“Gay Beach” Is Here to Make Waves

Get ready to slap on some sunscreen and dive into Gay Beach, the most fabulous short doc to hit the streaming waves! If you’ve ever dreamed of combining beach vibes with a massive celebration of queer freedom, then this film is your ultimate summer blockbuster. Directed by the brilliant Maura James McNamara and Daniel Fox, this 33-minute rollercoaster of joy is all about embracing queer life in the Deep South.

For over 60 years, the last weekend in May has been reserved for something truly special in Pensacola, Florida. Known affectionately as “Gay Beach,” this stretch of shoreline transforms into one of the biggest Pride events in the American South. It’s a place where the Southern sun meets a sea of rainbow flags, and this documentary captures it all with a blend of heart and humor.

Catch a glimpse of the action with the Teaser, or go all in with the full film at this link.

“Gay Beach” is like a beach bonfire with all your best friends—except instead of marshmallows, it’s packed with powerful stories and pride. Amid the increasing regressive vibes of the South, this film showcases how a community of queer folks comes together to laugh, dance, and resist. It’s the perfect antidote to the dullness of everyday life, and it’s so inspiring to see the LGBTQ+ community continue to be loud and proud in areas that are trying to suppress them.

McNamara and Fox are your go-to duo for gripping documentaries with a Southern twist. They’ve been at it since 2019 with their “Surviving America” series, bringing powerful stories from all corners of the South. Fox, a Pensacola native, always knew he wanted to capture the spirit of his hometown’s Pride celebration. After spending three glorious days filming at the beach during Memorial Weekend Pride 2023, he and McNamara felt more free and fabulous than ever.