Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.
Do you like hot guys in little banana hammocks? How about even more alluring beaches? Can we bring them both together? You bet we can! West Palm Beach, Florida, is a tropical paradise nestled on the shores of the Atlantic that invites travelers to take on a sun-kissed journey brimming with culture and endless possibilities.
With its year-round warm weather, stunning beaches, and lush greenery, this lovely coastal community offers a sanctuary of relaxation and adventure. Explore the lively downtown district, where eclectic boutiques and art galleries beckon the curious soul.
Indulge in exquisite cuisine that tantalizes the taste buds with flavors worldwide. Surround yourself in the rich arts scene, where theaters and performance venues showcase top-tier talent. As the sun sets, West Palm Beach transforms into a haven for nightlife, where the beats of live music fill the air, and the energy is contagious.
So while strolling along the palm-lined streets and savoring the ocean breeze, sing praise to West Palm Beach. It truly is a captivating destination that promises unforgettable experiences at every turn.
In this article we will cover...
Attractions in West Palm Beach, USA
As a new visitor to Gay West Palm Beach, there are plenty of things to see and do, regardless of your sexual orientation. One of the best ways to experience any new city is to visit some of its most iconic landmarks and attractions, including historical monuments, museums, and art galleries.
We also love gazing at architecture up close, exploring parks and gardens, sampling the local cuisine, visiting local markets, and attending cultural events such as festivals, concerts and shows.
Even as the out-and-proud queer we are, we still love to explore the city and its culture in the same way as everyone else. Doing so allows us to learn more about the city and its people and better understand the local culture. As such, these are our favorite must-see attractions in West Palm Beach.
Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour
Take an emotional journey through West Palm Beach’s hidden delights, guided by a knowledgeable local. This Walking Happy Hour Tour in Downtown West Palm Beach unveils trendy and low-key spots where you’ll savor delightful drinks and delectable bites. Drench yourself in the city’s history, including its intriguing prohibition past, as your guide shares fascinating insights.
Try some crafty local cocktails and enjoy a delicious dinner along the way. This experience satisfies your taste and offers a glimpse into the city’s culture and culinary delights. Discover the best-kept secrets and culinary favorites of West Palm Beach while immersing yourself in its rich history.
Feel the warm energy of West Palm Beach as you stroll through the charming Rosemary Square. Nestled in the heart of City Place, this bustling square boasts Mediterranean-style buildings and palm-fringed streets that exude a captivating atmosphere. Wander through the enchanting streets of Rosemary Square and discover a kaleidoscope of elegant boutiques, inviting cafes, and many restaurants serving delectable international cuisine.
Drench yourself in the refined Mission Revival architecture of the indoor-outdoor mall, where palm-lined common areas invite you to explore, shop, and take in a culinary feast. With many options, Rosemary Square is the perfect destination for a delightful shopping spree, a stroll, and a mouthwatering dining experience. Experience the charm and excitement that make West Palm Beach truly unforgettable.
Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting Norton Museum of Art, nestled in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach. With its vast collection of over 8,200 paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from across the globe, this museum is a haven for art lovers.
Take in the precious masterpieces of 19th- and 20th-century European and American artists, showcasing the brilliance of their paintings and sculptures. But that’s not all—explore the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, a breathtaking 2-acre oasis within the museum grounds.
Created by the talented resident artist Ann Weaver Norton, the gardens showcase awe-inspiring sculptures by renowned artists like Keith Haring, Antony Gormley, and Jenny Holzer.
As you wander through the garden’s lush greenery, you’ll be mesmerized by the harmonious blend of art and nature. Marvel at the splendor of the Norton Museum of Art and experience the remarkable beauty within its walls. Prepare to be inspired by the astonishing private art collection at the Norton Simon Museum—a true testament to the power of artistic expression.
Drink in the allure of Worth Avenue, where Palm Beach’s most elite gather for exquisite luxury. This enchanting street is a playground where the price tags whisper secrets only the chosen few can afford. But fear not, darling, for Worth Avenue is not just for the wealthy.
Explore the fashion mecca adorned with iconic brands like Brioni and Louis Vuitton alongside charming antique and decor shops. Delight in the world’s finest jewelers and perfumeries, and uncover hidden treasures like the enchanting Raptis Rare Books.
Venture through leafy courtyards revealing artists’ studios, grand bronze statues of playful children, and gourmet food havens. For a delightful coffee and a delicious to-go meal, visit Cafe Delamar on Peruvian Avenue (remember, early birds snatch the coveted outdoor tables). Join the charismatic historian Rick Rose on his Palm Beach Walking Tours in winter.
Journey through Worth Avenue’s hidden corners, where you’ll discover the visionary Addison Mizner’s home and pay tribute to the legendary Johnny Brown, the monkey who once vied for the title of Palm Beach’s mayor. Embrace the enchantment of Worth Avenue, where dreams come to life and indulgence knows no bounds.
Get swept away as you approach the magnificent 1902 Georgian/Mediterranean mansion known as Whitehall. This is no ordinary museum, darling. Looking at it, you’ll realize it’s a treasure beyond compare. The New York Herald declared it the grandest mansion in the world, and rightfully so.
With its advanced features like telephone systems, electric lighting, and even central heating, it was the epitome of technological marvels in its time. Step into the rooms Henry Flagler once roamed, from the opulent halls to the kitchens, parlors, and studies. The art he gathered during his travels still adorns the hallways, showcasing his impeccable taste.
This splendid abode also holds the distinction of being Florida’s first-ever museum. Enjoy captivating exhibitions featuring acclaimed painters, sculptors, artisans, and photographers.
The Flagler Museum is a true testament to the past, an exquisite fusion of home and art. Guided tours await, and once you’ve explored to your heart’s content, treat yourself to a delightful café experience. And if you’re feeling fancy, partake in a winter afternoon tea in the enchanting garden. It’s an experience fit for royalty.
Let me introduce you to the crown jewel of beaches in the area—the glamorous Delray Municipal Beach. Nestled near the Pineapple Grove neighborhood and Atlantic Avenue districts, this beach is divine. With over 300 acres of pristine coastline adorned with golden sands and glistening crystal blue waters, it epitomizes beachside bliss.
Darling, the fun never ends at Delray Municipal Beach. Take a dip, ride the waves on a boogie board, or get in some archery, biking, and even camping adventures. Keep your eyes peeled, as you may spot a delightful turtle or two during your escapades.
And if you have a penchant for collecting seashells, prepare to be enchanted by the plethora of unique and gleaming shells that await you on the shores of Delray Beach. So, slip into your most stylish swimsuit and get ready to bask in the sun-kissed allure of Delray Municipal Beach.
Antique Row Art & Design District
If you’re yearning for a timeless treasure to take home from your West Palm Beach escapade, look no further than the Antique Row Art & Design District. This spot is an absolute haven with over 40 reputable antique dealers offering exquisite pieces from the 17th to 20th centuries.
Prepare to be captivated by fine arts, decorative period pieces, and an array of furnishings that range from Art Deco to vintage and modern marvels. The windows of these shops are a pure temptation, my dear.
This district boasts remarkable dining experiences. Don’t miss the classic American delights at City Diner or the charmingly converted 1950s drugstore turned Rhythm Café. It’s a wonderfully walkable district, with most shops nestled close together. So, wear your most stylish shoes and prepare to participate in a world of timeless beauty and delectable cuisine.
Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
Prepare to be immersed in the wonders of nature at the northern fringe of the Everglades, darling. It’s a sanctuary where endangered species like the snail kite and wood stork gracefully roam, and the mighty American alligator reigns supreme.
Picture yourself strolling along elevated boardwalks that wind through lush tropical landscapes of marshes, mangroves, and charming hammocks, those tiny islands in the Everglades.
With an expansive 147,392 acres, you can choose from many trails for leisurely walks or invigorating bike rides. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop in a canoe and paddle along the watery “highways” like the Marsh Trail or the Everglades Canoe Trail.
The sights have popping colors, exotic plants, and native Florida landscapes. The gentle whispers of breezes rustling through the trees are the only sounds surrounding you. My dear, it’s a sensory paradise where nature takes center stage.
Gay and Gay-Friendly Hotels in West Palm Beach, USA
Being gay-friendly accommodation means that the establishment is welcoming and inclusive to guests who identify as LGBTQ+. This can include, but is not limited to, having policies and practices that demonstrate a commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ guests, such as non-discrimination policies and providing support and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Some gay-friendly accommodations may also provide amenities specifically catering to the LGBTQ+ community, such as rainbow flags or literature about local LGBTQ+ events or resources. Furthermore, gay-friendly accommodations may be located in an area known for being LGBTQ+ friendly.
While West Palm Beach does not have any specifically gay hotels or resorts, these are the most fabulous and pro-actively gay-friendly hotels in West Palm Beach. Needless to say, there are also hundreds more hotel and hostel options in West Palm Beach if none of these suit your desired budget, facilities or area – but these are the best hotels according to other gay travelers and us.
Whatever your needs are, West Palm Beach has you covered.
Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach ☆☆☆☆
The epitome of luxury at the stunning 4.5-star beachfront resort just outside West Palm Beach. This paradise has two fabulous pools and an incredible snorkeling reef off the shore. The staff is delightful and always ready to make your stay extra special. Prepare for poolside bars, a convenience store, and a terrace at Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa.
Relax under the sun, dine with an ocean view, and enjoy beach cabanas. Take advantage of the Si Spa for a pampering session. Delight your taste buds at any of the three incredible onsite restaurants. Stay active with yoga classes, scuba diving, and snorkeling at the 24-hour gym. It’s a heavenly escape you won’t want to leave.
The Ben West Palm, Autograph Collection ☆☆☆☆
Prepare to be wowed by this exquisite property. Impeccable service, spotlessly clean rooms, and a staff that goes above and beyond. The location is superb, and the rooftop pool is an absolute delight. Fabulous in every way! The stylish decor and ambiance create a truly unforgettable experience.
The staff and food are exceptional, and the resort is conveniently close to fantastic restaurants. Nestled near Clematis Street and The Square, The Ben West Palm Autograph Collection offers a poolside bar, a charming terrace, and a cozy library. Take a culinary journey with local and international cuisine while enjoying breathtaking ocean views and treating yourself to a delightful brunch.
Be pampered by the phenomenal staff and exceptional service at this hotel. The food is simply divine, especially the rave-worthy breakfast. The rooms are incredibly comfortable and impeccably clean. The hotel’s cool and unique Florida beach style adds an extra flair.
Conveniently situated near the Palm Beach County Convention Center and The Square, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel West Palm Beach Airport offers a complimentary roundtrip airport shuttle, convenient dry cleaning/laundry services, and a trendy bar. Enjoy the opportunity to dine at Geckos Restaurant, the onsite culinary gem.
Hyatt Place West Palm Beach ☆☆☆
Prepare to be dazzled by this hotel’s impeccable cleanliness and wonderful staff. The large rooms are spotless and boast modern furnishings that make you feel at home. Just a short stroll away, you’ll find a bustling shopping mall teeming with fantastic restaurants, lively bars, and charming shops.
The hotel has recently undergone renovations, ensuring a delightful and refreshing stay. Conveniently near The Square and Palm Beach County Convention Center, Hyatt Place West Palm Beach/Downtown offers a complimentary breakfast buffet, convenient dry cleaning/laundry services, and a stylish bar. Get ready for an unforgettable experience.
Prepare to be amazed by the sparkling cleanliness and delightful charm of the rooms at Embassy Suites by Hilton West Palm Beach Central. The breakfast is an absolute culinary triumph that will leave you utterly satisfied. The property is elegant, boasting a grand foyer and spacious dining areas. The rooms are surprisingly chic and exude comfort in every detail.
The staff and service are truly exceptional, ensuring a memorable stay. Try a complimentary breakfast buffet, take advantage of the free roundtrip airport shuttle, and unwind in the inviting hot tub. Take advantage of the opportunity to savor delicious American cuisine at the onsite Atrium Restaurant.
Gay Nightlife in West Palm Beach, USA
In the heart of West Palm Beach, Florida, a kaleidoscope of glittering lights and pulsating beats beckons LGBTQ+ night owls to experience the electric rhythm of its gay bars. From sleek lounges to energetic dance floors, the city comes alive after dark, offering a thrilling playground for the queer community.
Unleash your inner diva, dance to infectious beats spun by talented DJs, or revel in intimate conversations with newfound friends in chic cocktail bars. West Palm Beach’s gay nightlife scene is a colorful tapestry of music, camaraderie, and liberation, where every moment is an opportunity to create lasting memories. Embark on an adventure of self-expression and unbridled joy as you revel in the thrilling embrace of this beautiful nocturnal playground.
Exploring the gay and gay-friendly nightlife in a new city can be one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences while traveling – and Gay West Palm Beach is no exception. Not only will you have the opportunity to meet new people and make friends, but you’ll also get a taste of the local culture and learn more about the city’s LGBTQ+ community.
Going out and experiencing the queer and queer-friendly nightlife in a new city can also be a great way to break out of your comfort zone and try new things. Whether dancing the night away at a gay club or mingling with locals at a gay-friendly bar, you’ll have the chance to make memories and create lasting connections.
So, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore the gay and gay-friendly nightlife in West Palm Beach. You’ll be glad you did!
Gay Clubs in West Palm Beach, USA
Plunge head first into the LGBTQ+ scene at one of Lake Worth’s hottest destinations, The Mad Hatter Lounge. As one of the area’s most popular gay bars, this full-service establishment is known for its lively atmosphere and unforgettable theme parties held throughout the year.
With its welcoming ambiance, The Mad Hatter Lounge proudly represents the local LGBTQ+ community. It stands as one of the few remaining gay bars in Palm Beach. Whether you’re seeking a fun night out or simply a place to relax, this laid-back lounge in Lake Worth is ready to welcome you seven days a week.
H.G. Roosters
(Temporarily or permanently closed. If you know something, please suggest an edit.)
Prepare for a fabulous time at Palm Beach’s iconic gay hotspot, Florida’s longest-running and most beloved gay bar. This venue sets the stage for unforgettable evenings with exciting weekly events, including the legendary Wine Down Wednesday and the fierce Lip Sync Battle Friday.
Get ready to sip on delightful drinks during their daily happy-hour deals while being treated to electrifying entertainment such as dazzling drag shows, intense karaoke sessions, and thrilling bingo games. You’re in for a night filled with laughter, music, and a community that knows how to have an absolute blast!
Prepare to be charmed by The Blind Monk, a neighborhood wine bar that captures the essence of West Palm Beach’s close-knit community. Despite its name, this place is anything but pretentious. It exudes a unique blend of sophistication and laid-back vibes, where you’ll run into familiar faces.
Don’t miss out on their affordable “sommelier selections” during happy hour, and stay for live music or classic black and white films. While their menu may feature small plates, their charcuterie plate is unrivaled in town. Whether local or not, The Blind Monk makes you feel at home.
A gay-friendly hotspot that exudes upscale vibes, this West Palm Beach bar is an absolute party paradise! Step into this John F. Kennedy-themed bar adorned with memorabilia that pays homage to the late president. The sophisticated crowd and New England-style seafood will transport you to Cape Cod.
Offering wine, cocktails, and beer, this semi-private bar is a haven for carefully crafted libations. The fun and friendly staff, lively atmosphere, and fantastic music make Camelot the perfect place to let loose and showcase your singing skills with karaoke. Treat yourself to amazing drinks, craft cocktails, and an unbeatable ambiance while people-watching or partying your heart out.
Step into the time machine and transport yourself to 1920s Paris at 215, a speakeasy masterpiece brought to life by the talented Frenchman Vincent Toscano. Ascend a flight of stairs downtown and discover a cozy, intimate setting adorned with tufted banquette seating and rich dark wood accents.
Toscano’s cocktail creations are a delightful fusion of flavors, accompanied by handwritten origami notes for an extra touch of charm. 215 delivers the perfect cocktail bar experience with its classy interior and delectable drinks. Unleash your taste buds with some of the finest libations in West Palm Beach, served by a talented and friendly staff in an atmosphere that guarantees a memorable night out.
Remember the fabulous hotel rooftop bars, like the one at Rosemary Square, where Hilton unveiled its first-to-Florida Canopy concept in 2020. This chic property boasts the Treehouse bar on its rooftop, creating a sophisticated oasis.
Step inside, and you’ll find a cocktail bar with a big-city vibe and cozy lounge seating. Outside, the bar extends to the pool area, offering sleek city views. Weekends and holidays transform this space into a lively pool party scene, like the Labor Day Luau with leis and sun-kissed skin. Trust us, the ambiance and vistas make this a truly extraordinary experience.
That’s right, one of the top hotels in the area is also one of the hottest bars in West Palm Beach. Spruzzo is a stylish open-air Italian restaurant and bar perpetually buzzing on weekends. Picture this: tourists and young professionals mingling, indulging in spritz cocktails, and soaking up the picturesque waterfront views.
Ben has redefined the scene, proving that sophistication and vibrancy coexist perfectly. Get ready to elevate your experience and embrace the allure of downtown West Palm Beach.
Gay Parties in West Palm Beach, USA
A vibrant celebration of love, equality, and respect, Palm Beach Pride is a sensational two-day festival that embraces the LGBTQ community. This family-friendly extravaganza occurs from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm in the picturesque Bryant Park in Downtown Lake Worth Beach.
As the largest gay and lesbian visibility event in Palm Beach County for over 20 years, Palm Beach Pride is an iconic gathering that unites people from all walks of life. Alongside the fabulous Pride Parade in Downtown Lake Worth, the festival boasts a dedicated Youth village and special offerings for senior community members. Join in the joyous festivities and let your pride shine!
Gay Saunas & Cruising Clubs in West Palm Beach, USA
When traveling to a new city, it can be exciting to head out for more than just a stiff drink. One aspect of the Gay West Palm Beach scene that many queer men enjoy is visiting gay saunas and cruising clubs.
Sure, the sauna culture in West Palm Beach is not as hedonistic as in Amsterdam, Barcelona or Berlin, but these venues still offer a chance to meet new people, socialize, and engage in sexual activity – without resorting to gay hookup apps.
However, it’s important to remember that these venues can vary greatly in terms of atmosphere, clientele, and rules, so it’s a good idea to prepare yourself before visiting. If you are apprehensive, we advise studying our guide to visiting a gay bathhouse for the first time, which should help set your mind at ease and always practice safe sex.
Additionally, it’s important to be aware of and respect local laws and customs regarding gay venues and sexual activity. With a little bit of planning and an open mind, visiting gay saunas and cruising clubs can be a fun and exciting part of your gay West Palm Beach travel itinerary.
Gay Map Of West Palm Beach
Finding it hard to envisage where everything is in West Palm Beach? Hopefully, this queer-centric map helps where we have marked all the bars, clubs, parties, hotels, saunas, massages, and more will help you stay in the spot best suited to you!