Costa Rica: Your Gay Jungle Getaway Awaits…

Nestled between two oceans and teeming with lush rainforests, Costa Rica isn't just a tropical paradise - it's also one of Central America's most welcoming destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers. 

From progressive laws to vibrant nightlife and stunning natural wonders, here's everything you need to know for an unforgettable queer-friendly getaway in this Central American gem.

The gay scenes is mainly centered around 2 areas…

• San José: The capital city boasts a lively gay nightlife centered in Barrio Escalante. It comes alive after dark with a mix of locals and tourists.

  • La Avispa: One of Costa Rica's oldest LGBTQ+ clubs, known for Latin and Pop music. Don't miss their famous "Jueves de Divas" (Diva Thursdays) - the drag shows are incredible!

  • El 13 Café Bar: This quirky dance club with a giant unicorn statue hosts weekly drag shows. Try their signature "Unicorn Tears" cocktail - it's as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.

  • Donde Candi: A must for drag shows and cabaret performances. Arrive early to snag a good spot - it fills up fast on weekends.

  • Many San José gay bars don't get busy until after 11 PM. Start your night with dinner in Barrio Escalante - Restaurante Grano de Oro offers amazing fusion cuisine in a gay-friendly atmosphere.

• Manuel Antonio: Dubbed Costa Rica's "gay capital," this beach town is perfect for sun-seekers. The vibe here is more relaxed than San José, with a focus on beach life and outdoor activities.

  • Gay Sundays Weekly: A pool-side event for mingling during happy hour. It's hosted by Gay Tours Costa Rica at different venues - check their Facebook page for the latest location.

  • La Playita in Quepos is considered by some to be the best gay beach in Costa Rica.

  • Café Milagro: While not exclusively gay, it's a popular spot with the community. Their coffee is some of the best in town, and it's a great place to people-watch as the evening unfolds.

  • Insider Tip: Biesanz Beach (aka Hidden Beach) is a secluded spot popular with gay travelers. The 10-minute hike to get there deters crowds, but go early as it can still get busy by afternoon.

Things to Do:

• Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall: this 200-foot cascade is a sight to behold. The $18 entry fee goes to local conservation efforts. The hike down (and back up) involves over 500 stairs, but it's worth it for the chance to swim in the cool, crystal-clear water at the base. Bring water shoes - the rocks can be slippery. And don't forget your camera for that perfect waterfall selfie!

• Explore lava fields near Arenal Volcano: The beautiful Arenal Volcano is surrounded by fascinating lava fields from past eruptions. Choose between trails in Arenal National Park or neighboring Arenal 1968 Park. For a unique experience, book a night hike. You'll see different wildlife and might catch the volcano glowing in the darkness.

• Walk the hanging bridges in Monteverde Cloud Forest: These bridges offer a unique perspective of the misty, fairytale-like forest canopy. Selvatura Park has some of the best. Go early in the morning for the best chance of clear views and to spot wildlife.

• Relax on Playa Espadilla Sur in Manuel Antonio National Park: This stunning white-sand beach is worth the short hike through wildlife-filled forest to reach it. Keep an eye on your belongings - the monkeys here are adorable but notorious thieves!

• Tour Espiritu Santo Coffee Farm near San José: Learn about Costa Rica's famous coffee from bean to cup. The farm is conveniently located near the airport, perfect for a last-day activity. Pro tip: buy coffee here to take home - it's fresher and often cheaper than at the airport.

Where to Stay:

• Jungle Gayborhood: This LGBTQ+ retreat in the rainforest offers bamboo accommodations and daily yoga classes. It's a tranquil escape perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a more spiritual experience. Book their waterfall hike - it takes you to lesser-known spots that most tourists never see.

• Colours Oasis Lifestyle (San José): This gay-friendly, adults-only resort features a pool and rooftop terrace. Rooms start from $80/night. It's centrally located, making it easy to explore the city's gay nightlife. The on-site restaurant hosts a fantastic drag brunch on Sundays - don't miss it!

• Gaia Luxury Boutique Hotel (Manuel Antonio): This 5-star eco-friendly haven offers stunning ocean views. Studios start from $250/night. The property has its own nature reserve, complete with hiking trails. Book a suite with a private plunge pool for the ultimate luxury experience.

Travel Tips:

• While June's Pride is amazing, there’s no bad time to go. visiting in September or October lets you experience the country during its "green season." Fewer crowds, lower prices, and lush landscapes in full bloom.

• Learn a few Spanish phrases - locals appreciate the effort, and it can enhance your experience, especially in less touristy areas.

• Don't miss out on trying "gallo pinto" - this traditional rice and beans dish is a Costa Rican breakfast staple and absolutely delicious.

With its stunning natural beauty, progressive attitudes, and vibrant queer scene, Costa Rica offers the perfect blend of adventure and acceptance. You won’t be bored for a moment. From the misty cloud forests to sun-soaked beaches, and from thrilling eco-adventures to pulsing nightlife, there's something for every kind of LGBTQ+ traveler. Pura vida! 🏳️‍🌈🇨🇷

This Week’s *~Best Deals~*

We’re always on the hunt for top-tier experiences that welcome all and won’t break the bank—here are this week’s faves ✨ 

• It’s not one of the aforementioned Gay resorts, but—Travelzoo has a jaw-droppingly good deal on a trip to Costa Rica that you shouldn’t pass up

• Get 25% off your stay at our favorite Gay hotel in Ibiza 

• This 4-Night Palm Springs desert escape starts from the $300s—with flights

• This trendy Dupont Circle hotel is offering 40% off right in the middle of the action in D.C.’s gay scene

• Sardinia is offering free hotel stays if you hike this epic trail—here's how it works

• Aer Lingus is expanding to a new city—with great intro fares

• Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is offering 20% or more off a stay, and even bigger savings for rewards members

• Earn one free rental day for every two rentals you complete from Avis

Our Monthly Giveaway for October is Here!

Refer ONE friend to sign up for GoQueer using the below link and you’ll be entered into our monthly giveaway for October: a free $100 Amazon Gift Card! 

The more people you get to sign up, the more chances you have to win — here are all the details.