also offers serves excellent farm-to-table fare. What’s more, it even has a great selection of beers and wines. Enjoy a date night on the breezy covered lanai, where drinks are served until 10 p.m. every night.
• Betty’s Beach Cafe: Betty’s is one of Maui’s most famous gay-owned and operated beach bars. This Lahaina bar has an afternoon Happy Hour and serves the most delectable Sunday brunch. Go there for the delicious cocktails, the gay-friendly atmosphere, and great food.
• Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand: This is the most loved gay bar and club in Honolulu. It even has a huge dance area, a center bar, and even a balcony where you can enjoy a date. In fact, every Saturday afternoon, they even arrange for gay catamaran cruises.
• Bacchus Waikiki: Bacchus is what many consider as the ‘friendliest gay bar’ in Honolulu. It serves delicious cocktails, great wines and beers, and even a seating area and a patio.

Best Gay Saunas in Hawaii

There’s no gay sauna or bathhouse anywhere in Hawaii for all its gay-friendliness, which is why both gay hookup apps and cruising areas are popular. Oahu’s Queen’s Surf gay beach in Honolulu and Maui’s gay beaches are currently some of the best cruising areas in Hawaii. We’re hoping that the Aloha! State’s gay scene evolves soon for it to have a bathhouse!

Best Gay Events/Shows/Tours in Hawaii

• Honolulu Pride: Hawaii’s biggest LGBTQ event is Honolulu Pride, which is also the largest festival for Hawaii’s LGBTQ+ communities. During the two-week celebration, there are more than 20 events lined up. Everything ends with a vibrant and colorful Pride Parade that takes place along Waikiki’s picturesque Kalakaua Avenue.
• Maui Pride Festival: This is the biggest LGBTQ festival in Maui. Avoiding the typhoon season, the celebrations are held in the first weekend in October. This fun-filled and friendly event educates, encourages, and celebrates about the diversity of the LGBTQ community. The festivities begin at the Maui Sunseeker resort and sees everything from parties to breakfasts to tours and hikes.
• Splash-Inn Pool Party: Taking place on Oahu and hosted by Residence Inn by Marriott, this pool party is the only LGBTQ+ monthly event on the island. It features Hawaii’s best drag performers, top DJ’s, ceremonies, and takes place every fourth saturday of the month.