reefs, watch breathtaking sunsets, swim with the dolphins then party through the night at clubs that know how to heat up the night? Then you’re ready for Spring Break in Gay Key West. This is the kind of spring break that you can remember with a grin and wish you had never left. This is a place where you can be yourself and feel welcome safe and free to let loose. This is Gay Key West.
Here’s what about.com had to say about what we have to offer.
The quirky, historic community at the southern tip of Florida (it’s actually in the Caribbean, about 80 miles from Cuba), Key West has been a mecca for gay travelers for more than a half century (and it discreetly cultivated a “family” following long before that). As a spring break option, it has a lot going for it – it’s among the warmest destinations in the country, so even when cooler temps prevail elsewhere in Florida, Key West tends to remain ideal for beach-combing and sunning by the pool. The palm-shaded community abounds with gay bars and funky restaurants, most of which are within easy walking distance of the several gay resorts in town (you’ll find a mix of gay-male-exclusive and mixed gay/lesbian resorts).
In recent years, Key West has actively courted gay college students, hosting an official Gay Spring Break Key West celebration, that’s helped raise its image and popularity during the spring break season. A number of businesses in town offer discounts to participants – just drop by the Key West Business Guild (513 Truman Ave.) when you arrive in town, present a student ID, and you’ll be given a pass entitled you to deals at gay-popular resorts, restaurants, and bars.
As a gay party destination, Key West works well because it’s a compact, welcoming community where a car isn’t needed to get around, and where it’s easy to mingle with and meet others at gay resorts and bars. It’s upscale but not excessively expensive, and it’s easy to find flights directly to the island from Miami, Atlanta, Tampa, and Charlotte (major carrier include American, Delta, Continental, and United). If it’s massive crowds, miles of beaches, and a circuit-party scene you’re after, Key West might not be your best bet – it’s happily laid-back and has a population of just 25,000 or so. But balancing cool diversions, gay-friendliness, value, climate, and beauty, Key West is a terrific overall gay spring break getaway.
Getting to Key West!
Delta Airlines
Fly Delta to Key West and save during Gay Spring Break 2012. Just go to www.delta.com and use Meeting Event Code NM8QY or call 800-328-111 ($25 service fee for booking by phone).
Where to stay
Island House Resort for Men
1129 Fleming Street . 800-890-6284 . This clothing-optional resort for men has a poolside cafe and bar, fully equipped gym, sauna, steam room, two Jacuzzis, and an erotic video room. Bring your Gay Key West Spring Break card and receive access to the Island House’s amenities – for free! www.Islandhousekeywest.com
Alexander’s Guest House
1118 Fleming Street. 800-654-9919. This luxurious LGBTA guest house sets the standard for island comfort and style. Complimentary breakfast and happy hour. Pool and hot tub. Multiple sun decks. Ask about their special Gay Key West Spring Break discount when you make your reservation. www.alexanderskeywest.com
Doubletree Grand Key Resort
3990 South Roosevelt Blvd. 305-293-1818. This 216-room, full-service, pet friendly resort was designed with a distinctly Caribbean style inspired by the casual elegance of the tropics. Enjoy complimentary shuttle service, high-speed wireless internet access, casual dining, a large zero-entry pool, and Tiki bar.www.doubletreehilton.com
Big Ruby’s Key West
409 Appelrouth Lane. 800-477-7829. This beautiful LGBT guesthouse is conveniently located in the heart of Key West’s thriving night life. Heated pool, hot tub, and a gym. Complimentary breakfast and happy hour. Voted by Out Traveler readers as the #1 Gay Bed & Breakfast Internationally.bigrubys.com
Equator Resort
818 Fleming Street • 800-305-296-5765 • Luxurious all male clothing-optional guesthouse with private grounds, heated pool & hot tub. Elegantly furnished rooms with private baths. Complimentary breakfast & happy hour. High speed internet. It’s always hottest at the Equator!equatorkeywest.com
Casa Marina Resort, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
1500 Reynolds Street. 888-303-5717. Enjoy a taste of tropical living at the legendary Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. Be a part of this grand tradition and enjoy modern luxury and over 1,000 feet of private beach, two ocean front pools, and onsite booking for exciting water adventures.casamarinaresort.com
The Reach, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
1435 Simonton Street. 888-318-4316. Discover a Caribbean playground at The Reach, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. This chic 150-room hotel offers a natural beach, beautiful pool, onsite water sports, and a balcony with every room. Only one block from Duval and the night life of Key West.reachresort.com
Bars and Nightclubs
Aqua Night Club
711 Duval Street. This premier drag club has great happy hour prices, a friendly staff, and a late-night DJ who will keep you on the dance floor. Bring your Gay Spring Break Card and get $5 off admission to their nightly drag shows.www.aquakeywest.com
KWest Bar & Liquor Store
705 Duval Street. Big things do came in small spaces! Amateur strip contests and great drink prices will keep you entertained. Bring your Gay Spring Break card and get 2 for 1 during Happy Hour (3-8pm). 705 Duval Street. 305-292-8500.kwestmen.com
Activities
Gay Key West Trolley Tour
600 Block of Simonton. 800-535-7797. Every Saturday at 11am, the Gay Key West Trolley Tour sets out on a historical and cultural tour of Key West that includes mainstream and not-so-mainstream sites including the Key West AIDS Memorial, Southernmost Point, Gay Guesthouse Row, and more! $5.00 off your ticket price with a Gay Spring Break card.www.gaykeywestfl.com
Danger Charters
245 Front Street. 305-304-7999. Snorkeling. Sunset Sails. Kayaking. Eco Tours. Wind & Wine Sails. Special Charters. Your great Key West adventure on the high seas begins with Danger Charters. Call Danger Charters directly and get 20% off when you mention Gay Spring Break. www.dangercharters.com
Discounts
Sturtz Lock & Safe
Locked out? We can help! Just call Sturtz for a quick, friendly response. Mention Gay Spring Break and receive 20% off our standard mobile fee. Sturtz Lock & Safe. We’re here for you! 3255 Flagler Ave. 305-797-0859. sturtz@sturtzlock.net
Evolution Key West
701 Duval Street. 305-293-2940. Distinctive and innovative brands typically found in New York, San Fran, or London including Superdry, Original Paperback, Handsome Boy, Deadbury Dead, and Andrew Christian. Your Gay Spring Break card will get you a 10% discount on your purchase. Check them out on Facebook.
