A three-tiered coral reef system runs the length of Greater Fort Lauderdale’s coastline and begins only about 90 metres offshore. Since 1982, more than 100 artificial reefs have been created as well, making the area particularly good for wreck diving. SAA Scuba, the local gay diving club, welcomes travellers on their local outings; check the website for the current event schedule. Gay-friendly Parrot Island Scuba runs daily dive trips to the wrecks and reefs.

Besides their big rodeo each April, the Sunshine Stampede (see events), the Florida Gay Rodeo Association is a charitable, educational and social organization with plenty on all year to celebrate the country/western lifestyle. This year that included a six day adventure cruise to the Western Caribbean - visiting Ocho Rios, Jamaica and Grand Cayman, following by a weekend of hot rodeo action and parties. Other events include: Royalty Competitions; weekends at Camp Mars (Venus, FL), with raffle, hayride, party and potluck dinner; a Christmas party at Lake Douglas Ranch (Christmas, FL); sessions of Rodeo School; plus country fairs, dances, barbeques, casino nights and other events at supporting bars and restaurants. See their website above for photos, and full details.

The Rising Action Theatre Company (840 E Oakland Park Blvd) "promotes diversity and tolerance with multi-cultural and socially relevant plays." If that sounds too weighty, there's plenty of campy fun onstage too. See their website for what's playing.

An extensive system of canals makes Fort Lauderdale one of the country's premiere sailing hubs. One of the best ways to see the city is on one of the dozens of water taxis that operate along its waterfront.

The Stonewall National Museum and Archives (1300 E Sunrise Blvd) is one of the best places to learn more about the city's gay history. With more than 18,000 items, the library has one of the country's largest gay-specific collections.

Fort Lauderdale has emerged as one of the country's premiere destinations for leather aficionados. Bars, clubs and boutiques that cater to them are located throughout Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors and surrounding suburbs, and the guesthouse Inn Leather boasts a sling in every room.

The gay beach is in front of Beach Place, just opposite Sebastian Street. Hundreds of men can be found here most any nice day, sunning, flirting, chatting, reading or splashing in the warm water. People also gather for jogging, tennis, and "whatever" at Holiday Park (Sunrise Blvd, south side, at NE 12th Ave).