Miami may be stylish, hip, and trendy—however Fort Lauderdale, simply half-hour north, is its extra laid-back, hippy, homosexual cousin.
Fort Lauderdale has by no means tried to match the fast-paced glitz of Miami, nor ought to it. Town greater than holds its personal with 23 miles of turquoise-watered seashores, at the very least 50 LGBTQ+-friendly institutions (to not point out the enduring Wilton Manors), and the very best focus of LGBTQ+ {couples} within the U.S. So, in case you’re in search of a warm-weather vacation spot with seashores and homosexual actions galore that will not bleed your checking account dry, then Fort Lauderdale would possibly simply be your ticket to the right Florida gaycation.
Desk of Contents
1. Basic Suggestions
2. Transportation & Airport Switch
3. Fort Lauderdale Homosexual Accommodations & Resorts
4. Sightseeing & Actions in Fort Lauderdale
5. Homosexual Excursions in Fort Lauderdale
6. Eating places and Cafes
7. Fort Lauderdale Homosexual Bars and Golf equipment
8. Fort Lauderdale Homosexual Saunas & Cruising Bars
9. Homosexual Seashores in Fort Lauderdale
10. Homosexual Occasions in Fort Lauderdale
11. Day Journeys from Fort Lauderdale
Basic Suggestions
Fort Lauderdale is nice to go to any time of the yr, however the summer season’s can get humid to say the least – nothing a very good dip within the sea or resort pool would not repair although. The winter and spring month provide milder climate for individuals who reallt don’t love the warmth.
It ought to come as no shock that Fort Lauderdale boasts a energetic homosexual neighborhood, given its massive inhabitants of LGBTQ+ residents. Wilton Manors, an space simply northwest of downtown, is the place you’ll discover many of the LGBTQ+-specific venues on the town. The membership scene in Fort Lauderdale is distinct from the upscale, typically pretentious vibe of Miami Seaside. Fort Lauderdale is informal, as are its dance venues. The Manor is a must-visit spot, particularly in case you select just one membership. Nonetheless, you will discover dancing at different spots as properly, together with Hunters and even Scandals—if nation music and sizzling cowboys are your factor (is not it everybody’s factor?).
Fort Lauderdale lengthy had a repute as a vacation spot primarily for the older era of LGBTQ+ folks. Whereas there’s nonetheless a thriving group of middle-aged and retired residents, the demographic of each residents and guests has shifted noticeably youthful. As of late, loads of 20- and 30-somethings name Fort Lauderdale residence or go to annually. Many attribute the expansion of Fort Lauderdale’s homosexual group to the decline in recognition of Miami Seaside for LGBTQ+ residents. As Miami has developed over the many years, many have moved north to the much less pretentious and extra reasonably priced neighborhoods of Fort Lauderdale, notably Wilton Manors, the place you’ll discover nearly all of aforementioned homosexual nightlife venues.
Fort Lauderdale has additionally come out in entrance purposefully welcoming trans vacationers, setting itself other than most LGBTQ+-friendly locations. Native authorities and the tourism bureau have labored tirelessly over the previous few years to grasp the precise wants of the trans group and be certain that the town is provided to supply for it.
You’ll be able to obtain the Homosexual Fort Lauderdale information without cost. Simply present your electronic mail tackle and we’ll electronic mail you a PDF.
Transportation & Airport Switch
Fort Lauderdale has its personal worldwide airport, only a 15-20-minute drive to most components of the town. Many inns additionally provide free shuttle service from the airport, so verify earlier than you arrive. For those who fly into Miami, you may take the Tri-Rail from the airport to Fort Lauderdale. An Uber or Lyft journey from Miami airport to Fort Lauderdale prices round $25–$35 and takes 30–60 minutes, relying on site visitors.
It’s price noting that Fort Lauderdale isn’t notably walkable, so that you’ll doubtless want transportation to get round. Town lately launched a bike-share program, permitting guests to simply hire a motorcycle to discover. There are quite a few stations alongside the beachfront space, making biking an incredible various to automotive journey. Guests can skip the rental automotive—between biking or taking an Uber or Lyft, you may expertise all the town has to supply with out the trouble of parking.
Fort Lauderdale Homosexual Accommodations & Resorts
You’ll discover homosexual inns and resorts in Fort Lauderdale than virtually anyplace else. Second maybe to Palm Springs on the West Coast, Fort Lauderdale boasts roughly 15 gay-specific guesthouses, inns, and resorts, with lodging for a wide range of budgets.
Luxurious
The W Lodge Fort Lauderdale – Situated proper on the seashore, this lodge affords wonderful views from its outside terrace overlooking the ocean. The rooftop pool gives panoramic metropolis views in addition to views of the Intracoastal Waterway, whereas the spa affords massages, manicures, and different companies. Las Olas Boulevard, with its distinctive retailers and eating places, is a 15-minute drive away.
Mid-Vary
The Grand Resort – Situated a 10-minute stroll from Sebastian Road Homosexual Seaside, this resort has an on-site spa providing therapeutic massage companies, a hair studio, and nail care. The property additionally includes a pool and sizzling tub. Wilton Manors is close by, providing quite a few gay-friendly eating places, sights, and golf equipment.
Worthington Guesthouse – This all-male, homosexual resort is 5 blocks from Fort Lauderdale’s Sebastian Seaside. It includes a clothing-optional courtyard with two 24-hour swimming pools, a spacious sizzling tub, and a contemporary health club. A continental breakfast is served day by day.
Pineapple Level – This famend homosexual resort has been welcoming friends since 1999. The property options six distinctive buildings unfold over greater than two acres of personal, lush, clothing-optional tropical paradise. Facilities embrace shaded hammocks, an on-site well-equipped health club, a lap pool, two jacuzzis, therapeutic massage studios, solar decks, and clothing-optional pool areas. Friends can get pleasure from a day by day continental breakfast, together with snacks, lemonade, bottled water, popsicles, and refreshing chilly face towels.
The Cabanas Guesthouse – Situated in Wilton Manors, on the coronary heart of homosexual Fort Lauderdale, this clothing-optional resort has been voted Finest Homosexual Guesthouse and Finest Males’s Day Spa for six consecutive years. The resort affords facilities reminiscent of an all-male day spa, two swimming pools, a sauna, jacuzzi, day by day breakfast, and extra, all set inside lush tropical gardens with gorgeous waterfront views.
Price range
Calypso Inn – Situated only one block from the middle of Wilton Drive, this gay-owned and operated mattress and breakfast affords a refreshing various to the everyday motel or lodge expertise. The property options two tropical, clothing-optional lagoon swimming pools, heated throughout the winter months and open all night time.
Residences – misterb&b
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Sightseeing & Actions in Fort Lauderdale
Purchase a day go – Most of the gay-specific inns and resorts provide day passes to go to their property and use their amenities. Almost each property has a personal, usually clothing-optional, pool and varied further facilities reminiscent of spas, health facilities, eating places, and extra. If staying at a homosexual property isn’t your fashion, however you continue to need to socialize with those that do, this can be a excellent method to get pleasure from the most effective of each worlds. Day passes normally vary from $10 to $35 per day.
Las Olas Boulevard – After tiring of a tough day’s males watching on the seashore, you may’t beat a stroll down this palm-tree-lined avenue, which stretches over a mile from the downtown skyline to the waterfront. Alongside the way in which, one can find greater than 200 boutiques providing style, jewellery, and residential accents, alongside artwork galleries showcasing native and worldwide expertise. Sidewalk cafés and upscale eating places serve numerous delicacies, from recent seafood to connoisseur dishes. Stay music fills the air, and public artwork installations add to the ambiance.
Mansions and Water Taxis – Fort Lauderdale is residence to many rich and well-known residents, and several other of their elegant mansions are seen from the deck of the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi. Spend a day taking a scenic journey alongside the banks of a number of the most luxurious properties within the space – also referred to as “the Venice of America”. Fort Lauderdale is taken into account one of many yacht capitals of the world, and plenty of yacht house owners name this metropolis residence.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park – Situated simply north of the beachfront space, this park is a superb place to flee the town and luxuriate in nature. Spanning 180 acres, it’s a favourite spot amongst locals and a really perfect choice in case you’ve had sufficient seashore time. Take a stroll via preserved wilderness areas or hire a motorcycle to discover the park.
Noticed Grass Mills Outlet – For those who’re a fan of luxurious manufacturers, Fort Lauderdale has what you want. About 20 miles outdoors the town limits, you’ll discover this huge outlet buying middle. It’s the most important luxurious outlet middle on the planet, providing standard manufacturers at costs decrease than conventional retail shops. The middle gives shuttle service from Fort Lauderdale, with pickup out there at varied Fort Lauderdale Seaside inns.
Bonnet Home Museum and Gardens – Nestled on a 35-acre barrier-island property, this early Twentieth-century plantation-style house is a style outdated Florida. As you wander its lush tropical gardens and lagoon-side grounds, you’ll encounter vibrant orchids, towering royal palms, and resident flamingos. Inside, guided excursions reveal unique furnishings, impressionist work, and historic artifacts that replicate the creative imaginative and prescient of the Bartlett household.
Homosexual Excursions in Fort Lauderdale
The World AIDS Museum – Situated in Wilton Manors, this museum is devoted to documenting the historical past of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Opened in 2013, it’s the solely museum worldwide devoted solely to sharing this story. Funded fully by donations, the museum does an unbelievable job of presenting the deeply emotional historical past from the start to the current. The total tour takes a few hours to finish, nevertheless it’s price a quick cease, even when solely to view the highlights and respect this exceptional tribute to a narrative that has impacted so many over the previous few many years.
Eating places and Cafes
Rosie’s Bar and Grill – Situated within the coronary heart of Wilton Manors, Rosie’s is a staple of the LGBTQ+ group. It’s a spot the place folks collect for Sunday brunch, night dinner, or weekend cocktails, having fun with a meal or drink amongst like-minded residents and guests desirous to expertise the most effective of the “gayborhood.” Rosie’s is a must-visit spot, recognized for its pleasant service, nice meals, and scrumptious cocktails – it’s positive to impress!
The Yard – An city oasis in Wilton Manors amid lovely Rainbow Eucalyptus timber, internet hosting a wide range of cafes and eating places with nice outside seating. Favorites embrace Voo La Voo, Seed of Life Vegan Restaurant, Chateau D’vine Wine, Beer & Tapas, and extra. Take pleasure in The Yard’s murals whereas buying, consuming, and enjoyable.
J Mark’s – An off-the-cuff restaurant that includes a various menu of American requirements, a spacious patio, and a energetic bar. J Mark’s stands out with its chef-driven, seasonally impressed menu that modifications weekly. Sourcing elements from native farmers and artisanal purveyors, the kitchen transforms recent produce, seafood, and meats into ingenious dishes like miso-glazed branzino or heirloom-tomato panzanella.
Peter Pan Diner – Household-owned since 1979, this diner affords a novel menu impressed by the household’s Greek heritage. Chef-prepared specialties can be found day by day, and most desserts and freshly baked items are made in-house. Peter Pan Diner by no means disappoints.
Fort Lauderdale Homosexual Bars and Golf equipment
DrYnk – Situated in Wilton Manors, this bar boasts the most effective craft cocktails on the town. Snug sofas, trendy lighting, and an oasis-like terrace out again give it a relaxed vibe, making it the right spot to start out an evening out.
Aquaplex – On the lookout for a drag present? That is the place to observe lip-syncing queens carry out and entertain a crowd looking forward to a enjoyable and interactive night time out.
Georgie’s Alibi – Take pleasure in day by day blissful hours on meals and drinks, together with 2-for-1 specials, plus a wide range of reside performances and occasions.
Infinity Lounge – A relaxed but refined lounge with a combined homosexual and straight crowd and a big selection of tasty drinks and cocktails.
Pub on the Drive – Previously the Pub Wilton Manors, this bar now boasts the title of the most important bar in Wilton Manors, due to its newly expanded oasis-like patio bar. With a social ambiance and engaging snacks, it’s an ideal spot for gatherings. Weekly occasions embrace bingo and themed trivia nights.
The Manor – The biggest and one of the vital standard locations to bop on weekend nights, that includes an enormous principal dance room, a number of smaller areas, seating areas, and terraces.
Hunters – A preferred bar and membership with karaoke, cabaret, and country-western dancing. In addition they host a well-liked Sunday tea dance.
Scandals – The go-to homosexual country-western bar, full with line dancing, cute cowboys, and reasonably priced drinks.
Fort Lauderdale Homosexual Saunas & Cruising Bars
The Membership Fort Lauderdale – Fort Lauderdale’s principal sauna can be an incredible spot to socialize and take in the solar. Facilities embrace a sundeck with an out of doors pool, dry sauna, whirlpool, cruising space, cabins, sling, video lounges, and a completely outfitted health club. Guests will pay for a locker or hire a personal room (half-price affords can be found Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday after 4 pm).
321 Slammer – One of many solely golf equipment of its sort in Florida, providing private and non-private play areas with slings and glory holes, in addition to lounge areas with a pool desk and even an indoor hearth. Observe: drinks usually are not out there for buy.
Homosexual Seashores in Fort Lauderdale
Sebastian Road Seaside – The principle and hottest homosexual seashore in Fort Lauderdale, situated off Sebastian Road close to the Ritz-Carlton. Its proximity to many homosexual inns and resorts attracts a big LGBTQ+ crowd.
Northeast 18th Road Seaside – A smaller homosexual seashore, typically visited by locals.
Haulover Nude Seaside – Situated between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, that is one among Florida’s most well-known nude seashores. It’s family-friendly, attracting a mixture of LGBTQ+ and straight guests. Most individuals go nude, although it’s non-compulsory.
Homosexual Occasions in Fort Lauderdale
Depraved Manors Halloween celebration – Probably the preferred occasion of the yr, held in Wilton Manors. This outside celebration contains parades, live shows, and quite a few events, drawing crowds of native residents, regional guests, and vacationers from afar to hitch within the festivities. Dates: 31 October, 2025.
Delight Fort Lauderdale – Given its massive LGBTQ+ group, Fort Lauderdale’s Delight celebration attracts huge crowds, with a mean attendance of over 125,000. The 2-day competition usually takes place in spring and includes a beachside parade and principal occasion with three levels internet hosting prime worldwide acts. As is widespread in Florida, after-parties are held in Wilton Manors. Dates: 22-27 October , 2025.
Day Journeys from Fort Lauderdale
Miami – Usually known as the unofficial Latin capital of the U.S., Miami is a novel vacation spot well-known for its seashores, structure, and vibrant nightlife. Downtown Miami has lately seen a revival and can be price visiting, situated a couple of 30-minute drive south with out site visitors. For Miami Seaside, add an additional quarter-hour. Throughout peak occasions, the journey might take an hour or extra. Contemplate a guided tour or the Tri-rail to keep away from site visitors.
The Everglades – Expertise the wilderness of Florida’s Everglades. Be a part of a small-group tour that includes an airboat journey via Everglades Nationwide Park, a drive via Massive Cypress Nationwide Protect, a nature stroll via a cypress forest, and a scenic boat journey via the ten,000 islands of Everglades Nationwide Park to identify varied wildlife. Guide tour →
Key West – Although it’s a bit far, Key West is doable as a day journey. Drive throughout the well-known Seven Mile Bridge spanning the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean to succeed in the Keys, the place you may discover the island at your personal tempo earlier than returning. Journey from Fort Lauderdale to Key West with ease on this full-day tour. Guide tour →
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