Finding Yourself in Florida: My Queer Journey in Palm Coast
Ever feel like you're searching for a rainbow in a place where everyone else seems to be looking at the ground? That was me three years ago when I moved to Palm Coast, Florida.
From Closeted to Coastal
The palm trees swayed as I unpacked my U-Haul (yes, the lesbian stereotype was alive and well). Palm Coast's quiet neighborhoods and stunning beaches were exactly what I wanted - but I wondered if I'd find my people here. Those first months, I'd walk Waterfront Park wondering if any other queer folks were hiding in plain sight like me.
When "Where's the Community?" Becomes Your Daily Question
- The dating apps showed profiles "60+ miles away"
- Local events rarely felt explicitly queer-friendly
- Making the first move is terrifying when you're unsure of reception
I spent weeks nursing coffee at City Market thinking: am I the only one here?
Creating Space When You Can't Find It
What changed everything wasn't waiting for a space - it was making one. I started a small LGBTQ+ book club that now meets at Vedic Coffee. We found each other through neighborhood apps, community boards at Flagler Beach, and word of mouth.
We're here, we're queer, and we're reading literature! The family we've built sustains us through Florida's political climate.
You Are Not Alone Here
If you're reading this and nodding along, know that your queer family exists in Palm Coast. We might be scattered, but we're here.
Drop a comment about your experience or message me directly. This thread is our digital palm tree - a marker that says we exist in this beautiful, complicated place we call home.