Top 10 Most LGBT-Friendly Places to Visit in Thailand

LGBT Bear 14 min read

Thailand 🇹🇭 is a country that seamlessly blends the excitement of bustling city breaks with the blissful relaxation of island getaways, creating a dream-like experience that will leave you longing for more 🌈 Each day in Thailand offers a plethora of adventures for visitors, from indulging in hedonistic pleasures to embarking on spiritual journeys or even satisfying one's inner foodie with the country's delectable cuisine ✊

For LGBT travelers especially, Thailand is the perfect place, populated by LGBT-friendly wellness retreats and alternative cultures. Whether it is tasting the juicy rice 🗣️ noodles by day and ultra-cheap cocktails by night, grasping the difference between old Thai customs and new era nightlife. Or rest up in ultimate luxury within Bangkok’s affordably rich spas or seek ancient kingdoms and Buddhist stupas rising from the sun-scorched earth Thailand has it all 🌈

Let's start with my list of the Top 10 Most LGBT-Friendly Places to Visit in Thailand and have the most fantastic time of your life on your holiday with the most important people in your life 🗣️

🏳️‍🌈 Quick Trivia!

Gay Travelers in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok) must visit Silom to experience the country’s liveliest gay village. The raucous gay districts are found outside the capital in Phuket, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai. Even smaller cities are peppered with cabarets and gay hangouts!

#10 Koh Lipe

The 10th most LGBT-friendly destination to visit in Thailand is Koh Lipe. Koh Lipe's remote location, accessible only through Hat Yai airport and PakBara speedboat port on the border of Malaysia, has been its saving grace, allowing it to steer clear of the development and over-tourism that has affected neighboring islands ✊ The challenging access to the island has also contributed to the conservation of the local ecosystems and the preservation of the healthy coral in Tarutao National Marine Park.
On the island itself, Koh Lipe boasts a great selection of LGBT-friendly restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels that overlook the picturesque white sand beaches spanning the 3.5-kilometer length of the island 🌈 Visitors can enjoy a romantic beach getaway coupled with some of the best scuba diving opportunities in the country before immersing themselves in the vibrant local nightlife 🗣️

#9 Pattaya

Pattaya would be chilling spice, with the wildest of Thailand’s many islands. Pattaya is a destination that is noteworthy for its appeal to LGBT travelers, as well as its epic nightlife and affordable luxury. It is sure to leave a lasting impression on those seeking a memorable experience. The Pattaya LGBT scene starts on the beach and moves into town come sundown 🌈

Pattaya is prominent for its nightlife, and the LGBT scene over here is brilliant and alive, to say the least. Suppose you are looking for LGBT bars, restaurants, massage shops, and hotels in the area. In that case, you can visit the BoyzTown district, the two of the most celebrated Jomtien Beach and Dongtan Beach ✊ It does not amount to something; if you are looking for someone new in your life or traveling with your partner, you will have a wonderful time here in Pattaya.

For those in search of a more luxurious experience, Pattaya provides a plethora of upscale options, including high-end accommodations, rooftop pools, spas of international renown, and fine dining establishments. It's wonderful and the best to name 9th place in my list of top 10 LGBT-friendly places in Thailand 🗣️

#8 Krabi

Krabi is the perfect destination for a holiday, whether you are a member of the LGBT community or not. It has tons of beaches, which is a veritable draw for people who like to use up some time in the lap of nature 🌈

The most famous destinations over here are Railay Beach and Ao Nang. The beaches here are impressive, and the same thing can be said about the nightlife here ✊ Suppose LGBT travelers are striving to be adventurous. In that case, they could go for activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, snorkeling, exploring the islands located nearby, and scuba diving 🌈 But before branching out, take the time to enjoy the authenticity and shaggy beauty of Krabi’s limestone karsts, white-sand beaches, and dense rainforest, devouring time in slowly-moving fishing villages and boating through the province’s mysterious mangrove forests.

Krabi, known for its seafood BBQ served at street markets, is a popular destination for foodies and nature lovers ✊ It is often considered the gateway to southern islands such as Koh Lanta and Railay Beach, which are renowned for deep water solo and climbing. Despite its convenience, Krabi maintains its tranquil atmosphere while leaving the party scene to neighboring areas such as Ao Nang and Phi Phi.

However, Krabi still offers its fair share of nightlife, with Tonsai Village and Loh Dalum boasting bars, pubs, and clubs with a fresh and non-sleazy vibe 🌈 Whether you prefer live reggae nights at Krabi's hippie dive bars or alcohol buckets at Center Point in Ao Nang, there's something for everyone.

#7 Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan holds 7th place in the list of the top 10 most LGBT-friendly destinations in Thailand. The claimed reputation for Koh Phangan is its full moon parties. These parties are accompanied by LGBT travelers from different parts of the world 🌈

These parties are held each month at Haad Rin beach. They are known to captivate thousands of people at a time. It moreover encourages that the island is charming. The crescent-shaped white sandy beach is the perfect spot for relaxation and exploration 🗣️ Most of the beaches over here happen to be peaceful towards members of the LGBT community. Catering to a strong LGBT crowd looking for chilled-out fun. However, the most well-known among these are Bottle Beach, Haad Yao Beach, and Salad Beach ✊

The island has a couple of gay bars, Alcove and For You. The island’s small number of LGBT bars lie beachside, with more nightlife and LGBT-friendly offerings in the main town of Thong Sala. Suppose the low-key celebration is more your style 🌈 In addition to live music events, hippie gatherings, and half-moon jungle parties, the city also hosts a variety of events throughout the season.

However, on the night of the full moon, most people flock to Haad Rin Beach, where neon-clad travelers from around the world come together to celebrate their shared love of DJ-led dance music, fire performances, and uninhibited revelry. Consider yourself warned! 🗣️

#6 Koh Samui

Koh Samui is located right next to Koh Phangan, and however, it is known to be even more relaxed and chilled. It seems like the holiday never stops over here 🌈 The best facets of Koh Samui as a tourist destination are its beaches and its various luxury hotels.

One of the best accommodation options is the Absolute Sanctuary which can be a nourishing experience from mental and physical points of view 🗣️ The wellness resort is remarkable. It is located at a distance of only 6 km from Bophut, which is deemed to be the hub of the LGBT scene of Koh Samui.

Koh Samui, the east coast’s answer to island paradise, is smaller and more popular than Phuket or Pattaya, with a fair amount of partying thrown in. The island is dedicated to enviable weather, vast beaches, and luxury lodgings, making it the perfect destination to wind down in style 🌈 As one of Thailand’s partying capitals, Koh Samui gives impressive, LGBT-friendly nightlife, with the bonus of inexpensive drinks and fewer crowds, and is just a short boat ride away from the full-moon parties of Koh Phangan.

Koh Samui offers a myriad of daytime activities, from sundown and yachting to waterfall trekking in Angthong National Marine Park ✊ Koh Samui has no shortage of luxury, and you can elevate your vacation experience by exploring some of the best luxury hotels on the island, which offer amenities ranging from infinity pools to full-service spas. You can also explore the island’s friendly beach towns 🗣️

While on the island, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a romantic dinner by Bophut Beach before experiencing the local Alambic rum in Chaweng, Samui’s nightlife center 🌈 Here, you’ll find fantastic LGBT shows and open-air events on Chaweng Beach. Lamai Beach is another to explore, known as the island’s best LGBT beach with waterside restaurants and street food choices.

#5 Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is also known as the 'Jewel of Thailand' and is the 5th most LGBT-friendly destination 🌈 The LGBT scene here is distinct and flourishing on top of that. There are tons of go-go bars in the city, cabaret clubs, saunas, nightclubs that are friendly toward the LGBT-Community, and massage shops. It also has many thrilling alternatives for activities such as sightseeing. All these are waiting for people to come and enjoy them 🗣️

Also known as the beating heart and the largest city in Northern Thailand, foggy mountains border Chiang Mai, and it has all you could ever want. Renting a motorbike or booking a minivan are both great options for exploring the rural regions to the northwest. You can make stops along the way, such as in Mae Hong Son on the Myanmar border, known for its Western hippie enclaves, picturesque waterfalls, and authentic tribal villages 🌈

A city described as a veritable utopia for expats, packed with things to do without battling the violence of the capital. Easily walkable within the tourist center, Chiang Mai is one for solace and comfort ✊ While away, your days are alternating between spas and street-side eateries. One way to stay hydrated while exploring is by indulging in steaming bowls of Kao Soi, a coconut curry noodle soup, and refreshing fresh coconut smoothies.

Chiang Mai used to be centered on Santitham and Chang Puek 🗣️ Still, today the freshest offerings lie along Soi 6, with a smattering of LGBT karaoke bars, saunas, and massage shops remaining in Santitham. With all those amazing treats, you'll have an unforgettable experience there 🌈

#4 Koh Tao

Koh Tao is the 4th destination in our list of the top 10 LGBT-friendly places in Thailand. Regarding the Gulf of Thailand area, Koh Tao can be called the very picture of peace. Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for members of the LGBT community traveling to Thailand 🌈 The palm-fringed island is named after the turtles that reside in its crystal-clear waters and offers impeccable cliff-cradled beaches and sunny weather ✊

Situated near Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, Koh Tao provides a bohemian vibe and tranquil natural beauty, making it a refreshing addition to the Gulf of Thailand 🗣️ The white sandy beaches are found near-vertical hills, which makes them even more precious. You can get to some of these hills with a four-wheel-drive car. The sun shines here every day, making it a good place for some lounging.

Chalok Baan Kao Beach is undoubtedly famous, but exploring off the beaten path for a more tranquil experience will lead you to some of Koh Tao's hidden and serene beaches 🌈 These spots may only have a guesthouse or two, but they offer pristine coral reefs and a peaceful atmosphere. With a steady stream of LGBT visitors, Koh Tao has a vibrant nightlife, especially around Sairee Beach, where most of the island's clubs and bars are found.

Koh Tao is also known for its many inexpensive diving schools, snorkeling sites, and dazzling marine life. Making it a great place to recover and learn something new in nature 🌈 Sairee Beach, with its calm waters and stunning sunset views, is the perfect spot to rent a kayak and paddle to nearby Koh Nang Yuan. ✊

#3 Phuket

Phuket is the 3rd place on our list of most LGBT-friendly destinations in Thailand. The tropical island of Phuket is said to be the most popular destination for travelers relating to the LGBTQ+ community. This island is like veritable heaven for such individuals 🗣️ There is one more factor that works in favor of Phuket. There are plenty of direct international flights that makes getting into Phuket easy ✊

It is another beach paradise with a status for naughtiness and hosting luxurious villas overlooking the Andaman Sea. While still affordable compared to other tourist destinations, Phuket has become increasingly expensive over the years. Yet, it remains a popular choice for those seeking the same excitement as Pattaya, including irresistible nightlife parties.

You can complete your Thailand bucket list by experiencing the wild nightlife in the form of lounges, clubs, and go-go bars that offer an uninhibited atmosphere. Alternatively, you can indulge in the upscale luxury of Phuket's burgeoning resorts, where you can find cocktail bars, fine dining restaurants, elegant spas, and stunning infinity pools.

Phuket's primary LGBTQ+ nightlife hub is the "Paradise Complex" in Patong, which is concentrated on a few pedestrian streets filled with bars, cafes, clubs, and restaurants, all vying for attention from the international LGBTQ+ community 🌈 Bangla Road is the main party area for straight-oriented fun. If you're looking for some beachside relaxation, Patong Beach, lined with rainbow flags, is Phuket's most popular beach, stretching 3.5 kilometers alongside the Patong resort town 🗣️

Patong Beach is regularly packed, ever famous among the LGBT community, and the starting point of Phuket Pride. For a more relaxed option, you can try Karon Beach located south of Patong or Bangtao Beach, which is a short drive north. Dream Beach Club, a popular LGBT hangout spot, is located at Bangtao Beach 🌈

#2 Koh Samet

A day trip from Bangkok to Koh Samet is an unforgettable experience, especially if you're looking for a gay-friendly destination 🌈 Just a two-hour drive southeast of the capital, Koh Samet is an ideal weekend getaway for beach lovers. It's popular among Bangkok's middle and upper classes, as well as the international LGBT community, and boasts of laid-back parties in a tropical paradise. Prices and crowds tend to peak on the weekends.

Koh Samet is a beautiful island, with sunny beaches lined with palm trees and clear turquoise waters. As part of the Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park, there's an entry fee of 6 USD to protect the natural environment and wildlife ecosystems on land and at sea ✊ Depending on your mood, you can choose a beach to suit your preferences. Haad Sai Kaew and Ao Hin Khok are great for party people looking for water sports, while Ao Wong Duan is perfect for families. For a more secluded and romantic escape, head to Ao Wa, Ao Pakarang, or Ao Kiew Na Nok. And for one of the best beaches in LGBT Thailand, head straight to Ao Phai, which is home to Silver Sands Bar and an open-air nightclub, and is also located next to Ao Tubtim, Koh Samet's unofficial gay beach 🌈

Ao Tubtim became famous thanks to Tub Tim Resort, which is one of the best LGBT beach bars on the island. The nightlife scene in Koh Samet is different from Phuket or Pattaya, with a more traditional Thai-style atmosphere, which tourists and Bangkok's LGBTs enjoy for beachside karaoke and Thai pop disco ✊

#1 Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok)

Finally, we've come to the topmost LGBT-friendly destination in Thailand 🌈 When considering LGBT-friendly destinations in Thailand, most probably, the first name that comes to mind is Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok. It is often referred to as the 'Gay Capital of Asia' ✊ The nightlife here is magical and serious, to say the very least. There are plenty of attractions and activities that members of the LGBT community can explore.

Bangkok is full of Thailand's most streetwise locals and young backpackers from across the globe. Where East truly meets West, the city melds traditional Buddhist ways of life with incredible sensuality, creating a vibrant atmosphere ripe for exploration ✊ Despite being one of Thailand's more expensive cities with its fair share of hustlers, Bangkok is still among the most affordable cities globally, where tuk-tuks tout for the price of a sandwich and hip boutique stores compete on price 🗣️

Bangkok's veritable capital, 'Gay Asia,' is the first call for LGBT parties across the continent, showing off a famous party scene to make even Ru Paul blush 🌈 While backpackers abound in cheap accommodations and the red light scene, there is more to the nightlife here. There are countless cabarets, clubs, saunas, go-go, and karaoke bars around the city, with LGBT offerings centered in Silom ✊

Outside of Silom, you’ll also find Sukhumvit Road, Aor Tor Gor, and Khao San Road ready to welcome you. While some Bangkok LGBT bars and clubs are more decent than others, if it’s elegant, the refinement you’re after, the city can provide. Try a roof-top infinity pool to escape the heat or check into a luxury hotel complete with a spa, bar, and bistro 🌈

🏳️‍🌈 Fun Fact!

Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok) is the country’s capital and the beating heart of its LGBT scene. While the city isn’t for everyone, more often than not, visitors are enthralled by its blend of modernism and tradition.

Thailand is one of the most passive countries in Asia, shaped by Buddhist values and a 'MAI PEN RAI' attitude that allows LGBT culture to develop ✊ While outward displays of appreciation are scowled upon, and LGBT rights are not fully cemented in law, ladyboys and tom-dees proliferate in modern Thai culture. So, many LGBT couples travel to Thailand to have their union blessed by respectful religions 🌈

🏳️‍🌈 LGBT Vocabulary Time

Authenticity
: the quality of being authentic

Hedonism
: the pursuit of pleasure; sensual self-indulgence

LGBT-Friendly Places
: refers to places that are open and welcoming to gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people to create an environment that is supportive of them

Raucous
: characterized by a loud and harsh noise that can be disturbing

Snorkeling
: swim using a snorkel