While it's hard enough getting some good nookie in the real world, it seems as though now you have to try just as hard to get some in your virtual world, as well.
Like everything else, to get laid in Second Life you'll need the proper accessories. Avatars only come with the most basic of genitalia, usually just drawn-in on your skin. You can choose various novelty cocks or other interesting objects to pretend to get off on, but for the premium nipples, clits, cocks, and appropriate animations you'll need to be properly outfitted. This will cost you some Linden bucks, but remember that unlike in real life, you can re-use everything you buy and possibly even sell it when you're done.
For the undisputed champ for realistic and interactive sex-cessories, visit Xcite! at Eventide. From the expected attachments to the more extreme (BDSM controls, vampire toys, foot fetish wearables) you'll find everything you need to get your pixels down and dirty. Purchases enable you to apply for premium membership and access to a special events and training centre. And since other scripted items can be had that work with the Xcite! products, you will find other compatible toys, too.
Sex animations are generally freely available (and you are encouraged to share). Do a search for "freebie" and you'll find plenty of places to collect poseballs. Sarah Nerd at NineInchNerds is a great resource, as is theFreebie Dungeon at Ecaz. Beds, including more exotic canopy beds and the like, are available for sale that allow you to use their poseballs, or add your own. Kinkier place to copulate do exist, and are generally in public spaces such as clubs. If you don't mind your virtual vagina on display and your typed moans heard by others, these are great places to show off what you've got.
On the topic of places to screw, you're better off doing another search, but this time try "Sex club" and teleporting to the club that tickles your fancy. There are an unlimited amount of groups and clubs available to check out, and none that suits every one. Bear in mind that while most of these places are free to hang out at, you are expected to tip the staff (pole dancers, servers, DJs) for enjoying what they provide to you: namely, the ideal place for some really rockin' online sex.
Not only is a place like Second Life fabulous for virtual exploring, you can also explore some of your own fantasies, and possibly push a few of your softer limits. You never get your period, but you also won't get pregnant. There's no disease, there's no physical harm, and because you get to decide what you look like and what you wear, you'll never feel undesirable. In fact, take advantage of the ease with which you can take digital snapshots of your avatar!
Once you've got the accessories and a partner (although, granted, the latter is not always necessary) the rest is up to you. In later columns I'll discuss great places for buying fetish wear, and Second Life escort services. If you have any great tips or landmarks, please let me know!