LGBTQ+ travelers from around the globe are increasingly looking for destinations that provide a safe and welcoming environment for all. For many, that means looking for destinations that are considered to be “gay-friendly”. But what does this mean exactly? A gay-friendly destination is one that is open and accepting of all people regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity.
When it comes to gay-friendly beaches, Australia is at the top of the list. With its stunning coastline, vibrant cities, and friendly locals, Australia has been a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers for years. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, there are over 11 million people who identify as LGBT in Australia.
The purpose of this article is to highlight some of the best gay-friendly beaches in Australia. We will take a look at some of the amenities, events, and activities offered at each beach, as well as some tips for visitors.
Best Gay-Friendly Beaches in Australia
Bondi Beach, Sydney
Located in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Bondi Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Australia. It is a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. Bondi Beach also hosts a number of LGBTQ+ events and activities throughout the year, making it a great destination for queer travelers.
One of the main amenities offered at Bondi Beach is the Bondi Pavilion. This historic building has been around since the 1920s and is home to a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is also the site of many of the beach’s LGBTQ+ events, such as the Bondi Mardi Gras festival and the annual gay beach party.
Cottesloe Beach, Perth
Cottesloe Beach is located in the western suburbs of Perth and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. This beach is known for its beautiful views, crystal clear waters, and white sand. It is also a popular spot for swimming and surfing.
Cottesloe Beach is home to a number of LGBTQ+ events and activities throughout the year. These include the annual Pride Parade, the Big Gay Beach Bash, and the Rainbow Beach Party. The beach also has a number of amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.
Burleigh Heads Beach, Gold Coast
Burleigh Heads Beach is located on the Gold Coast and is a hotspot for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. This beach is renowned for its stunning views and picturesque scenery.
Burleigh Heads Beach is home to a number of LGBTQ+ events and activities. These include the annual Pride Week, the Burleigh Heads Pride Picnic, and the Burleigh Heads Gay Beach Party. The beach also has a number of amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.
Noosa Beach, Sunshine Coast
Noosa Beach is located on the Sunshine Coast and is a great spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. This beach is renowned for its crystal clear waters and stunning views. It is also a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Noosa Beach is home to a number of LGBTQ+ events and activities. These include the annual Pride Parade, the Noosa Pride Picnic, and the Noosa Gay Beach Party. The beach also has a number of amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.
Manly Beach, Sydney
Manly Beach is located in Sydney’s northern beaches and is a great spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. This beach is renowned for its stunning views and picturesque scenery.
Manly Beach is home to a number of LGBTQ+ events and activities. These include the annual Mardi Gras parade, the Manly Pride Picnic, and the Manly Gay Beach Party. The beach also has a number of amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.
St. Kilda Beach, Melbourne
St. Kilda Beach is located in Melbourne and is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. This beach is renowned for its stunning views and picturesque scenery. It is also a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.
St. Kilda Beach is home to a number of LGBTQ+ events and activities. These include the annual Pride Parade, the St. Kilda Pride Picnic, and the St. Kilda Gay Beach Party. The beach also has a number of amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.
Mooloolaba Beach, Sunshine Coast
Mooloolaba Beach is located on the Sunshine Coast and is a great spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. This beach is renowned for its crystal clear waters and stunning views. It is also a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Mooloolaba Beach is home to a number of LGBTQ+ events and activities. These include the annual Pride Parade, the Mooloolaba Pride Picnic, and the Mooloolaba Gay Beach Party. The beach also has a number of amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Beach
When choosing a beach, there are a few things to consider. Location is important, as some beaches may not be accessible depending on where you are staying. Amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, should also be taken into account. Weather is also an important factor, as some beaches may not be suitable for swimming or sunbathing in certain seasons. Accessibility is also important, as some beaches may be difficult to reach without a car. The crowds can also be a factor, as some beaches may be more crowded than others. Finally, safety is an important factor, as some beaches may have a higher risk of crime and theft.
Tips for Visiting a Gay-Friendly Beach
When visiting a gay-friendly beach, it is important to respect the local culture. Be aware of local laws, as some countries may have laws that discriminate against LGBTQ+ people. It is also important to respect other beachgoers, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Follow good hygiene practices, such as showering before entering the water and avoiding littering. Finally, be considerate and courteous to others, as this will help create a welcoming environment for everyone.
Conclusion
Australia is a great destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, as there are a number of gay-friendly beaches throughout the country. Bondi Beach, Cottesloe Beach, Burleigh Heads Beach, Noosa Beach, Manly Beach, St. Kilda Beach, and Mooloolaba Beach are all great destinations for queer travelers. When choosing a beach, it is important to consider factors such as location, amenities, weather, accessibility, crowds, and safety. When visiting a gay-friendly beach, it is important to respect the local culture, be aware of local laws, respect other beachgoers, follow good hygiene practices, and be considerate and courteous.
References
Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2018, February 28). Population by Sex and Gender Identity. Retrieved from https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/by%20Subject/2071.0~2017-18~Main%20Features~Sexual%20Orientation~26
Department of Home Affairs. (n.d.). LGBTIQ+ Travelers. Retrieved from https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/trav/lgbtiq/lgbtiq-travelers