Naples, Florida: A Guide to its Gay Scene

Historically speaking, Florida's Naples might not be the initial thought for a gay vacation destination. However, this tranquil beach town could now offer a pleasant surprise. While Naples isn't overtly characterized by a dominant gay presence, it presents an excellent opportunity to experience a nuanced LGBTQ nightlife, complemented by an extensive array of activities, dining options, and avenues for relaxation.

How the Tourism Bureau Fosters LGBTQ Travel

Although the Naples area has traditionally catered to affluent, heterosexual, retired couples and senior travelers, the demographic makeup is undergoing a transformation. Naples is demonstrating a significantly more welcoming stance towards the LGBTQ community than ever before. While various factors contribute to this increased inclusivity, such as the presence of Naples Pride, the strategic marketing initiatives undertaken by the Paradise Coast Visitor's Bureau are proving to be instrumental. Furthermore, it would be an oversight not to acknowledge Michelle Pirre, a valued ally and Tourism Sales Assistant for the Visitor's Bureau.

As a staunch supporter and the parent of an LGBTQ individual, Pirre is actively involved in nearly every Naples-based LGBTQ organization. Additionally, she participates in global LGBTQ travel conferences, statewide pride events, and has engaged with numerous LGBTQ leaders and influencers, all with the objective of positioning Naples as a preferred destination for LGBTQ visitors.

Accommodation Options

Within and surrounding the Naples vicinity, numerous hotels and resort lodgings are available. Presented below are a select few favored choices, ranging from opulent to budget-friendly selections.

La Playa Beach and Golf Resort

For those seeking a luxurious experience, consider securing accommodation at the La Playa Beach and Golf Resort. This establishment, home to the acclaimed BALEEN restaurant, ensures you can savor authentic local cuisine without leaving the resort premises.

The guest rooms at this hotel are meticulously designed and offer exceptional comfort. The resort boasts a private beach that provides breathtaking vistas of the Gulf. For swimming enthusiasts, the on-site pools are not only generously sized but also uniquely crafted to evoke a sense of being transported to a tropical island paradise.

To enhance your relaxation, indulge in a massage or a spa treatment. Alternatively, maintain your fitness routine at the well-equipped on-site gymnasium. Guests can also enjoy a round of golf on the 18-hole Robert Cupp-designed course before retreating to one of La Playa's recently refurbished suites.

You might also find my personal account of a solo gaycation at LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort insightful.

Holiday Inn Express and Suites - Downtown Naples 5th Avenue

Its prime location is a significant advantage! The Holiday Inn Express and Suites situated on Downtown Naples' 5th Avenue offers a central hub. This hotel on 5th Avenue is conveniently within walking distance to high-end shopping destinations, luxurious spas, and the most picturesque Naples beaches. For guests with a packed agenda, a complimentary grab-and-go breakfast featuring a diverse assortment of hot and cold options is provided daily. The beds are exceptionally comfortable, the rooms are spacious, and the staff is consistently friendly and helpful.

The Holiday Inn Express and Suites also serves as the official lodging for Naples Pride. Whether you are participating in a T-Dance pool party or enjoying an impromptu getaway, be sure to bask in the sunshine and perhaps savor a beverage or two from the tiki bar, remembering to drink responsibly, of course.

Staybridge Suites, Naples-Gulf Coast on Tamiami Trail

This accommodation option, which is both pet-welcoming and reasonably priced, offers proximity to all major attractions. This all-suite establishment features expansive rooms equipped with full kitchens. Among the convenient amenities are ample workspace, spotless and updated bathrooms, flat-screen televisions, and generous closet space.

Consult our guide to pet-friendly vacations in Naples for a comprehensive review of Staybridge Suites.

Please note: A modest pet deposit of $75 per pet per week is levied by the property.

Gay Naples Nightlife and Dining Experiences

Bambusa's Bar & Grill

Empire Plaza, 600 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples

Bambusa's Bar & Grill is recognized as the primary LGBTQ gathering spot in Naples. It stands out as the go-to establishment in town for experiencing drag performances, connecting with local LGBTQ individuals, and enjoying a blend of entertainment and events; however, it transcends the typical gay bar stereotype, offering more than just average bar fare. The culinary offerings at Bambusa alone warrant a visit!

Every dish we sampled proved to be absolutely delicious. From the Butternut Ravioli to the Sesame Seared Tuna and Salmon, and the Tortellacci, not a single bite was left uneaten. The beverages were equally delightful.

Bambusa also provides a range of event services, including catering, private functions, and dinner parties.

Celebration Park

2880 Becca Ave, Naples, FL 34112

This food truck park, owned by lesbians, boasts an eclectic selection of culinary delights to satisfy every preference. Whether your craving leans towards Asian cuisine, authentic lobster rolls from Maine, or a taste of Greece, Celebration Park offers a global gastronomic journey. Don't forget to complement your meal with some ice cream. Additionally, you can enjoy live musical performances, refreshing beverages (the margaritas were a particular favorite), and scenic water views.

Celebration Park hosts fundraising events for Naples Pride throughout the year, including the highly anticipated "Live with Pride" celebration on the final Sunday of June. This all-day event features the renowned Pride Punch, artistic activities, delectable food, and captivating live music.

Three60 Market

2891 Bayview Drive, Naples, FL 34112

Situated across the bay from Celebration Park and owned by the same enterprising couple, Three60 Market is a culinary haven and provisions store. This charming café and market is a dream for food enthusiasts. You can savor a meal by the waterfront or opt for a convenient grab-and-go option, depending on your preference. Be sure to explore the newly established Three60 Wine shop, the latest addition to their expanding portfolio of successful LGBTQ-owned establishments in Naples.

Rebecca's Wine Bar

2955 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL 34112

The most recent venture in this couple's expanding business network is Rebecca's Wine Bar, nestled within the vibrant Bayshore Arts District. It serves as a central meeting point for wine aficionados, featuring an impressive forty-foot bar, an extensive and distinguished wine selection, expertly crafted cocktails, as well as charcuterie and artisanal cheeses. The sophisticated ambiance and relaxed atmosphere combine to create an ideal setting for an enjoyable evening with friends or a romantic outing.

It is highly recommended that you visit the Three60 Wine Shop to procure a bottle or two to take home.

Bistro 821

821 5th Ave S, Naples

Positioned on the cosmopolitan Fifth Avenue South, Bistro 821 holds the distinction of being the longest-standing dining establishment in the vicinity. It artfully blends Asian, European, and American culinary influences to deliver a fresh seafood and beef dining experience.

Guests are strongly encouraged not to miss out on the weekly Prime Rib Night held every Thursday. For a single price, patrons can treat themselves to a generous 14-ounce cut of slow-roasted prime rib accompanied by their selection of delectable side dishes.

Jane's Garden Cafe

1209 3rd St S, Naples

Make your way to the fountain in Camargo Courtyard on the thirteenth street and experience the delightful offerings at Jane's Garden Cafe, renowned for its award-winning breakfasts featuring comforting dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients. Among the popular choices are the Crab Cakes, Eggs Benedict, French Toast, and other classic culinary selections.

It is advisable to check for any weekend specials before your visit to Jane's!

Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro

865 5th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102

Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro offers an innovative and visually appealing experience that delights both the senses of sight and taste. This establishment on 5th Avenue presents "old world flavor" infused with "new world flair." Its bold flavor profiles, subtle sweet notes, and aromatic spices solidify its position as an award-winning cuisine and a must-visit destination on our list.

Furthermore, Bha! Bha! is proudly LGBTQ-owned!

Naples Princess Dinner Cruise

550 Port O Call Way, Naples

Offering both scenic touring and dining opportunities, the Naples Princess provides a buffet-style dinner coupled with an unforgettable chance to witness Naples' signature, albeit elusive, Green Flash. Additionally, you will receive a guided narration of prominent locations such as Naples Bay, Port Royal, and Royal Harbor.

Regarding the cuisine, the menu for the Sunset Dinner Cruise is subject to change and features exquisite dishes, including Carved Prime Rib, Beef Tenderloin, Roast Beef, and freshly prepared seafood.

Activities and Pursuits

Boasting award-winning beaches, exceptional fishing opportunities, boating excursions, Everglades adventures, live theatrical and musical performances, engaging museums, vibrant art galleries, historical landmarks, a remarkable craft beer and culinary scene, rejuvenating spas, and world-class shopping facilities, alongside championship golf courses and reasonably priced resorts and hotels - Naples genuinely offers something for every visitor.

Retail Therapy

5th Avenue

Venture to 5th Avenue for an unparalleled shopping spree. This iconic "Main Street" of downtown Naples is lined with a diverse array of establishments, encompassing both well-known brands and independent boutiques, catering to a wide spectrum of budgets, age groups, and lifestyles. Our recommendations include? Acquiring a charming trinket, priced between $5 and $30, from Best of Everything. The selection of sterling silver and fashion jewelry is both extensive and varied. Handbags, scarves, hair accessories, sunglasses, gift items, and plush toys are artfully displayed within this exceptionally appealing retail space.

Subsequently, make your way to Gallery One for a combined artistic and shopping encounter. As one of Naples' most long-established art galleries, Gallery One has been showcasing high-quality Contemporary Art and Unique American Crafts since 1992. Representing over three hundred artists, the eye-catching displays feature an extensive and varied collection of colorful art glass, sculptures, original paintings, artisan jewelry, the distinctive 'Frogman' bronze frogs, and Judaica.

Take a moment to explore our comprehensive travel guide to 5th Avenue.

Sticks and Stones Collection

Once you have concluded your exploration of the downtown area, proceed to Sticks and Stones Collection, located at 5857 Shirley St, Naples Fl 34109. This establishment, which is LGBTQ-owned, is brimming with natural home decor and furnishings, including live-edge and teak root tables, sculptures and wall art, petrified wood, quartz crystals, fossils, and other mineral-based accessories. These distinctive, one-of-a-kind pieces are sourced from across the globe and brought to Naples to enhance the décor of homes and hotels throughout the region. Interior designers, take note - this is a retail destination well worth investigating! The owner, Cori Craciun, also holds the position of President for Naples Pride.

Tin City Waterfront Shops

Tin City Waterfront Marketplace, situated in Historic downtown Naples, FL, represents the area's original shopping attraction. It comprises three distinctive buildings linked by a waterfront boardwalk alive with activity, featuring over thirty charming boutiques, two waterfront dining establishments, and a variety of aquatic pursuits, such as daily sightseeing cruises, fishing charters, and exhilarating jet boat rides, among others!

Artistic Endeavors and Museums

For those with an inclination towards cultural enrichment, a visit to Artis-Naples is recommended, which serves as the venue for the Naples Philharmonic and The Baker Museum. This impressive three-story complex was previously known as the Naples Museum of Art.

If historical exploration is more your preference, consider visiting the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center or touring Palm Cottage. Constructed in 1895, it stands as the oldest surviving residence in Naples, now housing a museum within its historic walls.

Outdoor Pursuits

Trike Tours At Tin City

1200 5th Ave S, Naples

For visitors seeking intimate knowledge of Naples' popular locales and historical landmarks, booking a 90-minute Trike Tour at Tin City is highly recommended. Over the course of this hour and a half, you will have the opportunity to admire the picturesque scenery of Cambier Park, the Naples Yacht Club, Crayton Cove, Bayfront, and numerous other visually appealing locations.

Don't forget to grab a bite to eat at the pier following your expertly guided tour!

Naples Botanical Gardens

4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples

While the Naples region is primarily recognized for the Everglades and its golfing facilities, few experiences can match the enchantment of the Naples Botanical Garden. As recognized by Trip Advisor, the Naples Botanical Garden is described as "a 170-acre world-class garden paradise showcasing the flora and cultures of tropical and subtropical regions. It features an interactive Children's Garden, along with ninety acres of meticulously restored natural habitats, walking paths, and a Butterfly Garden, providing educational entertainment and enjoyment for individuals of all ages.

Pure Florida Offshore Fishing

For those embarking on offshore fishing expeditions, return to Tin City and enlist for a Pure Florida Deep Sea Fishing Adventure. Our attempt to venture out on the day of our visit, aiming to reach fifteen miles offshore for some angling, was unfortunately thwarted by adverse weather conditions, necessitating our return to shore. Safety, after all, is paramount!

Beaches

Two of the premier beaches in Naples are Vanderbilt Beach, where loggerhead sea turtles are frequently observed during the summer months, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, which offers some of the most untouched coastal stretches in the state for both visitors and residents to relish. Nevertheless, all the beaches along the Naples coastline are characterized by tranquil sunsets and remarkably clear blue waters.

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples

The Naples Zoo is a nationally accredited zoological facility situated within a tropical environment. Here, you can encounter popular animals such as lions, giraffes, monkeys, pythons, and bears. Furthermore, the Zoo hosts special exhibitions and showcases a variety of less commonly seen creatures, including the fosa from Madagascar or a giant anteater. By seamlessly integrating conservation efforts with recreational activities, the Naples Zoo offers engaging experiences for every generation.

Naples Pride

Should you find yourself searching for an authentic Naples gay experience and feeling that it remains elusive, you are in for good news! The Naples LGBTQ community is here and thriving! The core mission of Naples Pride is to "unite and empower the LGBTQ community of Collier County and to provide emergency support for those in crisis."

Naples Pride Center

2248 Airport-Pulling Rd S, Naples, FL 34112

Established in 2020, the Naples Pride Center has become the official headquarters for Naples Pride. Naples Pride extends its activities beyond hosting an annual Pride Festival. This 501(C)3 organization diligently offers financial assistance for emergencies, vital counseling resources, and housing support to LGBTQ community members facing difficulties. Additionally, its programs are dedicated to promoting wellness, aiding in employment, facilitating social engagement, advocating for legal rights, and disseminating LGBTQ-inclusive information to the local populace.

Naples Pride Festival

The Naples Pride Festival is conventionally scheduled to take place during the initial weekend of June at Cambier Park, though the exact timing may be subject to adjustments due to weather patterns or unforeseen circumstances. This vibrant celebration has experienced remarkable growth, largely attributable to the commitment of a dedicated board of activists and leaders. Since 2017, this "all-inclusive annual festival has drawn thousands of attendees together to celebrate the unity and diversity of the LGBT community and to advocate for equal rights for all." It also provides a family-friendly atmosphere. With a continuous program featuring entertainers, speakers, musicians, performers, vendors, exhibitors, activities for children, and food and beverages, a day filled with enjoyment and festivity is assured for everyone.

Concluding Remarks

We must admit that initially, we harbored some skepticism regarding the prospect of writing a Gay Florida Travel experience review focused on Naples. However, the exceptional culinary scene, breathtaking sunsets, comfortable accommodations, and restaurants owned and operated by LGBTQ individuals were compelling enough to inspire multiple return visits. If your objectives include relaxation, romance, or engaging recreation, look no further than Naples, Florida. For further details pertaining to Naples, kindly consult the website of the Paradise Coast Visitor's Bureau.

Important Notice: It is highly probable that this publication contains affiliate links or sponsored content. Should you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a modest commission at no additional cost to you (for which we express our sincere gratitude).

Furthermore, while we endeavor to highlight destinations and businesses that are demonstrably LGBTQ-friendly, the information presented is based solely on personal experiences and recommendations from community partners. Our sincere hope is that no individual encounters discrimination or homophobia during their visit to Florida; however, we are unable to provide explicit guarantees. We kindly request that you inform us if you experience any instances of discrimination or homophobia while visiting any destination, so that we may update our recommendations accordingly.