Louise Lopez expertly guides queer individuals to vibrant, inclusive U.S. and North American neighborhoods with 15+ years of dedicated experience, ensuring they find not just a home, but a community where their authenticity is celebrated and protected.
If you’re considering moving to Hawaii, you may be wondering about the degree of acceptance the locals have towards members of the LGBTQ+ community who aspire to live their lives authentically. It’s a valid concern, particularly given that acceptance isn’t always a given in this day and age. Nonetheless, Hawaii has a rich cultural heritage that embraces diversity, and its residents are renowned for their warm hospitality.
To help queer folx who are considering moving to Gay Hawaii, we have put together this guide from experts on the ground, considering the pros and cons of life here, discussing LGBT rights in Hawaii and whether Hawaii embraces our community.
We also take a look at the most gay-friendly cities in Hawaii and LGBT community organizations in Hawaii that you should be aware of!
To begin with, we should set your mind at ease that Hawaii is very gay-friendly and because Hawaii’s tourism sector supports the local economy, residents are used to receiving diverse kinds of guests. The local’s reputation for being accepting and laid-back is not for nothing, so LGBTQ visitors and transplants are unlikely to run into any issues here.
The focus on familial ties also means that once you are set up here with a support network, you will find it very hard to leave.
Since Hawaii’s legalization of same-sex unions in 2013, the state has gained popularity as a gay tourism destination. It’s one of the top places in America to get married and enjoy your honeymoon!
Hawaii’s queer scene is focused in a few locations that are particularly appealing to gay and lesbian tourists, especially on Hawaii’s Big Island, which features a variety of LGBTQ-friendly activities and attractions – and even a few fabulous gay Hawaiian resorts.
The capital, Honolulu, is located on the island of Oahu and boasts a few gay clubs and bars with weekly drag shows and other special events. It serves as a gathering place for many LGBTQ residents of Hawaii and visitors to the islands.
To reduce the stress of your relocation, we recommend engaging a gay realtor in Hawaii early in the process to help you find your new perfect home there. They will have up-to-the-minute information on the best cities and areas for LGBT people and be able to match your needs to a neighborhood most suited to you.
You can just start with a no-obligation conversation, and if you decide to continue with your move to Hawaii – they will not only have your best interests at heart but also ensure you are treated with dignity and respect throughout the entire process.
In this article we will cover...
Highlights Of Moving To Gay Hawaii
Different aspects of every state make it a unique and tempting proposition to transplants, locals, and visitors – and residents of Hawaii are well aware that their state is brimming with hidden gems. After all, this is why many chose to live here.
Once you move here, you’ll be able to quickly befriend locals and spend your free time discovering the best sights and culture Hawaii has to offer. On top of this, thanks to an offbeat yet deeply engaged LGBT community, which congregates at a few fabulous queer hot spots, securing a relocation to Hawaii should allow you to meet queer people with similar interests.
We are certain they will have many more to add, but to get you started here are a few highlights of moving to LGBT Hawaii.
Gay Beaches
Queen’s Surf Beach, unquestionably the most popular gay beach in the state, and one of the most beautiful and most popular in the world, is a relatively quiet stretch of sand in the center of Waikiki. However, it is located on a segment with no immediate hotel frontage, which explains why there are fewer families and more privacy in the area than in the south or north. This makes it a rather popular place for cruising; however, you’ll still need to bring your swimwear as it is not a gay nude beach…
Although not entirely so, the beach in this area attracts a large number of gay men, as well as lesbians and straight people looking for privacy. Queen’s Surf is conveniently located close to Hula’s Gay Bar, a short stroll south of the intersection of Kapaluhu Avenue and Kalakaua Avenue on the beach.
Gay-Friendly Activities
Living in Hawaii means that there’s much to look forward to regarding socializing opportunities and fun with your queer friends. For instance, there’s Maui Pride held on the first weekend of October each year. Hawaii also hosts First Sunday LGBTQ Brunch at Nalu’s North Shore Grill. During this meet-up, you get to meet new friends, network or catch up with your old friends.
There are also a number of hikes planned throughout the year by the LGBT and Friends Group, so if you’re looking for sporty activities, this is the group to join. For great music and dance, head over to Vibe Bar Nightclub, which is popular for exceptional dance music and cocktails. Another event you will enjoy is Freaky Friday, which is the largest LGBT event hosted by O’ahu gay bars.
LGBTQ+ Rights In The USA
The laws governing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people have altered considerably over time in the United States and vary from state to state. In many ways, LGBT rights are some of the best in the world – but the devil is in the detail, and some places are much more hostile to queer life than others.
While same-sex marriage has been legal in every state since the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges ruling on June 26, 2015 (before Obergefell v. Hodges, same-sex marriage was legal in 36 states and Washington, D.C. ), LGBT people are still treated differently in different states – both societally and as inequality under the law.
Over half of all states still allow discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity/expression, while counties and cities within states often have distinct laws as well. While some states permit adoption by all couples, others forbid it for all unmarried couples.
This is all to say what most of us already know is that LGBT rights and equality differ greatly across the USA, and the specifics of family, marriage and anti-discrimination laws are different in every state.
Thus, while it is comforting to know that you can choose to marry whoever you love across the USA (and have it recognized as such) and are protected against hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity (which can be punished under Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr.
Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009), there are still many questions you will likely have about moving to Hawaii and what you can expect of LGBT life there.
Does Hawaii Embrace The LGBTQ Community?
People in Hawaii are often quite welcoming. It’s difficult to worry about issues like LGBT partnerships when roughly 10 million new people visit the islands each year.
Additionally, the term “Mahu” refers to a long history of flexible sexual identification in the indigenous culture.
If you’re an LGBTQ visitor or transplant to Waikiki and Honolulu, you may anticipate feeling accepted pretty much everywhere you go. Since local families might join you on Waikiki’s crowded beaches, (which have a predominantly Asian culture), it’s best to avoid overt displays of sexuality while here.
When the same-sex marriage controversy first erupted, there was some resistance, and maybe it was because parents didn’t want to bear the responsibility of explaining to their kids why they could see men kissing.
Islands close by might be a little more difficult to navigate, but as long as you’re not too overt, you should be ok. Even so, you can be sure that you will be treated properly and respected if you keep to yourself, take in all the sounds and sights and embrace civility while in public.
If you’re looking to marry your partner, you will be happy to join the legions who solemnize their unions here. Hawaiian society has long placed a high value on same-sex unions.
Gay or bisexual partnerships are referred to as aikane, and mahu alludes to a third gender in addition to male and female. Numerous community agencies and centers still provide excellent support to the state’s LGBTQ community today.
Is Hawaii An Expensive State To Move To
In Hawaii, living expenses are indeed expensive. The most costly state in the union to live in is Hawaii.
Housing. Depending on location, renting in Hawaii can be significantly more costly than in most other places on the mainland. On Oahu, for instance, a studio might cost between $1,000 or far more than $1,600 per month. This amount does not include utilities, which can run about $150 per month for a single person. A one-bedroom apartment or house can cost anywhere between $1,500 and $2,000 each month, and a two-bedroom house or apartment or can cost $1,800.
Utilities. The monthly cost of electricity is estimated to be $342. The sort of home you prefer to live in, the number of people you live with, the amount of time you spend at home, and whether you use air conditioners will all affect the cost of your electric bill.
Transportation. In places like Honolulu, gas costs roughly $5.45 per gallon. However, it would not be a desirable option for a regular commute; taking the bus, maybe a much cheaper mode of transportation at $70 per month, giving you unlimited rides.
Food. Groceries in the state are extraordinarily expensive. Hawaii was ranked 193 out of 100 in a recent survey, whereas Washington D.C., California, and New York were ranked 158, and 148, respectively.
LGBTQ+ Community Organizations In Hawaii
Wherever you live, it is essential that you support LGBT organizations in any way you can use so that they can keep reaching out to and assisting other, more vulnerable members of the community. After all, we are stronger when we work together, and each of us will likely have a time in our lives when we require a little extra support.
Thankfully, Hawaii has a supportive and diverse LGBTQ community, which has helped the state become more gay-friendly in recent years.
As a result, there are a variety of LGBT resources available to community members, their allies, friends, and families – and you ought to feel free to utilize them or consider giving your support as needed to keep your new home state moving forwards! They are also great places to meet new people and find your queer chosen family in Gay Hawaii.
The Hawaii LGBT Legacy Foundation is home to the LGBTQ+ Center Honolulu, organizes Honolulu Pride, and develops educational initiatives to educate and enlighten Hawaii’s LGBTQIA+ population. They also assist organizations that work to reduce social, economic and health inequities in the communities financially and in kind.
A legacy of equality, hope, and unification is what the Hawai’i LGBT Legacy Foundation is dedicated to. As an essential component of the wider, more diversified community that makes up the state, they assist the community to lead fulfilling, healthy, and fruitful lives.
The goal of the Hawai’i LGBT Legacy Foundation is to support, empower, educate, and bring together LGBT groups and individuals in Hawaii.
PFLAG envisions a future in which all people—regardless of their gender identity, sexual orientation, or gender expression—are valued, respected, and affirmed.
PFLAG fulfills its vision by working with other organizations and by supporting LGBTQ people, their families, and allies, offering education about the needs and challenges of LGBTQ people and offering advocacy for communities to change their attitudes and make laws and policies that result in equality for LGBTQ people.
Most Gay-Friendly Cities In Hawaii
In Hawaii, there are many wonderful areas to live in, but when relocating to LGBTQ Hawaii, you should be cognizant that there are a few cities and gaybourhoods that are nearer to the queer hubs of life. Knowing them will allow you to pull your U-Haul up to your new house in a gay-friendly neighborhood or town that is best suited to your needs.
If you’re a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or otherwise queer person seeking a welcoming neighborhood with facilities you’ll cherish, start with these top gay and gay-friendly Hawaii cities to discover your perfect new home, each with its distinct personality.
Give yourself enough time to acquaint yourself with Hawaii’s diverse personalities, and remember that there is no one perfect answer when it comes to the most gay-friendly places in Hawaii… and just because it does not make our list doesn’t necessarily make it a bad option.
We recommend speaking to a local LGBT real estate agent for a more detailed understanding of the best options today. Now, let’s take a look at where these fabulously gay-friendly cities in Hawaii are and why you might want to consider them!
Honolulu
Honolulu, the state’s largest city and its capital, is home to a strong LGBTQ community. Along with other activities, the city has an annual pride festival and other events hosted. The Hawai’i LGBT Legacy Foundation. For LGBTQ couples looking to have a destination wedding, Honolulu has grown to be a favorite wedding location.
The LGBTQ community in Honolulu is a true example of the aloha spirit, which is one of inclusivity, love, and friendliness. In reality, same-sex couples and bi relationships have existed and been largely tolerated in Hawaiian culture since the dawn of time. In the local language, such relationships are known as alkane, where mahu designates a “third gender” in addition to male and female.
With good cause, Waikiki Beach in Honolulu is considered one of the most well-known playgrounds in the world, both during the day and at night. While queer life is more “muffled” than parts of the mainland, particularly in Waikiki, you are very unlikely to encounter any prejudice.
Everybody will enjoy Honolulu’s exciting nightlife, sandy beaches, breathtaking hikes, and abundance of opulent hotels and spas, many of which are close to Waikiki Beach.
The abundance of martini lounges, fine dining options, top-notch spas, resort swimming pools, and upscale shopping areas may tempt you but don’t forget to try the local cuisine in Honolulu.
LGBT Honolulu provides everything you could possibly desire and maybe a few things you never realized you wanted. Add to the list a large number of gay events scattered all over the year and a tolerant culture that reflects the principles of island life.
Maui
The second-largest Hawaiian island, Maui, has an area of 729 square miles and is regarded as the most beautiful. The vistas are breathtaking from the peak of 10,000-foot Mt. Haleakala, particularly at sunset and sunrise. In this warm and sunny atmosphere, one can see waterfalls, rich tropical vegetation, wild surf beneath granite cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming historic villages.
Before turning into a boisterous whaling port and later a plantation village, Lahaina served as the seat for the island’s high chiefs and as its first capital. Queer people live all throughout the island of Maui, although the gay population on this island is second only to that of Oahu. It is primarily centered in the Kihei region of South Maui.
Gay travelers, whether they are singles or couples, frequently visit the island each year. Instead of coming for the intense parties or cruising that can be found in big cities and larger resorts, most come to take in the breathtaking beauty of the location.
Since there are no expressly gay clubs in this area, local gay families choose to interact in small groups, at home, or by hosting fundraisers and other events at gay-friendly restaurants and bars. Due to Hawaii’s acceptance of gay relationships, many businesses offer gay marriage ceremonies.
You don’t have to live in the US or in Hawaii to enjoy these services. Hawaiian pledges are made on nearby waterfalls, beaches, and other picturesque locations.
Waikiki
Waikiki, which is well-known for its stunning beaches, is a good city for families. The aquarium and zoo are only two of the many attractions available here for kids of all ages. In Waikiki, condos make up the majority of housing, and single-family residences are scarce. That can be ideal for you if you’re seeking a house that requires very little care.
You can enjoy a day at the beach here instead of laboring away to find the ideal condo with the aid of the many queer real estate experts in the city. The remote Diamond Head Beach does have a small queer community, despite being neither as well-known nor as associated with gay people as Queen’s Surf Beach.
While it’s technically against the law, some visitors and locals enjoy sunbathing in the nude since it’s frequently neglected. If you see law enforcement officers patrolling, it’s best to swiftly end your nude sunbathing session. If this is your thing, you might be better off considering the gay clothing optional resorts of Hawaii. Even better? The stunning, isolated beach at Diamond Head, sometimes known as Lighthouse Beach, is immune from the throng that’s typical around Waikiki’s bend.
Finding Gay Realtors In Hawaii
When looking for the ideal realtor, why would you consider someone’s sexuality? This may seem strange at first, but there are several reasons why contacting a gay realtor in Hawaii is a great way to find your dream house.
After all, when it relates to one of life’s most significant transactions, it’s not unreasonable to expect fair, equal, and honest representation from someone who understands the queer community’s particular needs and wishes.
Furthermore, unfortunately, many people (up to a third of Americans) believe that our community does not deserve protection and dignity in housing, adoption, employment, and other areas of life.
So it’s no surprise that LGBT people who use mainstream realtors often describe feelings of discomfort, unnecessary trouble, unenthusiastic representation, or even antagonism or outright contempt.
Everyone deserves a pleasant, stress-free home buying or selling experience while being adequately represented, and this is why we feel you should hire a gay realtor to assist you in finding your future home.
LGBTQ realtors are more likely to be familiar with the diverse communities in their area and know which ones may be best suited to you when looking for a home.
That’s not to say a heterosexual realtor isn’t capable, but they’ve probably never had to address many of the issues LGBT people face. Rather than just being concerned with how bustling, fashionable, or up-and-coming a neighborhood is (or what it may appear like), gay realtors conduct extensive research into the neighborhoods in which they sell homes to ensure that clients are safe.
It used to be challenging to locate professional LGBT-friendly real estate agents in Hawaii, and it was virtually impossible to find one if you were relocating here from out of state and didn’t have access to a local referral.
You no longer have to search for a realtor without knowing whether or not they are accepting of others because you can use a list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents in Hawaii to do all of your homework for you.
Simply go to the page, and you’ll be presented with a free list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents who can help you with your relocation, as well as other useful information like LGBT+friendly schools, shopping, storage firms, tradespeople, and more.
Read the biographies of LGBT real estate agents, then choose the one who is right for you. It’s critical that you find someone who will be by your side and support you and your family during one of life’s most exciting occasions.
Even better, there is no hidden motive, cost, or obligation whatsoever!
