The concept of a gay hotel or men’s gay resort was also created around the same time in Key West, Florida. As LGBT people became more visible and acceptance shifted, several more companies began creating trips specifically for the LGBT community. The concept of LGBT-specific travel started in the ’70s and was pioneered by Hans Ebensten, who began taking gay men on tours rafting through the Grand Canyon as well as to Carnival in Rio de Janeiro. But for those who specifically want a gay property and perhaps even a clothing optional resort, we narrowed down the list to our top 5 gay hotels and resorts in Key West.
No matter when you visit, you’ll want to stay close to the action and there are plenty of hotels, resorts and cute beach houses to choose from. Join the flocks of gays for annual celebrations and events like New Year’s Eve, Key West Pride in June, Tropical Heat in August and Women Fest over Labor Day Weekend. However, the high season is from December to March when many escape the cold, winter weather up north. With its tropical climate, you can expect year-round warm weather making it an ideal destination for sun, sea, sand and sex any time of year. Besides a few other destinations in the US like Palm Springs, Provincetown and Fort Lauderdale, Key West is among these top cities with the most gay and clothing options resorts in the country. One of the first global gay travel destinations, this small island is a place were gay locals and visitors feel at home among the majestic palm trees, turquoise waters, breathtaking sunsets and rainbow flags.Īfter the nightly Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square, make way to the parties on Duval Street at gay hangouts like 801 Bourbon Street for drag shows or Bourbon Street Pub for dancing.
#KEY WEST GAY BARS 18+ FREE#
Upon arriving in the Conch Republic, you’ll find a laid-back, eclectic and alternative community that has been a safe haven for LGBT travelers, artists and free thinkers since the early 1970’s. From Miami, Key West is a scenic 3.5-hour drive down Florida’s Overseas Highway (US 1).