Key West is foodie paradise! Nice has recently become one of the gay hot spots on the Mediterranean. The current owners purchased the property in 1999 and completely renovated the complex. A 24 mile island with a huge personality, funky and quirky residents, and a live-and-let-live mindset, Key West really makes you never want to leave. It was just some naked guys hanging out and getting to know each other. We chose a familiar destination Southern Florida, Fort Lauderdale, and Key West specifically. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. A Delectable Destination for Foodies, DENEVIN MIRANDA: EXECUTIVE CHEF IN CHARGE OF FOOD & BEVERAGE SLS LUX BRICKELL HOTEL & RESIDENCES, Best Southern Biscuits & Gravy from Trina Gregory-Propst, Jacobys Restaurant and Mercantile, Austin, Texas, International Holiday Recipes | PASSPORT Magazine, Traveling Gourmet: Recipes From My Favorite Restaurants In The World, Traveling Gourmet My Favorite Restaurants In The World, HOTEL THERAPY: Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Mditerrane. Enjoy exclusively gay or clothing optional outfitters in some cases, such as the BluQ catamaran. Mid-Range On Today Bars Dance Clubs Cruising Tours Culture Beaches City Guide Gay Map So, I spoke to everyone. The grounds are a stunning oasis of tranquility featuring a pool and jacuzzi, sun loungers, clothing-optional sun decks, delicious breakfast and a friendly happy hour with complimentary cocktails. Some guys were initially taken aback by my aggressive friendlinessthey, too, werent used to attractive queer men being nice. Create a charming quaint wood garden gate from these authentic 1880s designs. Celebrity cruises to Key West, Florida typically dock in Pier B, which is a short walk from many attractions. The Lambert Signature Cocktail of The Hammered Lamb in Orlando, Florida. Whats obvious about Island House is that it caters to every kind of gay man. . Key West Wind & Wine Sunset Sail. While those behemoth cruise ships invariably docked along the waterline and those pesky tourists continue . Key West's Safer Cleaner Ships initiative and 62% of Key West voters aimed to do just that by banning . Cruise ships recently returned to Key West. I would be remiss not to mention that I had mental reservations, though. Denmark itself was the first country in the world to legalize same-sex unions back in 1989 and has since legalized same-sex marriage in 2012. Even though Island House is known for its sexual energy, its also just a great place to enjoy the sun, find a spot poolside to read a book, or simply be left alone if that is what you prefer. For decades, Key West has created its own creative and eclectic vibe. Every nuance of this special place required methodical planning, from the amenities in the rooms and the shared spaces to the 24-hour menu served at the poolside caf and bar. 2023. Ron DeSantis signed a bill that overturned the limits Key West voters approved last November . just like I remembered from my childhood visits decades before. lesbians or a combination of the two. Christmas gilded walnuts with a hidden trinket have delighted children for centuries. Saloon was a clothing-optional bar, which I hadn't realized. Enter the e-mail address associated with the account. It is great for snorkeling. As the southernmost point in the swaying palms, furnished with island wicker, rattan, and the expected This area is just outside the cruise ship docking area. Among them and most notably is the former personal home of famous author Ernest Hemmingway. Copenhagen is an urban city with a population of just over a million inhabitants. Walking tours of Key Wes t are the best way to see the island's . Traveling Gourmet My Favorite Middle Eastern And Passport Profile Bruce LaBruce Provocateur, Writer and Pride Follies Variety Show Premieres in Key West on May 22, Gay Party: Tropical Heat Returns to Key West, Your Guide to Fantasy Fest 2021 in Key West, The Headdress Ball at Fantasy Fest, Key West, Key West Concierge Serena Fackos of NYAH (Not Your Average Hotel), https://player.vimeo.com/video/794576247?loop=0. Eye-Catching Tubs for a Vintage Bath (Slideshow). At the A&B Lobster House, you can enjoy sunset over the harbor from their outdoor, wrap-around patio. For a design-centric hotel option, The Marker resort is located steps from the Key West harbor and has three pools on-site, including an adults-only one. Allen was the long-time owner of the Island House Key West Gay Hotel & Resort and a former board chair of . It has a reputation for excellent quality. The place describes itself as a sex-positive, clothing-optional resort for men; my friends have described it as "much chiller than any Atlantis cruise. what to seeIsland House Resort Key West weekly pool parties . Remember that it is totally forbidden to have sex with children under 18. Review. Island House Key West Leads the Gay Lodging Industry as the Best Gay Clothing-Optional Resort in the World. St. Maarten. The Island House 3-Star Resort in 1129 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida, 33040 map all hotels in Key West top trending hotels in Key West, FL Why this hotel? The clothing-optional policy across its entire grounds creates an undeniable homoerotic environment that can be sexually charged. (1202 Simonton Street; 305-296-4811; open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily) Pepe's Cafe and Steakhouse opened in. This sidewalk corner is directly across from the Opal Key Resort entrance sign, and in front of the Mel Fisher Museum. From Miami, Key West is a scenic 3.5-hour drive down Floridas Overseas Highway (US 1). Serving traditional surf & turf dishes, its the perfect spot for a romantic dinner. Cruises to Key West, Florida . The Key West Lighthouse is one of the island's oldest structures. Hot tubs, Ive realized, are a great place to socialize because you're all sitting there facing each anotheryou basically have to talk. Five historic properties have been converted to create 34 guest rooms, each with their own unique charm. Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy | UGC Image Use Agreement. Key West city commissioners took up the subject of cruise ships Monday for the first time since Gov. On Friday's the host . LGBTQ Key West A Gay Guys Weekend Guide to Key West, 12 Reasons to Send Postcards When You Travel, How to Be the Best Airbnb Hostfrom a Guests Perspective, LGBTQ Brooklyn A Gay Guys Weekend Guide to Brooklyn. Island House and, frankly, all of Key West is the best of what gay culture has to offer. Cruise Tips. The final day was Sunday, when Island House had its big daytime party from noon to five. Island House: Treasure Island - See 634 traveler reviews, 258 candid photos, and great deals for Island House at Tripadvisor. The guy working the front desk, Gordon, was a former drag queen with strong Harvey Fierstein vibes. ISLAND HOUSE - Updated 2023 Prices & Specialty B&B Reviews (Key West, FL) United States Florida (FL) Florida Keys Key West Key West Hotels Island House 634 reviews #1 of 1 special B&B in Key West Review Save Share 1129 Fleming St, Key West, FL 33040-6997 1 (786) 563-4984 Visit hotel website E-mail hotel Check In / / Check Out / / Its why people come to Key West: the friendliness and freedom.. I fit that idealized gay mold to a tee. 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The guest house offers a large, lush and open private setting with two heated pools, two hot tubs, complimentary happy hour, coffee and teas and continental breakfast every day. You will be able to vote the Glory Hole and leave a comment so that the rest of the community knows your opinion. only for gays Review of Island House Reviewed December 28, 2016 Once you enter, you remain inside the hotel. Youll find copies in most of the gay shops, hotels, and bars around the island. Island House: Clothing-Optional Comfort in Gay Key West - My Normal Gay Life Gay Key West 2021 Travel Guide - Hotels, Bars, & Events 10 sizzling Key West hotel pools to maximize your sunbathing and cruising potential - GayCities Blog But I digress.). Enjoy the nightlife and excitement of Duval Street (restaurants, bars, live entertainment). Whether youre the shy and quiet type who likes to relax and lose himself in a book, or maybe youre the life of the party who wants to meet everyone over copious cocktails. BMI Songwriter, Vocalist, Recording Artist. Key West has a number of beaches that are just a short bike ride from Island House. Not only are we diverse as people, Island House celebrates being diverse in body types. Learn about his life and work and an introduction into Key Wests literary history with letters, artifacts, and memorabilia from his time in Key West. The Pink Triangle is on the 700 block of Duval Street, and surrounding sidestreets. I ended up meeting an attractive Italian couple by the pool, and started blowing one of them under the water. Your free room will be of the same type as your paid stay. In January, I celebrated a milestone birthday. We strive to create a supportive, accepting and non-judgemental environment so you can relax and be yourself. From Island Houses website, I couldnt get a sense of the vibe. The best source of information is Q Magazinethe only monthly guide to gay Key West. If youre looking to live like a gay local when you visit Key West, then you should check out the hundreds of accommodations available on Misterb&b. By the time we all finished, my legs were trembling. His work has been featured in New York Times, Rolling Stone, Washington Post, Playboy, and more. Enjoy jet-skiing, para-sailing, kayaking, snorkeling, sunset cruises, fishing charters, and sandbar day drinking! Find the best gay bars and gay-popular nightclubs in Key West, Florida. I had been looking forward to a celebratory trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, that my partner had arranged for us before the pandemic. Top Sights & Attractions for Cruises to Key West Key West Aquarium Hold sea stars, hermit crabs, and conches in the palm of your hands in the "touch tank" of the Key West Aquarium, plus enjoy free guided tours and maybe even a shark feeding session. Cruise to Key West, Florida You don't need to venture outside the United States to find the perfect island getaway. Tennessee Williams, a gay literary icon, called Key West home and the Tennessee Williams Museum offers a self-guided tour through his life and work. Featuring a large heated pool, indoor and outdoor jacuzzies, steam room, and 24 hour gym and caf; this clothing optional resort provides everything you could . Its wild to think that in three and a half short days, I felt like I had made lifelong friends. Victoriana showcases Victorian style home dcor and furniture, Victorian clothing and accessories, Victorian weddings and Christmas. You can spend the afternoon meeting other guests and easily connect with other guys during your visit. It was a novel experience. The restaurant serves fine dining with seasonal specialties and offers live entertainment most nights in an outdoor setting. Heading South The drive south through the Keys is breathtaking. Below we show a map of Glory Holes in Key West that has shared our community. Dickens Christmas Fair & Victorian Holiday Party, Fill a Christmas Hamper with Holiday Cakes, Over 1000 Rare Postcards Including Santas, Art Nouveau, Copyright 1996-2016, Victoriana Magazine. These activities might be offered to just guests or in some cases even to the local LGBT+ community. Visit Key West, Florida on your next Caribbean cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line where you can see the Key West Shipwreck Treasures Museum, the Key West Aquarium and more. 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It felt like Id landed in another world. Ever. In November 2020, Key West voted to ban large cruise ships and now Royal Caribbean is informing guests their ship will not visit the island. One of the best aspects of staying in a clothing-optional gay resort in Key West is the sense of community they provide. A reduced guest and crowd capacity meant that my experience probably wouldnt be as rowdy as all those, It would be negligence if I didnt mention the delicious food at the Island House Bar and Caf. Island house is located just a short walk away from many of the beaches, clubs, bars, and activities that happen in Key West, making it the perfect location if you're looking for a more . No, the Island House Happy Hour was free with a daily open bar from 5 pm-6:30 pm. View our advertising policy above. This where youll spot rainbow crosswalks and can easily visit the most popular gay bars and nightlife. The Victorian mansion boasts a riot of architecture styles including Queen Anne, Eastlake, Italianate and Stick attributes. The Worlds Most Sensational Spas 2018! When you are booking the three free nights, a $100 deposit is required to guarantee the booking. Ironically, if anyone could have an easier time going out in these places, it would be me. But this is just great to be able to sunbath naked everywhere. The hot tub hang wasn't sexualat least, not at first. A symbol of Keys resiliency, the Southernmost Point buoy is exactly 90 miles from Havana, Cuba. Big, tall, black, white, or small, Island House is a community of real people, all here to enjoy a fabulous Key West vacation. While seafood is available just about everywhere in Key West, there are plenty of other options, too. Key West Express - Jet powered catamaran trips from Fort Meyer and Marco Island to Key West. Whether you opt for a party-filled weekend of frolic and debauchery or a relaxed getaway with leisurely days by the pool, Island House is a Caribbean dream come true. Still, I managed to return to the pool to finish schmoozing. Our front desk TEAM can assist in reservations for less touristy destinations. Tasty tales (and recipes) from the Royal kitchens. People flock to this resort from around the world for their laidback vibe and amazing parties. There is a wide variety of well-appointed guest rooms, suites and apartments that are perfect whether you are traveling solo or with a group. Its worth wandering the grounds and taking a guided tour to learn more about Hemingways history in Key West. Having just witnessed public travel-shaming of millions of people who took trips over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, we pondered if we should still have a birthday trip in early 2021, responsibly of course masked, shielded, and socially distanced when necessary. Accommodations include a dog-friendly cottage, one-bedroom apartment, and a variety of simple and comfortable guest rooms some of which have small kitchens and balcony access. Similar to AirBnB, misterb&b is an online service that allows you to rent short- or long-term spaces from gay and gay-friendly hosts around the world. The hotel offers a 24-hour gym with sauna, steam room and multiple Jacuzzis. The Shipwreck Historeum takes you back in time as you discover Key Wests fascinating maritime heritage, and how it became the richest city in the United States. Enjoy a laidback Caribbean vibe with a dash of the high life on Carnival cruises to Key West. With over $3M in renovations, rebuilding, expansion, and upgrades, the Island House is quite obviously designed by gay men, for gay men. Exciting Summer Events in the Sullivan Catskills! walking on the tarmac, an airport with local art on the walls, and a single This special cannot be combined with other discounts with the exception of the return guest rates for paying nights. In Key West, many guesthouses cater primarily to gay men, Fodor's Expert Review Island House. In 1946, it was the winter White House of President Harry S. Truman. With a legacy of more than 45 years, it's the top gay resort on the island. Arriving to the small island airport was Along the way, we saw a straggler, and asked if he wanted to join; he said yes, and the five of us went to town having sex in every which way. Island House Resort- Tropical Heat 6,233 views Jan 3, 2019 In August every year, Gay Key West heats up with one of our hottest events just for men! swaying in the wind. 1129 Fleming St, Key West, FL 33040-6909 +1 305-294-6284 Website Menu. In the late 1970s the property was made into a gay mens hotel, and, once purchased in 1999, the Island House breathed new life. Small gay resort towns also became popular in the 80s and 90s in places like Palm Springs, Fort Lauderdale and Provincetown. Key West is one of the Keys islands in Florida. Still, I'm going to do my best to bring my Key West mindset the next time I get dragged to Hell's Kitchen. So, on the weekend of my birthday, we Uber-ed it to Newark Airport, donning our protective masks and shields, which stayed on our faces all through our flight and an uber ride to our guest house in Fort Lauderdale, where we would stay for three relaxing nights. Pool parties, foam parties, leather. Its full of energy and lifea classic example of that Key West vibe you wont find anywhere else. At the Island House, nobodys judging. Below we show a map of Glory Holes in Key West that has shared our community. Before the coronavirus pandemic idled fleets globally, cruise tourism in Key West had grown from a single ship that docked monthly in 1969 to a $73 million-a-year business. Gay Copenhagen the best gay hotels, bars, clubs & more. Montego Bay. The 100-square mile park is accessible only by boat or seaplane, and boasts picturesque blue water, coral reefs, marine life and rare tropical birds. But there was one I added, Island House, that I hadn't been to, although I felt like I had, given how much my friends had gushed about the Key West destination over the years. Gay Owned. They have great reviews by guests on TripAdvisor and theyve received the coveted Certificate of Excellence since 2010. Your email address will not be published. Fury Water Adventures offers a variety of high-adrenaline water activities and sports. It was a weirdly welcoming orgy. Key West, FL 33040 Get directions You Might Also Consider Sponsored Celtic Conch Public House 7 0.6 miles away from Island House Key West's newest authentic Irish Pub, Dining, and Rooftop Lounge! Theyre often private hideaways tucked underneath scroll down to see our latest Key west video, Stay 4 or more consecutive nights between, 4th of July, Bone Island, Tropical Heat & Labor Day. Have any questions on what's reviewed or suggested on this blog? Where once Key West boasted of many such bastions of relaxation and play, there now remain two or three. Where are Glory Holes in Everglades City? Also included is a gourmet cheese buffet and other appetizers, like summer sausages, water crackers with brie, green apples with a honey . However, the high season is from December to March when many escape the cold, winter weather up north. Amenities include a clothing-optional sundeck, pool, 15-person Jacuzzi, gym, complimentary happy hour every evening and a continental breakfast every morning. This is common in many of the gay resorts in Key West. Bicycles are the most popular request, and outfitters deliver and retrieve your rentals to and from Island House. SPONSORED From the moment I landed in Key West, I But for those who specifically want a gay property and perhaps even a clothing optional resort, we narrowed down the list to our top 5 gay hotels and resorts in Key West. BEST PRIVATE ISLAND, 20 YEARS IN A ROW PORTHOLE CRUISE MAGAZINE. (Sir, you and your mean-girl clique could have saved money by drinking vodka sodas at home if all you wanted to do was talk to each other! Cruise Overview Cruise News Cruising 101 Line & Ship Directory. The line can be long, especially on days when cruise ships are in port. I felt like I had a communitya gay male community that I havent been able to find in New York despite living here for four years. Key West Florida Reef Half-Day Snorkeling Excursion 1016 Enjoy an afternoon of swimming and snorkeling on this cruise off the coast of Key West. Special Offer! The poolside bar and caf are even open 24 hours. Learning about fashion through period photographs. And, for the more sober-minded, there's Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. All rooms are private and have a clothes-hanging rack, luggage storage, small bureau, USB alarm clock, electronic safe, ice bucket and small refrigerator. After the nightly Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square, make way to the parties on Duval Street at gay hangouts like 801 Bourbon Street for drag shows or Bourbon Street Pub for dancing. Other popular gay hotels in Key West are Equator Resort, New Orleans House, and Alexanders Guest House. Island House isnt just another hotel optionits literally the place to stay in Key West. 100% non-profit, The Tropics theaters were restored tobring quality independent and Hollywood blockbusters to Key West. At the Island House, nobodys judging. Key West is an entertainment destination as much as it is a foodie destination. Founded in 2014, misterb&b is not a hotel chain, but rather an LGBT-oriented booking site with listings from gay hosts for gay guests where you can rent a whole home or apartment or a private room in a shared apartment. The elegant yet modern and comfortable suites and guest rooms feel like a home away from home and feature a private bath, air conditioning, flat screen TV, mini-fridge and modern amenities. Duval Street, one of the most energetic strips of shops, bars and cafes anywhere, offers Sloppy Joe's bar, a favorite Key West hangout of novelist Ernest Hemingway. Save. Key West has been a popular destination for the LGBT community since the 70s. The sun deck and pool are popular all times of the day and night, and the rooms are all surprisingly spacious with plenty of on-site amenities. or out, except for the air-conditioning. Island House is an award-winning, clothing optional guest house for gay men. For the most part, we just wanted to enjoy the beach, hotel swimming pools, and responsible local dining. Key West is a unique gay destinationdifferent from other : Very Popular Gay Resort. An email sent to guests sailing on a Radiance of the Seas sailing on December 5, 2021 informed them that due to "recent . You literally couldnt be any closer to the Old Town party scene. Allen was active in both gay and straight issues, tourism issues and social service and cultural programs in Key West. Maybe thats what has attracted LGBTQ travelers to Key West for decades. Their Reef & Ritas Snorkeling adventure is a half-day tour that goes out to the Florida Reef (also called the Great Florida Reef) and includes unlimited margaritas! Since then . In a town with as much life and energy as Key West has, dont miss out on desert! Slideshow of unique and eye-catching vintage style tubs. Open now : 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM. Stay Connected With Margaritaville Beach House Key West. The free stay is subject to availability, has no cash value and is NOT transferable. 10 based on 1208 reviews. Join misterb&b Book a Room on misterbnb, Your email address will not be published. Key West has this mystifying effect. Visiting the Hemingway House in Key West The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is located at 907 Whitehead Street, close to the Key West Lighthouse and Museum. (Look for the celebrated six-toed cats). Island House Key West has been a long-time favorite destination for gay men all over the world. We'll e-mail a link to reset your password. Not only is this one of the best all-gay cafs, it rivals the best of Key West restaurants for a relaxed, fun, and delicious experience. Choosing your hotel in Key West is one of the most important decisions you make when planning your trip. Guidebooks. Sign up with misterb&b and you will receive a free $10 credit to use on your first booking!