Since the late 1980s, Miami’s South Beach, or SoBe as the locals call it, has evolved into a first-tier gay community, matching those in San Francisco, New York and Los Angeles. With endless establishments catering to the gay scene, Miami welcomes the LGBT community with open arms. With a Caribbean climate, stunning beaches, non-stop nightlife… and the oh-so beautiful people – Miami’s where it’s at! After reading this, our one-stop guide to gay Miami, the only thing you’ll be in need of is your flight.
Stay – Lords South Beach
Bohemia meets Art Deco meets beach scene at this, Miami’s first hotel dedicated to the LGBT community. With beautiful rooms, chic dining and a pool area that positively demands socializing, Lords is Miami’s hottest gay resort. The high energy, cool decor and excellent service will almost certainly ensure your quick return.
Orientate – Miami LGBT Visitor Centre
The LGBT Visitor Centre is located in the historic Old City Hall Building in Miami Beach. Non-profit funded, the centre provides free and impartial advice on accommodation, dining and excursions. Visitors have access to wireless internet, LGBT publications and information relating to LGBT curious and community events.
Parade – Miami Beach Gay Pride
The 4th annual Miami Beach Gay Pride takes place on Sunday, 15 April. The free, all-day event will feature a raucous parade and a festival including performances from the Pussy Cat Dolls and JoJo. With over 35,000 people from all walks of life, Pride is the city’s largest one-day event – join in to help build and celebrate the LGBT community’s empowerment.
Shop – Lincoln Road Open-air Mall
Lincoln Road is at the epicentre of South Beach. While the area bursts at the seams with cafes, bars, galleries and fine dining, it’s the pedestrian only open-air mall that’ll have you in raptures. A visit to the mall’s high-end chain fashion outlets and owner-operated boutiques will ensure your look meets Miami’s chic-standards.
Party – Mova Lounge
Evolved from the extremely popular Halo, Mova Lounge is Miami’s foremost gay party. Fashionable and gym-fit boys in a uniform of distressed jeans, designer T-shirts and flip-flops reign. The fashion-, wit- and handsome-challenged be warned – you could find yourself on the periphery of Mova’s ultra-discerning universe.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
(Images: Lords South Beach, AshtonColeman, Miami Beach Gay Pride – 42619380@N03, Lincoln Road Mall – Kwong Yee Cheng, Mova Lounge – mountainhiker)
