Gay and Lesbian Friendly Vacations in the Caribbean

If you're looking for a great getaway, and have the Caribbean on your mind, here's a guide to the top gay friendly hotels, bars, and restaurants you won't want to miss. Unfortunately, not all Caribbean hot spots are created as equal as some of the others. Some of the most accepting areas are in the Dutch, French and U.S islands. The islands that aren't as accepting of gay couples are the Cayman Islands, Jamaica and Barbados.

Here are some great islands and resorts to think about when choosing your vacation destination.

Puerto Rico - Puerto Rico is a very beautiful destination with lots of beaches, lots of culture, great food and shopping. Both English and Spanish are the official languages and the currency is used is the U.S. dollar. As of right now, if you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a passport to visit Puerto Rico (if coming from the U.S). Since this island is only 100 miles long and 35 miles wide, getting around is pretty easy. The average temperature year round is 83 degrees Fahrenheit, and you can't beat that. Some of the best hotels Puerto Rico has to offer are the
Boqueron Bay Guest House, Andalucia Guest House, Atlantic Beach Hotel, Caribe Mountain Villas and the Caribe Playa Beach Resort, all listed as gay/lesbian friendly hotels. Each of these hotels offers similar services of fantastic views, romantic settings, excursions, and on-site restaurants and lounges. Some gay/lesbian bars in the area are: Get Wild Pub, Ave. Betances (exit at Rte. 107), Bayamon, PR ; Gilligan's Pub, Ave. Betances D-18, Hnas Davila (near Pepin Ct.), Hormigueros, PR; Ricomar Club, 8 Calle Paz, Isabela, PR; Carretera 459, Barrio Jacobs (across from Brendy Pizza), and Backstage, Ave. Ponce de Leon, Las Delicias, Ponce, PR.

U.S. Virgin Islands - The U.S. Virgin Islands are made up of three islands, St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas. The U.S. Virgin Islands offer sun, sand and palm trees with a cultural experience. With the many historical sites and tours the islands have to offer, there are plenty of places to site see. The islands are all small enough to enjoy walking tours covering most of the islands. Bartering for gold jewelry and shopping in the native owned shops can really add the spice to your vacation. If you're looking for more excitement then relaxation, visiting during Carnival, which is the biggest event of the year, held during the last week of April on the Island of St. John, is an unbeatable time. Here are some hotels that you'll find more gay and lesbian couples rather then straight couples. On the Island of St. Croix, Sand Castle On The Beach (Gay and Lesbian only hotel), Cottages by the Sea, Haypenny Rest, Villa Greenleaf, The Inn at Pelican Heights and the Pink Fancey Hotel. On the Island of St. John, you'll find gay/lesbian friendly hotels such as, Above Peter Bay Villa, Villa Cielomar, In Harmony Retreat, Mahogany Tree Villa, and Great Expectations. Lastly, on the Island of St. Thomas, you'll find Bolongo Bay Beach Club, The Crystal Palace Bed and Breakfast, and Sea N'Stars (primarily all gay/lesbian guests). You'll need a passport to get to these islands.

St. Bart's - St. Bart's is a smaller intimate Island which is located in the French Caribbean near St. Martin and Anguilla. The entire island is wrapped with visions of palm trees, water, mountains and history. The average temperature year round in St. Bart's is between 76-82 degrees. The ocean waters are always crystal clear and warm enough to swim in year round. There are many opportunities for divers, boaters, and fishers, as well as many spas. The top gay/lesbian friendly resorts are La Banane in Lorient and Francoise Plantation. Some top gay/lesbian bars in St. Bart's are Le Bar to and Le Bartolomeo, both are in the Grand Cul de Sac neighborhood and have live music, and food. You'll need a passport to get to this island.

Dominican Republic - Between the ruins, beaches, resorts and colonial zone, Dominican Republic has everything to offer. If you're looking for lots of activity and adventure, this is the island to choose. You can stay at some great gay/lesbian friendly hotels, such as Boca Chica, Bonao (clothing optional), La Playa Grande (clothing optional) and Las Terrenas. Some of the top trendy gay/lesbian clubs in the Domincan Republic are Atlantis, and Aire, which is not only a club, but a café as well. You'll need a passport to get to this island.

Hopefully this guide will help you decide where the best vacation spot for you will be. You can't go wrong with Caribbean, it's paradise on earth!