Miami Beach is glamour, sunshine and drag brunch with a sea view – South Beach was one of the first big gay party strips in the US. Today the scene is spread across the whole of Miami, but its heart still beats around Ocean Drive and Washington Avenue.
South Beach
The centre is formed by two institutions just a few blocks apart: the club Twist on Washington Avenue and the drag restaurant Palace on Ocean Drive, directly opposite 12th Street Beach. On Española Way, Kill Your Idol offers an alternative, inexpensive dive-bar atmosphere, and at the end of Lincoln Road, Hotel Gaythering beckons with a bar and men’s sauna. If you want to swim without clothes, head to Haulover Beach in the north. Many newer queer parties now take place on the mainland in Wynwood or Little Havana – a detour is worthwhile.
When to go?
- April – Miami Beach Pride: A festival in Lummus Park and a big parade along Ocean Drive; in 2026 it went from 5th to 14th Street on 12 April.
- March – Winter Party Festival: A weekend packed with beach and club parties that attracts gay guests from all over North America (check dates with the organiser).
Our favourites
- Twist – the classic that never charges admission.
- Palace – drag brunch with a view of the sea.
Tours & activities in Miami Beach
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Practical tips
- Parking is not allowed on Ocean Drive – use the car parks at 12th Street/Washington Avenue or 13th Street/Collins Avenue.
- The minimum age for alcohol and clubs is 21; always carry ID.
- For Haulover, choose car park Lot 1 or the North Lot and walk through pedestrian tunnels 4 or 5 to the nudist section.
Editorially researched, as of October 2026. Please check event dates with the organiser each year.
Map
Places in Miami Beach
Nightlife
Stay
Beaches & Nature
Events in Miami Beach
- 5. Mar – 9. MarPartyWinter Party Festival 2027Diverse Locations in Miami Beach (u. a. Beach Party am Strand)
- 10. Apr – 12. AprPrideMiami Beach Pride 2027Lummus Park / Ocean Drive, South Beach
FAQ: Miami Beach
Which gay bars and clubs are there in Miami Beach?
The Atlas currently lists 3 bars and clubs in Miami Beach, including Kill Your Idol, Palace and Twist. Each listing has the address, opening hours and our take on the place.
Is there a gay sauna in Miami Beach?
There is currently no gay sauna listed for Miami Beach in the Atlas. Know one? Let us know via the contact form.
Which gay-friendly hotels are there in Miami Beach?
Recommended options include Dream South Beach, Hotel Gaythering, Hotel Victor South Beach and The Betsy.