Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.
Ignited into the global gay imagination in the flamboyant 1970s by icons like Jackie Onassis and Grace Kelly, Gay Mykonos – this illustrious Greek jewel in the Aegean Sea – has been a beacon for queer travelers ever since. And darling, it’s absolutely fabulous!
Imagine basking under the sun on seductive beaches, sipping cocktails in the sublime Mediterranean climate, retreating to luxurious white-washed villas, and dancing till dawn in the island’s legendary gay clubs. Mykonos is the epitome of queer luxury, a place to let loose, live lavishly, and forget the world.
Standing shoulder to shoulder with the likes of Fire Island, San Francisco, Bangkok, and Ibiza, Gay Mykonos isn’t just a destination; it’s a cultural phenomenon. A veritable queer utopia where, during the electrifying XLSIOR Mykonos International Summer Gay Festival, the fabulous far outnumber the straight – and honey, the island pulses with our heartbeat. In Mykonos, the extraordinary isn’t just possible; it’s expected!
Drenched in sophistication, glamour, and an intoxicating blend of natural and human beauty, Mykonos is a technicolor dream, its streets a canvas of rainbow flags fluttering proudly in the Aegean breeze.
While Greece maintains its traditional Orthodox Christian roots, Mykonos has emerged as a glittering oasis of queer acceptance and celebration, thanks to the charm, wit, and fabulous spending power of the global LGBTQ+ community. Today, the island is a proud paradise of gay-friendly accommodations, with locals who embrace diversity with open arms and hearts.
For the queer traveler, Mykonos offers a sanctuary free from judgement, a place where love is celebrated in all its forms. A legendary enclave that continues to captivate the imagination of thousands of LGBTQ+ visitors each year, seeking sun, sea, sand, and the freedom to be unapologetically themselves. Welcome to Gay Mykonos, darling – your dream destination awaits!
In this article we will cover...
Attractions in Mykonos
Naturally, being gay does not define which attractions most of us will want to see in each destination, and most queer travelers will simply want to check out the top things to see in Mykonos during the day!
We found our favorite memories were watching the sunset from a relaxing cocktail bar, dancing till dawn with our queer family, or laying on any of Mykonos gay beaches – but if you’re someone who can’t relax, we have put together a few other things to do in Mykonos to keep you busy!
and history. These iconic windmills, a scenic stroll from the enchanting Little Venice, capture the imagination at sunset, their silhouettes painting a picture of an era gone by. While many have been lovingly transformed into quaint shops or cozy accommodations, they retain their soulful allure, inviting visitors to delve into the island’s vibrant life and traditions. They are not just structures but storied sentinels that have watched over Mykonos through centuries, now beckoning modern travelers with tales of wind, sea, and the spirit of the island.
The archaeological site of Delos offers a mystical journey back in time, nestled within the heart of the Cyclades. Known as the mythical birthplace of Apollo, the god of music, light, and harmony, these compact yet profoundly significant ruins resonate with the echoes of ancient ceremonies and the whispers of millennia. Visitors are invited to pay their respects by day, amidst the relics of a civilization that celebrated divine beauty, or perhaps, more whimsically, continue their homage to Apollo’s modern incarnations in the vibrant club scene of Mykonos by night, where music and dance reign supreme.
Little Venice is where the essence of Mykonos comes alive, a picturesque quarter that seems to have sprung from a canvas. Framed by its waterfront cafes and restaurants, this area is famed for its sumptuous seafood and the casual charm of pelicans mingling among the crowds. The buildings, with their balconies hanging over the sea’s edge, offer a mesmerizing view that draws in romantics and dreamers alike. At dusk, the area becomes particularly magical, as the golden sun dips into the Aegean, casting a soft glow over everything, turning ordinary moments into memories that linger long after the holiday ends.
The Church of Paraportiani is a marvel of Mykonian architecture, a beacon of tranquility amidst the bustling island life. This Greek Orthodox church, with its stark white walls and smooth, domed roof, stands as a masterpiece of simplicity and beauty. It’s a place of serenity and spiritual solace, oddly doubling as a local cruising spot, adding a layer of intriguing modern mythology to its ancient walls. As sunlight washes over its bright façade or the night cloaks it in mystery, the church offers a unique blend of the sacred and the worldly, reflecting the island’s multifaceted character and its capacity to embrace all walks of life with open arms and a hidden smile.
A picturesque winding street where you can find designer clothes, art galleries and plenty of trinkets.
The ES Collection
Forgot your best underwear at home or need something to show off to the boys? Find the sexiest swimwear & most popular gay underwear brands on Mykonos at this boutique store.
Escape the crowded beaches and head out on a luxury super-sailing yacht for a fun day of included drinks, food and a view of Mykonos you won’t get on land. A must-do while in Mykonos is to visit the archaeological site of Delos, the ancient city with magnificent statues that today is uninhabited.
Explore the magical coves and beaches of Rhenia island and Delos and dive from the yacht to crystal clear turquoise waters. During the 7 hours of sailing, you will have the chance to learn the basic skills of sailing, sail the boat, or simply enjoy the sun on the deck.
At noon, enjoy a homemade lunch on board and get ready for a guided tour of Delos island and its archaeological site.
Hire your own car or head out on a full-day jeep safari to explore the island’s secret corners, beautiful beaches, and rural villages
Gay Beach in Mykonos Greece
In Mykonos, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches and bays. From little more than barren strips of sand to those with seas of sunbathers with all the expected amenities, you will find pretty much all beaches in Mykonos are packed during the high season of July and August, but things quieten down again in September.
Buses head out to the most famous beaches in Mykonos around 9-10 pm, but if you want to visit the northern beaches, which the public buses don’t reach, you might want to consider hiring a car in Mykonos. Super Paradise and Elia are at the center of the Mykonos gay beach scene, but there are also a few other options if you prefer something quieter.
A popular gay beach in Mykonos that is clothing optional. Beautiful and relaxing, with a long, wide beach and only a few restaurants and bars.
5 minutes walk from Elia Beach is this secluded gay beach in Mykonos, with smaller crowds and away from prying eyes.
Previously the most famous gay beach in Mykonos before Elia stole its crown. Today the newly opened gay Jackie O’ Beach Club with a pool overlooking the sea is making this the ‘IT’ Mykonos gay beach again. While the gay/nude beach is rather small, there is beautiful sand, dazzling turquoise waters and sexy men sporting speedos, or less.
A beautiful sandy beach close to the more touristy Platis Yialos Beach. A small gay and mixed crowd nude beach popular for its skinny dipping and fun cruising area in the rocky part.
XlSIOR Mykonos International Summer Gay Festival
Forget everything you have heard; this is the worldwide benchmark in gay festivals! Held annually in the last two weeks of August when over 30,000 gays flock to Mykonos to be connected by the universal language of music at this heaven on Earth party.
A spectacular week-long experience of open-air and outdoor parties, international DJs, hot-as-fuck crowds and a hedonistic no-boundaries atmosphere.
The complete gay holiday experience, the XlSIOR Mykonos International Summer Gay Festival is worth planning a trip to Mykonos on its own for – but of course, if this is not your scene, you should avoid these dates as hotels sell out months in advance, and prices surge!
Gay-Friendly and Gay Hotels in Mykonos
As a world leader in LGBT tourism, there are plenty of hotels in Mykonos catering to every type of traveler – and it would be unheard of for any hotel or guesthouse to have an issue with a gay couple checking it.
Still, everyone likes to be surrounded by like-minded people, and as such, a few hotels in Mykonos have cropped up as *the* place for gay travelers to stay! Primarily clustered around the Mykonos Old Town – with its gay nightlife – you can get to a lot of places on the island cheaply and efficiently using public transport, or you could explore with a car.
The following hotels in Gay Mykonos have all received glowing recommendations from gay travelers in the past, but of course, there are hundreds of other hotels all over Mykonos if these are not quite what you are looking for. Prices are high in peak season, and the adage is true. You really do get what you pay for here, and those iconic Mykonos balcony views and roof-top pools don’t come cheap.
Whether you want a fun and social hostel, a cheap place to crash after a night of partying or a chic designer option to sip cocktails by the ocean surrounded by fabulous people – Gay Mykonos has something for everyone!
Gay Hotels In Mykonos
In the wake of Elysium Hotel’s closure, a new sanctuary rises on the vibrant shores of Mykonos: the Akkadian. Unrelated to its predecessor yet equally poised to become a cornerstone of the gay community, Akkadian merges sophistication with an ethos of freedom, celebrating love and individuality in the heart of one of the world’s most spirited islands.
Akkadian distinguishes itself through a commitment to unparalleled comfort, exceptional service, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere that truly captures the essence of Mykonos. Here, guests discover a haven of luxury where every detail is meticulously crafted to enhance the joy of their stay.
The boutique hotel shines with its serene yet lively environment, anchored by a poolside bar that hosts an array of vibrant events. Even as the setting sun casts a golden glow over gatherings, Akkadian invites both guests and visitors to bask in the beauty of Mykonos’s famed sunsets, offering moments of connection within the hotel’s welcoming community.
As a new chapter begins with Akkadian’s opening, it steps forward as a beacon of inclusion, diversity, and celebration for the gay community on Mykonos. Embracing the legacy of hospitality and freedom that Elysium once offered, Akkadian is set to forge its own path, inviting guests from around the world to create unforgettable memories in a setting where fabulousness knows no bounds.
Gay-Friendly Luxury Hotels in Mykonos
Perched on the spectacular cliff of Agios Stefanos, overseeing the cobalt Aegean Sea and gentle white waves, Oniro Mykonos is a fabulously gay-friendly 5* luxury boutique hotel, designed with charm and magnetism to appeal to the most eclectic lifestyle Island traveler.
Reflecting authentic Cycladic architecture tracing fingerprints of Greek history, the hotel offers 29 luxurious rooms and suites, showcasing a contemporary blend of elegance and refined luxury. Combining nature’s offerings with genuinely warm and caring service, travelers arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family.
Decorated in traditional style from indoor to poolside, the onsite restaurants offer a sheer diversity to satisfy any taste – driven by a passion for exceptional culinary excellence. A relaxed atmosphere awaits the guests by the pool lounge and bar collection. With a cocktail in hand, one will enjoy the impressive views over the sea and the old town.
Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort ☆☆☆☆☆
One of the most luxurious properties in Mykonos set on Agios Ioannis Beach, this upscale resort has airy, minimalist rooms, rainfall showers and suites with private infinity pools. 2 restaurants (1 poolside) and three trendy bars plus a private beach and more amenities than we can list.
This is what Greek dreams are made of! A picturesque white-washed luxury beach hotel surrounded by the golden sun and crystal blue water – and the obligatory infinity pool and spacious rooms with Aegean Sea views, it doesn’t get much better than this.
Seafront in Mykonos town, you get the best of everything with fantastic views and nightlife right on your doorstep. Decorated in whites and deep blues, we were left gagging by their designer, airy rooms and suites.
Located on the hills above scenic Mykonos, a short walk to everything and you are rewarded with lower prices, a pool with a sun terrace and balcony views over the Aegean Sea and Old town.
One of the few year-round Mykonos hotels with spacious rooms – most with balconies -, a fabulous rooftop terrace and a pool with wrap-around views.
Gay-Friendly Accommodation in Mykonos
A cute and affordable stay in the heart of Gay Mykonos. The family runs but is very gay-friendly, with balconies, sea views and everything you could want a short walk away.
Normally sold out, this fabulous apartment studio in Mykonos City has the most helpful hosts, plenty of space, views and a beautiful pool to relax by!
The best hostel in Mykonos for gay travelers with stunning reviews, new concept interiors and just a 2-minute walk away from the old harbor of Mykonos. If you are on a budget or want to meet other travelers and don’t mind sharing a dorm, you need to head here!
The cheapest accommodation on Mykonos we could find, located out-of-town at the Mykonos Gay Beach. Wooden cabins and bungalows for young, like-minded people – if all you want to do is lie on the beach and party at night, this is an affordable option.
Gay Bars and Gay Clubs in Mykonos
With Mykonos being one of the most gay-friendly vacation destinations in the world, you would expect an incredible gay nightlife scene – and luckily, Mykonos does not disappoint!
Depending on your mood, you can find anything here, from a relaxed cocktail in an upscale bar to an all-night dance rave surrounded by your queer family! It’s one of Greece’s most desirable and expensive islands, however – and will cost you more than your typical gay beach holiday in Phuket, Punta Cana or Puerto Vallarta.
The Mykonos gay scene here starts to get going when people head to the bars for the magical sunset; then, most bars and clubs are packed from midnight until into the early morning, with a mix of tourists and a few locals. For many gay bars in Mykonos, flip-flops and tank tops are the uniforms of choice – but some more upscale clubs and venues demand more.
Still, as Coco Chanel declared, “luxury equals comfort,” so don’t get too caught up as, later in the night, plenty of t-shirts come off!
Gay Bars in Mykonos
An in-favor gay bar in Mykonos on the waterfront close to the Paraportiani church cruising spot with nightly drag shows and summertime theme parties. One of the most beautiful places with outdoor seating on the pier – though sometimes you might get a bit of sea spray. Music is generally house, acid jazz or ambient.
From sunset to sunrise, this trendy gay spot in Mykonos with have you sorted with two floors and a terrace overlooking the ocean. With the latest music hits and drag-tastic shows, this famous gay bar is pure hedonistic joy.
Jackie O’ Beach Club and Restaurant
A newly opened off-shot, Jackie O’ can keep you parting 24/7 with this pumping beach club at the Super Paradise gay beach. With a large open bar, pool, and jacuzzi – plus beautiful views, it’s not hard to see why gays from all over the world flock to Mykonos.
The oldest gay bar in Mykonos, this cute little piano bar has an out-sized global reputation thanks to its lively cabaret entertainment and delicious cocktails. Your hosts ensure that visitors always leave as friends.
A trendy, buzzy spot with laid-back lounge details, some of the best cocktails on the island, and eclectic decor that matches the clientele.
A bar and restaurant are in the perfect spot for fabulous sunsets. Warm service, laid-back vibes and some of the best food on the island (try the sea bass with broccoli and coconut puree). This is Greece as you imagined it, and you will likely return night after night after night.
Nestled in the heart of Mykonos, The Garden beckons the queer traveler with a siren song of flavors, a place where Dionysus himself would toast to pride and pleasure. Here, in this lush oasis, cocktails are more than drinks; they’re liquid poetry, infused with Greek herbs and flowers that dance on the palate like the island’s own vibrant sunset.
Gay Clubs in Mykonos
A summer-only venue, this Mykonos gay club hosts glamorous parties, with plenty of hot guys in attendance. Ask anyone who has been to Gay Mykonos before, and they will tell you a visit to At54 is love at first sight, the place to make new friends and party the night away.
You might get lost down the narrow streets of Mykonos trying to find this place – and looking for a rainbow flag on this online does not help as everywhere has one – but when you arrive, you will be home.
An almost dive-bar-type vibe with sexy bartenders, a dance floor, and fun cocktails. Soft jazz in the early evening for conversation, chancing to upbeat gay anthems after midnight when it really gets busy.
LAKKA by Fou Club
The newest gay club in Mykonos with go-go dancers, crowded dance and DJ sets – plus a dark room upstairs.
Cruising & Gay Saunas in Mykonos
While the gay scene here is booming, the Mykonos gay sauna scene has not developed, and your options are very limited – if this is a significant consideration for you, better to choose a different destination like Tel Aviv, Paris, Valencia or Fort Lauderdale.
While the designer gay hotel in Mykonos, Elysium, has free use of the hydro-massage room, sauna and steam room, it is generally not that kind of place. Gay hookup apps remain a favorite way of meeting, but you can try cruising in Mykonos around the Church of Paraportiani.
You can also make a trip to gay-popular Agrari and Elia beach, frequented by local and foreign guys – although with gay locals, you will generally be expected to host, so you might want to consider your own private apartment in Mykonos.
Gay Map Of Mykonos
Finding it hard to envisage where everything is in Mykonos? Hopefully, this queer-centric map helps where we have marked all the bars, clubs, parties, hotels, saunas, massages and more will help you stay in the spot best suited to you!