With our golden-sand beaches and effervescent nightlife, Virginia Beach has long been a beacon for LGBTQ+ travelers. And we’re proud to report that our inclusion and acceptance extend far beyond our sparkling shore. We’re thrilled to have been recognized multiple times — most recently in 2025 — as one of the top cities in the nation for supporting the queer community. The Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index rated 11 cities across Virginia, and Virginia Beach continues to be among the highest-scoring cities in both the Commonwealth of Virginia and the country.
Queer visitors flock here year-round to enjoy our natural wonders, luxurious spas, culinary delights, thriving arts scene, opportunities for retail therapy… and perhaps catch one of the must-see daily drag shows at our legendary Rainbow Cactus, too. But the local and visiting gay community really rallies around the area’s annual PrideFest celebrations in Hampton Roads, on the border between Virginia Beach and our neighbor, Norfolk (another charming coastal city with a welcoming gay scene).
Hampton Roads Gay Black Pride Festival
2027 Dates Pending | Mount Trashmore Park
In Virginia Beach, PrideFest won’t wait for June! The Inaugural Hampton Roads Black Gay Pride Fest is a powerful, joyful celebration centered on Black LGBTQ+ culture, creativity, community, and pride. On May 31 at Mount Trashmore Park near Town Center, we’re bringing together artists, entrepreneurs, performers, advocates, and allies from across the region for a full-day experience rooted in visibility, liberation, and love. This is more than a festival, it’s a statement — a space where Black queer and trans joy is centered, celebrated and protected.
Hampton Roads Pride at the Beach
2027 Dates Pending | 31st Street Park
Hampton Roads Pride is thrilled to present the highly anticipated celebrations of diversity, love, and inclusion with its PrideFest events, set to ignite the region throughout the entire month of June. The highlight of this month-long celebration will be the weekend of June 26–28, featuring a diverse set of events that promise to be unforgettable. Of course, closing out the weekend is the highly anticipated Pride at the Beach: June 28 on the Oceanfront. With new offerings this year, this beachside oasis celebration will feature live entertainment, community vendors, curated beachside DJ sets, food trucks, and VIP experiences, offering a perfect conclusion to an unforgettable Pride weekend.
LGBTQ+ Travel
Your 3-Day Virginia Beach Getaway
Spend three days eating, exploring and soaking up the best of Virginia Beach, with plenty of LGBTQ+-friendly stops along the way.
Explore the ItineraryMake the Most of Pride Weekend
Where to find the best meals and the most fun during your action-packed weekend.
LGBTQ+ Owned Businesses in Virginia Beach
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3-Day LGBTQ+ Friendly Itinerary in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach has always been a place where everyone is welcome to feel the sand between their toes — and for LGBTQ+ travelers, that welcome doesn’t fade once summer ends. The coastal city’s inclusive spirit shows up in its restaurants, breweries, galleries, nightlife and beaches alike. This is LGBTQ+…
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5 Experiences You Can Only Have in Virginia Beach
Discover unique experiences in Virginia Beach, from thrilling military boat excursions to serene wellness at Edgar Cayce’s center, and historic sites like Cape Henry Lighthouse.
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