south beach, miami, is renowned for its vibrant gay scene, beautiful beaches, and electrifying nightlife. if you're planning a gay vacation to miami, finding the right hotel is essential for an unforgettable experience.
this guide will highlight some of the best gay-friendly and gay hotels in south beach, along with some fantastic local spots you won't want to miss.
dining delights in south beach
no trip to south beach is complete without indulging in its diverse culinary scene.
here are a few must-try spots:
blocks pizza deli
blocks pizza deli is a charming, family-run italian eatery that brings the authentic flavors of italy to south beach. unlike many establishments, they pride themselves on using only the freshest, all-natural ingredients, completely avoiding freezers.
from the first bite, you'll taste the difference. expect delicious pizzas, sandwiches, and other italian favorites crafted with love and care.
daiquiri dogs
for a unique and playful experience, head to daiquiri dogs, located on iconic ocean drive.
this spot offers a delightful combination of frosty fruit daiquiris and gourmet hot dogs. it's the perfect place to grab a refreshing drink and a tasty bite while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of south beach. with shaded patio seating and big screens playing your favorite music videos inside, daiquiri dogs is a great place to relax and soak in the scene.
big pink
big pink is a south beach institution, known for its generous portions and budget-friendly prices.
this diner is a popular choice for breakfast, lunch, or late-night cravings, with breakfast available at any hour. the menu features classic american fare with a fun, retro vibe. whether you're in the mood for pancakes, burgers, or milkshakes, big pink has something for everyone.
r house wynwood
while technically not in south beach (it's in the wynwood arts district), r house wynwood is well worth the visit.
this gay-owned restaurant and art gallery offers a unique and artistic dining experience.
perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, r house serves up delicious food alongside stunning visual art, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
mercato della pescheria
if you're craving italian seafood, mercato della pescheria is the place to be.
this restaurant prides itself on using the freshest ingredients, with daily deliveries of seafood, homemade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and succulent steaks. paired with an extensive selection of italian wines, mercato della pescheria offers a truly authentic and unforgettable culinary experience.
cheeseburger baby
easily spotted by its bright neon pink signs, cheeseburger baby is a south beach staple for burger lovers.
their namesake burgers are particularly delicious, crafted with quality ingredients and bursting with flavor. the intimate, industrial-chic interior, adorned with modern art and glowing neon accents, creates the perfect atmosphere to enjoy some cocktails, dance, and mingle with both locals and tourists.
nightlife and entertainment
south beach is famous for its vibrant nightlife, and there are plenty of gay bars and clubs to choose from.
here are a few highlights:
twist
twist is the ultimate gay dance club in south beach, offering seven different bars all under one roof. with energetic bartenders, go-go boys, and a lively atmosphere, twist is the place to be any night of the week. whether you're looking to dance the night away or simply enjoy a few drinks with friends, twist guarantees a good time.
palace bar
palace bar is legendary for its daily drag shows, held every evening and during sunday brunch.
the performances are high-energy, hilarious, and a must-see for anyone visiting south beach. reservations are highly recommended for the bottomless mimosa brunch, so be sure to book in advance.
gaythering: more than just a hotel
gaythering is a unique and versatile establishment that combines a hotel, bar, and sauna all in one.
located in the heart of south beach, gaythering offers a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for lgbtq+ travelers.
gaythering sauna
the gaythering sauna is a popular spot for relaxation and socializing.
the facilities include a jacuzzi, steam room, dry sauna, three showers, restroom, locker room, and changing areas, providing everything you need for a rejuvenating experience.
south beach events
south beach hosts several lgbtq+ events throughout the year, attracting visitors from around the world.
winter party festival
the winter party festival is a staple event that takes place in late february or early march each year.
this popular circuit festival draws a vibrant mix of gay men, straight friends, and lesbians to south beach for a week of parties, events, and fun.
sweetheat miami
sweetheat miami is an annual event for queer women of all backgrounds.
thousands of women from around the world come to south beach and miami to celebrate their lives, build connections, and enjoy a safe and loving community.
beyond south beach: exploring the florida keys
while south beach has plenty to offer, consider taking a day trip to the florida keys for a change of pace.
key west day trip
key west offers similar attractions to south beach but with a more laid-back vibe and larger nightlife scene.
a full-day tour from miami to key west allows you to explore the island at your own pace, taking in the beautiful scenery and unique culture.
everglades adventure
for a different kind of adventure, join a small-group tour that includes an airboat ride through everglades national park, a drive through big cypress national preserve, a nature walk in a cypress forest, and a scenic boat ride through the 10,000 islands of everglades national park.
keep an eye out for diverse wildlife along the way!
important considerations for your stay
when planning your stay in south beach, keep the following in mind:
hotel policies
be aware that many hotels have specific policies regarding noise levels, especially if they have bars or entertainment venues on-site.
if you are sensitive to noise, request a room away from the bar when booking.
check-in requirements
guests are typically required to show a photo id and credit card upon check-in. special requests are subject to availability and may incur additional charges.
covid-19 measures
due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, many hotels have implemented additional safety and sanitation measures.
food and beverage services may be limited or unavailable, and certain amenities may be reduced. check with your hotel in advance for the latest information.
guest reviews
reading guest reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of a hotel.
pay attention to comments about room cleanliness, staff friendliness, location, and amenities.
choosing the right hotel
finding the perfect hotel in south beach depends on your individual preferences and budget. consider the following factors when making your decision:
- location: do you want to be close to the beach, nightlife, or other attractions?
- amenities: what amenities are important to you, such as a pool, fitness center, or spa?
- budget: how much are you willing to spend on your hotel room?
- reviews: what are other guests saying about the hotel?
sample hotel amenities and features
many south beach hotels offer a range of amenities and features to enhance your stay.
here are a few examples:
- free wifi
- non-smoking rooms
- facilities for disabled guests
- room service
- very good breakfast
- hot tub
- loyal customers (high repeat guest rate)
- king rooms, large king rooms, king studios
- bicycle rental
- happy hour
- movie nights
- temporary art galleries
- evening entertainment
guest review highlights
guest reviews often highlight the following aspects of south beach hotels:
- friendly and welcoming staff
- convenient location
- cool room decor
- great water pressure in showers
- refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker in rooms
- quiet and comfortable rooms
- complimentary bicycles
- little cute touches catering to gay guests
making the most of your south beach getaway
south beach offers a unique blend of relaxation, entertainment, and cultural experiences.
by choosing the right hotel and exploring the local scene, you can create an unforgettable vacation that caters to your interests and preferences. whether you're looking to dance the night away, soak up the sun on the beach, or indulge in delicious food and drinks, south beach has something for everyone in the lgbtq+ community.
remember to check hotel websites and booking platforms for the most up-to-date information on availability, pricing, and policies.
happy travels!