Remembering Miami's Gay Bar Scene: A Look Back at the Cactus and Beyond
For a young, newly out gay man, Miami offered a vibrant and welcoming scene. In a time when the drinking age was a convenient 18, the options for gay nightlife were surprisingly plentiful.
In fact, some might argue there were even more gay bars in Miami Beach and the mainland than there are today.
A Glimpse into the Past
An old bar rag, "Where the Action Is," listed a remarkable 13 mainland bars and 6 beachside options.
The era between then and now represents my formative years exploring the gay scene. Never before, or since, have I frequented so many establishments with such regularity.
While a tight budget was a constant companion, student discounts and the generosity of friends and even strangers often helped me navigate the scene.
The lack of a car, however, restricted me to bars accessible by foot, bus, or a lucky ride. Interestingly, I never made it to the Cactus Lounge on Biscayne Boulevard. Until its recent demolition, it held the distinction of being the longest-standing gay bar in South Florida.
Exploring the Scene
I did visit the Nook a few times, but it never quite resonated with me.
Tucked away on a side street, it felt disconnected from the evolving gay rights movement, as if the Stonewall Riots had never happened.
There, discreet gentlemen in dark suits would sip martinis, serenaded by the sounds of Judy Garland or Barbra Streisand from the jukebox.
Fortunately, I discovered the real hotspots through word-of-mouth. One favorite was located on S.W. 8th Street, boasting a late 5 AM closing time.
However, I much preferred the nearby Second Landing, so much so that I became a regular. This vibrant spot, situated on the second floor of a building, was a popular destination for young Latinos seeking older partners, a dynamic that particularly appealed to me at the time.
Bachelors II, with its ground-floor restaurant and second-floor cruise bar on Coral Way, was another well-known establishment.
The exclusive Candlelight Club, requiring membership based on financial affluence, was a place I only visited as a guest or, later, when it hosted early meetings of the Dade County Coalition for the Humanistic Rights of Gays.
As historian James T.
Sears noted, it was a truly remarkable time.
The Legacy of the Cactus Bar & Grill
Miami's longest-running gay bar, the Cactus Bar & Grill, known for its Biscayne Boulevard location and its diverse clientele, has sadly closed its doors. It was a place that offered live entertainment, themed parties, drag shows, male dancers, karaoke nights, pool games, and live bands.
The friendly staff created a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging patrons to dance the night away or relax on the private patio.
What made the Cactus so special?
- Live entertainment, including fabulous drag shows.
- Themed parties and a lively dance floor.
- A great spot for karaoke nights or weekend fun with friends.
Recent reviews highlight both positive and mixed experiences:
"The Rainbow Cactus has always been a great experience for me.
Great drinks, amazing food, and the Drag performances are always fun. There is something new and improved added to make the this bar stand out. Definitely recommend checking this place out!"
"I've been here a couple times since they've moved.
Not the best vibe. Staff is pleasant, even if they aren't exactly nice; fairly clean establishment."
"I had such a wonderful time watching all of the fabulous drag queens perform and the drinks were so kindly brought to our table and cleared off of any finished drinks the service was excellent."
More Than Just a Bar
While the Cactus may be gone, the spirit of Miami's gay bar scene lives on.
Other establishments, such as Willy's Neighborhood Bar and Maria's Beauty Salon, continue to offer spaces for community and connection. In the past, places like Warehouse VIII served as central hubs for the gay community. These spaces provide a vital sense of belonging and a place to celebrate identity.