6 LGBT Getaways

Fabulous pool parties. Stylish bars and impeccably designed hotels. Pampering spas and energetic nightclubs. Lavish events. There’s no question that the Palm Springs region ranks as one of the world’s top destinations for LGBTQ travellers. Whether you’re a couple (with or without kids), or looking for a singles scene, Palm Springs and its neighbouring cities offer memorable experiences—from tranquil retreats to clothing-optional resorts.

The scene really heats up when the weather cools down in late autumn and winter—some estimates put the local LGBTQ population at over 30 per cent during this time. Though June is the traditional month to celebrate LGBTQ Pride, many Pride events take place in November here; the Greater Palm Springs Pride event kicks off the season early in the month with an eye-popping parade and street party, including games and arts-and-crafts activities for kids of all ages. Another family-friendly Pride event is the Desert Hot Springs Pride Festival in mid-November. And come March, nearby Cathedral City has its own, more adult-focused LGBTQ Days event, a free festival held over Easter weekend featuring an opening-night party, a Bed Race through the streets of the city and live musical performances.

The party-filled Dinah Shore Weekend/Palm Springs Women’s Weekend (or just 'The Dinah'), in early April, coincides with the ANA Inspiration LPGA Golf Championship, and is considered the world’s largest lesbian happening. A few weeks later, it’s the guys’ turn, and time for the dancing and pool parties of the Palm Springs White Party, the area’s biggest annual gay event.

In September, cinephiles flock to Cinema Diverse: The Palm Springs LGBTQ Film Festival, which attracts submissions and attendees from around the world. And when it comes to one particular scene, Palm Springs will not be outdone: The Palm Springs Leather Pride weekend in late October has become one of the nation’s largest events of its kind, culminating in the crowning of Mr Leather.

Insider tip: check out the Greater Palm Springs LGBTQ calendar for a complete list of events.

At the base of the Hollywood Hills, the city of West Hollywood is the centre of LGBTQ Los Angeles. In 1984, West Hollywood became the first majority-gay municipality in the country, and ever since, its rich tradition of pride and acceptance has been enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Today, LGBTQ residents comprise more than 40 per cent of the 1.9-square-mile community, and the pedestrian crossings are painted as welcoming rainbows.

It goes without saying that the entire area is LGBTQ-friendly, with excellent restaurants, hotels and shopping on every corner. As for nightlife, consider The Abbey as your first stop. One of the most famous gay bars and nightclubs in the world, The Abbey has everything from go-go dancers to high-end cocktails, and surprisingly good food. Turn up the volume at the aptly named Girl Bar, check out Fubar if you’re looking for an underground feel, or try The Bayou for a late-night happy-hour scene. End the weekend with drag queen bingo nights held every Sunday at Hamburger Mary’s.

Come June, West Hollywood becomes the home base for the LA Pride Festival and Parade. The month-long celebration includes festivities around the city, but the main event is the two-day festival in West Hollywood Park, which welcomes more than 400,000 people each year. Listen to A-list musicians perform on the event’s three stages and watch the elaborate floats roll by at Sunday’s parade. Additionally, One City One Pride commences in late May, honouring LGBTQ visual and performing arts with free events around the city.

Discover a more rustic side to Northern California’s LGBTQ scene in the woodland setting of Guerneville, about 90 minutes north of San Francisco. Set among majestic redwood forests on the banks of the Russian River, the tucked-away hamlet has been the go-to gay getaway for Bay Area weekenders for decades, earning it the nickname of the 'Gay Riviera'.

For pinch-me-perfect romantic settings to enjoy with any partner, book a stay at the luxurious, Mission Revival–style Applewood Inn, or at least dine in the firelight-lit restaurant (the wine list is a stunner—not a surprise in Sonoma County). Another option is Boon Hotel + Spa, opened in 2008 by local entrepreneur and quasi-celebrity (she was named Triple Grand Champion on Guy Fieri’s Food Network show Grocery Games) Crista Luedtre. Also check out her other local restaurant endeavours, farm-to-table bistro Boon Eat + Drink, German beer hall Brot and modern Mexican bar El Barrio. For a truly down-to-earth and easygoing stay, Highlands Resort offers a wide array of cosy cabins and suites and promotes an 'unplugged' approach to relaxation.

During the day, hire a canoe from Burke’s Canoe Trips—a long-standing local classic—and zigzag down the easy-to-paddle Russian River. Back on land, walk through stands of giant trees in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, just north of the town at the end of Armstrong Woods Road.

Add some indulgence to your day with a wine or champagne tasting at Korbel California Champagnes in Guerneville, or follow country roads south towards Healdsburg, sampling acclaimed Pinot Noirs and Zinfandels at countless wineries along the way. At night, catch the action at the landmark Rainbow Cattle Co., a party destination since 1979, or the Bar at the R3 Hotel, another long-standing favourite of the LGBTQ crowd. Featured prominently on the Russian River calendar of events is an entire week starting in late July devoted to 'bears'—and good deeds—during Lazy Bear Week, when profits from all dance parties, pool parties, wine tastings, gourmet meals and more go to charity.

If you’re visiting with children, be aware that many LGBTQ-focused accommodation options in Guerneville are adult-oriented. Check their websites before booking. If you’re looking for child-friendly events to celebrate Pride Month, see what’s happening at sonomacountypride.org.