Gay Bars, Hotels & Venues in Palm Springs, CA — 138 LGBTQ+ Spots

Cigarette and cannabis smoke linger on the outdoor patio, where a pool table sits under the night sky. Hunters has been a Palm Springs gay bar staple for over two decades, drawing a mixed crowd of 20-somethings and older regulars. The interior is loud with music and video screens, but you can step outside to talk. Happy hour brings good drink specials. Earlier in the night you'll find an older crowd; after 9 PM the younger set fills the dance floor. The bartending service can be hit or miss, so come ready to flag someone down. It's a few blocks from Oscar's Downtown Palm Springs, good for a pre-game or after-party.

Cash only. That's the first thing to know about Tool Shed, a leather bar that's been open since 1993 in Palm Springs' Warm Sands neighborhood. It's open 10am to 2am every day, so you can hit it early or late. Expect go-go dancers, karaoke, pool tables, and a bear-heavy crowd. Happy hour pours strong drinks. Don't bring Mom.

All Worlds Resort operates 24/7, making it a flexible option for all-male guests visiting Palm Springs. This clothing-optional resort in the Warm Sands neighborhood spans grounds with seven pools and four jacuzzis, along with a free Sunday BBQ pool party. Day passes are available for those who prefer not to stay overnight. The resort is LGBTQ-owned and exclusively male-only. Reviews highlight serious concerns: dated rooms, poor maintenance (broken fixtures, cockroaches), and a history of aggressive handling of complaints by management and the owner. Prices are noted as high for the condition of the rooms. If considering a stay, a day pass may be a lower-risk way to experience the property. There are many other all-male resorts nearby, such as those in the same Warm Sands area, that may offer better value.

In the Arenas Road Area near East Saturnino Rd, Wang's in the Desert is a Pan-Asian restaurant and bar with a gay-friendly twist. It's known for its lively Friday happy hour with generous drinks and a fun crowd, plus outdoor seating. The full bar and casual vibe make it a popular gathering spot. This place gets noisy and packed with bar-goers after happy hour, so it's better for groups. Reservations are accepted. Note that Yelp suggests it may be permanently closed. Trio Restaurant is another option nearby.

Gay video bar with sing-along musicals and movie clips playing on screens nightly. QUADZ draws a mixed crowd of 30-somethings, bears, twinks, and ladies to its dance floor, with showtunes karaoke a regular draw. Happy hour runs early, and the drinks are reasonably priced. The venue opens at 2:30 pm on weekdays and noon on weekends, making it a popular pregame spot before heading to other Arenas Road bars.

Toucans Tiki Lounge stands out as a women-led gay bar in Palm Springs, serving strong drinks and a no-attitude vibe. The tropical, tiki-themed space includes a go-go stage, a small dance floor, and a pentagonal bar that dominates the room. Regular drag shows, live music, and comedy keep the energy up, and the mixed gay/straight crowd leans friendly. Arrive before 9pm on weekends to snag a table. The narrow smoking patio stays open late, but last call comes early on slower nights. Drinks like a rum and coke are well-poured for the price.

On Arenas Road near N Indian Canyon Dr, this bar offers mountain views from its outdoor patio. With drag shows, karaoke, and a reputation for the friendliest staff in town, it's a low-key spot where regulars feel at home. The cocktails are strong and the bartenders are efficient. Over 20 years in business, it still draws a loyal crowd. It's a comfortable anchor on the strip.

Bongo Johnny's is a casual patio bar and grill best suited for mixed groups wanting American comfort food in a laid-back setting. It serves brunch, sandwiches, and burgers, with a late-night menu. The owner is known for supporting the LGBTQ community. Service can be slow but regulars often accept it. Located in downtown Palm Springs, it's open daily from 8am, closing at 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays, 8pm other days. Some diners find the young staff less connected to gay clientele, but the vibe remains comfortable. If you want a more upscale brunch spot nearby, try Trio Restaurant.

Walking through the gates, you'll find a sexually charged playground with a huge salt-water swimming pool and Danny's Nude Beach. The Walk is a beautifully landscaped path with waterfalls and secluded coves. This men-only resort is clothing-optional and open 24 hours daily. Rooms can be hit or miss, as some recent guests reported issues with maintenance in older rooms, though others found recently remodeled rooms up to standards. The grounds, pool, hot tubs, and play areas are well-maintained, and the staff is terrific. If you want to enjoy the facilities without overnight uncertainty, consider a day pass instead.

One of the newer sit-down restaurants in downtown Palm Springs, LuLu California Bistro stands out for its all-day happy hour that runs from 11am until closing in the designated bar area. The three-course feast is known as a standout value, and the menu includes gluten-free and vegetarian options. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. You'll often find a friendly crowd at the bar, and the street-facing outdoor seating is a plus for people-watching. Reservations are accepted.

The Tropicale Palm Springs serves Asian-inspired California cuisine with a neon-tropics theme that makes it stand out in Downtown Palm Springs. The patio setting is beautiful and the full bar is a draw for happy hour drinks and appetizers like curried spare ribs and stuffed dates wrapped in bacon. Sunday late afternoon is a great time to visit for a lively crowd and terrific service. If you're exploring dining options nearby, LuLu California Bistro is another popular spot worth considering.

Walking into GayMart feels like stepping into a rainbow-themed department store. This shop on Arenas Road carries everything from last-minute swimsuits to novelty gifts and cards. The clearance racks often have cute items at good prices, making it a frequent stop for locals. Whether you need a new shirt or a quirky souvenir, you'll find a bit of everything here.

Koffi North Palm Springs is a coffee house with an impressive patio space, open daily. The courtyard features a back lawn with trees and flowers, making it a relaxing spot for an iced cappuccino or cafe au lait. It's a very gay-friendly place where you can bring your dog, settle in with free internet, and people-watch. The crowd is mostly gay men, though one review notes the clientele can be conservative. Drinks are strong — one cafe au lait might have you buzzing for hours. See photos and details.

Trio's pot roast might be dry, but the farm-to-fork American menu and mid-century vibe keep this place busy. It's LGBTQ-owned, dog-friendly on the patio, and offers happy hour. The 1953 building was designed by architects John Porter Clark and Albert Frey, and in 2023 owner Tony Marchese gave the interior a modern mid-century update. Reservations are accepted, and weekends are busiest. The full bar and free WiFi make it easy to linger. If you're in the Uptown Design District, Workshop Kitchen & Bar is a nearby option for a more industrial-chic scene.

This is a clothing-optional resort for men in the Warm Sands neighborhood. It has one of the largest pools in Palm Springs and a 12-man jacuzzi that stays open all night. There are 24 poolside rooms. The crowd skews 20s and 30s, and the vibe is lively and good for groups. Reviews are mixed. Some guests rave about the spacious pool area and friendly staff, but others report issues with bed bugs and poor customer service from the owners. The cancellation policy requires 42 days' notice for a refund on the 50% deposit. If you go, book carefully and read the fine print.

The scent of mesquite from the outdoor patio grill mingles with the mountain air. Spencer's Restaurant is an adult-oriented spot opened by an owner who named it after his husky, Spencer. It's been a Palm Springs fixture since 2000, serving American cuisine with a Pacific Rim twist. The patio is famously dog-friendly, and there's a dress code: no baseball caps or flip-flops after dark. Reservations are accepted, and the full bar makes a good Sex on the Beach, according to regulars. Sunday brunch here is an event in itself, with options like traditional American fare alongside Pacific-inspired dishes. If you're planning a romantic dinner, Friday through Sunday are the busiest nights. For a change of pace, you might also check out LuLu California Bistro nearby.

Open Monday through Saturday from 11 am until midnight, Rio Azul Mexican Bar & Grill fits neatly into a Palm Springs day or night out. This tapas-style spot centers on shareable small plates, best enjoyed with a group at the large outdoor patio and bar. The mountain views add to the relaxed, social atmosphere. If you're four or fewer, ask for one of the booth swings. The video bar and occasional shows give it an edge. Staff here are known to be charming, even during a busy 100-degree afternoon when they'll happily seat you inside. Regulars stop by for happy hour conversation, and the bartenders, including a particularly friendly bear, help keep the mood easy. If you're in town for a weekend, consider lunch or an early dinner here before heading to nearby LuLu California Bistro for dessert.

The crowd at Q Trading Co is a mix of locals and tourists browsing a shop that sells everything from Christmas ornaments to sex toys. Pride merch is a big draw, and the staff is known for being helpful. The place has the feel of a well-curated general store with a queer twist. You'll find gifts, hardware, and other unexpected items packed into the downtown Palm Springs space. Regulars say there's always something new to see, which keeps them coming back. The shop is small but dense, so plan to spend time looking around. If you're in the area, Crystal Fantasy is another quirky stop worth checking out.

Vista Grande Resort is an adult-only gay men's resort in Palm Springs where clothing is optional and the vibe is uninhibited. The property features two heated pools (one quiet, one social), a steam room, hot tub, and lush rainforest-themed grounds complete with a penis god statue. Accommodations range from poolside studios to luxury jungle villas, and the resort is currently undergoing renovations to refresh its look. Breakfast and lunch are provided daily, with dinner added on weekends. Guests consistently praise the friendly staff and clean facilities, though some past reviews note inconsistencies in service and property condition. If you're looking for a more relaxed alternative, the nearby Ace Hotel & Swim Club offers a mixed-gender, clothing-optional pool with a different energy. But for a focused gay men's retreat, Vista Grande remains a popular choice.

Walking into Sherman's Deli & Bakery, the first thing you notice is the steady hum of conversation from a mix of locals and visitors filling the booths. This kosher family restaurant in downtown Palm Springs serves American comfort food with a New York deli twist. You'll find classics like corned beef sandwiches and matzah ball soup, plus desserts baked fresh daily. The outdoor patio with misters makes it a comfortable spot to watch the world go by, even on hot days. Breakfast is a strong draw here, with traditional American options alongside Jewish-style dishes like gefilte fish and matza brie. Regulars know to check the website for early bird specials. Service is attentive, and the atmosphere stays relaxed through lunch and dinner. It's a reliable stop for a satisfying meal any time of day.

A calm, clothing-optional resort for gay men, Santiago Resort is a favorite in Palm Springs' Warm Sands neighborhood. This 24-room property has king-size beds and a well-landscaped courtyard pool area. It's LGBTQ-owned and open 24/7, so late-night pool dips are always an option. Breakfast is served daily, though some guests suggest skipping it. Rooms are clean and comfortable, with a romantic yet relaxed vibe. For nearby spa treatments, consider the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa.

On Arenas Road, Chill Bar Palm Springs gives you a rare find: a non-smoking patio, dog-friendly, with full bar and soul food. Open from 11am to 2am every day, this video bar draws a mixed gay-straight crowd in their 20s and 30s. The island bar is surrounded by hi-def screens, and there's a pool table and gogo boys on some nights. Yelp reviews call out decently priced drinks and a fun crowd. It's casual and trendy, with happy hour specials and free wifi. If you're looking for a relaxed spot that still has energy, this is one of the few places on the strip where you can breathe fresh air. Head to nearby Oscar's Downtown Palm Springs if you want a more traditional bar scene later.

You'll feel strangely at ease as soon as you walk in, even if fetish stores normally make your hands sweat. Gear is as clean and organized as any retail shop, with an overwhelmingly friendly staff. The selection covers everything from lubes and toys to high-quality leather gear. It's down the street from the Tool Shed in Warm Sands, so you can hit both in one trip.

Open daily from early morning until evening, Manhattan in the Desert fits any meal. It's been an NY-style deli in Palm Springs since 2004, with a full bakery on site that makes its own breads, bagels, and desserts. The menu leans into huge sandwiches like corned beef and pastrami, plus breakfast, burgers, and classics like potato latkes and brisket. The crowd is a friendly mix of gay men and longtime locals, giving it a relaxed, unpretentious vibe. You can sit outside on the patio or grab a booth inside. Happy hour runs every day from 2-6pm. Reservations are accepted, and there's a full bar and free wifi. For a different deli experience, Sherman's Deli & Bakery is nearby but feels more like a coffee shop; regulars often prefer one or the other.

Walk into Bear Wear and the first thing you notice is clothing that actually fits. This shop specializes in apparel for bears and their admirers, with sizes from small up to 6X. Swimwear, shorts, quality shirts, hats, eyewear, and more fill the racks. It's dog-friendly too, so your pup can join the shopping trip. The store has history: originally focused on leather, the current owners took over in 2014 and brought it back to its bear community roots. Staff are known for being helpful and friendly. It's small but well-stocked, located across the street from Hunters Video Bar. You'll find leather supplies alongside everyday wear.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is perfect for travelers who want dramatic views without a strenuous hike. Its rotating tramcars provide 360-degree panoramas of the Coachella Valley as you ascend over 8,000 feet in ten minutes. The Mountain Station features a cocktail lounge, restaurants, and a Natural History Museum. It's a known engineering feat: construction in 1963 used helicopters for 23,000 missions without any mishap. Bring a jacket; the temperature at the top can be 40 degrees cooler than on the valley floor. Regulars know that a light jacket is essential even in summer. If you're feeling adventurous, you can hike down through Mount San Jacinto State Park. For more local culture, consider visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum downtown.

At Shame On The Moon Restaurant, the staff makes you feel like family from the moment you walk in. Ginger greets you at the door, and Johnny (voted best bartender in the valley) crafts martinis behind the bar. This gay-owned Rancho Mirage spot serves American staples like pasta, grilled meats, and inventive dishes such as tuna tartar and blue cheese filet mignon. Summer menus offer three-course meals at good value. The restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday evenings, making it a dinner-only destination. Reviewers praise the professional, fun wait staff and the chocolate cake that feeds four. Note that Yelp lists this venue as possibly permanently closed, so verifying hours before visiting is wise. If you're exploring other spots, LuLu California Bistro is another popular choice nearby.

It's a men-only, clothing-optional resort with nine suites, an intimate pool, and a relaxing vibe. The Triangle Inn is LGBTQ-owned, and the hosts Michael and Steve even perform weddings on site. Guests consistently praise the clean rooms, comfy beds, and friendly staff. Pool-side breakfasts and afternoon mixers are included daily. You'll find easy access to downtown Palm Springs, and the property offers bicycles and yoga classes for active guests. Regulars appreciate the jacuzzi and the chance to socialize with other travelers. A four-bedroom house is also available for group events.

Johannes is best suited for a romantic date or a quiet night out. This chef-owned European restaurant has been a Downtown Palm Springs staple since 1999, known for its award-winning Wiener Schnitzel and modern European cuisine. The vibe is upscale casual with outdoor seating, full bar, and free WiFi. Reservations are recommended for the intimate space. Chef Johannes Bacher's Austrian roots shine through globally inspired tapas and small plates. Sunday brunch is a local favorite. The menu changes seasonally, so you'll always find something fresh. After dinner, you're steps from the bars on Arenas Road—a short walk from Trio Restaurant if you want another night out. Go, you won't be disappointed.

You'll notice the desert landscape first, but The Living Desert is part zoo, part botanical garden, and part natural history museum. Established in 1970 by trustees of the Palm Springs Desert Museum who wanted to preserve the local ecosystem, it's a nonprofit accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. You can feed giraffes and explore a butterfly exhibit among the native plants and animals. The grounds are best visited in the morning when it's cooler. Bring water or buy some at the cafes. The guided tram tour covers a lot, but some regulars prefer walking with a map to go at their own pace. In November and December, the Wild Lights event is a seasonal treat. For free admission, use Bank of America's Museums on Us program.