Elysium Resort (Closed Permanently)

Gay gay gay!

Great location a block from the beach and hotel restaurants and the biggest gay resort. Heated pool and huge jacuzzi. It does end to have an older crowd, but there are young guys there too. Rooms are very affordable and clean. It's not the newest but it is a lot of fun and the place we like to go the most. It's cruisy at night, so don't be surprised if you see guys walking around at night. But, it's not pushy and no one will bother you if you're just looking to hangout. I've met lots of guys just at the pool during the day that have become friends- no sex involved. The staff is very accommodating. Get a room by the Jacuzzi or above the main office if you want some privacy, but still want to see what's going on. Take a cab from the resort to Wilton Manners- it's about 10 bucks.

Worth a stay

For the price, atmosphere, and location the Elysium is a great deal. Id stay here again before some places Ive spent around a $1000 a night on in the last few years. The landscaping is amazing, I like having a mini-fridge and full size coffee maker available, and it is near the gay beaches and bars. The staff was without exception friendly and welcoming. The property is a little older, but in line with the rest of the neighborhood, and is well cared for, so this was not an issue at all, esp. given the reasonable room pricing. I also enjoyed the clientele; everyone was friendly and chatting with everyone at the pool and on the grounds, no pretense you can get at some places. Ill stay again next time Im in Ft. Lauderdale.

Not What it Used to Be

I thought it was just me but on my last day, there was a group of us sitting around having breakfast discussing how we have all stayed at the Elysium previously (some 5 visits or more) and this was our last.

"An Unwelcoming..." Unfair Review

I must take issue with italy72's "An Unwelcoming Experience" review. My partner and I have stayed at the Elysium 6 times and always find the owners (Steve and Gary) to be warm and welcoming. Staff is professional, helpful, and friendly. Your problem was that they wouldn't let you pay what you wanted to pay? (A price less than you knew it would be?) Who tries to "negotiate" resort room rates? You weren't making an offer to buy a used car or haggling at a bazaar. You say his rudeness took you by surprise, but to a disinterested third party reading your tirade, yours comes across loud and clear. I think it's unfair that you choose to discredit this establishment (and hurt their business) for an unpleasant situation of your own making. I'm just sayin'. (PS: In referring you to "The W" perhaps he was actually referring you to The W - the Starwood hotel located in sight of the Elysium. You might have better luck trying to bargain at a large chain hotel.)

Great gay place by the beach

The Elysium is great for what it claims to be: a gay male clothing optional guesthouse near the beach. The staff is always very friendly and accomodating, the other guests are typically friendly and attitude free. There are definitely things that make the resort feel a little dated, but i am okay with that for the price it is a good value. I will continue to frequent the elysium--for its staff, mix of clientele, location, and price.