South Beach (seen here behind the Delano Hotel) will be swarmed in May for both Aqua Girl and Miami Sizzle

Hotels in this story

Price Dates

Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel

National Hotel

Hyatt Regency Miami

Although plenty of people “in the know” are busy primping for Orlando’s Gay Days in early June, Miami hosts two LGBT throw-downs during the month of May, one catering to gay women, the other to the African-American community.

1) – May 12-16, 2010.

A loose female equivalent to the shallowness and superficiality of male circuit parties, this is the largest charity women’s weekend in the country that each May unites thousands of beautiful women across the streets and oceans of Miami Beach for a wild and steamy weekend. Truth be told, Aqua Girl is still more well-rounded than its male counterparts, offering comedy events, art exhibits, concerts, and a jazz brunch in addition to the dance parties, the chaotic pool party, and the token mega beach party. One hundred percent of the net proceeds from the weekend benefit the Aqua Foundation for Women, a not-for-profit foundation whose primary mission is to promote the equality, strength, health, and visibility of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender women. The official Aqua Girl host hotel, the , is sold out! However, rooms are still available at the second partner hotel, hotel.

2) – May 27–June 1, 2010.

This Memorial Day Weekend event combines hip-hop and homosexuality in what is billed as Florida’s “most anticipated black gay event.” Sizzle Miami unites the African-American community and their admirers for non-stop madness, with events like a yacht booze cruise and a bathing suit fashion show disguised as a “luau.” The year’s host hotel is the , by far the best place to stay to get the most out of your fierce five-day party session. The is also a partner hotel for this event.

– Paul Rubio of amazinggaytravel.com