What's it really like?
Los Angeles, also known as The City of Angels, LA LA Land, or simply LA, isn’t the gay capital of the US; San Francisco has that title. It’s not even the capital of California — that’s Sacramento.
It is, however, the entertainment capital of the world, and Hollywood, also known as Tinseltown, is where many people go to ‘be discovered.’ But let’s talk about gay Los Angeles—a thriving hub that’s as star-studded as it is unapologetically queer. West Hollywood (WeHo) is the beating heart of the gayborhood scene, packed with hot clubs, chic lounges, and an iconic Pride celebration.
For gay travelers, it’s an excellent destination; Disneyland, Universal Studios, and Seaworld are only an hour’s drive away. As for gay people, they’re here alright — in droves.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the few American airports welcoming direct international flights, making gay Los Angeles exceptionally easy to get to for travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re coming for the beaches, the nightlife, or a slice of Hollywood glamour, LA’s got the vibes you’re looking for.
The best time to visit LA is any time you choose, but it can get sweltering in summer, July to August. During the winter months, prices come down, so for those on a budget, it’s worth considering. March to May is regarded as the ideal time to travel there.
So, what does gay Los Angeles have to offer for gay travelers? Plenty. Apart from some of the most beautiful people on the planet all vying for your attention, there are three gayborhoods — more on that below — and some of the best restaurants, bars, and shopping (Rodeo Drive, anyone?) you’ll ever find.
Welcome to LA, where the gay scene is as extra as the city itself. In Silver Lake, AKBAR keeps it cool with its retro vibes and a crowd that probably curated their outfits on Pinterest. Over in WeHo (West Hollywood), Micky’s serves drag shows and late-night dancing so wild, you’ll forget you promised to leave early (again). Downtown, Precinct brings a punk-glam edge with performances that’ll make you question your life choices—in the best way possible. And then there’s Hi Tops, where you can sip craft cocktails while pretending you care about the game on TV.
Los Angeles gay bars are proof that no matter where you go, you’re in for a night that’s over-the-top, unforgettable, and just a little bit dramatic—just how you like it.
Looking for a place to steam things up? Los Angeles gay bathhouses/saunas and gay massage have you covered—literally. Flex LA in Silver Lake is like a day spa, but with less cucumber water and more questionable decisions. Over in the Valley, North Hollywood Spa offers a labyrinth of relaxation spaces — just don’t get lost unless that’s your plan.
If your shoulders need more “attention,” Prince Men’s Spa offers massages that might just cure your commitment issues. And for something uniquely LA, Daddy Big Hands by Roy promises the kind of experience that’ll make you rethink what you consider a skill. Welcome to LA, where even “self-care” comes with a wink.
Gay Los Angeles doesn’t have any exclusive gay hotels, but the pink dollar is hugely welcome here, and staff aim to please.
When choosing where to stay, the best advice we can give you is to stay near the places you plan to visit. LA traffic is notorious for being some of the heaviest in the world, nobody comes to Los Angeles to spend their vacation stuck on a freeway.
Gay Los Angeles has it all, you can live your luxe fantasy at Casa Del Mar sipping poolside cocktails or really get to know strangers at Melrose Hostel – Adults Only. Your pick.
While Los Angeles isn’t a cheap destination by any stretch, the mix of vibes, glam, and unbeatable gayborhoods makes it worth every penny. After all, it’s LA—go big or go home, right?
Tours.
Discover Los Angeles’ hottest spots in one day on this action-packed tour. From the glitz of Beverly Hills to the legendary Hollywood Sign and sunny Santa Monica Beach, this guided tour covers it all. With hotel pickup and local insights, you won't miss a beat of LA’s best attractions.
Step behind the scenes of Hollywood’s most iconic movies and TV shows on this Warner Bros. Studio tour. Explore backlot sets, step inside the legendary Friends café, and see how movie magic happens with green-screen tech. Plus, dive into the DC Universe and Harry Potter sets for an epic grand finale!
Saddle up for a one-hour guided horseback tour through Griffith Park's Mulholland Trail. Experience breathtaking views of the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and downtown LA. Perfect for both seasoned riders and beginners seeking a unique LA adventure.
Embark on the TCM Classic Films Tour at Warner Bros. Studio to immerse yourself in Hollywood's golden era. Explore iconic backlots, view classic movie costumes, and enjoy exclusive access to the historic Rose Garden and Property Department.
Take a fun ride through Hollywood in a Mercedes minibus, passing iconic spots like the Hollywood Sign, Dolby Theatre, and Rodeo Drive. See the homes of the rich and famous, both past and present, and learn insider secrets about your favorite stars and movie locations.
Enjoy a delightful walking food tour through Venice Beach, Los Angeles. Explore local favorites and hidden gems, savoring dishes like poke, tacos, crostini, and local wines. Your knowledgeable guide will share intriguing stories about the area's history and culture. Small group sizes ensure an intimate experience.
Explore on a vibrant electric bike tour through Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Glide along iconic canals, soak in ocean views, and explore local hotspots. Perfect for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking a fun, eco-friendly way to experience LA's coastal charm.
Gays and the Law
California has had a rocky road regarding gay legislation. Despite same-sex relationships being legalized back in 1976, it wasn’t until June 2013 that gays and lesbians could get married. Things have certainly improved since then.
If you’re planning an American wedding, gay Los Angeles is a convenient place to achieve it, with many wedding planners specializing in gay nuptials.
In 2023, California Governor Gavin Newsom passed some of the most robust laws in the US regarding protecting LGBTQI people. These include all-gender bathrooms in schools and businesses, extra protections for transgender youth, and more relaxed foster care rules.
Los Angeles's Gay Scene
Not all of LA is gay; it’s such a vast city, and it’s easy to get lost. The town has three areas where most of the gay action lies.
West Hollywood (nicknamed WeHo) has one of the largest gay populations on the planet, with over 40% of residents identifying as LGBTQI. It’s easily the gay capital of LA, and most of the bars and other entertainment venues are there. WeHo is the home of beautiful people; muscle chests, bulging biceps, and 8-pack abs, as far as the eye can see, are predominant here. LA icon The Abbey is one of the most popular gay bars in Los Angeles and has its home right in the heart of WeHo.
Silver Lake is LA’s newer gay suburb. It’s got a more alternative crowd than WeHo, meaning that everyone is equally accepted, and you don’t have to be beautiful to fit in. It has an emerging leather scene, and new venues seem to be constantly popping up. It also has a large Latino population. Sunset Boulevard runs right through Silver Lake and has been the setting for many gay-themed movies and documentaries.
Downtown LA is also surprisingly gay. With Chinatown and Little Tokyo next to a robust Latino community, this melting pot of cultures is starting to attract a gay crowd. Rather than having a lot of permanent venues — there are only a handful — one-off LGBT nights are becoming popular in many other bars and clubs.
Of course, Los Angeles isn’t just for gay travelers, Tinseltown has many neighborhoods that need to be visited by everyone. For those who want to ‘shop til they drop,’ a day out in Beverly Hills is essential.
There are many things for movie lovers, too. The Hollywood Walk of Fame, where the famous celebrity handprints are on the footpath, is something every visitor to LA should visit. It begins on the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street and ends at the TCL Chinese Theater (formerly Graumanns).
Studio tours can be done at the major studios dotted around Los Angeles, and it’s even possible to see a taping of a live sitcom or talk show.
Getting Tested
Anyone wanting to get tested for STDs, including HIV, has loads of places to choose from. Free testing is provided at DPH public health centers, but only a limited number of walk-ins are available, so booking ahead is advisable.
People wanting to renew their PrEP or needing PEP can contact Get PrEP LA to find a nearby location.
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