GAY FRIENDLY HOTELS IN KEY WEST
Ultimate Island Paradise for Gays
Choosing gay friendly hotels in Key West is more than just about booking accommodation. It’s about stepping into one of the most inclusive and vibrant LGBTQ+ destinations in the United States. Known for its laid-back island vibe, thriving nightlife, and rich history, Key West is a place where everyone is free to be themselves. With rainbow flags proudly displayed across guesthouses, resorts, and bars, the island is celebrated as a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you want to relax on a clothing-optional pool deck, party all night on Duval Street, or soak in the history of Hemingway’s home, Key West makes sure your holiday is both welcoming and unforgettable. Start to find your perfect gay friendly hotel in Key West!
Our checklist for Key West
- Gay friendly location
- A warm welcome from our selected gay friendly hotels
- Positive feedback from LGBTQ+ travelers
LGBTQ+ FAQ FOR KEY WEST
Can you walk safely as a gay person in Key West?
Yes, Key West is considered one of the safest and most welcoming destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers in the U.S. The island openly celebrates diversity, and walking hand in hand as a gay couple is common and accepted.
Is homosexuality legal in Key West according to the law?
Yes, homosexuality is fully legal in Key West and throughout the U.S. Same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ rights are protected by law, and Key West in particular has a long tradition of inclusivity.
What are gay friendly places to stay in Key West?
The most popular areas for LGBTQ+ travelers are around Old Town and Duval Street, where many gay guesthouses, resorts, and bars are located within walking distance.
What are the best gay friendly hotel is Key West?
Where can you find gay beaches in Key West?
The most popular gay-friendly beach is Higgs Beach, located near the White Street Pier. Another option is Smathers Beach, which also attracts a mixed LGBTQ+ crowd.
Where can you find gay bars in Key West?
Most gay bars are located along Duval Street, including 801 Bourbon Bar, Aqua Nightclub, and La Te Da. These venues are famous for drag shows, cabaret performances, and late-night dancing.
Are there Pride or queer events in Key West?
Yes! Key West hosts Pride Week every June, which includes parades, parties, and cultural events. Other popular LGBTQ+ events include Womenfest in September and the Bone Island Bare It All festival for clothing-optional fun.
THE BEST GAY FRIENDLY HOTELS IN KEY WEST
No worries, you’ll feel comfortable and respected in these LGBTQ+ friendly places.
This is a handpicked small selection of gay-friendly hotels, carefully chosen to ensure the highest quality for your stay.
Island House Key West
United States, Florida, Key West
- Clothing optional gay resort
- Weekly pool parties
- Near the nightlife of Duval Street
- Reviewscore: 9,0
Alexander's Guesthouse
United States, Florida, Key West
- Gay & lesbian friendly hotel
- Swimming pool in the backyard
- In typical Key West style
- Reviewscore: 9,5
The Gardens Hotel
United States, Florida, Key West
- Popular with LGBTQ+ travelers
- Breakfast included
- Adults Only hotel
- Reviewscore: 9,6
Heron House Court
United States, Florida, Key West
- LGBTQ+ friendly adults only hotel
- Historic escape
- Tropical garden with heated pool
- Reviewscore: 9,0
New Orleans House
United States, Florida, Key West
- Gay men's adults guesthouse
- Budget-friendly option
- Great hotelstaff!
- Reviewscore: 8,8
La Te Da
United States, Florida, Key West
- Adults only hotel: 21+
- Regular queer performances
- Atmospheric piano bar
- Reviewscore: 9,1
Do you want more options to choose?
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN KEY WEST
Don’t miss these must-sees during your gay friendly holiday in Key West
Duval Street
Duval Street is the beating heart of Key West and the place where nightlife, dining, and entertainment all come together. By day, you can wander through quirky shops, art galleries, and open-air cafés, but by night, the street truly comes alive. Famous bars like Sloppy Joe’s and Willie T’s offer live music and an electric atmosphere, while iconic gay venues such as 801 Bourbon Bar and Aqua Nightclub host drag shows and LGBTQ+ events almost every night. Duval Street is not just a place for fun. It’s the center of Key West’s open, welcoming, and celebratory spirit.
Mallory Square
Every evening, locals and visitors gather at Mallory Square to witness one of the most spectacular sunsets in Florida. But it’s not just about the sun dipping into the ocean. The Sunset Celebration turns the square into a lively festival. Street performers, jugglers, musicians, and magicians put on shows as people sip cocktails and browse local craft stalls. The atmosphere is both magical and social, making it the perfect place to start your evening in Key West before heading out to the bars and clubs.
Southernmost Point
The Southernmost Point Buoy is one of the most photographed landmarks in Key West, marking the southernmost tip of the continental United States. Painted in bright red, yellow, and black stripes, this massive buoy is a must-visit spot for a selfie. From here, you’re just 90 miles away from Cuba, and the ocean views are absolutely stunning. It’s a simple but powerful reminder of Key West’s unique geography and its role as a cultural crossroads.
Key West Lighthouse
Climb the Key West Lighthouse for one of the best panoramic views of the island. Built in 1848, the lighthouse has a rich maritime history and now houses a small museum detailing the life of Key West’s lighthouse keepers. The climb up the spiral staircase is worth the effort, as the top offers sweeping views of the turquoise waters, lush greenery, and red-roofed houses of the island. It’s a quieter attraction that lets you connect with the island’s heritage.
Dry Tortugas National Park
A short boat or seaplane ride from Key West takes you to Dry Tortugas National Park, one of the most unique natural and historic sites in the U.S. The park is home to Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century coastal fortress, surrounded by crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Coral reefs, colorful fish, and sea turtles make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Spending a day here feels like stepping into another world: secluded, pristine, and unforgettable.
Ernest Hemingway Museum
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum gives visitors a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of America’s greatest authors. The house, where Hemingway lived in the 1930s, is filled with antiques, his writing studio, and dozens of six-toed cats, descendants of his beloved pet Snow White. Walking through the lush gardens and learning about Hemingway’s colorful life and works is both inspiring and entertaining. Literature lovers will feel like they’ve stepped into a living chapter of history.
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