Top LGBTQ+ Destination Wedding Trends for 2026/27: Where to Go and Why

Destination wedding bookings for LGBTQ+ are up meaningfully year over year, and the couples driving that growth are choosing destinations, resorts, and formats that look different from the “typical” straight-couple playbook. If you’re planning an LGBTQ+ destination wedding for 2026 or 2027, here are the trends shaping the category and where our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists are booking most often.

1. Destinations with Full Marriage Equality

LGBTQ+ couples are increasingly picking wedding destinations where same-sex marriage is fully legal, not just tolerated. That expands the shortlist meaningfully: Hawaii, all U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, USVI), Aruba, Curacao, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, and (as of 2022) Cuba. Meanwhile, some Caribbean destinations without full marriage equality are quietly dropping off LGBTQ+ shortlists.

2. Symbolic Ceremonies Abroad, Legal at Home

Even in destinations that allow same-sex marriage, many LGBTQ+ couples opt for a symbolic ceremony abroad and handle the legal paperwork at home. This is often driven by simpler paperwork (no apostilled certificates, no residency requirements) and by preferring familiar legal jurisdictions. Both approaches deliver the same meaningful celebration.

3. Adults-Only Resort Preference

LGBTQ+ couples over-index on adults-only resorts compared to the general destination-wedding market. The reasons: many LGBTQ+ couples don’t have kids in their wedding party, adults-only atmospheres feel more relaxed, and the dining and entertainment programming skews more grown-up.

4. Wed-cations With Extended Weekend Programming

Wed-cations (multi-day wedding weeks) are trending across all destination weddings, but LGBTQ+ couples are leaning into the format especially hard. The extended timeline gives guests real time together, and for couples whose family dynamics might be complicated at home, a destination wed-cation gives everyone the chance to bond in a neutral, celebration-forward setting.

5. LGBTQ+-Certified Wedding Planning Teams

Couples are asking their specialists to confirm that the on-property wedding coordinator has hosted LGBTQ+ weddings before. Increasingly, resorts & venues are proactively training their teams on LGBTQ+ inclusion and getting certified through programs like the IGLTA (International LGBTQ+ Travel Association).

Top LGBTQ+ Destination Wedding Locations for 2026/27

Hawaii

Hawaii legalized same-sex marriage in 2013 and has embraced LGBTQ+ tourism for decades. Every island has strong LGBTQ+-friendly resort options, no passport is needed for U.S. couples, and the natural setting is unmatched.

Mexico (Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta)

Mexico legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, and Puerto Vallarta specifically has been one of Latin America’s most established LGBTQ+ destinations for decades. Riviera Maya and Los Cabos both have deep LGBTQ+-friendly luxury resort lineups.

Aruba and Curacao

The Dutch Caribbean islands both recognize same-sex partnerships and have longstanding reputations for LGBTQ+ welcome. Aruba’s “One Happy Island” reputation genuinely extends to LGBTQ+ travelers.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica legalized same-sex marriage in 2020 and has a strong LGBTQ+ tourism infrastructure. Pair the ceremony with an adventure-forward wedding week (rainforest canopy tours, Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio Beach) for a distinctive celebration.

Puerto Rico and USVI

In both U.S. territories, no passport needed, same-sex marriage is fully legal and federally recognized. Puerto Rico has a longstanding LGBTQ+ tourism scene in San Juan and Rincon.

Colombia (Cartagena)

The emerging destination for LGBTQ+ couples wanting something culturally rich and unique. Cartagena’s historic center is one of the most photogenic wedding settings in Latin America, and Colombia legalized same-sex marriage in 2016.

Destinations to Approach with Care

Some Caribbean destinations don’t have full marriage equality and may have social climates that make LGBTQ+ couples feel unwelcome. Our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists talk through the specifics before recommending any destination, but couples should ask about the local legal landscape before locking in a date. Symbolic ceremonies at LGBTQ+-friendly resorts can work in some of these destinations even without legal marriage.

LGBTQ+ Destination Wedding FAQs

Which destinations have the strongest LGBTQ+ reputation?

Hawaii, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico City, Puerto Rico, Aruba, Curacao, Costa Rica, and Cartagena all rank among the most LGBTQ+-welcoming destination wedding options.

Do all Caribbean destinations allow same-sex marriage?

No. Same-sex marriage laws vary meaningfully across the Caribbean. Aruba, Curacao, USVI, and Puerto Rico allow it. Others don’t. Ask your Certified Destination Wedding Specialist for a current list before booking.

Can we have a symbolic ceremony instead?

Yes. Many LGBTQ+ couples choose a symbolic ceremony at a destination and handle the legal paperwork at home. This is especially common when the destination has complex marriage paperwork or when the couple wants the flexibility to use a familiar legal jurisdiction.

Which resort brands are best for LGBTQ+ weddings?

Secrets, Excellence, Le Blanc, El Dorado (Karisma), and (since 2024) Sandals all have proven track records with LGBTQ+ celebrations. Any resort your Certified Destination Wedding Specialist recommends will have hosted LGBTQ+ weddings before.

When should we book a 2026/27 LGBTQ+ destination wedding?

Same timeline as any destination wedding: 12 to 18 months out for peak season, 9 to 12 months for shoulder season. Boutique properties and adults-only luxury flagships book up fastest.

Start Planning Your LGBTQ+ Destination Wedding Today!

The destination wedding scene has meaningfully embraced LGBTQ+ couples over the last decade, and the trend is only accelerating. If you’re planning your 2026 or 2027 celebration, we can help you find the destination, resort, and format that fits your vision.

Fill out our online wedding planning form, and one of our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists will help you compare LGBTQ+-friendly destinations, resorts, packages, and dates. Your celebration is closer than you think!