Fort Lauderdale Gay Beach
Same-sex appeal for sun worshippers
Fort Lauderdale is considered America's gay vacation capital, offering more than 100 gay-owned and same-sex friendly hotels, bars, clubs and restaurants. Its popular but unofficial gay beach is more than a block long and was the location for the 60s classic flick, Where the Boys Are. While Fort Lauderdale is less intimidating than Miami and draws a more mature and easygoing gay crowd, be warned, the beach provides as much eye candy as it does sunsets.
Outdoor Focus
There's always plenty to do. Check the Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce and Gay and Lesbian Community Center of South Florida for upcoming events and vacation options. While Haulover Beach, located in nearby Miami, is clothing-optional. Other area highlights include:
- Fishing: Cast your line off the pier at Lauderdale-By-The-Sea and see what you can reel in.
- Snorkeling and diving: A three-tiered reef system makes Fort Lauderdale an ideal location, no matter what your skill level.
Area Attractions
- Billie Swamp Safari: With more than 2,000 acres, this preserve is a unique place to learn how Florida's Seminole Indians lived, take a swamp buggy eco-tour, paddle a canoe or come face-to-face with an alligator.
- Baltimore Orioles Spring Training: Get a jump on the summer action in March. You can see major league action at minor league prices.
Area Events
- Annual Riverwalk Blues and Music Festival (November): This weekend-long music fest is all about the blues. With big names as well as up-and-coming artists, you can catch everything from Chicago electric blues to gospel.
Nightlife
When the sun sets, the nightlife gets revved up in Fort Lauderdale's gay dance clubs, video bars, lesbian discos, piano cabarets, leather bars and strip joints. The Wilton Manors section draws a middle-aged crowd, while younger partiers flock to the numerous nightclubs.
Accommodation
Fort Lauderdale's gay-friendly resorts, clothing-optional bed and breakfasts and male-only Royal Palms Resort are just a sample of the more than 30 accommodations that cater to gay or lesbian guests. Check out the Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce for details.
Need to Know
- Location:
- Sebastian Street, Fort Lauderdale
- Weather:
- Average winter temperatures range from 76 to 83 F.
- Average summer temperatures start in the high 80s and climb into the 100s F.
- Note: Hurricane season runs from June to November, but storms are most likely in September and October.
- Facilities:
- Restrooms
- Lifeguards on duty from10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Great nightlife and gay-run businesses turn Fort Lauderdale Gay Beach into more than just fun in the sun. Check out our deals if you think a Fort Lauderdale Gay Beach getaway is for you.
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