Laguna Beach for LGBTQ+ Travel

A historic arts colony with a long-established gay community, Laguna Beach is Orange County’s leading LGBTQ+ city. Stay in such gay-friendly spots as the Surf and Sand Resort, a spectacular oceanfront luxury hotel that’s also home to the intimate (and LGBTQ+-friendly) Aquaterra Spa. Swim and surf in secluded coves and sunny beaches (including such gay-popular stretches as West Beach and Mountain Road Beach), then browse for high-quality art in Laguna’s numerous galleries. For more great art, visit Laguna Art Museum, known for outstanding exhibits works by some of California most important contemporary artists. At night, catch performances at the acclaimed Laguna Playhouse, then see bands and hang with the locals at the Marine Room Tavern, which has been in business since 1934 and is especially lively during Laguna’s busy summer months. For an unforgettable experience, try to get tickets to the annual Pageant of the Masters, an extravaganza featuring richly costumed live performers depicting characters in master artworks.