8 hours ago
Jackie O’ Beach Club: Mykonos’ Iconic LGBTQ+ Haven at the Heart of the Aegean
READ TIME: 3 MIN.
On the sparkling coastline of Mykonos, among the island’s dazzling beaches and renowned nightlife, Jackie O’ Beach Club occupies a unique position as a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking both relaxation and revelry. Situated on Elia Beach—one of Mykonos’ most popular and scenic stretches of sand—Jackie O’ is more than just a beach club; it’s a destination that celebrates love, diversity, and freedom in a setting where the rainbow flag flies proudly above the Aegean Sea .
Founded by entrepreneurs Michalis Sigounas and Carsten Flad, Jackie O’ Beach Club was established with the vision of creating a space where all identities feel celebrated. Since its opening, it has become a cornerstone of the island’s queer-friendly reputation, drawing celebrities, locals, and international visitors alike for its legendary drag shows, all-day parties, and unpretentious hospitality .
Jackie O’ Beach Club is renowned for its commitment to inclusivity and celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. The club’s policy is simple: everyone is welcome, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or background. Its drag performances—featuring local and international talent—are a highlight, drawing enthusiastic crowds and fostering a sense of joy and belonging that defines the Mykonos experience.
Beyond entertainment, Jackie O’ offers a full-service restaurant, luxurious cabanas, and a seafront swimming pool, all curated with the comfort of LGBTQ+ guests in mind. The staff are trained to provide affirming service, and the club partners with local and international organizations to promote safe, respectful, and joyful experiences for all visitors .
Mykonos has long been known as the LGBTQ+ capital of Greece, and Jackie O’ Beach Club plays a vital role in maintaining and enhancing this reputation. The club is a focal point for major events such as the XLSIOR Mykonos Festival, one of the world’s largest international gay dance festivals, which brings thousands of attendees to the island each year .
These events not only boost the local economy but also foster connections between the global LGBTQ+ community and local Greek culture. Jackie O’ is credited with helping to establish Mykonos as a safe and welcoming destination for queer travelers, contributing to the visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ people throughout the region .
Visitors to Jackie O’ Beach Club routinely praise its atmosphere of acceptance and the sense of community they find there. Queer travelers and their allies cite the club as a place where they can be themselves—free from judgment and surrounded by affirming energy. The business’s leadership regularly supports LGBTQ+-focused initiatives, including HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns and local pride events, reinforcing its standing as a positive force both on the island and within the broader queer community .
In interviews and social media posts, patrons highlight the club’s role as a “home away from home,” a sentiment echoed by many who return year after year to reconnect with friends and celebrate their identities in a truly inclusive environment.
As global travel patterns shift and the demand for authentic, safe, and affirming experiences grows, Jackie O’ Beach Club continues to set the standard for LGBTQ+-friendly businesses in tourist hotspots. By prioritizing diversity, fostering community, and celebrating queer culture in all its forms, the club not only enriches the Mykonos tourism landscape but also serves as a model for inclusive hospitality worldwide .
For LGBTQ+ travelers planning a journey to Greece, Jackie O’ Beach Club remains a must-visit—where the Aegean sun meets the spirit of pride and belonging.