Key West Gay Bars

Set aside from mainland Florida, Key West is an island haven for LGBTQ+ travellers at the far end of the Florida Keys. Its location has always made the gay scene here a little different, incorporating many diverse cultures to create a community that's truly unique. The people of Key West are known for their laid-back and accepting nature, while the area itself is famed for its stunning subtropical beaches and the famous faces who have lived here. The likes of Tennessee Williams, Ernest Hemingway, and a host of others brought a culture of relaxation and openness to this remote beach destination.

Key West Hotel Deals

Gay Key West

801 Bourbon Bar

Drag

Located on historic Duval Street and just a few minutes from Ernest Hemingway's House, 801 Bourbon has been central to Key West culture for years. This multi-story complex hosts cabaret featuring The World Famous Drag shows every night, and there's also live music, karaoke, and bingo nights. The bar serves speciality drinks that change daily, and the space is a well established staple for the local gay community.

Aqua Bar and Nightclub

Dancing, Outdoor Seating

Located on the historic Duval Street, Aqua is the life of the Key West gay scene. It hosts drag shows, karaoke, and other live entertainment throughout the week, and you can dance late into the night thanks to the in-house DJs. Great value happy hours and all your favourite bar food keeps the party going, while out back there's a quiet garden bar that's the city's best hidden watering hole.

Bobby's Monkey Bar

Cosy

This is a truly local gay bar that's been a meeting place for community for years. As the name suggests, Bobby's Monkey Bar is a themed bar with monkey memorabilia around the bar and throughout the venue, making this a fun place that all gay visitors will want to experience. It's a place to meet locals and really be immersed in the Key West gay scene, with karaoke, daily happy hours, and a super laid-back crowd.

Bourbon Street Pub

Drag, Outdoor Seating, Dancers, Cruising

Key West's original and only video bar brings a New Orleans inspired space to this small-town gay scene. The venue includes a male only garden bar where clothing is optional, and you'll find guys hanging out by the pool or in the jacuzzi. See what's on in the theatre space or head inside for one of the other bars. There are regular themed nights, drag shows, and cute dancers to entertain a mostly male crowd.

Caroline's Other Side

Gay Friendly, Cocktails

Set back from the busy Duval Street, Caroline's Other Side offers a quieter and more laid-back space to spend an afternoon. This is a cocktail bar like no other on the island, serving craft beer and an extensive wine list alongside classic cocktails with a twist inspired by the city. The decor is old school but stylish, letting you enter another world the moment you step through the door.

Garden of Eden

Gay Friendly, Outdoor Seating

Hidden away on the rooftop of the Bull and Whistle Bar on Duval Street, Garden of Eden is the clothing-optional bar in the area. You'll find all sorts of clientele here, gay and straight, young and old, all preferring to relax in the nude. It's also the city's only 3rd story rooftop bar, offering fantastic views from the open rooftop, sun chair, and a super laid-back atmosphere. There's a DJ nightly and the crowd is always up for a good time, with or without clothing...

La Te Da

Gay Friendly, Drag

The Cabaret & Piano Bar at La Te Da, located on the iconic Duval Street, isn't specifically a gay bar but it welcomes everyone to join the fun. This is a more upscale venue, featuring a terrace bar as well where you can sit and enjoy the Florida sun. The Cabaret & Piano Bar has a packed calendar of performances, the venue's kitchen serves up delicious food, and there's always a lively atmosphere.

One Saloon

Older Crowd, Fetish, Outdoor Seating, Cruising

This unassuming place located in the Bourbon Bar complex is the only male only leather bar in the city, catering to a super masculine and pretty cruisey crowd. There's a dungeon to explore, regular themed nights, drinks specials, and a welcoming atmosphere that lets you party however you like until late. Every Friday at midnight the bar hosts "Cock Shot".

Recommended gay friendly hotels in Key West

There are plenty of gay friendly places to stay in Key West, Florida, and at GayMapper, we want to make sure you get great value and a good experience, so check our recommendations below for Gay Friendly hotels. As an LGBTQ+ traveller, it's important to stay somewhere welcoming, with great value and maybe near to gay venues. Treat yourself to a luxury hotel, choose a quaint guest house or stay budget and spend what you save on partying! Please support GayMapper by checking out our hotel deals in Key West, Florida as this helps us to keep the site updated with all this useful information!

Key West Hotel Deals

Tours & Experiences in Key West

Make the most of your travels by pre-booking our popular tours and experiences. There's a whole range of options, from cultural and historical to food, drink and nightlife. Get under the skin of your destination, and book a tour or experience now.

Tours & Experiences in Key West