What's it really like?
If San Francisco is where gays go to live, Palm Springs is where they go to play. The entire region is gay-friendly, and some places are gay-exclusive.
Since the 1920s, gay Palm Springs has been a go-to getaway for the queer community. Hollywood celebrities could remain in the closet yet still party with their significant others. Well-known 50s and 60s matinee idol Rock Hudson and his variety of male partners were regular visitors.
It’s still a mecca for gay travelers, not far from the West Coast city of Los Angeles. Gay Palm Springs is unique as it’s a city in the middle of the desert, but unlike Las Vegas, which is glitzy and glamor-motivated, it’s more understated and a place to unwind.
The world-famous Coachella festival happens in mid-April every year, and that’s only 24 miles from Palm Springs.
Palm Springs is easily accessible by road or plane; the nearest airport is just 10 miles from this desert oasis. If you’re driving from Los Angeles, it’s a breezy 90-minute trip.
Because it gets scorching hot in summer (we’re talking up to 108°F), the best time to visit gay Palm Springs is the reverse of most destinations—winter. Peak season runs from December to April, when the weather is dreamy. But if you’re up for some heat, visiting between May and August means fewer crowds and Insta-worthy deals on luxe accommodations.
Palm Springs isn’t just about Coachella. The region is also famous for its many music festivals, most of which are set during the cooler winter months, drawing in vibrant crowds and unforgettable vibes.
What’s it like the after-dark scene for gay Palm Springs? Oh, just another quiet night in paradise. Start at RetroRoom Lounge, because who doesn’t need a martini in a retro time warp? Slide over to OneEleven Bar to pretend happy hour isn’t the best part of your day. Then brace yourself for The Barracks—because nothing says ‘mild evening’ like leather and harnesses, plus every night is cruise night. Stay nearby at Santiago Resort or Desert Riviera, unless you enjoy crawling back to your hotel. It’s a wild ride—don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Gay Palm Springs bathhouses, saunas, and cruise clubs: where relaxation meets…well, you know. Start at Vista Grande Resort if you’re into tropical gardens and ‘scenic’ views. All Worlds Resort? Perfect for when subtlety just isn’t your vibe. And don’t forget Canyon Club Hotel—because what’s a vacation in Palm Springs without a little poolside people-watching?
Palm Springs has the highest number of gay-only, clothing-optional resorts in the US. Most are located in one area, and many offer day passes, so guests don’t need to stay there. With so many resorts, gay Palm Springs doesn’t even need traditional saunas or bathhouses; the resorts themselves are the ultimate playground.
Choosing where to stay in Palm Springs depends on the type of experience you’re after. Since everything is conveniently close, one location isn’t necessarily better than another.
Unlike pricier Californian hotspots, gay Palm Springs is refreshingly affordable, meaning you can extend your stay and soak up more of the fun. From 5-star luxury like the Ritz Carlton to budget-friendly options like Days Inn, there’s a place for every traveler to call home.
Tours.
Unwind a half-day journey through Joshua Tree National Park's iconic landscapes. Join a small group to explore legendary giant boulders and learn about the San Andreas Fault's impact. Discover the rich history of Native Americans in the area. Ideal for all ages, with multiple tour options available.
Join the sensational Drag & Fly Tours for a 90-100 minute mobile theater experience in Palm Springs. Hosted by the fabulous Anita Doll, this tour combines live drag performances, captivating storytelling, and vibrant videos as you glide past iconic landmarks like Frank Sinatra’s Twin Palms Estate and Elvis’ Honeymoon Hideaway. An unforgettable blend of glamour, entertainment, and education awaits!
Embark on a leisurely 20-mile downhill bike ride through Earthquake Canyon along the San Andreas Fault. Marvel at stunning desert landscapes and conclude your adventure with a refreshing date shake at a local farm. Ideal for riders aged 12 and up; bike, helmet, snacks, and hotel pickup included.
Utilizing state-of-the-art night vision equipment, you'll uncover hidden stars, planets, and astronomical wonders. Learn the science and legends of the cosmos from your expert guide. Note: Viewing locations are approximately a 90-minute drive from Palm Springs.
Ride through Palm Springs' iconic mid-century neighborhoods. Guided tours reveal the glamorous history and stunning architecture of Deepwell Estates, Twin Palms, and Indian Canyons. Bring your own bike or rent one nearby.
Indulge in a lavish 3-course brunch with unlimited Champagne and bottomless mimosas while being dazzled by premier drag performers. Enjoy stunning costumes, flawless makeup, and mesmerizing lip-syncing at Palm Springs' top-rated drag brunch.
Gays and the Law
Gays Palm Springs has the same rights as others in California, the most liberal state in the US. Same-sex activity has been legal since 1976, and since Proposition 8 was kicked out in June 2013, gay marriage has been allowed.
Gay people visit Californian cities as the state has some of the strictest anti-bullying and anti-hate laws in the nation. Visitors to Palm Springs can feel safe and comfortable traveling around the area.
In 2019, Palm Springs was the first city to have an all-LGBTQ council. The 25th mayor, Jeffrey Bernstein, has been married to Dr. Oscar Chamudes for over ten years.
Palm Springs's Gay Scene
All of Palms Springs is gay, so you could say that it’s an entire gayborhood. However, there are three pockets worth mentioning.
Gay venues are spread across Palm Springs, but there is a cluster of them on East Arenas Rd in the downtown area, which is affectionately known as the gay strip. Two venues, QUADZ and Hunters, have been welcoming gays for over 20 years.
There are over ten clothing-optional resorts in gay Palm Springs, and most of them are located in one area. It’s 1 mile south of the gay strip between Ramon Rd and E Sunny Dunes Drive.
A satellite city of Palm Springs is Cathedral City. This is where the 5-star resorts are found and is also home to the leather/bears/daddies community, especially The Barracks Bar, right on E Palm Canyon Drive.
Visitors staying in the hotels and resorts in North Palm Springs are only a few minutes walk or drive from the well-known gay venue Toucans Tiki Lounge.
Getting Tested
Reducing the rate of STI infections in Palm Springs is an initiative that PS Test takes seriously. It offers free testing and treatment for several STIs, including rapid HIV tests. The clinic is open Monday to Thursday, 10 am to 4 pm, and bookings are essential.
For gay travelers who feel they may need a course of PEP, Dap Health can be contacted Monday to Friday 8 am to 5 pm. Outside those hours, it’s best to visit a hospital emergency room.
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