Although urban destinations tend to be most popular with gay travelers because of their rich cultural offerings, vibrant nightlife districts, and chic shopping and dining, a number of the world's most gay-popular cities also enjoy picturesque settings on the water. From megacities with skyscrapers on the ocean to relatively smaller destinations on tranquil bays and lakes, here's a rundown of the world's 20 best gay urban beach destinations (population 150,000 or greater). Also see my list of the 20 best gay beach towns and smaller cities (population 150,000 or less).






