Fort Myers

Set along the Caloosahatchee River, Fort Myers is one of the most enticing spots along the Gulf of Mexico. The sugary sands of it beaches crawl with handsome, curious men on cruise control. You'll want to have an abundance of sunscreen to slather on at Bunche Beach and Bowman's Beach (the nude beach), while Jaycee Park in nearby Cape Coral is jammed with hot guys exploring nature's gifts.

The summer homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford have been preserved and enshrined as museums here. Stories of this inventive duo's "close friendship" still permeate the town's lore.

Paradise is less than a two-hour drive from both Tampa and Fort Lauderdale and a magical three-hour ferry ride from Key West. Fort Myers is no problem to get to, but you may find it difficult to leave.

Pride celebrations here take place here the at the beginning of October, for National Coming Out Day.

Getting here

Southwest Florida International Airport is the region’s main gateway. There are direct flights into town from the US and abroad, giving Fort Myers an international flavor and enriching the pool of potential amorous adventures.

Getting around

You’re gonna need a car if you want to get around --bus?

Media

With the demise of the local Splash Magazine, you'll have to check Hot Spots and Mark's List for gay information about Fort Myers and Naples. For general news and A&E, see the Fort Myers Florida Weekly.

Going out

Bottom Line (3090 Evans Ave), largest gay entertainment complex in southwest Florida for a generation. Wild drag shows, live music, hot mixed crowds, all-ages (15+) dance nights, pool tables, lots of support for the local gay community.

Office Pub (3704 Cleveland Ave), friendly bar, good vibes, Bears/cubs night first Sundays and anytime. Uniform, leather, strip-pool underwear and blackout parties energize the slightly sleazy, totally sexy buzz. Happy hours all week.

Tubby's (4350 Fowler St), laid-back and neighborly, but come party-time they let their tresses down. Loyal locals, casual visitors, Happy hours 2-8pm. Dancing Friday and Saturday nights, Sunday  T-dance. Large screen TV sports, bingo, karaoke, WiFi access, and pool tournaments among the many attractions and special events.