Gay Miami – Ultimate Travel Guide, Hotels, Restaurants, Bars & Activities (Updated 2024)
Gay Friendly Travel Guides 14th Mar, 2023
Gay Miami – the largest and most well-known resort city in the U.S.A., in Miami-Dade County, southeastern Florida.
Gay Miami In this updated travel guide, we’ll provide you with an in-depth look at the gay-friendly activities, attractions, hotels, dining options, and bars and clubs that make Gay Miami a top destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Gay Miami is a lively and cosmopolitan city known for cruises, South Beach, Cuban food, gorgeous people, and wild clubs and parties.
Regardless of whether you’re travelling on your own, with your partner, or a group of friends, Gay Miami is one of the most popular holiday locations for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Greater Miami and Miami Beach are both welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers, with annual gay festivals and a strong family-friendly queer scene.
If you are thinking about going somewhere else you can try other Gay Travel Guides.
Remember to always check out the latest rules and restrictions before you leave.
Gay Miami – the Scene
Since the 1930’s, Gay Miami is one of the world’s largest and most influential LGBTQ+ communities. It is now known as a gay mecca, with over 1 million LGBTQ+ visitors each year.
The LGBTQ+ culture in Gay Miami Beach is centered around the South Beach district with gay dance clubs, pubs, and restaurants, all along the beachfront.
Among the iconic nightlife in Downtown Gay Miami, there are art galleries and museums for LGBTQ+ logicians. The beach between 11th and 12th streets is known to be a popular gay hangout.
AxelBeach Miami and Hôtel Gaythering are two notable gay hotels in the area.
A visit to Palace Bar and Restaurant – famous for its drag brunches – is a must-see, followed by an evening visit to Twist, a South Beach gay nightlife staple, and Nathan’s Bar, a newer addition.
In April, tourists from all over the world flock to the area for Miami Beach Pride, a multi-day celebration and Gay Miami’s largest LGBTQ+ event.
Every year, the Wynwood Walls neighborhood holds Wynwood Pride, an LGBTQ+ music and entertainment festival that draws thousands of people.
The annual Gay8 Festival, a celebration that is considered the largest Hispanic LGBTQ+ festival in the country, also takes place in Little Havana (Center of Cuban food and culture).
Is Gay Miami Safe?
Miami is a safe city in general, especially for travelers. There are some risky spots to avoid, but they are far from the usual tourist attractions.
Pickpocketing and purse snatching are the most common sorts of petty crimes in Gay Miami Beach and in the congested downtown streets.
You should be cautious near tourist attractions because pickpockets are common there, but keep an eye out for suspicious activity wherever you go.
Best Time to Visit Gay Miami
Between March and May is the best time to visit Miami. While the rest of the country is still defrosting, you’ll be able to enjoy daily pleasant weather and temperatures at non-peak rates during these months.
Due to the year-round tropical environment and partying habits of neighboring Gay Miami Beach, tourists from the northern states, South America, Europe, Asia, and everywhere else flock to the city.
If you want to keep your travel expenses as low as possible, you should visit between June and August. Gay Miami’s summer temperatures are often hot and humid, plus the dreadful hurricane season begins.
Whether there is a storm or not, this is Miami’s rainy season. On the bright side, hotel rates will be at an all-time low.
Best Gay-Friendly Hotels in Gay Miami
AxelBeach Miami
This tropical oasis combines modern amenities with classic Art Deco charm, offering 160 stylishly renovated rooms, a terrace pool, and a Sky Bar surrounded by swaying palms.
Enjoy Barcelona-inspired tapas at the poolside restaurant or work up a sweat in the state-of-the-art gym.
| Activities | Swimming Spa Bar Restaurant Fitness Center |
| Price | $$$ |
| Location | Axel Beach Miami 1500 Collins Ave Miami Beach, FL 33139 |
| Contact | Call +1 (786) 628 6362 miami@axelhotels.com |
Blanc Kara
Experience the ultimate LGBTQ+ friendly getaway at Blanc Kara, a boutique hotel nestled in the heart of South Beach.
The stunning property offers 25 beautifully designed suites, each with its unique personality and style.
Whether you’re relaxing by the pool or exploring the vibrant nightlife of South Beach, Blanc Kara is the perfect destination for your next LGBTQ+ friendly escape.
| Activities | Bar Restaurant Coffee shop Gift Shop Breakfast Buffet |
| Price | $$$ |
| Location | Blanc Kara 205 Collins Ave, Miami Beach |
| Contact | Call 786-216-7205 reservations@blanckara.com |
Dream South Beach Miami
With 107 stylishly designed guest rooms and suites, each with its own unique personality, you’ll feel right at home.
Lounge by the rooftop pool at Highbar with a cocktail in hand, indulge in delicious Mexican-inspired cuisine at the on-site restaurant Naked Taco and dance the night away with the hotel’s prime location.
| Activities | Pool Bar Lounge Rooftop Terrace Poolside Bar Rooftop Bar Concierge Infinity pool Heated Pool Restaurant |
| Price | $$$ |
| Location | Dream South Beach Miami 1111 Collins Avenue Miami Beach |
| Contact | Call 305 673-4747 reservations@dreamsouthbeach.com |
Eden Roc Miami Beach Resort
This premier resort boasts unparalleled oceanfront views and easy access to Miami Beach’s top attractions.
From elegant accommodations to world-class dining and spa options, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to provide guests with the ultimate relaxation experience.
| Activities | Hot Tub/Spa Fitness Center Lounge/Bar Beachfront Pool Restaurant Concierge |
| Price | $$$ |
| Location | Eden Roc Miami Beach Resort 4525 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL |
| Contact | Call 305-704-7605 Reservations@nobuedenroc.com |
Hôtel Gaythering
Located in the heart of Miami Beach’s gayborhood, this unique property offers 23 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, a variety of amenities, a sauna, gym, library lounge, and much more.
| Activities | Sauna Bar Restaurant |
| Price | $$$ |
| Location | Hotel Gaythering 1409 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, FL |
| Contact | Call +1 786-284-1176 info@gaythering.com |
Recommended:
Gay Massage Miami
Gay-Friendly Dining in Gay Miami
From Little Havana to Little Haiti, Miami is a diverse feast of flavors. Multiculturalism is integrated into many parts of life in the Magic City, and culinary destinations’ menus reflect this.
Some of the extraordinary dishes have proven popular among locals and have contributed to the development of Gay Miami’s distinct culture.
From modest snacks to delicacies that grab the hearts, souls, and stomachs of the city’s residents. Every corner snack restaurant and fine dining establishment has something to offer.
1. Versailles Restaurant
For four decades, Versailles Restaurant, The World’s Most Famous Cuban Restaurant, has served delectable Cuban cuisine and culture to the South Florida community and those who visit from around the world.
Versailles rapidly became the gathering spot and unofficial town square for Miami’s Cuban exiles after it opened its doors in 1971.
| Types of Food | Soups and Salads, Seafood and Fish, Desserts, Chicken, Pork |
| Price | $$-$$$ |
| Location | 3555 Southwest 8th Street Miami, Florida |
2. Blue Matisse
The Chef’s Table concept at Blue Matisse is full of exotic flavors and sensations, taking you on a culinary adventure every day of the week.
Live interactive stations, hand-carved meats, ceviches, tiraditos, salads, hot and cold tapas, specialty entrees, and bite-size desserts are all available at the restaurant’s chef tables.
| Types of Food | Soups and Salads, Seafood and Fish, Desserts, Chicken, Pork, Grills, Pasta |
| Price | $-$$ |
| Location | 2505 Northwest 87 Avenue, Doral, FL |
3. Taco Rico
Taco Rico has been refining their exceptional menu creations since it started in 1992.
Taco Rico is more than just a taco restaurant. Burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, fajitas, chimichangas, salads, a range of lunch and dinner specials, a dedicated salsa bar, and vegan options are all on the menu.
| Types of Food | Burritos, Quesadillas, Enchiladas, Fajitas, Chimichangas, Salads, and Vegetables |
| Price | $-$$ |
| Location | 409 15th St, Miami Beach, FL |
4. Manolo’s
Manolo’s is one of Miami’s most popular eating spots.
Breakfasts, sandwiches, brick oven pizzas, burgers, empanadas, and freshly baked pastries are just a few of the items on the menu.
| Types of Food | Burger, Sandwiches, Steak, Salads |
| Price | $-$$ |
| Location | 7300 Collins Av. Miami Beach, FL |
5. Morton’s The Steakhouse
Morton’s The Steakhouse is the go-to dining destination for locals.
The exhibition-style kitchen, timeless main dining area, and lively Bar 12-21 make this venue the ideal place to indulge and celebrate.
| Types of Food | Soups and Salads, Steaks and Chops, Kinds of seafood |
| Price | $-$$ |
| Location | 7300 Collins Av. Miami Beach, FL |
Gay-Friendly Bars and Clubs in Gay Miami
Whether you want to check out nightclubs in South Beach, go salsa dancing in Little Havana, or relax in an artistic cocktail bar, you’ll find it under the moonlight in greater Miami and Miami Beach.
1. Twist
Twist features seven bars and three dance floors, happy hour until 9pm, and has regular themed events with drag shows.
‘Never A Cover, Always A Groove’ is their motto.
| Price | $$-$$$ |
| Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
| Location | 1057 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL |
| Contact | 305 538-9478 |
| Website | Home TWIST | SOUTH BEACH (twistsobe.com) |
2. Palace Bar
Palace Bar, on Ocean Drive, is Miami’s number one LGBTQ+ destination.
Palace is across the street from the beach and offers half-priced cocktails during happy hour. Weekend brunches are a local and tourist favorite, but you must make a reservation well in advance.
| Price | $-$$ |
| Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
| Location | 1052 Ocean Drive Miami Beach, Florida |
| Contact | 305 531-7234 |
| Website | Palace Bar Gay / LGTBQ+ Club, Drag Brunch & Shows – South Beach, FL (palacesouthbeach.com) |
3. Gramps
A non-exclusive gay bar in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood, Gramps offers live music, stand-up comedy, DJs, drag shows, and cultural events.
| Price | $-$$ |
| Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
| Location | 176 NW 24th St, Miami, FL |
| Contact | 305 531-7234 |
| Website | No Website |
4. Bar Gaythering at Hotel Gaythering
The hotel’s self-proclaimed gayest bar, Bar Gaythering serves cocktails with a twist in a hotel setting complete with games, lounge, and high-top seating, and eccentric design features.
Happy hour is from 5 to 7pm daily. The bar also hosts unique events most nights. Every Monday night, Hôtel Gaythering’s bar organizes karaoke with local queen CC Glitzer.
| Price | $-$$ |
| Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
| Location | 1409 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL |
| Contact | 786 284-1176 |
| Website | The Gaythering – Hotel Gaythering – Where Gay Men Stay & Play in Miami Beach |
5. Nathan’s Bar
Since 2020, Nathan’s Bar has been a safe, inclusive space in the heart of Gay Miami Beach.
They have an outdoor terrace as well as six private indoor spaces where travellers and adventurers can share a drink.
| Price | $-$$ |
| Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
| Location | 1216 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL |
| Contact | 786 284-1176 |
| Website | No Website |
Gay-Friendly Activities and Attractions in Gay Miami
While Gay Miami is best known for its sun and surf, there is something for everyone including fine dining, ballet, and art deco museums.
1. Adrenaline Junkie Ride
Departing from Sea Isle Marina your adrenaline-filled journey includes 360 twists, 180 spins, drifting, and high-speed cruising.
You then go to Memorial Island, Star Island, and Hibiscus Island for another jolt of adrenaline and a different view of the homes of the rich and famous.
| Activities | Water Sports, Jet Ski, Banana Vessel, Speedboat |
| Location | Collins Ave. Miami Beach, FL |
| Price | $$-$$$ |
| Availability | All Year Round |
2. Thriller Speedboat Ride
Begin your water adventure by speeding through the Port of Miami.
Cruise around Biscayne Bay, past Monument Island, and on to Star Island for a gentler ride, seeing celebrity mansions like Shaquille O’Neil’s, Elizabeth Taylor’s, and Ricky Martin’s.
| Activities | Speedboat Tour, Sightseeing |
| Location | 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL |
| Price | starting at $45 / person |
| Availability | All Year Round |
3. Tidal Cove
When you make a splash at Tidal Cove, you can expect daring dips, turns, and twisting spirals.
Tidal Cove is a gravity-defying raft ride, an experience that includes the thrill of a free-fall loop, and stroll down a lazy river.
| Activities | Swimming, Waterpark Rides |
| Location | 19999 West Country Club Drive, Aventura, FL |
| Price | $250 during the week and $95 on weekends |
| Availability | All Year Round |
4. Miami Parasail
With this thrilling parasailing excursion, you can add an extreme twist to your Gay Miami sightseeing. Take off from the boat for a spectacular flight 400 feet above the sea with 360-degree views of Miami’s skyline.
Choose whether to take a dip in the water or land immediately back on the boat without getting wet before returning to the boat.
| Activities | Swimming, Parasail |
| Location | 3400 Pan American Dr, Miami, FL |
| Price | from $1299 / person |
| Availability | All Year Round |
5. Jetski Ride
Enjoy the freedom of riding your Jet Ski through Miami’s beautiful waters! For all levels of experience, the new Sea-Doo GTI 130 pro is quick and incredibly stable.
Miami Watersports operates in a peaceful, protected harbor, ideal for honing your skills and improving your riding abilities.
| Activities | Jetski riding, Sightseeing |
| Location | Bayside Marina, Miami Beach, FL |
| Price | $65 for half an hour and $99 for an hour jet ski ride |
| Availability | All Year Round |
6. Paddle Sports
You are immersed in Miami’s natural beauty when you choose this smooth and soothing experience. As you sail through small tropical islands, look for wildlife such as manatees, sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, and dolphins.
Paddle to one of the neighboring Picnic Islands and disembark your kayak or paddle board for a nature ramble on one of the gorgeous secluded beaches.
| Activities | Kayaking, Paddling |
| Location | Bayside Marina, Miami Beach, FL |
| Price | from $35 / person |
| Availability | All Year Round |
7. Windsurfing
There’s no better place than the protected harbors and warm tropical waters of Gay Miami to experience the excitement of sailing.
This gorgeous Biscayne Bay sailing expedition is ideal for both experienced sailors and those learning to sail. The bay is protected from the rough seas by a series of shallow flats.
You can choose between two boat types: the HobieWave and the Hobie Getaway.
The HobieWave is a small catamaran that is ideal for beginners due to its ease of maneuverability, whereas the HobieGetaway is a longer catamaran that is a much better boat overall for anyone with a basic understanding of sailing.
| Activities | Windsurfing |
| Location | Key Biscayne, Miami Beach, FL |
| Price | starting at $60 / person |
| Availability | All Year Round |
How to get to Miami
From Canada
Air Canada offers flights from Ottawa to Miami, Quebec to Miami, Vancouver to Miami, and Toronto to Miami. The flight will arrive at Miami International Airport, and you may then book a taxi or car to your hotel.
From the United Kingdom
British Airways offers a route from London to Miami that takes 9 hours and 20 minutes, departing from Heathrow Airport and arriving at Miami International Airport.
From Italy
Turkish Airlines operates a nonstop route from Rome to Miami. The flight may depart from Leonardo da Vinci International Airport and will take 15 hours and 22 minutes to arrive at Miami International Airport.
From Australia
A two-stop journey from Sydney to Miami takes 19 hours and 11 minutes from Sydney International Airport to Miami International Airport.
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