Key West is home to plenty of hot and horny muscle bears, but the annual Bear Weekend attracts a buffet of beefy boys from around the world. From the pool parties, clothing-optional tea dances, and everything in between – if you haven’t already got your vacation plans sorted, here are a few reasons to book your trip to Key West for some hairy bear fun.
What Are the Dates for Key West Bear Weekend?
The dates you need in your diary are 2-6 November; the first week of November tends to be the time Key West Bear Weekend is held.
Where Are the Best Places to Stay for Bear Weekend?
There’s a huge range of accommodation options in Key West, but there are six that are recommended by the organisers of the Bear Weekend.
Island House
Island House is the host hotel of Key West Bear Weekend.
This is an iconic place to stay – it’s clothing optional, and the pool and jacuzzis are open 24 hours a day.
Even if you’re not staying at Island House, your Bear Weekend pass gives you access to come and swim in the pool, have a drink at the bar, and use the facilities. You’re going to want to spend some time at Island House.
New Orleans House
The accommodation is relatively basic at New Orleans House, but it does put you right in the heart of the action. If you’re here to party, then this could be exactly the kind of situation that you’re looking for.
Equator Resort
Equator Resort is known as a quality clothing-optional accommodation option. This is a smaller property than Island House, and more of a relaxing vibe.
La-Te-Da Hotel
La-Te-Da embodies the old-world Key West style.
Fitch Lodge
Fitch Lodge is a boutique hotel with plenty of history. This is located a short walk from Island House, plus they offer free rental bikes.
Alexander’s Guest House
Alexander’s Guest House is an LGBTQ guesthouse in a historic conch-house property.
What Are Some of the Parties Happening that Weekend?
You’re going to need your stamina for this one. The full itinerary is available on the Bear Weekend website, but the events that have caught our eye include:
- Greet the Meat happy hour at Island House on Thursday 3 November.
- Bear World Magazine is hosting its 10th anniversary party at Sidebar on Thursday 3 November.
- Let’s Get Naked Pool Party at Island House, hosted by Teddy Bear.
- Mr Key West Bear Contest at Bourbon Street Pub on Friday 4 November.
- The Leather Ball at Sidebar on Saturday 5 November.
- Bear Ass Tea Party at Island House on Sunday 6 November.
Plus, every afternoon it’s a Bear Soup pool party at Island House. That needs no further explanation.
What Else Can I Get Up to in Gay Key West?
1 Saloon
1 Saloon is an iconic gay venue in Key West. It’s an old-school dive-bar, but you’ll want to check it out.
Sidebar
There’s always something on at Sidebar – it’s a venue that features prominently in the Bear Weekend program of events.
801 Bourbon Bar
801 Bourbon Bar is a fun venue, known for its drag queens and cocktails.
Bourbon Street Pub
A night out in Key West is inevitably going to involve a few drinks at the Bourbon Street Pub. Keep your ones handy so you can reward the go-go boys.
Find out more about the Key West Bear Weekend
