Benidorm's Vibrant Gay Scene: Your Ultimate Guide to Nightlife, Beaches, and Beyond

Benidorm, a sun-drenched jewel on Spain's Costa Blanca, is renowned for its buzzing nightlife and stunning beaches. But beyond the general tourist buzz, it boasts a surprisingly rich and welcoming LGBTQ+ scene, particularly concentrated in its historic Old Town.

Whether you're looking for energetic dance floors, relaxed bars, or even a touch of cruising culture, Benidorm offers a diverse array of options. Let's dive into what makes this coastal city a fantastic destination for gay travelers.

Navigating Benidorm's Gay Hotspots

The heart of Benidorm's gay scene beats strongly in its Old Town, specifically around the intersection of Calle Cuatro Esquinas and Calle Santa Faz.

This area is a vibrant hub, packed with bars and clubs catering to the LGBTQ+ community. While the New Town attracts a more mixed crowd, the Old Town is undeniably where the LGBTQ+ energy truly flourishes.

So, what's on offer? Benidorm's gay venues range from high-energy dance clubs to intimate, campy bars, with many offering fantastic drag shows and themed nights.

It's a place where you can easily hop from one venue to another, soaking in the lively atmosphere and enjoying the warm Spanish hospitality.

Top Gay Bars and Clubs to Experience

When the sun goes down, Benidorm's Old Town truly comes alive.

Here are some of the must-visit spots:

New People Bar: Often hailed as one of the most popular, New People offers a bit of everything. Expect cheap drinks, friendly staff, a mixed crowd, energetic DJs, dazzling drag shows, and even a discreet darkroom for those seeking a more intimate encounter.
Spirit: Embrace the full Benidorm experience with Spirit, a wonderfully campy bar adorned with glitter balls and rainbow umbrellas.

The staff are known for their welcoming nature, adding to the bar's infectious charm.
Gspot Benidorm: Don't let its size fool you; this small but mighty bar packs a punch with its quirky personality, excellent cocktail list, and a friendly crowd that makes everyone feel welcome.
Sensations: Another fantastic option in the Old Town, Sensations is perfect for kicking off your night.

With pop classics playing on video screens, generous pours from the bartenders, and a chatty clientele, it's a recipe for a great evening.
DD's Bar: A long-standing favorite, DD's Bar is a place where everyone feels at home. It's known for its lively atmosphere and welcoming vibe.
Poco Loco: If you're looking to turn the camp dial up to eleven, Poco Loco is your destination.

Situated on the outskirts of the Old Town, this bar boasts high-energy drag shows, often utilizing a central pole for spectacular performances.
Bar Code: A more spacious venue, Bar Code gets packed on weekends with fun music creating a lively ambiance.

It's a popular pre-club spot for locals and tourists alike, especially before heading to the adjacent Mercury nightclub.
Bar Mercury: Considered Benidorm's main gay club, Mercury might be on the smaller side, but it certainly delivers on cheesy fun and good cocktails.

It's best to arrive after 1 AM to catch the real party vibe, and don't miss their drag shows.
Club. Almirante: Located in the Old Town, this club is a prime spot for dancing the night away in a dedicated club environment.
Bar Kuma: Another Old Town establishment, Kuma offers a space for socializing and enjoying the nightlife.
Bar Papagayo: Situated in the Old Town, Papagayo is a cafe bar known for its creative cocktails, happy hours, and later evening drag shows.

Beyond the Bars: Cruising and Fetish Clubs

For those seeking more specific experiences, Benidorm also caters to cruising and fetish enthusiasts:

H: Benidorm's sole gay sauna, H, offers a range of facilities including a jacuzzi, bar, private cabins, and a video room.

While it's not open late into the night, its afternoon hours make it a viable option for relaxation and connection.
Bears' Bar: As the name suggests, this bar is a dedicated space for the bear community, often featuring a sex-focused atmosphere with background porn and a small darkroom.
Kuma: Another spot catering to the bear, chub, and daddy demographic, Kuma provides a relaxed environment for its patrons.
Copper Club: As Benidorm's first fetish club, Copper Club is a standout venue.

It offers excellent facilities, though it can get quite busy, especially on weekends. Be sure to check their website for potential reservations and themed nights that might affect the dress code.

Daytime Delights: Beaches and Relaxation

While Benidorm's nightlife is a major draw, its beaches offer a different kind of appeal.

Though there isn't an official designated gay beach, certain spots tend to attract a more LGBTQ+ friendly crowd.

Raco del Conill: Often cited as the closest to a gay beach, Raco del Conill is a nudist beach located about 6 km from the town center.

Its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere make it a popular choice.
Mal Pas: For a quieter experience, the small Mal Pas beach is a local favorite and offers a more tranquil setting.

Beyond the beaches, consider exploring the charming Old Town's streets, discovering local eateries, and enjoying the scenic viewpoints that offer breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean.

Accommodation Recommendations Near the Scene

Staying close to the action can enhance your Benidorm experience.

The Old Town is the prime location for easy access to the gay bars and clubs:

Mercure Benidorm: This gay-friendly hotel boasts a Mediterranean style, offering a perfect balance between modern comfort and local charm.

Its location between Poniente Beach and the Old Town makes it ideal.
Hotel Roca-Mar: Situated right in the heart of the gay area, this hotel provides effortless walking access to the main nightlife hubs and is also a stone's throw from the beaches.
Casa Don Juan: A budget-friendly guest house located centrally within the gay district, just a short walk from the beach.

It's unpretentious but offers great value and has its own bar.

Benidorm's Events and Culture

Benidorm isn't just about the daily grind; it also hosts vibrant events throughout the year:

Benidorm Pride: Held annually in September, Benidorm Pride is a week-long celebration featuring lively parties, themed events, and a spectacular pride parade that culminates in free entertainment.

It's a fantastic time to experience the city's inclusive spirit.
Pride Events: Keep an eye out for specific events like the "white party" at Mirador de Castillo, adding even more glamour to the festivities.

Exploring Beyond Benidorm

For those looking to venture out, Benidorm serves as a great base for day trips:

Castell of Guadalest: Just a 30-minute drive away, this medieval village perched on cliffs offers stunning views and a charming escape from the city bustle.
Wineries: Explore the region's wine culture with visits to local wineries for tours and tastings, often paired with local delicacies.

Getting To and Around Benidorm

Reaching Benidorm is straightforward, with Alicante Airport (ALC) being the closest major airport.

Regular bus services connect the airport to Benidorm's bus station and various stops within the town. For added convenience, pre-booked shuttle transfers are also readily available.

Once in Benidorm, taxis are an affordable and easy way to get around if your destination is too far to walk.

The town itself is quite walkable, especially within the Old Town.

A Welcoming Destination

Spain is known for its progressive and welcoming attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community, and Benidorm is no exception. You can expect a friendly and open atmosphere, making it a comfortable and enjoyable destination for a holiday filled with sun, fun, and unforgettable nightlife.

So, if you're seeking a Spanish getaway that combines beautiful beaches with a thriving and inclusive gay scene, Benidorm might just be the perfect place for your next adventure.

It's a destination that truly offers something for everyone, proving that this Costa Blanca resort is far more than just its sunny disposition.