Discover Miami's Gay Beach Scene

Greater Miami & Miami Beach has an abundance of dynamic entertainment, nightlife and restaurant offerings for LGBTQ travelers, and its stunning beaches add to the appeal. Two are particularly LGBTQ-friendly and recognized as semi-official gay beaches by locals and visitors: the famous 12th Street Beach and Haulover Park Beach, which has a clothing-optional section.

The two beaches have distinct personalities, but both have the Atlantic Ocean and balmy breezes, making them ideal for swimming, water sports and a day in the sun.

Fun Meets the Shoreline at 12th Street Beach

12th Street Beach, along Ocean Drive in South Beach, is a longtime favorite of the LGBTQ community. Formerly known as 11th/12th Street Beach and adjacent to Lummus Park and the Beachwalk, it welcomes LGBTQ beachgoers with a rainbow-colored lifeguard tower designed by award-winning queer architect William Lane.

Numerous on-site and nearby amenities and activities contribute to the beach’s popularity. From public restrooms and outdoor showers to beach chairs and umbrella rentals, there’s everything you need, so all you have to bring is your swimsuit, towel, sunglasses and sunscreen. If you want to get active, you can rent a bike, or stroll the Beachwalk and take in the sights and sounds of Ocean Drive while basking in the ocean breeze.

Fitness buffs can even exercise under the palm trees at Muscle Beach South Beach with its two nature-inspired installations – MyEquilibria’s Leopard Tree and MyBeast – and more than 30 workout components. And it’s free.

Beach Breaks Near 12th Street Beach

For a break from the sun and surf, pop into the Art Deco Welcome Center. It’s a great way to learn about the Art Deco District and the area’s striking architecture.

Adding to the draw of 12th Street Beach are two legendary LGBTQ establishments. Right on Ocean Drive at 10th Street is Palace Bar & Restaurant with its signature over-the-top drag brunch, food and cocktails from day into night and a rooftop bar with stunning views. Over on Washington Avenue at 11th Street is Twist, featuring an extended daily happy hour with two-for-one drinks, seven bars and three dance floors for partying until the wee hours.

There’s also the Wanderlust Cafe & Lounge on Washington Avenue at 12th Street. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus a Sunday brunch, it has a daily happy hour and themed nights during the week – drag bingo and karaoke – with weekends bringing more entertainment.

The World Comes To 12th Street Beach

12th Street Beach also serves as the backdrop for large LGBTQ annual events: the Winter Party Festival, benefiting the National LGBTQ Task Force, and Miami Beach Pride. The LGBTQ community comes out in full force and from around the world for both events.

Parking Options Near 12th Street Beach

Though no parking is allowed on Ocean Drive, there is metered street parking (pay by app, phone or machine) close by. You may find it easier to use one of several public garages or lots, with the closest at 12th Street and Washington Avenue and 13th Street and Collins Avenue. The Miami Beach Parking Department is a good resource for the many available options, including EV charging stations.

Sun, Sand & Pride at Haulover Park Beach

Located on the longest undeveloped stretch of beachfront in Miami, Haulover Park Beach is approximately 10 miles from South Beach and just north of the posh enclave of Bal Harbour. It’s one of the few clothing-optional beaches in Florida, and it’s a beauty, sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway.

The beach spans over a mile; the clothing-optional section is in the northern one-third of it between lifeguard towers 12 and 16, with LGBTQ beachgoers tending to congregate toward the northern end. Although the entire section is clothing optional, you’re welcome to leave your swimwear on. The vibe is inclusive and relaxed regardless of where you’re spending your day and whether or not you’re in your birthday suit.

The nude section of the beach offers amenities such as chair and umbrella rentals, food and beverage concessions, shower areas and public restrooms. There are also helpful beach ambassadors – look for them in their green safari hats – who can answer your questions. Beachgoers can bring their own coolers, refreshments and chairs, but flotation devices are not allowed.

South of the clothing-optional section, Haulover Park Beach has a range of activities for you to enjoy, including bike rentals, pickleball courts, fishing and kite flying. You can order kites online with Skyward Kites for same-day pickup at its on-site store. There are also parks within the park for dogs and skateboarding.

Where to Park at Haulover Park Beach

Park in Lot 1 or the North Lot for easy access to the clothing-optional section and use pedestrian tunnels #4 or #5 to cross under Collins Avenue. The park is open from sunrise to sunset; parking lots are open from 8 a.m. to one hour before closure (pay by app, phone or machine). The lots can reach capacity during peak hours.