Headed to the Paradise Coast? Fortunately for LGBTQ travelers, this region becomes more and more welcoming each year. While there aren’t any specific gay-owned hotels or vacation rentals that we are aware of, there are plenty of LGBTQ-friendly accommodations.
Gateway to the Gulf and Glades
Southwest Florida is known for its diverse activities and nature. Serving as both a gateway to the Gulf and the Everglades, nature enthusiasts will love this area. During the spring training season sports fans can catch the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins in action. The area’s fascinating history, dating back thousands of years, will captivate visitors of all ages.
With so many options, deciding where to stay in southwest Florida can be overwhelming. We’ve done the research, so you don’t have to!
Know Before You Go
All of the options listed are LGBTQ friendly. Also, southwest Florida is home to several TAG Approved properties. This means management has met standards centered-around inclusion and safety for workers and guests alike. These include enforcing non-discrimination regarding sexual orientation, LGBTQ diversity and sensitivity training, and they employ diverse staff. They also give back to their community. These are noted as TAG Approved below.
Unless otherwise indicated, children are welcome. Pets are welcome at many, but not all properties. Please verify when reserving.
Explore where to stay in southwest Florida by reviewing our list here:
Traveling on a Budget
For travelers wanting to spend less on lodging southwest Florida has some great properties to choose from. You can rest easy knowing you’ve saved money for other things on your trip. For added savings inquire about discount programs like AAA, AARP, or other offers for seniors, veterans and active military.
La Quinta Inn & Suites, Bonita Springs
This updated and airy hotel is close to the beaches of Fort Myers, and many area attractions and eateries. The bright lobby and breakfast area inspire a good vibe for the rest of your day.
Set back off the main road, the rooms offer a quiet retreat. Rooms here are updated and comfortable. All include a mini fridge and coffee maker. Some have pool and lake views. Suites are spacious and offer separate living areas. ADA accessible rooms are available.
After a day of exploring, relax and refresh with a dip in the lakefront pool. Get your energy going with a visit to the fitness center or a walk the boardwalk around the lake.
Wifi and parking are free at this pet friendly property. Check their website for info including seasonal discounts.
Hampton Inn & Suites, Fort Myers/Sanibel
This comfortable hotel offers reasonably priced accommodations central to all Fort Myers has to offer. The beach is only ten minutes away by car or local trolley that passes near this budget-friendly hotel.
All rooms and suites include plush “Cloud 9” bedding, microwaves and mini fridges.
Start your day with a swim in the heated tropical-style pool. Wifi and parking are free at this comfortable property from the Hilton family.
This property has some pet-friendly rooms, so inquire when reserving to get space for you and your fur babies. Get all the details here.
Naples Garden Inn
This cute tropical-looking motel offers the comforts of home without breaking the bank. Clean, quiet rooms include mini fridges, TVs with cable, and free wifi. Suites have kitchenettes and separate living areas. Parking and breakfast are included.
After a day at the nearby Naples Zoo or Botanical Garden take a dip in the outdoor pool. Enjoy some quiet time in the secluded garden area or enjoy a drink under the large tiki bar.
This laid-back property is kid friendly, but you’ll need to leave pets at home. This old Florida property is not entirely ADA accessible.
Learn more about this classic Florida motel here.
Hotels
Staybridge Suites, Naples
Visitors wanting to be close to everything Naples has to offer. It’s all happening right near this extended stay property! After a busy day at the nearby beach, the Naples Zoo, or the Naples Botanical Garden guests can enjoy the hotel’s complimentary happy hour.
With a full kitchen in each room this will feel like your home away from home. Bring the family, including your fur baby (for an additional fee).
Get all the details for your Staybridge Suites stay here.
Inn at Pelican Bay, Naples – TAG Approved
This newly renovated boutique hotel is in the heart of Naples. Guests can stroll to nearby restaurants and shops or get to the beach via the hotel’s scheduled “beach buggy” shuttle (ages six and up).
Rooms feature lake or park views, free wifi, and private balconies. Complimentary breakfast is available.
Onsite amenities include a pool, fitness center, and beautifully landscaped grounds. If you want to explore further, there are rental bicycles available.
Planning an event? The Inn’s lakeside terrace is great spot for celebrations.
Check out all the details here.
Hotel Indigo, Downtown Fort Myers
Hotel Indigo is boutique hotel located in the heart of old Downtown Fort Myers.
Solo travelers and families alike will appreciate the central location. Guests are just a short stroll to dozens of restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment venues. The Sun Splash Family Waterpark, History & Science Center, and historic sites are just a short drive away. The hotel offers valet parking, so you don’t have to deal with the hassle of finding a downtown spot.
Bring the whole family – pups weighing no more than 30 pounds are welcome! Pet-friendly rooms are limited, so make sure you request one when booking your reservation.
Your stay includes free wifi and access to the 24-hour fitness center. The hotel’s rooftop lounge and pool are a great way to unwind and watch the sunset after your day of exploration.
Start planning your downtown getaway here.
Four Points by Sheraton Harborside, Punta Gorda
Settle into comfort on the shores Charlotte Harbor waterfront. This Four Points hotel is just a short distance from the center of historic Punta Gorda.
Explore the quaint shops and restaurants of the town. Check out one of the nearby museums or nature centers.
After your day’s adventures, enjoy a dip in the pool, or relax with a drink at the popular tiki bar overlooking the harbor.
Rooms and suites feature private balconies, many with marina and river views, spa robes, and coffee makers.
The entire family is welcoming, including your fur babies!
There is no charge for parking. Another nice perk, guests 62 and over receive a minimum 15% discount at Marriott properties. Contact the property for details.
Resort/Luxury
JW Marriot, Marco Island
It’s all about the beach at this upscale resort. The Gulf is just steps away from anywhere you are in this massive resort. After time on the cool white sand stop by the pool or one of the resort’s 12 restaurants before heading up to your room.
All the bright, modern rooms include mini fridges and coffee stations. Suites offer Gulf views, separate living/dining rooms, and the optional extra bedrooms.
This property offers something for everyone: Families will love the playground and game room for the kids. Golfers will enjoy access to two nearby 18-hole courses. If relaxation is your priority the onsite spa offers a variety of treatments. Adventurous travelers can try parasailing lessons, or even rent a paddle board or kayak.
Looking for an event or meeting venue? This property can accommodate groups of all sizes in their state-of-the-art facilities.
There’s no extra charge for the breathtaking sunsets here! You can catch one from one of the open terraces throughout the property or right along the beachfront.
Guests 62 and over receive a minimum 15% discount at Marriott properties. Find out more here.
Naples Grand Beach Resort – TAG Approved
This luxurious resort is situated on 23 acres of waterfront. The gorgeous grounds provide a relaxing backdrop for your getaway. The resort’s large rooms and suites offer a variety of views and amenities so you can customize your experience.
There’s plenty to do at this environmentally friendly property. Stroll the boardwalk to the nearby beach. Take a complimentary tour of the protected estuary. Hit one of the three pools, or the golf course. Arrange a spa treatment, or two. Visitors can also explore nearby upscale shopping and cultural events.
Plan your grand escape here.
Westin Resort at Marina Village, Cape Coral – TAG Approved
This upscale resort offers one, two, or three bedroom suites. Many have water views, screened balconies, and kitchens. There is no charge for wifi or parking.
The whole family is welcome here – even the four-legged members. Kiddos will love the activities planned just for them in the Kids Club Discovery Room (fees may apply).
Enjoy the three outdoor pools, including a lap pool and a lagoon. Take a soak in the hot tub or get your blood flowing in the fitness studio. Next door the Tarpon Point Marina has rental kayaks and charter fishing boats.
Active visitors can head over to the Recreation Center for free access to two tennis courts, bocce ball, horseshoes, and running trails.
When it’s time to relax, grab a drink and enjoy the view from the dockside bar and grill. Or enjoy a quiet dinner at the onsite bistro.
The Marina Village’s waterfront lawn is a popular spot for weddings and other special occasions.
Start planning your visit here.
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort, Bonita Springs – TAG Approved
Just north of Naples is beautiful Bonita Springs. This upscale resort steeped in tropical splendor. Contemporary rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with great views of Estero Bay and the coastline. Suites and upgrade rooms have full balconies. ADA accessible rooms are available.
Book a ferry excursion to the resort’s private island. The ride takes visitors on a 15-minute bay crossing to Big Hickory Island, part of the Estero Bay Ecological Preserve. This pristine beach has chairs, umbrellas, and a boardwalk to explore.
Back at the resort, guests of all ages will enjoy the excitement of the lagoon pool with four waterslides. For a more relaxed speed enjoy floating in the lazy river or soaking in one of the hot tubs.
Schedule an appointment to restore and refresh at the eco-sensitive Stillwater Spa. Meet your fitness goals in the 24-hour fitness center, on the tennis courts, or the championship golf course.
You won’t go hungry at this resort! The property has multiple restaurants, including upscale and casual dining, and a grab-and-go coffee shop and market. There’s even a family-friendly lounge offering free use of board games to relax into the evening.
Find all the information for your time in paradise here.
The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club, Naples Beach
This beachfront complex offers guests a chance to travel back to an era of elegance. Some of the property’s historic buildings date back to the 1920s. However, the 319 rooms here are thoroughly modern and upscale.
Rooms include artwork from local artists, mini fridges, coffeemakers, and private patios or balconies. Suites have kitchenettes. ADA accessible rooms are available.
The resort has seven miles of private beach and two pools (one for adults only). Guests can also enjoy the spa and clubhouse, a tennis center, and beautiful even facilities.
Golfers will love the recently renovated championship 18-hole golf course. New to the game? Schedule a golf lesson, or join a clinic, with one of the resort’s pros.
After your fun in the sun, relax with a drink at the tiki bar or beachside restaurant and enjoy the spectacular sunset.
The Kiddos will love time at the Kids Club (complimentary). Unlike many resorts, this property does not charge a “resort fee.”
Start planning your vacation here.
Bed & Breakfasts
Pyramids in Florida, Fort Myers
A village like no other, this eclectic vacation destination is made up of 26 pyramids. With four different sizes to choose from, there’s a pyramid for every group and budget. Guests are reported to benefit from the healing frequency of the pyramid structures. Pyramid village is centered around a fresh flowing thermal spring.
All pyramids include full kitchens, living areas, bathroom with shower and tub, linens, terraces, and barbecue grills.
This 10-acre property is a lush getaway. An illuminated path winds through the gardens. Visitors are welcome to pick fruit right from the trees! Stroll or jog through the wetland sanctuary and enjoy the sounds and sights of nature.
Active visitors can borrow fishing equipment and try their luck in the river that flows through the property. Join a game of basketball or volleyball.
Children are welcome, and there are special activities just for them including aqua classes at the thermal lake.
There are no stairs in the lodging or on the property making access easy for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Guests are welcome to BYOB to the communal tiki bar and relax with other guests. Join in holiday meals and other gatherings prepared by staff.
Learn more about this unique experience here.
Hibiscus House Bed & Breakfast, Fort Myers
Location, location, location! This beautiful property is walking distance to historic Downtown Fort Myers and the Edison & Ford Winter Estates. With a rich history of its own, the house is over 100-years old, is a relaxing oasis in the midst of this vibrant area.
Each of the five guest rooms offer TVs (including movie channels), private baths, wifi, and free onsite parking. Guests enjoy daily home-style breakfasts.
This non-smoking property welcomes children five and over to stay with their adults.
Let your Hibiscus House plans start to blossom here.
Matlacha Cove Inn, Matlacha
The historic fishing village of Matlacha (pronounced mat-lah-shay) is the perfect backdrop for this colorful compound. Each of the “rooms” at the Inn are actually adorable stand-alone tiny homes.
This “tiny village” is a great place to unwind after a day of boating or sightseeing. Guests can enjoy the pool, sundeck, barbecue grill, or kayak launch. Bring your boat and keep it at one of the Cove’s slips for easy access during your stay.
The tiny home units vary in size and can accommodate up to either four or six guests. Each of the units include a full kitchenette.
Children are welcome here, but you’ll have to leave pets at home.
Start planning your visit to this funky town here.
FabStayz Vacation Rentals
Luxury on Pine Island in Saint James City
This St James City getaway has everything you need to relax while having fun. Fish from a private dock (rods and tackle provided), take a nap in your suite, unwind in the hot tup, take a swim in the pool, or curl up and watch a movie or read a digital book via cable and Wi-Fi.
The Calusa Blue Way kayak trail is closely and Sanibel shelling is minutes away by boat. You can also watch Manatees swimming in the canal. You can even rent boats and golf carts from local merchants. Kayaks are available for rent at the property’s dock through a local company. Two bicycles and helmets provided.
To book your future getaway, click here.
Vacation Rentals
The Mizner Estate French Suite, Fort Myers
Go back in time in this historic 1920s home. The guest suite is a beautiful French-themed retreat with private bathroom and small balcony overlooking the garden. History fans will appreciate all the details of this National Register house, designed by architect Addison Mizner.
Up-to-two adults can enjoy this relaxing space. The suite includes a small fridge and microwave among the tasteful French decor.
The one-acre property is lined with majestic palms is an elegant place to come home. After shopping or dining in historic Downtown Fort Myers unwind on one of the outdoor decks nestled within the lush gardens.
Paradise awaits you here.
Botanical Garden Home, Fort Myers
You and your traveling companions can enjoy this three bed/one bath private oasis. Guests have the entire 2,200 square-foot first floor to themselves. The owner resides in a private apartment upstairs.
There is a separate main bedroom. The living room converts to additional sleeping area. Enjoy all the comforts of home including a full kitchen, laundry room, and an enclosed Florida room. There’s easy access through the covered carport (great for those rainy Florida afternoons).
The saltwater pool and deck are perfect for relaxing. You can’t bring your pets here, but you can watch the wildlife in the adjacent pond. You might even spot an otter or two! Rentals at this wooded retreat range from a minimum of four nights-to monthly.
Find out more about this garden oasis here.
Little Hickory Cottage, Bonita Springs
This family-friendly neighborhood is a great place for walking or jogging. Wildlife love the area too – you might spot a woodpecker, or a manatee in the canal.
Up-to six guests can enjoy all the amenities of this three bedroom, two bathroom home. Catch a beautiful sunset at the nearby beach, just a short walk or bike ride away.
Return to your home away from home to make dinner in the updated kitchen or use the outdoor grill. Relax on the lanai with a beverage and a book or catch up on your favorite movies on the large screen TV.
Learn more about this beautiful area and home here.
Camping/RV
Camp Mars, Venus
Life on Mars can be very relaxing. Nestled among the live oaks on 40 acres east of the Gulf, Camp Mars has been welcoming gay men for years.
Life on Mars can also be a whole lot of fun. Throughout the year they host a variety of socials, themed weekends, and campfires. Saturday nights guests can participate in a potluck dinner.
Leave the outside world behind and recalibrate. There are plenty of amenities here, including a forest boardwalk and the clothing optional pool (don’t forget your sunscreen!).
Guests can hook their RV up to 30 and 50 amp sites for as little as a couple of day, a few months, or beyond. Groups and clubs are also welcome, and the owners are happy to help coordinate.
Get ready to launch your Camp Mars adventures here.
Groves RV Resort, Fort Myers
Close to all that southwest Florida has to enjoy, this laid-back RV park offers short and long-term RV stays and cottage rentals.
Onsite, there’s always something fun going on! Amenities include a clubhouse, pool, hot tub, pickleball, bocce ball, shuffleboard, and more!
RV sites include back-in and pull-in options, full hookups, and picnic tables. Cottages sleep 2-4, fully equipped kitchens, washer/dryers, and TVs. Plus, the cottages are pet friendly (a fee may apply).
Check out their website for all the details and special offers.
The Perfect Escape…
There a lot of lodging factors to consider when deciding where to stay in southwest Florida. Whether you prefer the luxurious or unique, you’re sure to have a wonderful experience. Wherever you choose to rest at day’s end, enjoy the journey and the memories you make along the way.
For more information on exploring Southwest Florida, click here.
***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.
