Ft. Lauderdale aka FTL (don’t confuse with FLL, the airport code) is a beautiful beach town on the east coast of Florida, just north of Miami.
Surprisingly liberal and queer-friendly, with even walking-friendly areas, which is uncommon in Florida. While FTL has a close proximity to Miami, they’re very different when it comes to its more relaxed vibe and the plethora of options for gay people.
The chunk of Fort Lauderdale’s gay life is actually within the vicinity of Wilton Manors, which is the SECOND GAYEST LGBTQ+ town in the USA after Provincetown (a resort town in Boston area that is only alive in Summer). Unlike P-town, Wilton Manors is alive all throughout the year.
I discovered Wilton Manors and Fort Lauderdale pretty late in life. Even though it’s a 45 min drive or a 30 min high speed train ride (we’ll get to this later) from Miami Beach, I hadn’t heard much about it until realizing Florida was open for business meanwhile we had strict closures of bars and gyms in NY State. In early 2021, I had my first visit to FTL and I fell in love. Shortly after, I bought a condo there and for the following two years, I made it my second home.
After experiencing FTL’s gay life, Miami Beach looks like a joke.
This article will talk about Fort Lauderdale exclusively, but there will be some references to Miami and the surrounding area as well.
- When to Visit
- How to Get There & Get Around
- Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale Area
- Wilton Manors Gay Guesthouses
- FTL Beach Area Gay Guesthouses
- Beaches in the Area
- Events in FTL & Around
When to Visit
For the best mix of weather, LGBTQ+ events, and an energetic atmosphere, December to April is the ideal time to visit. For those looking to experience the cityโs gay-friendly vibe with fewer crowds and better prices, May to June or October offer a sweet spot between pleasant weather and affordable travel.
Check out the “Events” section at the bottom for more inspiration on picking your dates.
How to Get There & Get Around
Fort Lauderdale has its own airport (FLL) which provides affordable Uber rides.
Within Fort Lauderdale including Wilton Manors, you have the Circuit App option as well.
Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale Area
The best areas to stay in for the perfect gaycation in FTL can be grouped under the following:
Wilton Manors: Gay Guesthouses, AirBnBs, MisterBnBs.
Oakland Park (or other surrounding areas)
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Other FTL: Downtown FTL & Riverwalk
Wilton Manors Gay Guesthouses
The Cabanas Guesthouse & Spa: This is one of the most well-known gay guesthouses in Wilton Manors. The clothing-optional resort offers beautiful rooms, a menโs day spa, two pools, a hot tub, and tropical gardens. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking to combine relaxation with a lively gay scene nearby. (DAY PASS available)
Ed Lugo Resort: Another clothing-optional guesthouse with a great reputation in Wilton Manors. It’s known for its intimate atmosphere, lush gardens, and friendly service. Itโs perfect for visitors who want to be close to the bars and clubs in the area. (DAY PASS available)
Island Sands Inn: A small, charming gay-owned guesthouse, Island Sands Inn offers a relaxed, friendly environment with modern rooms and suites, a private pool, and great hospitality. Itโs not clothing-optional but is LGBTQ-friendly, offering a peaceful space for guests. Located steps away from the bars, restaurants, and shops on Wilton Drive, it provides convenient access to the local gay scene.
The Inn on the Drive: This LGBTQ-friendly guesthouse offers a clean, modern stay with a beautiful pool area and comfortable rooms. Itโs known for its excellent service and prime location right on Wilton Drive. Located directly on Wilton Drive, this inn places guests right in the heart of the cityโs lively gay district.
FTL Beach Area Gay Guesthouses
Walking Distance:
Cheston House Gay Men’s Guest House: Located just a few blocks from Fort Lauderdale Beach, Cheston House is a well-established gay menโs guesthouse. This clothing-optional resort offers a welcoming, relaxed vibe with an outdoor pool, sun deck, and complimentary breakfast. Its proximity to both the beach and the city’s vibrant gay nightlife makes it a popular choice for tourists.
The Worthington Guesthouse Complex: A trio of interconnected clothing-optional resortsโThe Worthington, The Alcazar, and Villa Veniceโthis complex is a prime destination for gay men visiting Fort Lauderdale. Just a short walk from Sebastian Street Beach, the Worthington offers several pools, hot tubs, and a fun, social atmosphere. This resort is known for its frequent pool parties and happy hours, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a lively experience.
Grand Resort and Spa: Located just a couple of blocks from the beach, this luxurious spa resort is gay-owned and caters primarily to gay men, but is welcoming to all LGBTQ travelers. The Grand Resort offers full spa services, a clothing-optional pool, and beautifully landscaped grounds, providing guests with a relaxing and rejuvenating stay. The beach is within easy walking distance, and the resort frequently hosts events and socials for guests.
A Short Drive Away:
Pineapple Point Guesthouse & Resort: Although technically located in a lush, tropical setting between downtown Fort Lauderdale and the beach, Pineapple Point remains a favorite for gay travelers looking to enjoy both the beach and the nightlife. This men-only, clothing-optional resort offers luxurious amenities, including multiple pools, hot tubs, and a fitness center. Its tropical atmosphere and highly attentive service make it a standout choice for those wanting a mix of relaxation and social activities. (DAY PASS available)
The Big Coconut Guesthouse: Located a short drive from Fort Lauderdale Beach and a few minutes away from Wilton Manors, The Big Coconut is a charming and laid-back gay-friendly guesthouse. Itโs not clothing-optional but offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere for all LGBTQ+ travelers.
Coral Reef Guesthouse: Coral Reef Guesthouse is a men-only, clothing-optional property with a clothing-optional pool, hot tub, and lush garden. Located near both the beach and Wilton Manors, this smaller guesthouse offers a peaceful, private atmosphere with excellent customer service and a more intimate setting compared to larger resorts.
A 15 Min Drive Away:
Inn Leather Guesthouse & Resort: A niche, men-only resort catering to the leather and BDSM communities, Inn Leather offers a clothing-optional setting with a pool, hot tub, and playroom. Itโs a unique spot for travelers who enjoy kink-friendly spaces, while also being a short drive from both the beach and Wilton Manors nightlife. (DAY PASS available)
Beaches in the Area
Sebastian Street Beach: This is the most popular gay beach in Fort Lauderdale, located at Sebastian Street and A1A. You’ll often find a lively crowd of locals and tourists, particularly gay men, enjoying the sun and sea. The beach is within walking distance of several LGBTQ-friendly bars and restaurants, making it a convenient and vibrant area for the community.
Terramar Street Beach: Located near the W Hotel and B Ocean Resort, Terramar is another gay-friendly beach. It’s a bit quieter compared to Sebastian Street, making it a good choice for a more relaxed beach day.
North Fort Lauderdale Beach: This area offers a mix of gay and straight visitors, with a laid-back vibe. Itโs less crowded than the more central beaches and is popular for those who want to enjoy some space while still being part of the LGBTQ scene.
Haulover Beach: Located north of Miami in Haulover Park, is one of the most famous clothing-optional beaches in Florida and a popular spot for the LGBTQ community. Although it’s not in Fort Lauderdale proper, it’s close enough (about a 30-minute drive) and for those staying in Fort Lauderdale or Wilton Manors, Haulover Beach is a great day trip option if you’re looking for a more adventurous beach experience with an open, free-spirited crowd.
Events in FTL & Around
There is no shortage of Pride events
- Flock Fest Events
- Daddy Ersin Events
- Oakland Park Pride
- Miami Beach Pride or Winter Party Festival.
- Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade & Festival (June): A massive annual event celebrating LGBTQ+ pride, with parades, street festivals, live entertainment, and parties. It takes place in the heart of Wilton Manors and attracts a large crowd from across Florida and beyond.
- Fort Lauderdale Pride (usually February): Known as Pride of the Americas, this multi-day festival includes a beach party, a colorful parade, live music performances, and lots of parties in gay bars around Fort Lauderdale and Wilton Manors.
- Outshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival (October): Held in Fort Lauderdale, this film festival features screenings of LGBTQ films, documentaries, and shorts. Itโs one of the largest queer film festivals in the country and is a must-attend for LGBTQ+ film enthusiasts.
- White Party Week (Thanksgiving Weekend): A legendary series of events, White Party is one of the oldest and most famous gay circuit parties. Although the main events are in Miami, Fort Lauderdale often hosts pre- or after-parties for this iconic weekend.
- Wicked Manors aka Halloween in Wilton Manors: One of the biggest and most flamboyant events of the year. Wilton Drive turns into a massive costume party, with bars and clubs hosting special themed nights and events. Itโs one of the most popular gay-friendly Halloween celebrations in Florida.
- FlockFest: See here for their upcoming events.
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