If you're planning to retire near the ocean and you're looking for a place that feels welcoming to our community, you’ve got some excellent options around the world. Whether it’s the vibrant nightlife, laid-back beach culture, or a warm, open-minded vibe, here are 10 retirement spots where you can feel comfortable and enjoy your time near the sea.
1. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta has long been known as a haven for us queers, with its beachy charm and laid-back vibe. It’s got great weather, beautiful beaches, and a community that’s welcoming to everyone. It’s a perfect blend of relaxation and fun.
- Zona Romantica: This area is famous for being one of the most gay-friendly neighborhoods in the world. The nightlife is buzzing, and there are plenty of gay bars, clubs, and restaurants.
- Affordable living: Puerto Vallarta is known for being much more affordable than many other beach destinations, and you’ll find it easy to stretch your retirement savings here.
- Beautiful beaches: Playa Los Muertos is one of the most popular beaches and is very gay-friendly. You’ll find both lively spots and more secluded areas for when you want to relax.
2. Sitges, Spain
Located just outside Barcelona, Sitges is a small beach town that’s been popular among queens for decades. It offers a quieter lifestyle with easy access to the energy of the big city when you feel like it.
- LGBTQ+ scene: Sitges is famous for its vibrant scene, especially in the summer months when it hosts one of the biggest pride events in Europe. The town is open-minded and inclusive year-round.
- Mediterranean charm: Sitges has beautiful, sunny beaches, and its Mediterranean climate means mild winters and warm summers.
- Proximity to Barcelona: If you ever miss city life, Barcelona is just 35 minutes away by train, giving you the best of both worlds.
3. Palm Springs, USA
Palm Springs is not right on the ocean, but its proximity to California's stunning beaches makes it worth considering. It’s one of the top gay retirement destinations in the U.S., offering sun, fun, and a relaxed lifestyle.
- Gay-friendly vibe: The entire city feels welcoming to us, and it’s been a popular destination for decades. With LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and annual events like Pride, you’ll never feel out of place.
- Outdoor living: Palm Springs is surrounded by stunning mountains, golf courses, and nearby desert landscapes. It's a sunny haven for those who love the outdoors.
- California beaches: While Palm Springs itself is inland, you’re just a couple of hours’ drive from beaches like Malibu or Laguna Beach if you ever want to hit the coast.
4. Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos is known worldwide as one of the most queer-friendly destinations, making it a great spot for retirement if you love island life. It offers a beautiful combination of traditional Greek charm and modern, vibrant energy.
- LGBTQ+ hotspot: Mykonos has been a gay mecca for years, with lots of gay-friendly bars, clubs, and beach parties, especially in the summer.
- Relaxed island vibe: The island is stunning, with its iconic whitewashed buildings, crystal-clear waters, and incredible sunsets. It’s great for retirees who want a laid-back lifestyle with a bit of glamour.
- Super Paradise Beach: This is the most famous gay beach in Mykonos, with a lively atmosphere where you can meet people or just soak up the sun.
5. Fort Lauderdale, USA
Fort Lauderdale has quietly become one of the most queer-friendly retirement destinations in the U.S. The city’s proximity to Miami gives you access to a bigger scene if you want it, but Fort Lauderdale itself is perfect for more relaxed, beachy living.
- Warm and welcoming: The city has a large LGBTQ+ population and is known for its laid-back, friendly vibe. There are plenty of gay bars, clubs, and restaurants to enjoy.
- Great beaches: The sandy beaches of Fort Lauderdale are clean, beautiful, and offer plenty of spots to relax or socialize.
- Affordable alternative to Miami: Fort Lauderdale is more affordable than Miami, yet you’re just a short drive away if you ever want to experience Miami’s energy.
6. Sydney, Australia
Sydney is definitely a popular city for gay retirees as you probably know already, combining urban excitement with some of the best beaches in the world. The vibe here is very open, and you’ll feel comfortable and accepted.
- Gay-friendly city: Sydney’s LGBTQ+ scene is huge, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and cultural events, including the famous Mardi Gras.
- Bondi Beach: You’ll love living near iconic beaches like Bondi, where you can surf, swim, or just hang out with friends.
- Great healthcare: Australia’s healthcare system is top-notch, which is a practical consideration for retirees.
7. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations for LGBTQ+ expats and retirees. It’s a beautiful city with great weather, stunning coastal views, and an increasingly open-minded attitude.
- Friendly for LGBTQ+ retirees: While Portugal was once more conservative, the country has become one of the more progressive places in Europe when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights. You’ll feel welcome in Lisbon.
- Coastal beauty: The city sits along the Atlantic Ocean, with easy access to stunning beaches just a short drive or train ride away. Cascais and Estoril are particularly gay-friendly.
- Affordable living: Lisbon is more affordable than many other Western European capitals, making it easier to live comfortably on a retirement budget.
8. Brighton, UK
Brighton is often considered one of the queer capitals of the UK, making it a great place to retire if you want to stay in Europe and be by the sea. The town has a quirky, open-minded vibe and lots of beachy charm.
- LGBTQ+ hotspot: Brighton’s Pride event is one of the biggest in Europe, and the town has a lively gay scene year-round. You’ll find no shortage of gay-friendly bars, clubs, and cafes.
- Iconic beach: Brighton Beach might not be tropical, but its pebbly shore and lively pier make it a great spot for a seaside stroll.
- Close to London: Brighton is just an hour by train from London, so you can easily hop into the city whenever you need a dose of big-city life.
Pride Rainbow Merchandise
We earn a commission if you click the link below and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
9. Auckland, New Zealand
If you’re looking for a more relaxed, nature-filled retirement, Auckland offers a great balance of beach life and city comforts. New Zealand’s progressive attitudes and stunning landscapes make it an ideal choice.
- Welcoming atmosphere: New Zealand is known for being gay-friendly, and Auckland has plenty of gay bars, cultural events, and a generally open-minded vibe.
- Beaches galore: Auckland is surrounded by beaches, from the calm waters of Mission Bay to the rugged coastline of Piha, giving you plenty of options for beach days.
- Outdoor living: Beyond the beaches, Auckland offers fantastic hiking, sailing, and other outdoor activities, making it a great place to enjoy an active retirement.
10. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is one of the most gay-friendly cities in Africa, and its stunning coastline makes it a great retirement destination for beach lovers. The city offers an amazing mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and urban excitement.
- Vibrant LGBTQ+ scene: Cape Town has a lively queer scene, especially around the De Waterkant area, where you’ll find gay-friendly bars, restaurants, and clubs.
- Scenic beaches: Clifton Beach is particularly popular with gay locals and tourists. The views are spectacular, and it’s a great spot to socialize or just relax.
- Affordable living: Cape Town is more affordable than many other coastal cities, especially for retirees coming from the U.S. or Europe.
