Gay Holidays to Fort Lauderdale

Gay Holidays to Fort Lauderdale


Think Miami’s cooler, calmer, and more confidently queer sibling. Gay holidays to Fort Lauderdale deliver tropical bliss, upscale vibes, and a thriving LGBT+ community in one of America’s most proudly inclusive destinations. With 23 miles of beach, hundreds of gay-owned businesses, and a nightlife scene that knows how to serve, Fort Lauderdale is where the boys go to glow.


Whether you want a laid-back beach break, poolside luxury, or wild Wilton Manors nights, this Florida favourite says: welcome home.


Sand, Sea and Seamless Queer Energy


Fort Lauderdale isn't just gay friendly—it's gay first. With one of the highest concentrations of LGBT+ residents in the US and a tourism scene built around inclusion, it’s a place where same-sex couples stroll the promenade, trans travellers feel safe, and rainbow flags fly year-round.


Beyond the beach, you’ll find art, food, spas and sailing—perfectly paired with sunshine and sophistication.


Top Things to Do on a Gay Holiday to Fort Lauderdale


This isn’t just a beach town—it’s a full-on queer retreat.


  • Relax on Sebastian Street Beach, the unofficial gay beach with a social vibe
  • Explore the Bonnet House or NSU Art Museum for culture with a tropical twist
  • Stroll Las Olas Boulevard – boutique shopping, al fresco dining, and art galleries
  • Take a gay boat cruise or sunset catamaran trip
  • Visit the World AIDS Museum and Educational Center – powerful and affirming
  • Unwind at a luxury LGBT+ spa, or sip mimosas at a rooftop brunch


It’s all about mixing sun-drenched serenity with unapologetic pride.


Wilton Manors: The Gayborhood of Your Dreams


Just north of downtown, Wilton Manors is the epicentre of Fort Lauderdale’s queer scene. Locally known as "the Island City", it’s an all-day, all-night playground built by and for the LGBT+ community.


Top spots include:


  • The Pub – laid-back fun with karaoke, drag, and happy hours
  • Hunters – dance until dawn with a diverse, energetic crowd
  • Georgie’s Alibi Monkey Bar – cocktails, shows and sass all week long
  • Johnson’s – male dancers, Miami vibes, zero apologies
  • Boardwalk – classic strip club meets gay cabaret


By day, Wilton Manors offers art walks and queer cafés. By night? Expect glitter, go-go boys and good vibes only.


Fort Lauderdale Pride and LGBT+ Events


Pride Fort Lauderdale takes place each February, bringing a rainbow explosion to the beachfront with parades, performances, and ocean-view dance floors.


Other standout events:


  • The Stonewall Pride Parade & Festival (June) – held in Wilton Manors, it’s unapologetically political and fabulously loud
  • OUTshine Film Festival – the largest LGBT+ film festival in the Southeast
  • Gay Days Fort Lauderdale – a full programme of pool parties, beach games and drag brunches
  • Atlantis and RSVP Gay Cruises – many of which depart directly from Port Everglades


Basically? Pride never really ends here.


LGBT+ Rights and Safety in Fort Lauderdale


Florida’s politics can be mixed—but Fort Lauderdale is a proud exception. The city has robust local protections for LGBT+ rights, a thriving gay government district in Wilton Manors, and an openly queer civic leadership.


Same-sex marriage is legal across the US, and in Fort Lauderdale, queer visibility isn’t just tolerated—it’s cherished. Most hotels, venues, and public spaces are not just inclusive but actively welcoming.


That said, we always recommend travellers stay informed and lean on our trusted advice to ensure safe, joyful experiences throughout their stay.


Why Book With Wide Awake Holidays?


At Wide Awake Holidays, we believe that “sometimes gay-friendly isn’t friendly enough.” And in a place like Fort Lauderdale, that means curating the best of queer comfort, luxury and connection.


Booking with us means:


  • Full ATOL protection and Protected Trust Services
  • Tailor-made itineraries for beach lovers, party people, honeymooners or cruisers
  • Access to vetted LGBT+ resorts, hotels and tours
  • Always included: Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance
  • Travel experts who know the difference between token rainbows and real inclusion


From check-in to cocktails, we’ve got you covered.


Ready for Beachfront Bliss and Queer Joy?


Gay holidays to Fort Lauderdale are pure sunshine—with a healthy dose of sparkle. Whether you want to sunbathe, celebrate or just be, this is the place to do it.


Tell us your perfect mix of chill and thrill—we’ll make it happen.