Gay beaches in Europe: Our 21 best list for LGBTQ+ travelers

Maspalomas in Gran Canaria is the stuff of queer legend — it’s got dunes, cruising, sunshine, and that unmistakable buzz of freedom. But Sitges’ Bassa Rodona and Mykonos’ Elia Beach give it serious competition, especially if you’re into style, beach bars, or classic Mediterranean vibes. We’ve danced, kissed, and sunbathed at all three — each one feels different, and all feel like home. Honestly, there’s no one answer. Just pick your flavor and go. Most of the beaches are easily accessible, offering nearby gay-friendly accommodations, and are celebrated during peak Pride and summer seasons.

No — but many do allow it. Nudity is welcome or tolerated in several gay beach areas including Beach 19 (Portugal), Capocotta (Italy), Mont Rose (France), Zandvoort South (Netherlands), and parts of Maspalomas (Spain). These beaches often have an unspoken culture of clothing-optional freedom that aligns with local naturist norms. However, more central or family-adjacent beaches — such as Bassa Rodona (Sitges) or Elia (Mykonos) — do not permit full nudity. Always observe your surroundings and local signs. When in doubt, follow what the locals are doing. Remember that nude sunbathing may be fine, but public sexual behavior is often illegal or frowned upon.

Absolutely — and in many cases, they’re ideal. We’ve both traveled solo to gay beaches, and it’s often easier to strike up conversations or join a group than you’d expect. Sitges, Lisbon’s Beach 19, and Mykonos are particularly LGBTQ+ welcoming. As always, don’t flash your valuables, trust your instincts, and keep your phone charged. And yes, solo doesn’t mean alone — we’ve made beach friends who turned into travel or cuddle buddies.

If you’re looking for beaches where you can cuddle, kiss, and just exist together — without feeling like you’re on display — head to Es Cavallet (Ibiza), Zandvoort South (Netherlands), or Platja dels Balmins (Sitges). These beaches offer a softer vibe, perfect for couples who want the mix of freedom and connection. We’ve spent lazy afternoons here holding hands in the waves, sipping drinks, and watching the day slow down together. While Maspalomas or Super Paradise Beach are more social and cruisy, they can also be enjoyed as couples — especially with options for secluded sunbathing. Elia Beach in Mykonos is a favorite for honeymooners and stylish queer couples who love a good view and a great cocktail.

Yes, and they’re surprisingly freeing — even without Mediterranean heat. Zandvoort near Amsterdam is one of our favorite quick getaways. In Berlin, the far-right section of Wannsee becomes a queer hangout in summer, and in Munich, the Flaucherinseln offer nudity and a relaxed, queer-friendly atmosphere. You won’t get palm trees, but you will find authenticity, body acceptance, and a beautiful crowd to look at or spend time with on a sunny day.

Oh yes — and let’s just say, you’ll know exactly where to go once you’re there. From the dunes of Maspalomas to the pine trails behind Beach 19, cruising has always been part of the queer beach story. It’s not always marked, but the paths are well-trodden (in more ways than one). That said, we’ve learned a thing or two: keep it respectful. Not every beachgoer is there for the same reason, and families or unsuspecting tourists don’t belong in that story. Stay in the known zones, keep it consensual, and pack in/pack out what you bring. Cruising is freedom, history, and fun — but it’s also community. And we owe it to ourselves to keep it safe and sustainable.

Honestly? We’ve packed everything from SPF 50 to sparkly fans — and still forgot the one thing we really needed. So here’s our go-to list that actually works:

✔️ High-SPF sunscreen (no one wants to be that lobster and Daan knows ???? )
✔️ Refillable water bottle (hydration = cruising stamina)
✔️ Towel, sarong, or something soft to sit on
✔️ Wet wipes and hand sanitizer — for obvious reasons
✔️ Condoms, lube, and PrEP if that’s part of your day
✔️ Light snacks, sunglasses, portable phone charger

If you’re heading to a remote or nudist beach (like Capocotta or Beach 19), pack shoes with grip — and maybe leave the flashy towel at home. Oh, and never bring your passport or any valuables to the sand. More tips? Pack like a pro – with our gay cruising tips.

You can — and honestly, it’s one of the best travel hacks we know. Maspalomas is warm year-round, and we’ve swum naked at Malta’s Għajn Tuffieħa in early November. Fewer crowds, cheaper stays, and the same feeling of queer liberation. Just check opening times for bars or transport, and bring layers. The breeze can sneak up on you. But if you’re after peace, introspection, and maybe even a winter tan — you’ll love the off-season.

Apps like Grindr or Scruff help or read blogs like Coupleofmen.com. Check Google Maps or reviews for subtle hints (“quiet spot for adults”, “clothing optional”), or ask in gay bars and cafés. In Lisbon, we were told about Beach 19 by a friendly bartender who drew us a literal map. In Malta, we just followed the flow of shirtless guys down a cliffside path. On-site, follow rainbow flags, nudist signage, and groups of men heading toward forested trails. If you’re paying attention, your people will lead the way.

Yes — some of Europe’s best gay beaches are close to major cities. Mar Bella in Barcelona, Beach 19 near Lisbon, Capocotta near Rome, and Zandvoort near Amsterdam are all reachable in under an hour. These locations are perfect for combining a city break with queer beach time. Even Berlin and Munich, far from the coast, have lakeside or riverside nude gay zones. Plan accordingly and make time for both city culture and sun-soaked freedom.