Gay hotels key west
These are the prime gay retreats in Key West, encompassing male-only, clothing-optional getaways, hotels, guesthouses, and exclusive mixed-sex accommodations.
Key West is a vibrant gay haven!
The island's history as a gay destination traces back to the 1950s, when renowned LGBTQ+ figures like Tennessee Williams, Gore Vidal, Jerry Herman, Leonard Bernstein, and Elizabeth Bishop made it their cherished home. Subsequently, in 1983, Key West became the first US location to elect an openly gay mayor (Richard A. Heyman), and later, in 2000, the island adopted the motto: “One Global Community“.
Currently, this remarkable South Florida isle has blossomed into a spectacular gay hub - one of the most prominent, indeed, throughout the entire US!
We have visited Key West repeatedly, always relishing the experience, particularly when exploring the vibrant gay bars of Duval Street. There exists a myriad of attractions for gay travellers; regarding accommodations, it was less a matter of "Would you mind a double bed?", and more a fascinating choice from among these exceptional gay hotels.
A wealth of choices exists for gay retreats in Key West, and we have compiled our preferred options, encompassing hotels and inviting guesthouses.
UPDATE 2025: Please note that the renowned Equator gay resort in Key West closed its doors permanently in January 2025.
&127987;&65039;&127752; OUR SELECTED GAY RESORTS IN KEY WEST &127987;&65039;&127752;
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01
Alexander's Guesthouse
Gay and Lesbian guesthouse • clothing-optional
Key Highlights
- High-end, gay-owned guesthouse
- Clothing-optional sun terrace
- Sun decks, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, and bar
- Complimentary breakfast and daily evening cocktail service
Alexander's Guesthouse is our preferred gay guesthouse in Key West. From our arrival, we were exceedingly well attended to. The property is exquisitely designed and intimate.
It exhibits rich character, housed within a restored, three-story Conch house from 1902. A Conch house is a typical Key West residence dating back to the 1800s, constructed of wood and elevated on posts, allowing for airflow under the floor. This style originated with Bahamian immigrants, then known as "Conchs".
What distinguishes Alexander's is its varied clientele, comprising both men and women, which contributes to a less exclusive atmosphere. It is proudly gay-owned but warmly welcoming to straight companions. The atmosphere is incredibly friendly. Quickly forging connections with others was a notable aspect.
Alexander's features spacious bedrooms with king-size beds and private balconies. Common areas include multiple sun decks, a pool, and a Jacuzzi. The communal spaces, additionally, permit attire flexibility. They also offer a cocktail happy hour at their appropriately named on-site bar: the Pink Monkey Bar. If travelling with a larger group, we advise renting one of their spacious apartments.
STAY WITH A GAY LOCAL
Misterb&b is the Airbnb equivalent for the LGBTQ+ community. Unlike Airbnb, you can confidently select a gay host, eliminating potential surprises at check-in. It's a terrific method for connecting with gay locals and uncovering the local gay scene. Click below to access a special offer of €10 / $10 off your initial booking.
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02
Island House
men-only • clothing-optional
Key Highlights
- Key West's largest exclusively male gay resort
- Fully clothing-optional
- Twice-weekly pool parties offering lively social engagement
- Enjoy the 24/7 heated pool, Jacuzzi, and pool bar
Island House is renowned across the South Florida LGBTQ+ community. It is undoubtedly one of the largest male-only, clothing-optional resorts we've experienced.
Enjoy the resort's amenities with a day pass, or stay for an overnight stay, Island House is a male gay traveler's sanctuary. Indulge in the excitement of the clothing-optional pool parties held Wednesdays (5-8 pm) and Sundays (12-4 pm). These events draw large crowds seeking social connection.
There exists a substantial outdoor jacuzzi, as well as a heated pool with an accompanying bar, both available around the clock. The happy hour, 5-6:30 pm, includes free drinks for guests. The upper-level sundeck, affording views of the pool area, provides a fantastic setting to sunbathe or appreciate the lively atmosphere.
Island House has multiple room types, including a selection with private bathrooms and shared facilities, along with lavish suites and apartments. If you're not seeking overnight accommodation, day passes for the use of facilities are available, as well as the engaging pool parties. An excellent gay oasis.
03
New Orleans House
male-only • clothing optional
Key Highlights
- A gay guesthouse located in the heart of the Key West gay scene
- Male-only and clothing-optional accommodation
- Free breakfast, happy hour, and gym access
- Free access to Bourbon Street parties
New Orleans House is part of the Bourbon Street Complex, featuring gay parties continuing into the wee hours. It uniquely stands as the sole male-only, clothing-optional option downtown Key West, situated directly on Duval Street.
Rooms are located on the upper floors of the Bourbon Street Complex, directly above the bars/clubs, leading to noticeable nighttime activity. However, rest is assured during daylight hours.
Despite being less luxurious, the guesthouse offers access to the Bourbon Street Complex amenities, including a large 15-person jacuzzi, a fitness center, a swimming pool, and a private clothing-optional sun deck. A continental breakfast is included and served on a balcony overlooking Duval Street, perfect for observing the local scene.
If your Key West objective is to engage in late-night activities and to be centrally located in the vibrant gay scene, this is an ideal choice, especially during weekends when the gay scene truly awakens! However, if quiet relaxation is prioritized, this location may not be the best option due to the late-night activities below.
Indulge in a Romantic Sunset Sail
Experience an unforgettable Key West sunset sailing excursion aboard an elegant sailboat. Enjoy champagne and delicious hors d'oeuvres as you witness the sun descend over the island…
Learn more
04
La Te Da Hotel
Gay and straight friendly • adults-only
Key Highlights
- Duval Street adult-only hotel
- Home to Randy Roberts's drag and cabaret performances
- Celebrated Sunday afternoon gay tea dance pool party
- Known for the jovial and charismatic owner/Chef Christopher
La Te Da is a large, gay-friendly venue with a wonderful restaurant, cabaret theater, bars, a pool, and a charming hotel.
While not clothing-optional, the hotel exclusively welcomes adults. A popular choice for gay couples, its central Duval Street location places it near other well-regarded gay destinations. We consistently enjoy the cabaret performances, especially those by Randy Roberts!
La Te Da's intimate atmosphere is enhanced by its limited 15 rooms. Luxury rooms boast marble baths, vaulted ceilings, and elegant hardwood floors. Common areas include a large pool and sun terrace. On Sundays, La Te Da hosts a gay tea dance party, providing an alternative to the more lively pool parties held elsewhere.
We greatly appreciate La Te Da's emphasis on couples' interactions, the absence of boisterous children, and the lack of the sometimes overly-familiar atmosphere found at other male-only resorts. The restaurant and bar frequently draw gay groups, and we are consistently impressed by owner/Chef Christopher's humor and engaging personality. The food here is consistently excellent, worth a visit regardless of whether you're staying.
05
The Gardens Hotel
Gay friendly • adults-only
Key Highlights
- Elegant 4-star hotel featuring lush gardens
- Two pools and a bar
- Scrumptious tropical breakfast served daily
- Duval Street vicinity yet peaceful nighttime ambiance
The Gardens Hotel, a highly acclaimed 4-star hotel famous for its wine collection, earned the prestigious "The Prettiest Hotel in Key West" title on The New York Times list. The hotel's stunning architecture and beautiful landscaping are consistently outstanding.
Its location near the gay scene of Duval Street provides easy access to the local gay community, yet maintains a tranquil ambiance at night - perfect for rest and rejuvenation.
Despite a mixed clientele, the hotel's welcoming atmosphere made for an enjoyable stay as a gay couple. Rooms are spacious and well-decorated, featuring shared balconies or patios. The hotel provides a secure parking area, which is valuable in Key West's increasingly competitive and costly parking market.
The complimentary breakfast buffet is of exceptionally high quality, one of the best we've experienced in Key West. We frequently enjoyed our breakfast by the pool, surrounded by beautiful gardens, a bird sanctuary, and soothing fountains.
The hotel's prominent feature is its wine gallery. Guests can utilize a smart card system for wine tastings, both on an individual basis and within group settings. The Gardens Hotel is a superb choice for gay couples seeking proximity to the gay scene, while maintaining a retreat-like atmosphere when desired.
06
Kimpton Ridley House (Cypress House Hotel)
Gay friendly • adults-only
Key Highlights
- Adults-only hotel spanning three historic buildings
- Limited 23 guest rooms for an intimate stay
- Charismatic character: housed within a charming historical Conch-style structure
- Gay friendly and welcoming to pets
Kimpton Ridley House, previously known as the Cypress House Hotel, is a gay-friendly, 3-star hotel, a short distance from Duval Street. While many sites still refer to the hotel as the Cypress House, it has seen recent ownership changes. The majority of the staff are gay.
The historic property includes three historic homes, including two Victorians and one Bahamian Eyebrow-style home (named for its low front roof).
The hotel boasts 23 spacious en-suite guest rooms, several with private balconies or access to communal decks. Common areas include a large outdoor pool, landscaped sunbathing areas, and a kitchen area. Unlike numerous other Key West accommodations, this property is pet-friendly.
Kimpton Ridley House is recognised for its welcoming atmosphere towards the gay community. The friendly and generally attractive staff readily accommodate couples sharing rooms. The property's appeal further rests in its charming historical Conch-style building and its intimate size.
07
Southernmost Beach Resort
Gay friendly • adult-only areas
Key Highlights
- Extensive resort right on the beach
- Three swimming pools, four tropical bars
- Delicious restaurant/cafe with beachside location
- Luxurious spa and state-of-the-art fitness centre
Stunning...simply exquisite!
The Southernmost Beach Resort stands as one of Key West's most luxurious hotels. Its sprawling acreage, housing two historic buildings, offers remarkable beachfront views.
Visually captivating, this venue is a popular choice for gay weddings.
The resort encompasses a vast selection of 261 elegantly furnished rooms, suites, and upscale private guesthouses. Each room is thoughtfully designed with a contemporary aesthetic and plentiful storage space. The resort features three distinct swimming pools, one of which is adults-only.
Guests can also enjoy four tropical bars located strategically throughout the resort. A private beach area, featuring a nearby tanning pier, offers prime sunset views. Other amenities include an expansive fitness centre, outdoor yoga classes, and the luxurious Petite Spa for relaxation treatments. We highly recommend the resort to couples seeking a luxurious and memorable experience.
08
Simonton Court Historic Inn and Cottages
Gay friendly • adults only
Key Highlights
- Intimate resort, housed within an 1880s renovated cigar factory
- Variety of spacious rooms, cottages, and townhouses available
- Four swimming pools and a lush garden area
- Serene tropical ambiance
Simonton Court is an adult-only, 4-star gay-friendly hotel occupying a sizable two-acre compound featuring historic cottages, a Victorian mansion, a townhouse, and an 1880s cigar factory.
The renovated cigar factory houses a selection of hotel rooms, and the surrounding area incorporates charming cottages.
The rooms are well-appointed with original features retained throughout. Bed comfort is a high point of the accommodation, as described as "like sleeping in a cloud!" by Seby. The resort boasts multiple pools and a lovely courtyard area for breakfast. Some rooms even feature direct pool access.
The property's history, dating back to Key West's cigar industry heyday, is reflected in the design and atmosphere. The lush foliage creates a tropical island ambiance. The Simonton Court is an appealing choice for couples seeking a peaceful and unique Key West stay.
Simonton Court Historic Inn and Cottages start at $269 per night:
Check prices now
09
NYAH Key West
Gay friendly • adults-only
Key Highlights
- Budget-friendly option
- Adults-only, gay-friendly accommodation
- Three pools and two Jacuzzis
- Located in the heart of Key West's gay scene
NYAH Key West, an affordable gay-friendly hostel in the otherwise pricey Key West accommodation market.
Key West, generally, is an expensive destination, making NYAH an excellent solution for LGBTQ budget travelers.
NYAH stands for Not Your Average Hostel, and NYAH Key West embraces this spirit! With the Build Your Own Room concept, you select all inclusive add-ons to customize your stay. There are 36 rooms available, accommodating groups of 4-6 people. Couples, however, can opt for private bungalows. A continental breakfast is provided daily.
NYAH Key West boasts three pools, two Jacuzzis, multiple deck areas, a bar with daily happy hour, and a lively social atmosphere, perfect for meeting other travelers and making new connections. The gay scene of Key West is right on your doorstep.
Things to Do in Key West
Key West is a gay destination brimming with attractions. We love GetYourGuide tours for their inspiration, ease of booking, and budget-friendliness.
Check top things to do
Safe Travels
Always consider reputable travel insurance before your next vacation. What if you experience illness, injury, theft, or a cancellation? Many travellers miss this crucial step, and regret it later. It's always prudent to invest in a little peace of mind.
Explore More Travel Adventures in Our Book!
We've published our own gay travel guide, "Out in the World", encompassing practical safety tips, first-hand accounts, and travel stories from some of our favourite destinations.
We hope it inspires a safe and enjoyable trip!