In case you missed it, last week I wrote about Traveling Over the Rainbow to Hawai'i. If you haven't read it yet, I suggest you follow the link and check it out before reading this week's post as it serves as a foundation for this week's topic.
We all know that Hawai'i has beautiful beaches, the best surfing, incredible panoramic vistas, and rich historical culture. I could go on and on about any of those topics with enough content to keep you busy reading for days at a time. But today, I want to focus on uniquely rainbow activities that we find on the islands.
Hawai'i overall is welcoming of LGBTQ travelers, and each island offers something different to experience. Of the six islands that tourists can visit, three are known for their gay nightlife and parties, while the other three are much more subdued. Continue reading to see which island is right for your next Rainbow Getaway.
For the adventures and party-goers:
Oahu
Oahu is home to the state's largest city, Honolulu, and offers rainbow tourists adventure, relaxation, and plenty of clubs. Honolulu is considered the center of the gay culture of the state. Travelers can relax on Waikiki beach, go hiking up an extinct volcano, head to the north shore to surf, and go club-hopping nightly. Honolulu offers a wide selection of gay clubs that are open nightly. Many clubs also host events each week to give travelers additional options to experience.
Paradise Pride is Honolulu's pride celebration that takes place in October each year (2020, notwithstanding). The festival includes hosted events that celebrate community interests, cultural diversity, and inclusion.
The Big Island (Hawaii)
The Big Island, or commonly called Hawaii, is known best for its adventure activities. Travelers to the Big Island can spend time hiking near an active volcano, go snorkeling with majestic manta rays, take a horseback trail ride, or stargaze from the summit of Mauna Kea. Each night, the gay nightlife comes alive in Hilo with an array of club options.
The island is large enough to host two pride festivals each year, Hawaii Island Pride and Kona Pride. Hawaii Island Pride takes place in June of each year, and Kona Pride takes place later in September. Both festivals include traditional parades and activities, plus bring in local culture into the celebration.
Maui
Maui is known best for its postcard-perfect beaches and romantic atmosphere. The resorts on Maui are ideal for destination weddings, honeymoons, and romantic getaways. With a slightly slower pace than what you will find on Oahu, the island offers the ability to recharge while including plenty of gay nightlife.
Maui Pride takes place the first weekend of October each year and blends LGBTQ pride with the local culture. Each year, the festival includes the Maui Pride Gala and Awards, a highlight of the event.
For the travelers who want to disconnect:
Kauai
is one of the smaller islands, but great things do come in small packages. There is no lack of stunning scenery and activities to keep you busy during the day. The island's size provides a quieter trip than what you would find on a larger island, so it's perfect for the romantic getaway you've been wanting to take.
The last pride festival in Hawaii is Kauai Pride, which takes place in June of each year. Kauai Pride is a much more intimate festival that what many of us are used to. The focus is on community instead of throwing a large party.
Lanai
The island of Lanai has plenty of options for those looking to give you a variety while you're on vacation. The island is home to luxury resorts, world-class golf courses, stunning vistas, and perfect beaches. You won't find traffic lights on Lanai. Still, you will find plenty of activities to keep you busy if you need some adventure during your getaway.
Molokai
Molokai is a nature lover's paradise. The island is less traveled by other tourists, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in pristine nature. The island is perfect for those who want to fully disconnect and just spend time exploring nature or relaxing on a beach. There are no advertised gay bars on the island, but the sense of community is felt everywhere you visit.
Molokai has the longest white-sand beach in the state and doesn't have enough traffic to need a single traffic light on the island. Travelers looking for pure relaxation are in for a treat when they visit this island.
Each island has its own unique charm and personality while being welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers. It's no wonder that just about everyone who vacations in Hawai'i wants to return.
As a Hawaiian Destination Expert, I have spent countless hours studying each island's unique traits to help you plan your next Hawaiian getaway. I will get to know your wants and needs to help make sure your next getaway is the most memorable vacation of your lifetime.
Rainbow Getaways is a full-service travel agency that specializes in travel for the LGBTQ+ community and our allies. We work with destinations across the globe to ensure our travelers are safe and have the time of their lives. Schedule your free consultation to start planning your next getaway today!
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