The Caribbean islands of Trinidad and Tobago, or T&T, are everything you’d expect from a Caribbean destination; and everything you wouldn’t. Rainforested hills and lush mangrove swamps sit beside industrial estates, and yet you also have pristine white-sand beaches fringed by palm trees and turquoise waters. Nevertheless, the islands remain a magnet even today, especially for LGBTQ travelers. T&T might be more progressive than other Caribbean islands but is still pretty closed to the idea of LGBTQ relationships. But, that hasn’t stopped the profusion of gay hotels in Trinidad and Tobago, largely due to a friendly population. What’s more, the island’s gay scene remains largely under the radar and mostly centered in the capital of Port of Spain.
Nevertheless, the island is a pleasure to explore, with many things to do, see, and explore, especially gems that tourists overlook. For one, the country is home to many Hindu temples, which might be surprising for many travelers. Culture vultures will love roaming the museums here, which detail the islands’ long and rich history. Secondly, the white sand beaches here are to die for, and lazing around on a beach all day is a perfectly acceptable thing to do here. If that wasn’t enough, the country is home to the vibrant Trinidad and Tobago Carnival, one of the World’s Best Carnivals. All in all, T&T is perfect for gay travelers who want to experience the sun, sand, and sea, and dollops of culture. To that end, here are the top 11 gay friendly hotels in Trinidad and Tobago.
Table of contents
- Hyatt Regency, Port of Spain
- Presidents Inn Trinidad, Port of Spain
- Bacolet Beach Club, Scarborough
- Blue Haven Hotel, Scarborough
- Starfish Tobago, Scarborough
- Blue Waters Inn, Speyside
- Le Grand Courlan Spa Resort, Plymouth
- Kapok Hotel, Port of Spain
- Mount Irvine Bay Resort, Scarborough
- Coco Reef Resort and Spa, Bon Accord
- Half Moon Blue Hotel, Scarborough
- Best Gay Neighborhoods in Trinidad and Tobago
- Best Gay Bars / Clubs in Trinidad and Tobago
- Best Gay Saunas in Trinidad and Tobago
- Best Gay Events/Shows/Tours in Trinidad and Tobago
Hyatt Regency, Port of Spain
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One of Trinidad and Tobago’s most luxurious gay hotels is the Hyatt Regency in Port of Spain. It’s also the only full-service waterfront hotel in Trinidad and sits in a striking highrise on the capital’s waterfront. Whether you’re here on business or for a vacation, this hotel is perfect for you. All rooms and suites are tastefully decorated with fuchsia-accent walls and bamboo floors. Besides air-conditioned rooms, all of them come with flatscreen cable TVs, iPod docking stations, and bathrooms with deep-soaking tubs and bespoke toiletries. What’s more, some of the higher unites even have sea views or balconies.
A fabulous lobby with palm trees, a waterfall, stone walls, and generous splashes of vibrant Caribbean hues greet you as you walk in. The best feature is the rooftop infinity pool, which provides some of the gorgeous views of Port of Spain and the Gulf of Paria. A business center and a state-of-the-art gym aside, the hotel also has a full-service waterfront restaurant where you can enjoy all meals. Sip on drinks at the lobby bar and lounge before heading out to explore the city’s nightlife. Want to unwind? The 9,000 square-foot spa is the perfect place to get a massage or a body treatment.
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Presidents Inn Trinidad, Port of Spain
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Touted as one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most gay friendly hotels, Presidents Inn in Port of Spain. LGBTQ travelers looking for a simple and unfussy property where gay travelers are welcomed will be pleasantly surprised by this place. The inn is less of a hotel and more bed and breakfast, offering a shared kitchen where you can whip up or heat meals. Relish them in the cozy living area, which is decked out in comfy furniture and even has a TV. Begin your day with an amazing continental breakfast or a buffet, whatever you prefer.
Besides free WiFi throughout, you have the choice of a host of rooms, all of which come with small but spotless ensuite bathrooms, TVs, and even a desk to keep your belongings. Do you have a car? There’s a free private parking spot available per room. What’s more, the place is happy to arrange airport transfers for an additional cost as well.
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Bacolet Beach Club, Scarborough
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You’re assured exceptional views of the hotel’s private bay from Bacolet Beach Club, one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most bespoke and exclusive gay hotels. This boutique bolthole lies in the capital of Tobago, Scarborough, and is perfect for gay travelers who want to explore the laidback island. Most of the rooms and suites overlook the Caribbean Sea and feature Caribbean and Oriental designs. What’s more, they’re all surrounded by lush vegetation, lending them a very romantic feel. Furthermore, they also come with free Wi-Fi, a private gallery, flatscreen TVs, plush marble floors, and wooden ceilings.
The rest of the hotel radiates the same chilled-out vibe, especially the beach club with two sparkling pools. The main one is the heavenly infinity pool with sun loungers where you can enjoy a refreshing swim and a soak. Post swim, head for a massage or a body treatment to the opulent spa. When the sun starts setting, Cafe Havana is where you should be. Dig into the delectable Caribbean and Latin dishes with stellar views of the ocean. It’s no wonder that it’s one of the Best Hotels in Trinidad And Tobago.
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Blue Haven Hotel, Scarborough
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Stay in the luxurious Blue Haven Hotel just outside Scarborough, whose origins go back to the 1940s. The gay-friendly hotel overlooks a gorgeous secluded beach on Bacolet Bay and has seen guests such as Rita Hayworth stay during its heydays. Even today, the ambiance can best be described as boutique beauty, and the place is still wonderful. Choose from a host of rooms and suites, which have teak floors and sunken sitting areas. A sexy addition features glass-partitioned bathrooms with curtains while rooms are done up in brown, white, and blue hues.
During the day, drink rum cocktails on the terrace while enjoying sweeping views of the beach and the sea. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast and end it with an equally lip-smacking dinner, all of which are included in the rate. In fact, the chefs can whip up pretty much anything that you want. Oh, and did we mention that there’s an in-house masseuse? Relax on the warm, breezy deck with a massage or a body treatment, and bliss out.
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Starfish Tobago, Scarborough
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LGBTQ travelers here with your kids, Starfish Tobago is one of the best gay hotels in Trinidad and Tobago. This all-inclusive resort is perfect for young ones in their element, especially since it has a fabulous Kids Club. The place pulls out all the stops, complete with daily crafts, arts, and sessions on Tobago’s culture. That leaves you free to explore this amazing nautical-hued modern hotel, which sits in the shallows of Great Courland Bay. Play a round of golf, or head off for scuba diving, snorkeling, or a sailing session. When you all get together in the evening, you have five spots to choose to drink and eat. That way, your kids won’t be bored, and you won’t have to find new cuisines every day!
While the kids are away, swim in and relax by the huge swimming pool with ocean views while ordering drinks from the poolside bar. You could also enjoy walks in the tropical gardens or grab the bikes for rent and explore the coastal community, which has some of the Top Things To Do In Trinidad And Tobago. Similarly, rooms at Starfish Tobago are styled in nautical hues and feature small seating areas, flatscreen TVs, and chic bathrooms for your comfort.
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Blue Waters Inn, Speyside
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The name of Blue Waters Inn is perfect – it lies right by the turquoise waters of Batteaux Bay. One of the best gay friendly hotels in Trinidad and Tobago, the century-old hideaway is the perfect place for gay travelers who want to get away from it all. Sitting right beside a curve of golden sand, the beach is the perfect place to spend all day lazing around on a sun lounger. The laidback aesthetic extends to the 38 rooms, all of which radiate a cool, classic Caribbean vibe. Think dark wood furniture and white ceilings and walls. If you want to splurge, go for the one/two-bedroom apartments that lie directly on the white-sand beach!
This eco-friendly hotel is the perfect base for exploring Tobago’s northern coast, tucked in a tropical rainforest right behind. Spend your holiday blissfully by the beach or sign up for cocoa plantation tours, kayaking, or birdwatching tours. There are even superb diving tours, and this hotel is very popular with divers. The highlight is the barbeque dinners at the poolside bar and the seasonal Rock Lobster Dinner. It’s served on the deck at Aqua restaurant, with the waters of the bay right beneath.
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Le Grand Courlan Spa Resort, Plymouth
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Le Grand Courland Spa Resort is one of the most luxurious gay hotels in Trinidad and Tobago. Tucked amidst a sea of resorts on Tobago’s northwestern coast, this 80-room hotel offers sweeping views of Stonehaven Bay. In fact, when you walk right across to the beach, you’ll find nesting spots for leatherback turtles. Rooms range across standard rooms and suites and come with balconies with alfresco furniture. The best rooms in the resorts offer superb ocean views. What’s more, the rooms also have a decent list of features, including mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and chic bathrooms.
The rest of the hotel is equally impressive, such as the huge spa where you can pamper yourself and your partner with a couples massage or treatment. Besides the beach nearby, there’s even a spacious, ocean-view pool terrace with a heavenly infinity pool. After a swim, you can rest on the loungers by the side and sip on cocktails. Choose from three restaurants to enjoy your meals, including a hearty breakfast buffet daily that includes a good range of cold and hot options, as well as local delicacies.
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Kapok Hotel, Port of Spain
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Located just off the cruising area of Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain is Kapok Hotel. This boutique gay friendly hotel is perfect for single gay travelers who’re looking to meet new people on their Caribbean holiday. Starting as a restaurant in 1964, today’s hotel has 94 rooms and suites, all with fancy wrought-iron beds and an intimate feel, which larger resorts miss. Choose from standard or kitchen suites, the latter of which come with separate living and sleeping spaces. If you want spacious rooms, go for the ones that face Savannah park. Are you staying for long? Choose the suites with balconies.
The hotel is famously home to four restaurants and bars, including an Asian/Polynesian eatery, an Italian restaurant, a bar and bistro, and the Tiki Village Restaurant. Begin your day with a sumptuous included breakfast before swimming and lounging by the small but divine pool. The hotel also has meeting rooms and a modern fitness room for those gay travelers who want to work out before heading to the park to meet people. Enjoy a nightcap at the Bois Cano bistro and bar before retiring to your rooms.
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Mount Irvine Bay Resort, Scarborough
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Mount Irvine Bay Resort is one of the larger gay hotels in Trinidad and Tobago. This southwestern Tobago resort sits on lush and landscaped acres and is one of the most popular stays around. The hotel boasts secluded cottages scattered around the property, complete with cushy sofas and florid curtains. Even if you opt for an entry-level room, you’ll get true-blue views of the pool or the sea or the green views of the neat grounds. Most rooms sport a 1970s shabby gentility and are very spacious, and come with spotless bathrooms that are sure to make your stay and your holiday very comfortable.
The resort was designed for R&R, especially the lovely beach and the pool. No matter where you lounge, towels are dispensed, and drinks are served, making it the perfect way to unwind. Does R&R make you restless? You can rent scuba gear and go diving or surf on the beach right out front. Choose from a whopping six places on offer for drinking and dining, including a restaurant that serves delectable casual Caribbean cuisine.
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Coco Reef Resort and Spa, Bon Accord
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The gay-friendly Coco Reef Resort and Spa is for those intrepid gay travelers who can’t stay still on vacation. In that case, you’ve picked the absolute right place, as the list of activities here is as long as the sun loungers at the resort. Do you love nature? Hike to the waterfalls through the nearby rainforest. Are you into sports? Try the tennis lessons here. Even if you want to take a break and relax, you can do that too. The palm-edged pool and the private beach are inviting, complete with amazing views of the private bay and the lush rainforest behind. There are the other usual amenities too, such as the highly regarded spa. Moreover, the on-site restaurants are some of the best in Tobago.
In fact, the pool bar always has a crowd around. The amazing vibe extends to the rooms, suites, and villas, which ooze a classical-tropical vibe. Think vibrant printed fabrics, Spanish tiles, and coral walls. Do you want to splurge? You can’t beat the glitz factor at the ocean-view villa, complete with a private sundeck, a massive, and we mean massive TV and gold-plated bathroom fittings. Do you know you can book the hotel’s Rolls for the two-minute trip between the airport and here? Yes!
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Half Moon Blue Hotel, Scarborough
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Few hotels are as amazing as the Half Moon Blue Hotel, one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most intimate gay hotels. Tucked beneath the hill of Fort King George, the boutique hotel overlooks the serene waters of Bacolet Bay. The private beach right across from the hotel is the perfect place to laze during the day. What’s more, you can see views of the beach from the patios in your rooms. Besides that, the Colonial-style rooms also have flatscreen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and immaculate bathrooms with bespoke toiletries for a comfortable stay. For the best views, go for the rooms that feature views of the bay.
The outdoor pool is the epicenter of all fun and activity at the hotel. More energetic gay travelers will love playing a game of tennis at the tennis court that’s a stone’s throw away. When the hunger pangs come calling, head to the Havana Bar and Restaurant that serves local and international cuisine, complete with homemade bread. When you want to relax, the bar’s terrace that overlooks the tropical gardens is where you can relax with a cocktail. Do you want to explore the area around? The hotel even has a car rental service.
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Best Gay Neighborhoods in Trinidad and Tobago
Since it has a not-so-open stance on the LGBTQ community, there are no gay neighborhoods to speak of in even Port of Spain, let alone the entirety of Trinidad and Tobago. That said, Port of Spain does have a few cruising areas, which are famous such as the Queen’s Park Savannah. The lush gardens are the perfect spot for meeting people to talk and hook up. Another cruising area, not surprisingly, is Macqueripe Beach, which lies half an hour north of Port of Spain. Another gay-friendly region in the country is Maracas Beach overlooking Maracas Bay on the northern shores of T&T.
Trinidad and Tobago is one of the more ambiguous Caribbean nations when it comes to LGBTQ. While laws don’t criminalize same-sex relationships, that’s the extent of support the LGBTQ people have in the country currently. Despite the country’s conservative nature, there’s a gay scene focused around Port of Spain, with the situation largely being ‘don’t ask, don’t tell.’ Finally, despite a large number of citizens actually supporting gay rights, it isn’t overly publicized.
Best Gay Bars / Clubs in Trinidad and Tobago
There aren’t any ‘gay’ bars to speak of in T&T. That said, there was one amazing gay bar in Port of Spain, Drink Wine Lounge, but it shut recently. Besides that, these are two gay-friendly establishments in the country:
- Phoenix Bar & Lounge: This local watering hole sees a mixed crowd, and is especially popular with LGBTQ locals and travelers.
- Big Black Box: The only welcoming venue of its kind in Port of Spain, Big Black Box welcomes everyone, including gay visitors. It’s the home base of the 3-Canal rapso band and hosts club nights, live theater and music, and film screenings.
Best Gay Saunas in Trinidad and Tobago
Unfortunately, there’s no gay sauna in Trinidad and Tobago. However, we’re hoping that the country’s stance on LGBTQ rights evolves, and we see one soon.
Best Gay Events/Shows/Tours in Trinidad and Tobago
- T&T Pride: Trinidad and Tobago’s first Pride parade was held in 2018, which is a landmark in a country where LGBTQ rights are next to none. It was the same year that same-sex activity became legal too. The 2018 parade was the end to a month-long celebration of events that was hosted by the Trinidad and Tobago Pride Arts Festival. It saw hundreds of people decked out in rainbow colours along Port of Spain’s Tragarete Road, finally ending in the St Clair neighborhood.