Rock the Rainbow: An LGBT Guide to Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico, often called the “Island of Enchantment,” is among the most gay-friendly destinations in the Caribbean.

As an American territory, the island adopts much the same openness and rights experienced in the United States — even legalizing gay marriage, making it a welcoming destination for LGBTQ travelers from all over the world. Without a doubt, this small island manages to enchant visitors with its white sand beaches, traditional foods, vibrant culture and welcoming environment.

Check out our recommendations for gay-friendly bars, clubs and restaurants in Puerto Rico.

As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.

San Juan: The LGBTQ Center

As the capital city, there’s little surprise San Juan has a well-developed gay scene that caters to all tastes in the LGBTQ community. Curious where to find the hottest spots? These are some of the must-see places at the heart of San Juan’s gay scene.

Condado Beach

This beach, located next to the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino in the Condado District of San Juan, is a prime spot for same-sex couples and gay singles to hang. This gay-friendly beach environment has evolved organically throughout the years thanks to a series of gay-friendly hotels, restaurants and bars located along this stretch of sand.

Among them is Oasis Tapas & Lounge, a trendy bar with a relaxed vibe serving drinks galore, a stone’s throw from the beach.

La Placita

In the city’s artsy Santurce neighborhood, you’ll find most locals congregate in La Placita (or Little Market) every Friday night.

More than two dozen bars and clubs line the streets around this produce market, their massive crowds spilling onto the streets to create a blend of people from all lifestyles. From salsa dancing to reggaeton beats and live music, there’s something to please almost everyone.

Should you fancy a more sophisticated bite without leaving the street party, Santaella offers elegant and authentic local dishes in a quieter environment.

Pride Parade

Naturally, Puerto Rico’s LGBTQ center would not be complete without its own Pride Parade. Since 1990, in early summer, San Juan’s Pride Parade has waved its rainbow flags along Ashford Avenue in the Condado district, as streets fill with ornate floats, people in extravagant costumes and a sense of activism.

Around the Island

San Juan might have the most varied LGTBQ environment in Puerto Rico, but that doesn’t mean the rest of the island falls behind. Here are some gay-friendly sports also worth visiting.

Cabo Rojo

This city in southwest Puerto Rico is well-known for its gorgeous beaches, but since 2003 it’s been home to the island’s second Pride Parade. During the first or second week of June, the small beach village of Boquerón becomes the epicenter of pride and welcomes both gay and straight participants to its beautiful shores. Even though it’s a newer parade, it has quickly grown as popular as San Juan’s.

Vieques Island

In the past few years, Vieques has slowly evolved into a prime LGBTQ-friendly hideaway for expats and travelers. While there are no “official” gay bars and clubs on the island, the overall vibe is gay-friendly and welcoming to all visitors.

Most beaches on the island are quite secluded, so it’s easy just to drive around, find a spot and feel like there’s no one around you for miles. Among favorites are Green Beach, Blue Beach, Black Sand Beach and the most famous, Caracas Beach.

Mayagüez

Famous for being the island’s second-largest college town after San Juan, Mayagüez residents have no reason to envy the capital city when it comes to nightlife. For excellent modern Puerto Rican cuisine, you can’t go wrong at Costa de Tio Mon. The restaurant offers a laid-back environment, a varied menu with international influences and gorgeous sea views.