Traveling as a lesbian can be enlightening, entertaining, and romantic. Despite that, it’s important to feel safe and supported wherever you go. Luckily, plenty of lesbian-friendly travel destinations are waiting for your arrival. From distant islands, beautiful flower gardens, and joyous festivals, there is a destination out there perfect for you and your partner.
Here are the top 5 lesbian travel destinations for your next getaway.
Lesbos, Greece
Lesbos, also known as Lesvos or Mitilini, is one of the most well-known islands among the sapphic community. This comes from the island's relation to Sappho, the famous Greek poet who wrote renowned pieces about her lesbian relationships. Today, she is known as one of history’s greatest lesbian figures. Traveling to this island is the perfect way to honor her works.
Begin your journey through a yoga session on the volcanic sands of Skala Eressos Beach, a gorgeous seaside overlooking the Aegean Sea. You can stop at one of the many local restaurants and cafes for brunch afterward - considering this beach’s extensive LGBTQ+ background, they would love to have you! Throughout the afternoon, tour the vast arrangement of historical monuments. We recommend the Castle of Mytilene: the perfect place to settle in and view the scenic island. Perhaps you could run into your own special princess there…
After a long, eventful day, all you'll want to do is cozy up in bed with your partner. And is there a better place to do that than one of the many resorts and hotels dedicated to Sappho? We don’t think so! From deluxe resorts like Sappho and Neraida Studios to cozy hotels like Hotel Sappho, this island has plenty of lodges commemorating the lesbian poet. As you drift to sleep on this charming island (perhaps in your partner's arms), relish in the romance and allure this island offers.
Palm Springs, California, United States
You may not be able to find Lily Tomlin, Ruby Rose, or Evelyn Hugo here (sadly, I don’t think you can find Evelyn Hugo anywhere but the pages of a novel), but Palm Springs is still a thriving city to see. With scenic views, gardens, hot springs, and more, Palm Springs will provide your stay with infinite amusement. Isn’t that what California is all about?
This year, from September 20th through the 24th, the legendary Dinah Festival will run the streets wild. As the largest lesbian, non-binary, and queer-focused festival in the world, this is not a celebration you’ll want to miss. Parties of all kinds, including pre-parties hosted at bars, red carpet arrivals at clubs, elegant dances through glittering ballrooms, and scandalous pool parties with sensual swimwear, will be scattered throughout the city. Four days of endless fun are coming, so why wait? Book your stay at Palm Springs now through a travel advisor at Rainbow Getaways to get the party going pronto!
West Yorkshire, England
Does all this partying have you worn out? Looking for something a little more quaint and cozy? If that’s the case, West Yorkshire, England, is your next vacation destination. As one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in the world, England makes a great space to visit for any lesbian couple. But while you visit, you should consider visiting one of the many lesbian-friendly accommodations this city offers.
Poetry is known as one of the most romantic forms of writing, and now you can explore the words of famous lesbian poet Anne Lister like never before. Visit her previous estate, Shibden Hall, to witness lesbian history from the Georgian Era like never before. Anne Lister, often referred to as 'the first modern lesbian,' wrote numerous poems in 26 diaries explaining her love for women. Today, you can view these diaries at the West Yorkshire Archive Service - but be warned. Anne Lister encrypted them with countless codes to keep her lesbian affairs secret, so you’ll need some wit to crack the code.
Want to take your own beloved to West Yorkshire? Lucky for you, this district of England is loaded with plenty of romantic activities. Stroll through one of the various parks, explore museums and monuments, and end your evening with a dazzling show in one of their cozy theaters. If whisking your lover away on a romantic trip is your dream come true, West Yorkshire is the perfect choice for you.
Queenstown, Singapore
Queenstown, Singapore, is the perfect place to give your lover the 'queen' treatment she deserves. With dozens of cafes for cute and cozy dates, markets for spontaneous shopping sprees, and temples for explorations, Queenstown, Singapore, offers a captivating experience.
Before embarking in Queenstown, stop by the Pelangi Pride Center. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, the Pelangi Pride Center is full of special events, LGBTQ+ media, merchandise, and more. Stay tuned for their regular speeches, screenings, free education, and more activities with their local community.
When spoiling your special someone, there’s no better place to do it than this magnificent city. Stop by one of the many shopping centers, including the Queensway Shopping Centre and the Anchorpoint Shopping Centre, to settle your yearning for retail therapy. For a romantic stroll afterward, tour the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The endless pathways and gorgeous greenery will enchant both you and your partner. To finish your date properly, dine on a sunset sail cruise with a five-course dinner. After all Queenstown Singapore has to offer, it will provide you with loving and unforgettable memories.
Saitama, Japan
Most lesbians and other women-loving-women know of the symbol of violets in LGBTQ+ culture, but did you know that white lilies also represent romantic love between women? In Japan, white lilies are known for symbolizing chastity and purity and embody the romantic love between two women. Saitama, Japan, is known for having some of the most beautiful gardens to view these flowers.
There is no better place to view white lilies (or any of Japan’s seasonal flowers) than Fukaya Green Park. This park is famous for its seasonal flower gardens beside the Aqua Paradise Patio. Rows and rows of tulips bloom from March to late April, providing the perfect scenery to share your 'two lips' with your lover. Cherry blossom trees, also known as sakura trees, are abundant here. Visitors are encouraged to stroll through their pink petals and savor the sight. Of course, the main attraction at Fukaya Green Park is its abundance of lilies. Witness them bloom in July and August and cherish the significance of white lilies in Japanese LGBTQ+ culture.
Aside from flowers, Saitama, Japan, has much to offer you and your travel companion. Interested in the captivating history of Japan? Kawagoe, also known as “Little Edo,” to immerse yourself in the distant Edo period. Feeling adventurous? Embark on a kayaking trip, persevere through the Chichibu Neogravity Park, or even race your companion on the local go-kart track. Want something a bit calmer? Saitama is filled with museums, castles, and crafty classes that fill your day with delight. With the beauty of white lilies and a wide arrangement of activities, Saitama, Japan, will enchant your trip.
Travel is about exploring new cultures, meeting new people, experiencing wonderful events, and making beautiful memories. By choosing a lesbian-friendly destination, you can personalize your experience to make your trip as safe and fun as possible. Interested in any of the places above? Click here to chat with an advisor from Rainbow Getaways: a travel agency created just for you and other members of the LGBTQ+ community. We will be happy to assist you with your adventures, no matter who you love.
Rainbow Getaways proudly help travelers of the LGBTQ community (and our allies) research, plan, and book incredible vacations where you feel confident and comfortable enjoying and exploring your destination. We plan each vacation to meet your specific needs, so you'll have an experience just as unique as you.