when the sun dips below the horizon, key west transforms into a vibrant playground, offering an array of exciting options for a memorable night out. from captivating drag shows on bourbon street to energetic dancing at bourbon street pub, the island pulsates with energy.
thanks to key west's tropical climate, you can enjoy its lively scene almost any time of year, basking in warm weather. the peak season typically runs from december to march, as visitors escape colder climates to revel in this beautiful paradise.
for comprehensive insights, you can download the free gay key west guide.
also, consider booking a convenient organized transfer from miami or fort lauderdale to streamline your travel. once in key west, navigating the island is a breeze with various transportation options, including public buses, taxis, rideshares, pedi-cabs, tour trains, the duval loop bus, trolleys, bicycles, or simply exploring on foot.
the duval loop buses efficiently circulate through the most popular areas of the city, operating year-round.
these complimentary buses arrive at each stop every 30 minutes, starting at 6 a.m. for a luxurious stay, consider the marriott resort hotel, nestled on seven lush acres featuring a private beach and waterfront pool exclusively for hotel guests. for a unique experience, island house key west is an award-winning, clothing-optional resort catering specifically to gay men and pioneering the concept of its kind.
the rooms at island house key west are meticulously designed for comfort, boasting large, cozy beds, distinctive décor, and adjustable mood lighting to personalize your experience.
alternatively, parrot key resort is a gay-friendly hotel showcasing shimmering pools, inviting hammocks, and refreshing cocktails. immerse yourself in the lush greenery right outside your door, with downtown key west and the renowned smathers beach just a convenient shuttle ride away, offering a variety of watersports activities on-site.
guests at many key west accommodations can often enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast and bask in the florida keys' sunshine by the outdoor heated saltwater pool.
the elegant yet modern and comfortable suites and guest rooms provide a home-away-from-home atmosphere, featuring private bathrooms, air conditioning, flat-screen tvs, mini-fridges, and contemporary amenities.
many establishments offer stunning oases of tranquility, with amenities such as pools, jacuzzis, sun loungers, clothing-optional sun decks, delectable breakfast options, and friendly happy hours with complimentary cocktails.
some key west gems also grant complimentary access to the bourbon street pub and its nightly drag shows, as well as access to grand balconies overlooking duval street - perfect spots to enjoy a coffee, cocktail, or some people-watching.
accommodation options range from dog-friendly cottages to one-bedroom apartments and various comfortable guest rooms, some featuring small kitchens and balcony access.
amenities can include on-site restaurants, clothing-optional sundecks, pools, personal jacuzzis, gyms, complimentary happy hours, and continental breakfasts.
with hosts in numerous countries and territories and over a million listings, finding the perfect place to stay is easier than ever.
understanding the local gay scene becomes much simpler with the help of a local, and home-sharing provides an excellent opportunity to connect with someone who knows the ins and outs of the city, including the best nights to go out, the must-try restaurants, and the places to avoid.
key west attractions beyond the clubs
key west offers a diverse range of attractions beyond its nightlife, catering to various interests:
- butterfly and nature conservatory: immerse yourself in a tropical paradise.
- tropical forest and botanical garden: explore an outdoor living museum, also available for event rentals, ceremonies, and parties.
- the tennessee williams museum: this museum pays tribute to the legendary gay playwright, who resided in key west for many years.
the museum displays memorabilia from his life and work.
- key west shipwreck museum: delve into key west's history of pirates and conquest through a captivating collection of historical artifacts.
- bluq: enjoy sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, and sunset adventures.
- harry s.
truman little white house:
discover the history of this iconic building, where president truman spent numerous working vacations. - key west food tours: savor the best of local cuisine with passionate guides eager to share their love of key west's fresh, local, and historic culinary scene.
dining and entertainment options in key west
key west boasts a diverse culinary scene and vibrant entertainment options:
- schooner wharf: this funky, open-air bar features great musicians, fresh seafood, and unique special events.
- late da: a beautiful hotel, restaurant, piano bar, outdoor bar, and cabaret offering tropical open-air fine dining in a casual atmosphere.
- tempt restaurant: chef andrew nguyen crafts an eclectic menu that changes weekly, featuring innovative dishes.
- el siboney: experience the flavors of cuba at this traditionally cuban restaurant, complete with homemade sangria.
while key west offers an array of accommodation options, it's worth noting that it can be quite expensive.
if you're looking to splurge, you'll find paradise here.
however, if you're on a budget, consider exploring listings on misterbnb.
gay-friendly accommodations in key west
key west caters to a diverse range of preferences with its gay-friendly accommodations:
- alexander's guesthouse: welcomes women and straight allies, offering a more low-key alternative to island house with spacious, modern rooms and clothing-optional sunning decks.
- island house: a gay man's haven hosting out-there pool parties and catering to a mixed crowd of gay men of all ages.
offers day passes for those not staying overnight.
- the gardens hotel: a tranquil oasis near duval street, offering a peaceful night's sleep and lush gardens.
experiencing the iconic key west sunset
florida sunsets are unparalleled, and key west guarantees a stunning view every evening.
consider a romantic sunset cruise with champagne and hors d'oeuvres aboard a posh sailboat for an unforgettable experience.
exploring the key west gay scene
key west's gay scene is remarkably vibrant for its size, featuring three main gay complexes with distinct party vibes, as well as other notable establishments like bobby's monkey bar:
- bobby's monkey bar: a cozy and friendly dive bar where everyone knows everyone.
- bourbon street complex: features a downstairs bar and an upstairs club with drag shows and themed events.
- aqua complex: includes a front bar with drag shows and karaoke nights, along with a club open until late.
- saloon 1: an unapologetically all-male bar next to the bourbon bar.
- island house: famous for its clothing-optional male-only pool parties.
key west gay bars and clubs: a closer look
bourbon street pub and garden bar
the bourbon street pub is known for its lively atmosphere and the enticing presence of the speedo-clad bourbon boys.
check their facebook page for the latest information. the bourbon st. pub is open every evening until around 4am. it is located on duval street, just across the road from bourbon bar.
aqua bar and night club
aqua is a large gay complex within the duval gay triangle.
the first bar, aqua, hosts drag shows, karaoke nights, and gay bingo. the drag shows take place at 9pm on mondays and tuesdays, and 7pm and 9pm on all other days. poke is open every day until around 11 pm, and club aqua until 3 am.
and come to play they sure do… this is one very unapologetically all-male bar.
saloon 1
the first thing that greeted visitors inside saloon 1 was two sock-clad gentlemen they literally had nothing else on! saloon 1 is open every evening until around 4am.
it is located right next door to the bourbon bar at petronia street.
island house pool parties
island house is one of the most famous gay resorts in south florida, especially for its clothing-optional male-only pool parties. they host these parties twice a week - on wednesdays and sundays.
the sunday pool party is the most renowned and popular. the island house pool parties happen on wednesdays from 1pm to 4pm and on sundays from 1pm to 6pm. it is located on fleming street.
sunday tea dance
everyone is welcome at the sunday tea dance. each tea dance is themed, and tradition encourages dressing up or down!
many attendees start at island house for a sunday brunch and then continue the party at the tea dance. it is located on duval street.
navigating key west's club scene
the best gay clubs in key west are concentrated within the same three complexes that house most of the bars.
visitors are guaranteed a fun night out at any of these venues, and their proximity allows for easy migration between them depending on the desired vibe. the upstairs of the bourbon complex serves as the club section, featuring drag shows amidst cheesy pop anthems and latino pop beats.
the bourbon club is a popular choice, especially on saturday evenings. after being enticed into the garden bar by the bourbon boys, consider checking out the dancing area of the bourbon st. pub. these dance parties typically ignite around 11pm and continue until 4am. the entrance is located on duval street.
the aqua club parties take place every evening from around 11pm and continue until 4am.
the entrance is located on angela street. themed nights are particularly noteworthy, often featuring impressive burlesque shows for thanksgiving, christmas, and new year's.
key west drag shows
key west offers a vibrant drag show scene. for first-timers or solo lgbtq travelers seeking to make friends and experience the best of the gay scene, a drag tour led by a charismatic local is highly recommended.
randy roberts is a popular choice, known for his hilarious and talented female impersonations, including cher and bette midler. saturday is a big night for drag, with three shows between 7pm and midnight. these shows are unique as they are designed for all ages. booking tickets in advance online is recommended due to their popularity.
gay beaches in key west
key west boasts several gay-friendly beaches:
- higgs beach: a popular destination for gay visitors with shallow waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- smathers beach: a favorite choice due to its long sandy beach and shallow waters, located near the airport on roosevelt blvd.
- fort zachary taylor historic state park: while rocky, this beach is a gem with a rich history.
key west gay events
key west hosts a variety of queer events throughout the year:
- key west pride: takes place in the 2nd week of june.
- tropical heat: a 4-day summer male-only event in the 2nd week of august.
- womenfest: key west's equivalent of tropical heat for lesbians, held during the 2nd week of september over labor day weekend.
- the headdress ball: an annual ticketed cabaret event in october, part of the key west business guild's fundraiser.
- bear weekend: key west's largest bear party, taking over the entire island.
other considerations for a key west trip
while there are no official gay saunas in key west, island house offers a sauna, steam room, and cruising areas.
weekends at island house are particularly popular. key west offers a diverse culinary scene, making it a satisfying destination for foodies.