Dunedin is a city on the Gulf Coast, slightly west of Tampa. As one of the oldest towns on Florida’s west coast, Dunedin has a rich history. It’s renowned for having Scottish celebrations and a downtown area with a quiet yet quirky vibe. With over four miles of waterfront in Dunedin, it’s a great beach destination. And, Dunedin also happens to be one of the best places for LGBTQ-friendly Florida Travel. So join us as we explore gay Dunedin.
How Gay is Dunedin?
The quaint and eclectic community of Dunedin is a small town with a friendly vibe. While Dunedin is better known for its traditional Celtic plaids than rainbow flags, LGBTQ visitors will still feel welcome. Particularly at some of the city’s long established gay-owned and friendly venues. There are also organizations to support and offer connection for LGBTQ community and visitors.
PFLAG Dunedin
1650 Pinehurst Road
PFLAG has an office in Dunedin dedicated to helping LGBTQ individuals and their families. For years, PFLAG has provided support to the community through outreach and spreading a message of acceptance. The national organization only has two chapters in Pinellas County.
Faith United Church of Christ
1650 Pinehurst Road
Located on Pinehurst road, the Faith United Church of Christ is a place for LGBTQ individuals to go and worship. The church is extremely welcoming of people with all types of lifestyles and regularly preaches about acceptance and inclusivity. If you’re looking to connect with other LGBTQ individuals during your gay Dunedin travel adventures, you should make a point to visit this spot.
Where to Stay in Dunedin
Although Dunedin is relatively small, there are still some great places to stay. If you’re looking for a fun and tranquil experience, consider staying at these LGBTQ-friendly lodgings.
Meranova Bed & Breakfast
458 Virginia Lane
Nestled into the historic Downtown Dunedin, Meranova Bed & Breakfast makes it easy to explore one of the best parts of Dunedin. It has nine different apartments and suites to choose from, all of which have sleek styling.
While you stay at the B&B, you can hang out on the gazebo and watch the locals go by. For some quiet, you can hang out in the Secret Garden or the pool.
The Fenway
453 Edgewater Drive
In 1924, the Fenway Hotel came to life. Over the years, explorers, artists, and musicians stayed at the hotel. The rich history of this establishment makes it a great place to stay, but there are other reasons to visit.
For instance, the hotel rooms feature premium bedding and are pristine. The on-site food will keep you talking about it for days. Of course, there’s also the live music waiting to be enjoyed.
Best Western (Dog Friendly Option)
150 Marina Plaza
If you’re bringing Fido on your gay Florida travel, you can stay at the Best Western. This dog-friendly hotel may not be as quirky as some of the other local options, but it is a comfortable and clean place to stay.
This hotel also has a convenient location, with easy access to the water. The rooms are newly renovated, so this hotel has a lot to offer.
Where to Eat and Drink in Dunedin
Before you go to Dunedin, make sure you bring your appetite. There are several great restaurants with food just as unique as Dunedin itself. While you’re in town, be sure to check out these restaurants:
Cara Cara
730 Broadway Suite 4
This is was, by far, a favorite stop along our road trip. Imagine the best of cultural cuisines combined to create new dynamic flavors. Although the restaurants markets itself as an Asian Tapas and Taco restaurant, it’s so much more. Not only is the staff extremely friendly and outgoing, but the food is just as comforting and exciting. Try the Falafel Boa for a mediterranean Asian twist, the Thai Fried Chicken Wings for the best of sweet and savory, or the Whole Roasted Snapper for a taste of Florida.
The Honu
516 Grant Street
Who doesn’t love a good tiki bar? This LGBT-owned restaurant has been open since 2016 and evolved from a small cafe to a large restaurant with Polynesian influence. If you’re up for a few drinks, there’s an area for adults only. Even your dogs can go with you and enjoy a meal; there’s a doggy menu for your favorite furry friend. Whatever part of the restaurant you sit in, you can expect to feel as if you’re on a polynesian getaway.
Pisces Sushi and Global Bistro
799 Highland Avenue
You can’t visit Dunedin without trying the seafood. And if you dine at Pisces, you can get your fill of seafood and more. This restaurant has a modern casual atmosphere and serves up some of the most creative and delicious sushi rolls you can find. The chef combines cuisines to make dishes like the Aztec sushi roll and the Aphrodite roll.
The Restorative
420 Patricia Avenue
In 2019, The Restorative establishment was voted Tampa Bay’s number one restaurant. The menu is small, but it always changes and offers up some unforgettable dishes. If you like to be adventurous with your food, you need to visit this restaurant at least once.
The Living Room on Main
487 Main Street
There’s something about shareable plates that brings everyone together. As part of your gay Florida travel plans, stop at this establishment and pick out some small plates to share with your friends. The outdoor patio makes the dining experience even better.
Olde Bay Café
51 Main Street
In the 1930s, the marina in Dunedin was home to an amazing fish company. Today, the marina is home to the Olde Bay Café, a place to go for fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere. If you like fishing in Dunedin, you can bring your fresh catch and have the chef cook it for you.
Lucky Lobster
941 Huntley Avenue
Between the flavor of the food and the great atmosphere, Lucky Lobster provides an elevated evening of fun. Try fresh-caught fish or lobster rolls just like the ones back in New England. The establishment is also known for its wine.
Rosie’s Tavern
730 Broadway
Bring your dog and hang out on the patio of this pub in Dunedin. It’s a local establishment where people go for an evening of laughter and fun. At the bar, there’s an impressive selection of imports.
Flanagan’s Irish Pub
465 Main Street
For entertainment, look no further than Flanagan’s. The live music on the weekends makes this establishment the place to be. With traditional Irish fare, Flanagan’s has dishes like Celtic chicken and Irish-infused burgers.
D-Town Bar & Grill
1056 Main Street
Who said bar food has to be low quality? Although this venue is a great place to go for a few drinks, it also has food that will make your mouth water. Their wings, onion wings, and burgers don’t disappoint.
Casa Tina
365 Main Street
In Florida, it can be hard to find authentic Mexican food. You can find it at Casa Tina, along with offerings for individuals who are vegan and gluten free. The restaurant’s atmosphere is fun and inviting, and the environment is highly inclusive.
Wild Iris Cafe
434 Virginia Ln
A perfect place for breakfast or lunch, this popular spot is super dog friendly with delicious food. The Wild Iris Cafe is located next to the Meranova B&B. Try the crepes! You won’t be disappointed.
Things to Do in Dunedin
Despite the small size of Dunedin, there’s plenty to do in the area. All of these things to do welcome the LGBTQ community:
Nightlife/Clubs/Dancing – LGBTQ Friendly
The nights in Dunedin are as fun as they come. If you’re worried about people staring at you while you dance or drink with your partner, consider checking out these LGBTQ-friendly establishments:
Blur Nightclub
325 Main Street
A popular downtown spot, Blur is known by the LGBTQ community for its monthly drag shows. The recently remodeled bars and live entertainment make this a hot spot.
Bauser’s
520 Douglas Avenue
At Bauser’s, you can belt-out songs until your heart is content. The establishment is best known for its karaoke, but also has other offerings. You can bring your dog and pick your favorite drinks from a full bar.
Simon’s Pub
608 Union Street
Who doesn’t love a dive bar? Open until 2am, this bar can keep you busy all night. It has plenty of pool tables and is one of the few bars with a juke box.
Sonder Social Club
966 Douglas Avenue
For true mixology, Sonder Social Club is the place to be. They have upscale cocktails such as the Mexican Holiday and the Gold Coast. It’s a classy place with a calm atmosphere.
Dunedin Arts & Culture
Are you a lover of culture? If so, there are quite a few places to visit in Dunedin.
Dunedin Fine Art Center
1143 Michigan Boulevard
Art lovers can enjoy a visit to the Dunedin Fine Art Center. Every year, the art center hosts new works from artists that are from all over. Of course, there are plenty of local artists showcasing their work.
Art from the Heart Café
1248 County Road 1
Even if you’re not good at art, you can still enjoy yourself at Art from the Heart. Sign up for pottery painting or do a paint and sip event. It’s not the outcome that matters as much as the fun you have during the painting.
Penny Lane Beatles’ Museum
730 Broadway
Full of Beatles memorabilia, this museum is an unexpected surprise. If you’re not already a Beatles fan, visiting the museum could transform you into one.
Dunedin History Museum
349 Main Street
The long history of Dunedin makes the local museum a top tourist destination. Housed in an old railroad depot, the museum has over 2000 artifacts and 2500 photographs. While you’re checking out the museum, you can learn all about Dunedin’s past and appreciate its present state even more.
Shopping in Dunedin
You can spend hours window shopping in Dunedin, and you still won’t have enough time to check out all the shops. You’ll also find a few rainbow-inspired souvenirs along the way.
My Favorite Things
330 Main Street
This shop lives up to its name. When you walk in, you’ll see a little bit of everything. Some of the highlights include locally made jewelry and decor.
Blue Dragon Knotwork
1654 Patricia Avenue
It’s no secret that Dunedin is known for its Scottish heritage. This shop embraces the Celtic style and features paintings, sculptures, and decor made by artists Suze Acebo.
Celtic Shop of Dunedin
354 Main Street
This Celtic Shop of Dunedin imports products from Ireland, Wales, and Scotland. As your browse through the shop, you might learn a thing or two about Celtic culture.
The Great Giftsby
200 Main Street
If the name doesn’t already give it away, one look at the shelves will show you that the Great Giftsby is a unique shop. When you need souvenirs or a present for a friend, you can head to this shop.
Clay and Paper
110 Peterson Lane, Palm Harbor
Honoring local artists, Clay and Paper has some amazing artwork. You can stop in and pick up a painting as part of your gay Florida travel. The walls are loaded with artwork, so you might find it difficult to leave without a few unique pieces.
Enchanted Spirits Metaphysical Shop
712 Broadway
Step into a new world at the metaphysical shop. In addition to buying crystals and salt lamps at the shop, you can also get a psychic reading.
Outdoor Activities in and Near Dunedin
If you love the outdoors, you can check out some of these great outdoor attractions.
John Chesnut, Sr. Park
2200 East Lake Road South, Palm Harbor
When you go to John Chesnut, Sr. Park, bring your pup and visit the dog park. There are a total of 255 acres at the park, and there’s everything from sports fields to a boat launch.
Pinellas Trail
Although the Pinellas Trail extends from the fun city of St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs, the Dunedin section is one of the most memorable parts of the trail. In some areas of the trail, there are bars and restaurants for you to refresh and energize yourself.
Biking
You can bike your way around Dunedin to explore even more of the area. While cycling, be sure to stop at one of the many bike shops. Kafe Racer is both a bike shop and a bar, so you can sip and savor while you wait for your bike to be worked on.
Dunedin Area Beaches
No matter what your reasons are for visiting Dunedin, you shouldn’t leave without checking out the beaches. For a secluded experience, hop on a boat and go to Caladesi Island. It’s only accessible by boat and is undeveloped.
Honeymoon Island is easier to access because there’s a bridge you can drive over. While it’s slightly more developed than Caladesi, Honeymoon Island is still great for watching wildlife. You can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and much more.
Make Your Gay Florida Travel Plans to Dunedin
Are you hoping to find a quaint town as you enjoy gay Florida travel? Dunedin fits the bill and can keep you entertained for days. You have a great mix of nature, classy bars, and eclectic shops. Although it’s close to St. Pete and Tampa, Dunedin has a completely different environment. And best of all, it’s very LGBT-friendly.
***Disclaimer: There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate or sponsor links. If you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you (for which we are extremely grateful).
Also, while we do our best to highlight LGBTQ-friendly destinations and businesses, info provided is based solely on personal experience and recommendations by community partners. We hope that nobody experiences discrimination or homophobia while visiting Florida, but we make no guarantees. Please inform us if you experience discrimination or homophobia while visiting any destination so we can make updates to our recommendations.
