A perfect gay getaway in the country's southernmost city is within easy reach. Here are some suggestions for how to spend your time in quirky, progressive and friendly Key West, a secluded yet accessible island paradise that's been a favorite gay destination for decades.


Star Attractions

You might think of this relaxing, fun-loving town chiefly as a place for lazing away around the pool or gathering with friends at convivial restaurants and gay nightclubs, and indeed, you'll find plenty of these diversions. But Key West has several other worthwhile pursuits to savor.

You can trace the legacy of one of America's great literary giants at the historic Hemingway House, and one of the nation's seminal political minds at the former vacation retreat of President Harry S. Truman, the Little White House. Along colorful Duval Street, you'll find enough clothing boutiques, art galleries and gift shops to keep you busy for a full day or more.

Of course, the town's tropical climate and clear-blue waters account for much of its popularity. Fans of flora and fauna shouldn't miss the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservancy, with its glass-enclosed environment sheltering dozens of fluttering butterfly species, plus fragrant flowers and nectar-rich plants. The Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum displays the famed treasures of salvaged shipwrecks. Take to the seas by booking cruises with outfitters such as all-gay blu Q or gay and lesbian-owned Venus Charters, which offers snorkeling, sunset and dolphin-watching adventures.


Out on the Town

Key West excels when it comes to gay-friendly restaurants and bars. Foodies enjoy the inventive Caribbean-meets-Florida cuisine of talented chef Alice Weingarten at Alice's Key West, a fave for breakfast, lunch and dinner. If you're seeking a sophisticated "gay date" spot, try swanky Square One, a romantic place serving a New American melting pot of all sorts of food, including French, Italian and Southern-style cooking.

The see-and-be-seen Mangoes, with its lovely outdoor patio, draws a colorful bunch with its bounteous salads, pastas and grills – all with contemporary flourishes. The trendy eatery Seven Fish occupies a vintage luncheonette and has an urbane interior – drop by for seafood-intensive bistro fare, including delicious ravioli filled with crab and shiitake mushrooms. For an authentic Cuban sandwich, head to 5 Brothers Grocery, on a quiet street in the historic district.

You'll find most of the town's gay bars along Duval Street. There's the pulsing Aqua Nightclub, with its wild drag shows (performed by the inimitable Aquanettes) and expansive dance floor. The "Big Easy"-inspired Bourbon Street Pub is super-friendly and plays lively videos on its many TV screens. Nearby, duck into the laid-back 801 Bar, the town's quintessential neighborhood hangout. And don't overlook the La-Te-Da guest house, which has a poolside lounge, a classy piano bar and the Treetop Cabaret Lounge.

Where to stay in Key West? You'll find no shortage of gay-friendly hotels, resorts and B&Bs in this town famed for its welcoming attitude.

Home Away from Home

Where to stay in Key West? You'll find no shortage of gay-friendly hotels, resorts and B&Bs in this town famed for its welcoming attitude. Quite a few clothing-optional properties cater primarily to gays and lesbians, too. Women can check into the historic Pearl's Rainbow resort, one of the largest lesbian-oriented properties in the world. The on-site restaurant The Strand at Pearl's and the popular poolside bar Pearl's Patio are also devoted just to women.

Two gay guesthouses with sprawling, tree-shaded grounds – Alexander's and Big Ruby's – each draw a mix of men and women. They're great choices for co-ed groups of friends traveling together.

Among men's accommodations, the Equator and New Orleans Guest House (above the Bourbon Street Pub) both offer elegant rooms, dapper pool and sunning areas, and moderate rates. Men seeking a playful, racy vibe should head to the beautifully maintained Island House, with its outstanding restaurant, full gym and highly professional staff.

And finally, the neighboring Coconut Grove, Oasis and Coral Tree men's properties make up one, sprawling elegant resort with lushly landscaped grounds and lovely pools. If visitors to Key West face any kind of challenge at all, it's deciding where – with so many inviting, gay-oriented options – to stay, eat and socialize.


Gay Happenings

Key West is wonderful to visit any time of year, but the town truly springs to life during several gay events. Here are some to watch for:

March-April / Gay Spring Break in Key West (www.gayspringbreak.org): The town opens its doors to GLBT students and others seeking warm-weather fun in the sun. Beach gatherings, dance parties, jet-skiing tours and snorkeling trips will keep you busy, and a number of accommodations offer special deals.

Early June / Pridefest (www.pridefestkeywest.com): Expect plenty of socials and street fairs during this week of Pride-themed parties.

Early August / Tropical Heat (www.tropicalheatkw.com): Over a long weekend in sultry August, the racy side of Key West's gay and lesbian community shines through with grown-up themed parties, fashion shows and sexy merriment on the water and on land.

Early September / WomenFest in Key West (www.womenfest.com): One of the nation's premier women's events, this five-day fiesta includes galas at gay nightclubs, golf tournaments, a group commitment ceremony, a film festival and many other opportunities for hobnobbing.

For more information about planning your gay getaway to Key West, visit www.fla-keys.com.