Diego gay

Explore the historic lighthouse, tide pools, and the 2.2-mile Bayside Trail, which provides scenic vistas of the city and surrounding areas.

Nowadays, they host the Out and Abt event every Thursday, have Karaoke throughout the week, and have a monthly Slutter Camp that features a wet underwear contest.

AWOL

Address: 1469, 1475 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Website

AWOL is one of the newer kids on the block, having only opened in 2021.

Most of the San Diego gay bars center around Hillcrest, often known as the “gayborhood,” and provide a welcoming space for people on any end of the LGBTQ+ spectrum.

Among their various events include the Game Nights held on Mondays, as well as the After Show Dance Parties on Fridays. Dedicated baseball fans can also take guided tours for a behind-the-scenes look at the dugout, press box, and luxury suites within the stadium.

From lively club scenes and bustling art districts to family-friendly areas and historic sites, these neighborhoods are known for their inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ+ community. 

Hillcrest

The LGBTQ hub of San Diego, Hillcrest, has the largest LGBT community in the city. 

LGBTQ+ residents began moving here in the 1960s, attracted to the low rent and urban vibe.

10 miles from downtown San Diego, the area has walkable streets with dining, quaint boutiques, clubs, and coffee shops where locals relax and people-watch. 

The neighborhood holds many events for music lovers. Just be sure to book your hotel about a year in advance!

San Diego’s gay neighborhood is Hillcrest, and it positively hums with LGBTQ+ pride all year round.

However, that’s not your only option. The third-largest Pride parade in the country starts at Pride Plaza under the famous 65-foot-tall Hillcrest Pride Flag. 

Pride Plaza hosts the Hillcrest Farmers’ Market every Sunday, renowned as San Diego’s largest and best, where locals gather to buy fresh produce. Gay Beaches in San Diego
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Ocean Beach has a surfer-hippie vibe with plenty of swimming and room for dogs to run off-leash. For those daring enough, there’s even a clothing-optional section. Book tour →

Whale Watching Cruise – December to April is whale season in San Diego. That way, you can enjoy pleasant weather, cheaper hotel prices, and fewer visitors blocking your sun.

It’s a little pricey, though, as you pay $43 for a locker on entrance, or $33 for members, whereas rooms are around $50.

Gay Beaches in San Diego

Black’s Beach – Found in the La Jolla area, this clothing-optional beach is one of the most famous gay beaches on the West Coast. Music varies in genre depending on the night, but there’s often the welcome addition of drag performances and go-go boys thrown into the mix.

The Hole – The city’s oldest gay bar (also known as The Hole in the Wall) isn’t just any local gay bar—it’s San Diego’s oldest continuously operating LGBTQ+ watering hole, tracing its roots to 1924 as a speakeasy and evolving into one of the area’s first openly gay bars by the 1960s.

They’ve got something going on almost every night, whether it be Karaoke or Pictionary, and recently expanded to include a separate room for more dancing.

The Loft

Address: 3610 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Website

I have a bit of a confession here: I don’t ever remember leaving The Loft.

While they’re another location that offers karaoke, it’s more fun to join every third Thursday for Big Bear Bingo with Tim, which is free to play.

Urban MO’s

Address: 308 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Website

Urban MO’s is an absolute staple in the San Diego community. Located in downtown San Diego, the museum allows you to explore the labyrinth of sleeping quarters and galleys of the USS Midway to get insight into the life of a sailor.

The public transportation includes buses, the trolley, and trains, but the best way to get around is by renting a car or catching an Uber/Lyft. For added convenience, consider renting a bike or scooter to explore the city at your own pace.

Gay Hotels in San Diego

Although there are no specifically gay hotels in San Diego, there are many hotels that go out of their way to be LGBTQ+ friendly, most in the downtown area.

Luxury

Hotel del Coronado – This resort on Coronado Beach is an integral part of San Diego’s history.

Even if you’re not a baseball fan, the views from the top of the stadium are stunning, and you can enjoy the park's food stalls and local craft beer.