If you like eclectic this may be the place. Replete with water fountains, Greek heads, and gardens this likely old mansion is unique. Staff were super friendly and relaxed giving guest that island vibe. The guest house is well located and extenuates the community feel of Cherry Grove. There could be some updating and inside the rooms are fairly rustic (and you may have to walk out of your room to enter your bathroom), but that may be part of the charm. read more

See all

Old school clothing optional gay guesthouse A tad shopworn but worth a visit for all the trompe l'oeil painting and statues. Front desk needs someone friendly. When I visited I just assumed he was possessed by the spirit of the evil queen from Snow White. Maybe his undies were too tight. Rooms are a blast - a banquet of gayness that must be seen to be believed. Go! Nothing exists like this and it never will again... read more

Belvedere Guest House - Entranceway - Guest Houses Near Me - Cherry Grove, New York

See all

DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH Overall quite disappointed, u can tell this used to be a grand & gorgeous place that was once someone's dream. Very overpriced for the quality. Entire place is peeling paint & rotting wood & dirty carpet. Horrible view from room overlooking old filled in swimming pool, now cluttered w/ broken, rusted junk! Room reaked of mold/mildew, the AC squealed all night. Has a nice small pastry, bagel & coffee breakfast. Did love the outdoors shower. read more

See all

Usually stay here once a summer with my fiancé and do day trips if we can't book a weekend. Staff is friendly and so are the other guests. Always have a good time whether it's a weekend or just a day. Only issue is the age of the place definitely shows and the pool needs more regular cleaning. read more

I stayed in the King Water room. My chief issue is the shower in the room was cold most of the time. The shower in the shared 2nd floor bathroom never had any hot water. Don't stay on the 2nd floor. Other issues were unfinished dry wall repairs, broken mirror, wood wall with a unfinished repair. The faucet in our 2nd room was plumbed backwards. Place needs work if they're going to charge that much. read more

I love this place! Every visit has been thoroughly satisfying. And admittedly, we've ended extended our stay each time! My ONLY wish, is that you guys would sell some merch. I'd love to own a Belvedere tank or Tee ;) -Kevin read more

Simply the sexiest swinging place to be. All men are welcome- grab your gear and get on over.

This is not the Four Seasons and if that is what you are looking for - look elsewhere. This is a crazy kitsch castle-by-the-sea that is an amazing experience. The place was built by a dreamer and his boyfriend and is now owned and run by the partner of the boyfriend. The staff is welcoming, the place is over-the top old world grandeur (in a decaying sea-side sort of way) and the guest are an extremely eclectic group of patrons. If you love Fire Island, what it stands for and/or it's history - you have to experience the Belvedere (at least once). I try and get back there every year for a stay/escape and have only the fondest memory of each visit. It is an experience. read more

The Belvedere is one of the centerpieces of Cherry Grove, a small community in Fire Island and undoubtedly one of the oldest and most popular gay and lesbian communities in the US. Cherry Grove dates from the great Greta Garbo's days, and the Belvedere has been there since the early '50s. It is old, friendly, but evoking of a time passed by in both amenities and creature comforts. The fact that it doesn't have air conditioning is the first clue. The place is a mix of additions to a monumental beach house that was built by a movie set producer. The faux Corinthian columns and plywood frescoes evoke a stone mansion from afar, but the traveler immediately notices its wooden frame and plaster walls. The relatively small pool is the center of a courtyard flanked by an outdoor gym and well-kept garden. All throughout, priceless European marble sculptures (as well as some plaster repros) adorn the property. The rooms vary in size and amenities. The largest luxury rooms are beautifully decorated in neo-classical design and feature their own seaside verandas as well as private baths. Their "Deluxe" rooms, however, are many steps below the luxury rooms and would nowadays be considered small budget accommodations anywhere else. Their standard, economy and basic rooms may have shared baths and are well below most modern accommodations nowadays. However, considering the ambiance and the fact that this is a no-frills seaside community, it is understandable. The entire property is clothing optional. On Sundays, a small continental breakfast is offered. However, heartier faire is available two small blocks away. Our stay at the Belvedere was pleasant, although punctuated by the noise in the next room emanating from the thin walls. The most frustrating part of the stay was the lack of any normal toiletries that would be part of the most budget lodging nowadays. At over $300 a day, not having shampoo in the rooms is unforgivable. Still, it was worth staying at one of the historic venues of LGBT history. With a little effort, the Belvedere could compete with more modern accommodations. read more

I just returned from a lovely off-season weekend in Fire Island and my accommodations were charming and lovely. Visible from a distance, The Belvedere Guest House stands out in Cherry Grove -- a beautiful eclectic castle. The interior matches the exterior charm -- various hallways and staircases and corners to get lost in. The rooms are all different from each other -- each with its own unique theme. There are a variety of room options -- from single rooms with shared bathrooms -- to luxury rooms with balconies overlooking the bay. I stayed in what they call a standard room -- it was cozy with its own bathroom, mini-fridge, and television. It was steps from the pool and Jacuzzi. The pool is not heated, but of course the Jacuzzi is -- a great place to mingle and meet other guests. There is also an outdoor gym and an outdoor shower. I particularly enjoyed the top floor of the property -- accessible only through a spiral staircase -- its quiet and peaceful with an outdoor deck and stunning views of the bay. It's a good place to curl up and read a book, or get to know a new friend more intimately (as seems to be encouraged by the porn-playing television). The entire property is clothing optional, but at least on this off season weekend, it was far more leisurely than lascivious. And while the property is generally only open to men -- this weekend it was open to everyone. The Belvedere would be a great choice on these weekends for anyone who wants to unwind, relax, and just be themselves. My only very minor complaint was the heat in the room and property -- on a relatively cold weekend, it was a bit chilly throughout the property, and while my room did have heat, it wasn't quite enough to warm it up properly. But other than that, I found the room, as well as the property clean and well maintained. The staff was cordial and friendly, but not intrusive. And there was coffee/tea and breakfast-type muffins, danishes, etc. available in the morning. None of it is fancy, but this isn't a 5 star midtown Manhattan hotel - The Belvedere doesn't advertise itself that way. It's a guest house on Fire Island -- a very good one. read more

I knew this place was beautiful, but I was honestly a bit nervous about staying here. I was worried it would be seedy and uncomfortable, or stuffy and aloof, but boy oh boy was I wrong. I can't wait to return next year. My husband and I stayed for 4 nights and didn't want to leave. The staff feels like a family, and the owners, Craig and Julian, were gracious, fun, and warm. Michael welcomed us, checked us in, and got us acquainted with everything, making us feel immediately comfortable. Other staff of particular mention were Kevin, Nigel/Kendra, Rich, Russ, Calvin, Jonathan, Peaches, and several others whose names escape me at the moment. All were friendly, attitude-free, and conscientious. The grounds are beautiful and the rooms are clean, quirky, and lush. The place feels sexy and not sleazy. Service was close to perfect. We had a problem with our shower drain and a simple mention to Julian resulted in immediate action, repair (which took a couple of hours but was done with positivity and apologies) and finally a thorough scrub down of the bathroom afterwards. The pricing isn't cheap, but the Belvedere feels luxurious in every way and my husband and I both felt pampered throughout our stay. The vibe of the place also creates an atmosphere of fellowship and engagement with other guests where people seem comfortable letting their guards down and simply enjoying each other's company. Finally, I must mention the insanely good on-site masseur, Matthew. My husband and I both got a massage (separately) and we both agree that it was the best massage we have ever gotten, no exaggeration. And we're both VERY picky. This review may sound like I'm gushing, and I probably am. But it is well deserved and I can't wait to return. read more

See all

This hotel with a clothing optional pool area was great! I was visiting for a week around Labor Day, didn't stay there, but instead got a day pass to access the gym on the pool deck, as well as the hot tub and pool. I was told by guests that this place been incrementally going through renovations and is continually improving. Looking forward to coming back. The crowd tends to screw older (50+) but not always! There never a lack of eye candy there for sure read more

Stayed there for one night got the pet friendly room for $385 and night after I check out I got charged additional $100 for bringing my dog to the hotel .the wine glass was never washed disgusting the cable didn't work hot tub filthy .for sure I will never go back there again not worth it . read more

We stayed in the Oak room with stunning views of the bay. Sunrise and sunset were beautiful. The climate definitely takes its toll on the hotel making some parts look run down but overall it is a magical place to visit. -- if you're obsessed with Scandinavian design, this is not the place for you. If like a quirky palace with surprises around every corner check it out. I liked that the room got cold at night with big warm blankets. I sleep very deeply that way. Might have liked more of a mini-bar and there was no iron I could borrow. I would definitely go again. read more

Interesting concept. It's not your standard boutique hotel, that's for sure. However, it's a memorable one. I didn't stay here but my friend has and we took a tour, which they give if you ask. It's only 5 minutes, but you get to see the major rooms. On the first floor is a nice lobby and a private pool area that is clothing optional. The other rooms are a big living room and chandeliers and fancy furniture. On the top floor is a lounge area with a balcony overlooking the bay. The indoor area is a television where pornography may (or may not) be playing. Staff were very nice. Definitely stop by here if you're walking from the Pines to Cherry Grove. read more

Charming place to stay in the Cherry Grove section on Fire Island where not many places rent by the night. Friendly courteous staff always greets me with a smile. Different classes of clean, well appointed rooms, some with private baths and balconies. This is not 5 stars like the Waldorf, but for Cherry Grove it is as good as it gets. Many nooks and crannies throughout the castle-like premises to seclude yourself with a book or iPad or to engage your fellow guests in repartee. In other words, something for every man. Clothing optional, mostly by the cozy pool area... but I prefer a tan line myself, lol... No judgments. Diverse clientele with all ages present from 20's up. I prefer quieter weekdays myself, but I hear from regulars that its most popular with the weekend crowd, too. I've become a repeat customer and can think of no better place to stay on Fire Island. read more

Belvedere Guest House - Lots of loungers. This set is on the bay - Guest Houses Near Me - Cherry Grove, New York

See all

Had the greatest stay. Thanks to a warm welcome from the owners Julian and Craig. We had a late last minute check-in that they were able to accommodate. Stayed in a king bed looking out on to the bay couldn't have gotten any better. Sadly, we had to run in the morning BUT there was the smell of fresh coffees and pastries. There is no where else like this - Perfectly groomed property is a priceless gem. I look forward to my next stay. read more

Ugh....oh, the belvedere....it's a must go to in fire island (if ur a guy) .... They r redoing it this year so should be nice. So relaxing, calm and fun! read more

Just returned from a 4 day stay at the Belvedere and felt compelled to write a review. I must say, I was shocked to find any negative reviews here, so I'll address those first. To be clear, this is a gay male only, clothing optional guest house on Fire Island. If you are a prudish, uppity, easily offended type, accustomed to stays at the SOHO Grand (I usually stay there when in NYC) or the Waldorf, by all means, don't leave the city - the other guests at the Belvedere will thank you for it. Perhaps you might check lodgings in the Pines for something a bit more pretentious, but this is Fire Island sweetheart. You have to "get" Fire Island. I have been hit on in the hallways of the SOHO Grand, so really, take it as a compliment and get over yourself. By the third day of my stay, I had so many extra clean towels for my bath, I was stacking them on the counter by the shower. The staff work their butts off, long hours for a fully booked house in season, and if they miss something you need, just ask. The are happy to resolve any issue. The owners are beyond amazing at getting their guests into the vibe of the establishment. They are so friendly, warm and attentive, if polygamy were legal in NY, I'd have asked them to marry me. I arrived as a single guest accompanied by two married couples, and both owners went out of their way to introduce me to other guests or engage me in conversation when they found me sitting alone. They remember every guest by name. Seriously, find that anywhere else. If a room was late in being ready, it is more likely due to the guest not vacating the room on time because they were reluctant to leave. Finally, the safety of the Belvedere cannot be understated. You can't access the compound without a guest key. One night I went for ice, and without thinking, left my room open with my MAC Book, wallet, and cash in plain sight on the dresser. After getting into a conversation with a few other guests poolside, I returned more than an hour later to find nothing had been disturbed. Obviously, I don't suggest it is wise anywhere you stay, but it proves a point about the Belvedere and the type of guests there. If an escape from the uptight, routine rigors of life is just what you need, stay at the Belvedere. The location is the most perfect on Fire Island. The beach, the clubs & restaurants of the Grove and the Pines, (and yes, the famous cruising area of the woods in between) are an easy walk. This is Fire Island people. Chill. read more

I love this increcibly detailed, elegant, wildly gayla Cherry Grove landmark. You're mad to go anywhere else if you can get in.

I've been going to the Belvedere for years and love it. Craig and Julian have done a great job. This is the most kitchy envirnonment I've ever seen. That a set designer owned the place is deliciously obvious. It's very fun. One of the reviewers called it a "dump." It certainly different than a Hilton, but that's a good thing. It's very clean and staffed by friendly accommodating staff. I frankly don't believe that he woke up to find a staff person... The other reviews are actually correctily descriptive. Words I would use to describe it: kitchy, playful, friendly, casual, welcoming, clean, and visually very interesting. There's no place else like it though I overheard another guest saying he felt like he was in the Florida Keys. read more

I enjoyed staying at the Belvedere Guest House with 2 of my friends. You can't miss it, it looks like Gay Disneyland (especially lit up at night! Easy to find) and quirky but I liked that. They had free drinks and cheese around the pool in the evening. I had the Venetian Room on the lower level which I liked. It was a nice size. My friends had the Flower Room on the lower level, it was a little tight. We agreed that I had the better room. And I had great shower pressure. I would suggest that the owners change the door coverings to the lower rooms for more privacy. They are SHEAR curtains and anyone can walk by and see clearly into your room while you're lying in bed, watching tv, having sex, etc. Especially if you have the tv or lights on. I hung a bathroom towel over the curtain rod on the door. I should decide who gets to look into my room. Another disappointment was the co owner who is the tall, heavy set black gentleman. We walked by him multiple times and he never greeted or acknowledged us once while he was smoking or wandering about. When I was checking out he was at the desk and looked up at me (no words), I said "checking out", he took my room key and gave me my $10 deposit back and never uttered a word. "No thanks for coming. Hope you come back, etc." The other co owner was near by and said "I hope you enjoyed your stay". Which I did and told him so. So the black co owner could be more hospitable in this industry. I liked that it was clothing optional if you want to partake or not. I would stay there again. read more

First time staying here this weekend and it was a great experience! I was a bit unsure given some of the mixed reviews but looking further into some of the negative reviews I noticed mentions of things like "dust on the chandeliers" and realized these people are just bored! lol The hotel is super unique and nice, its not the W or a JW Marriott, its not supposed to be, its Fire Island! The room was small but it was everything we needed and everyone was extremely friendly. They even had a barbecue and open bar for a few hours on Saturday and it was awesome. Oh and yoga in the morning was awesome too! :) Overall everything was great, no its not cheap, but nothing on fire island is cheap people. read more

I have come to this place for years but find that the staff continues to be beyond plain rude. The owners Craig and Julian are exceptions. In addition the bathrooms and bedrooms are not kept very well. I kind of get grossed out especially with all of the sexual activity going on! CLEAN towels are never to be found by the pool or in the bathrooms. WARNING only ask Craig or Julian for some because the bitchy help will roll their eyes and disappear without ever coming back!!! read more

I've been coming to this Men Only establishment for at least 4 summers! For a hotel in Cherry Grove with a confidant yet relaxed naturist crowd, the Belvedere is the best! I always feel at home and so welcomed when I arrive because the staff is very attentive to my happiness, and that of the other guests. With various accommodations that fit any budget, the Belvedere has many stylized vignettes of room interiors that make me feel I am nowhere near NYC. Coupled with being situated on the water, my stays at the Belevedere are always rejuvenating and that's what keeps me coming back for more. read more

Some very nice touches at this legendary gay male clothing only guest house. Had difficulties with check in process. Room was not ready at 3pm. Other than that, considering what is available in this community, stay went well. Pool and hot tub are quite small. No breakfast. Room was very clean but no A/C. Prices are quite high on weekends. This time I stayed mid-week. read more

Stayed at the Belvedere the first weekend of August with some friends and had a delightful experience. My first time back to the island since 1981, and it did not disappoint! Our room was fairly spacious with its own deck and was immaculate. Also had a good size private bath that was very clean, with nice towels and Neutrogena bath products. Craig and Julian were pleasant and Michael attended to our room and anything we needed. The guest house itself is a work of art and contained many amenities, with fresh coffee and pastries every morning, decks and a pool. Overall a thoroughly enjoyable experience! read more

Very visually appealing and significant landmark on Fire Island. I recently visited here when I visited Fire Island for the first time, I was taken away by the architecture and the beautiful gardens in the veranda. The clothing optional pool, the balcony views, and the hotel itself were stunning. Wi-fi throughout the hotel, so you can check your emails and post on Instagram and Facebook etc. Staff were friendly, and it's walking distance to all the parties that occur on Cherry Grove. read more

Me and my partner love love love the Belvedere hotel. It is a true paradise in the center of the island. what makes the stay even more charming is that you have the opportunity to relax and at the same time have a loud fun time if you choose too. there is always alot of hot and playful guests for all tastes. Julian and Craig who are the owners are truly accommodating and will make you feel like family. we started coming last year and plan to spend our entire summer here at the belvedere again. Thanks Julian and Craig for making our stay so pleasant . The greek boys OPA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! read more

The Belvedere is far from a cookie cutter, average hotel. Cherry Grove is also not your typical beach town. The first thing any savvy traveler to the Grove knows well is that you do not come here if you need a carbon copy type beach vacation. You come here because of the nonconformist, open to all, let your freak flag fly vibe of the town. Everyone else has Rohobeth Beach, the Jersy Shore, and many other typical beach vacation spots. Those who know and are looking for the best, come to Cherry Grove; probably one of the friendliest, down to earth beach towns left in changing America. Choosing to stay at the Belvedere adds an entire secluded private world within the town behind it's walls. A wonderful bubble inside the bubble that is Cherry Grove itself. Having been to the Grove, but never having tried the Belvedere, we were excited, but nervous. Especially after reading some of the outrageous negative reviews online. Post visit, all I can say is: ???. Did we stay at the same hotel? My husband and I have ZERO bad things to say. I really think some people just do not get it... Our experience began upon entering and being greeted so so warmly by Craig. A big friendly "happy to see you" welcome. I think it took maybe ten minutes to feel as if we were staying with friends. As we had never been before, one of the house boys, Michael, took us on a tour. Michael was the first, but hardly the last, of the adorable house boys we were happy to meet. No attitude, big smile, truly proud of what he was showing us. Our first room was on the Deluxe level, and did not disappoint. The Rotunda Room was big, outrageously decorated in a good way, and had a huge comfortable bed. As we made our reservations at the last minute, we needed to change to a much smaller room, The Pine on our final night. I had been nervous that it would be a let down after our big deluxe room, but no worries. The Pine Room is indeed small, but it has a private terrace That expands the space. The bed was clean and comfortable (with a sexy mirror hanging on the ceiling above!) and staying in this room allowed me to experience the place using a shared bath (Rotunda has a nice private bathroom). I am glad we got to try the shared bath experience. Now I know for next time NOT to be reluctant should a shared bath room be the only available option. The shared baths were spotless (I tried three different ones just for variety) and had fresh bath mats and towels. Really not a hassle not to have a private bath when staying at the Belvedere. The staff we met, from top to bottom, were welcoming and friendly. Julian, co owner with Craig, was also so sweet. Some other staff to call out in a good way are Kevin, Russ, Alfredo, and, ummmm, well, those are the names I am remembering now, but all were smiling, friendly and outgoing. One thing I really loved was how trans-generational the friendly vibe was. It is not uncommon to see a twenty something houseboy or guest conversing with a sixty something guest, and you never felt judged, or as if you were intruding. Actually, when we left after our five days I felt like I made a bunch of great new friends and acquaintances in Cherry Grove. Did I mention that it is Men Only and quite sexy there twenty four hours a day? How I love sitting around by the pool and looking at friendly, naked men all day! For us, it felt very second honeymoon, and we cannot wait to get back there. Thank you, Julian and Craig! We feel like we just met a wonderful new group of friends and we miss them already. A great stay for any traveler who appreciates an experience that is unique, and memorable. P.S. Just read a review that stated the help is surly and unwilling to provide fresh towels. I need to respond! The staff I met were all attitude free and super helpful. I think some people might need to learn that a smile and a friendly attitude go far in life. I greeted all with a smile, and got nothing but smiles back! read more

The Belvedere should be landmarked. It's rooms are all unique. Wonderful views from the upstairs terrace. Back terrace is a sheer gem. Overlooking the Great South Bay. Hotel is steps away from the mighty Atlantic Ocean. Continental breakfast provided every day. Wine and cheese also at 5PM. Pool. Hot tub.Full gym. Refrigerators. Ice machines.Outdoor shower. Great place to kick back and just relax. Clothing is optional. Men only. Owners Craig and Julian and the entire staff oversee the property making sure that your stay is comfortable and pleasant. Rooms are clean and beds are comfortable. Lots of fresh clean towels and crisp clean bedding. Got to go now. Making a reservation at The Belvedere for this coming weekend! read more

My husband and I have been staying here for weekends during the summer for 4 years now. Sure, it's kitschy, but in the best way possible. In the past few years they've added amenities like heat and AC and cable television. You can get a room with a deck or with a bay view for a bit more money, or a smaller more budget friendly room with a shared bathroom. The staff are more than friendly and accommodating, and the guys who come here are awesomely diverse and friendly. I'll never pay to stay anywhere else in the Grove. Love it. BTW, no ladies allowed (yessss!)... read more

Always a pleasure to stay at this amazing hotel that was built in 1957. it has a unique history and cool people hanging out. It's all near the beach! read more

I really liked it. Words I would use to describe the place (without any hint of negative connotations mind you): Gauche, Kitschy, Garish, Over-the-top, 80s, Soap Operatic, Cozy.... The staff was friendly. We were able to check into our room early (we arrived before 10AM) which was really nice b/c we dropped our stuff and then hit the beach (almost...) when we were leaving another employee (bellhopesque type) asked if it was our first time visiting. We said yes so he actually took 10 minutes and took us on a tour of the facility. THE WHOLE Facility. It was really nice the upper roof area is truly splendid. The pool was nice as was the hot tub (especially after a long hike back from the Pines that first evening). Bathroom was clean and was re-cleaned several times a day. The bano we had had a skylight so that was nice as well. Another great bonus is that its on the further east end of the Grove so it was that much less of a commute if/when going to the Pines. The breakfast muffins and coffee in the morning were also a VERY nice touch. Ok I started this review with 4 stars but i'll go ahead and give it 5. I would stay again. Btw the Clothing optional aspect wasn't bad at all. It felt very organic and not as if there were any exhibitionists on the prowl (god does this make me sound like a prude)...Signing off now..... read more

My Three Weekday Getaway was well worth it. I've been coming to Cherry Grove for 10 Years. This was my first stay at the Belvedere Guest House. I was greeted by Craig and Quinton, who showed me around this Architecturally Breath taking Greco-Roman Palace. I was in Awe of its statues, great artistic paintings, and aristocratic furnishings. I especially lost my mind over the hot tub, gymnasium and pool. I enjoyed the hot tub the most, it suite me just fine. Our hosts and staff were wonderful, helpful and friendly. Traveling Solo, I thought I would be bar hopping in the Grove. I actually did not. I finally relaxed. The entire guest were super great, nice and friendly. I was in Utter Bliss. On Tumbleweed Tuesday in September, there were more guests at the Belvedere than throughout the Grove. I am extremely fortunate to have stayed at the Belvedere. I Am Coming Back Every Year!!!!! My only regret was I didn't start coming years before and not wearing sun block (Julian, you were right I should have listened to you). Craig, Julian, Quinton and staff I thank you for this wonderful privilege of being your guest. See you in 2013. Be Well, Kosta read more

Beware...I got the hotels contact number from a list of hotels on FIre Island. Had tried to go to the Hamptons, called dozens of places, then got a list of hotels on Fire Island, called even more hotels there. I was making calls on the top of a New York tour bus when The Belvedere said they did have room for me but that I should be aware that this is a gay hotel. I replied that I was not gay, but I had no problem with their lifestyle. I told them I needed a room for two. Upon arrival, a guest pointed at my girlfriend and said 'we have to do something about THAT'. Then a hotel employee asked her to wait outside while they talk to me. I pleaded with them saying we traveled all the way out from Manhattan, and could we stay just in the room, the guests would never see us. We reassured them that we had no problem with their lifestyle. My pleas fell on deaf ears. They turned us away, and said they would have to still charge us for the room. Fire Island was charming, but don't be fooled by The Belvedere. read more