The first time I visited Puerto Vallarta, I came alone. Not lonely—just solo. I remember stepping out of my boutique hotel (yes, Barrio Vallarta), dropping my bags, and heading straight for the beach. What I didn’t know at the time was that I had just landed in one of the most LGBTQ+-welcoming places in all of Latin America.

I didn’t need to “find the gay neighborhood.” The neighborhood found me.

👀 A City That Sees You

There’s a difference between being tolerated and being celebrated. Puerto Vallarta is proudly the latter.

From rainbow flags fluttering on balconies in the Romantic Zone to baristas who greet you with a wink and a “mi amor,” it’s not just about nightlife—it’s about being seen, respected, and completely yourself from the moment you arrive.

Walking along Olas Altas, I saw couples holding hands, drag queens strutting toward rehearsal at Act2PV, and a group of shirtless guys discussing sunset plans over smoothies. Everyone was just... living. And I felt instantly at home.

💖 LGBTQ+ Heartbeat: The Romantic Zone

The Romantic Zone is, without question, the city’s LGBTQ+ epicenter. It’s where the cobblestones curve around rainbow crosswalks, and beach bars like Blue Chairs and Mantamar buzz with music, mojitos, and gorgeous people of every stripe and label.

One afternoon I parked myself at Ritmos Beach Café, ordered a margarita the size of my head, and made fast friends with a couple from San Francisco, a guy from Guadalajara, and a local artist who offered to paint my portrait (I politely declined, but he still bought me a drink).

Whether you’re into beach lounging, people-watching, or dancing till 4 a.m., the Romantic Zone has it all—with a side of glitter. ✨

🌃 The Night Comes Alive

At night, the scene lights up—literally. I started with cocktails at Apaches, a cozy, chatty bar with strong drinks and even stronger personalities. The bartender, a woman named Gaby, poured tequila like it was an Olympic sport and introduced me to half the bar within 10 minutes.

From there, we spilled into CC Slaughters, then La Noche (don’t skip the rooftop!), and eventually to Industry, which could easily hold its own in New York or Berlin. Laser lights, go-go dancers, and a sound system that made your ribs vibrate—in the best way possible.

And here's the thing: not once did I feel unsafe. Not once did I look over my shoulder. Puerto Vallarta is a bubble of joy—where you can wear what you want, kiss who you love, and be unapologetically alive.

🎭 Beyond the Bars: Love, Art & Community

But PV is more than just parties.

There’s a deep, year-round sense of community here. Events like Vallarta Pride, Drag Derby, Equality March, and Film Queer Fest draw thousands not just for celebration, but for visibility and activism.

I visited Galería Browne, which showcases queer art and storytelling, and later that week attended a spoken word night at a local café where the theme was “chosen families.” I laughed. I cried. I made friends I still message to this day.

There are LGBTQ+ yoga groups, hiking clubs, and even queer sailing excursions. Love here is multifaceted. It’s not just sexual—it’s spiritual, artistic, and communal.

🛡️ Safe, Smart, and Sweet

Safety is always a concern when traveling as a queer person. In Puerto Vallarta, I’ve never had to worry. The city’s tourism police are present but discreet. The community here self-protects. Taxi drivers don’t blink when you mention your “novio,” and even the abuelitas in the mercados smile knowingly when two men buy flowers together.

Of course, like anywhere, common sense applies. But overall? Puerto Vallarta is easily one of the safest and warmest LGBTQ+ destinations in the world.

🌺 A City That Holds You

Whether you're traveling with your partner, coming with friends, or soul-searching on your own—Puerto Vallarta greets you with open arms and a tequila shot.

It’s not just a fun destination for LGBTQ+ travelers—it’s a healing one. There’s something powerful about walking through a city where your identity is not just accepted—it’s honored. Where your presence is part of the rhythm. Where love in all its forms dances freely in the streets.

So yes, I came here solo. But I never once felt alone.
And I’ll be back. Again and again.