From the days of the Spanish conquistadors, Florida has attracted people in search of a heaven here on earth. And although Ponce de Leon may not have found his fountain of youth, Florida has continued to hold an incomparable allure for all those who visit its welcoming shores.
Blessed with near-perfect climate ranging from temperate to tropical, Florida offers golden sun to guide you straight to certain bliss. The seemingly endless miles of silky-smooth beaches are the perfect take-off point for diving, boating and water fun. And whether you choose the bracing waves of the shimmering Atlantic or the serene surf and charming towns on the Gulf of Mexico, you may find that you’ll never want to leave.
Florida’s diversity makes it a perfect destination for everyone – families, honeymooners, and those looking for a stress-free getaway. Top-rated golf courses dot the landscape. Disney attractions beckon for kids of all ages. World-class museums, cultural events and exquisite dining await you. And centuries of rich and varied history have left fascinating historic districts, imposing fortresses and remarkable architecture.
From the enchanting allure of Amelia Island in the north to the tranquil tropical splendor of Key West, no holiday destination offers so much charm, so much sun and so much exhilaration!
Florida as a vacation destination for gay and lesbian vacationers:
Miami is the epicenter of cool in Florida, and the South Beach area is the trendy essence of Miami. With over 800 renovated art deco buildings and pastel backdrops, you’ll find the hippest gay scene imaginable. A myriad of gay establishments are in the area – along Ocean Drive, Lincoln Road and Collins and Washington Avenues. The Miami social calendar really gets rolling in the fall and winter months.
Not far away, the popular attractions of Fort Lauderdale include hundreds of gay businesses, clubs and events. It’s a city that’s less ostentatious and expensive than Miami, plus it borders on the heavily gay populated town of Wilton Manor.
Key West is an accommodating setting that has been popular with gay vacationers for decades, whether seeking a formal or casual getaway. Folks get along so well in the Keys that gays and straights tend to party together, and all take part in drag shows and local theater productions.
When it’s time to shake the sand out of your bathing suit, head inland to Orlando and find your inner-child. As a major international city, Orlando features quite a few gay friendly bars, clubs and stores. It’s also home to Florida’s oldest gay community center and Gay Days – a weeklong festival of more than 40 events that attracts upwards of 135,000 people.
