San Francisco Gay Bars

The Cafe is a gay institution and the place to see and be seen in San Francisco. This cafe bar & nightclub attracts all gays, lesbians and friends for casual get-togethers and/or late-night partying.

Regular weekly events at The Cafe include karaoke nights and Drag Race viewing parties. Centrally located in the Castro ‘gaybourhood’.

One of the first gay bars in San Francisco (and in the US), Twin Peaks Taverna has laid-back vibe and friendly staff –  great place for socialising and meeting friends.

This SF gay bar describes itself as the “Gateway to The Castro’ due to its prime location, right under the iconic rainbow arrow on the corner of Market Street and Castro.

Bear-popular gay bar in San Francisco’s gay district. 440 Castro hosts regular events including Underwear Night and ‘Battle of the Bulges.

The bar gets busiest on the weekends, attracting men of various ages. Drinks are strong and reasonably priced, and the atmosphere is one of the friendliest in the city. 21+ only.

MIX is ‘the neighborhood’ gay bar in The Castro, welcoming gays, lesbians and friends since 2000.

The bar is known for cheap cocktails, laid-back vibe. There’s a pool table, outdoor patio and  internet jukebox so you can play your favourite songs.

Gay video bar & lounge in the heart of The Castro. Midnight Sun has been serving the San Francisco gay community  for 40+ years.

“The Sun” was recently remodelled with a new street-facing terrace and stage. Weekly themed nights include RuPaul’s Drag Race Viewing on Mondays, karaoke on Wednesdays, sexy go-go dancers on Friday and Saturday nights.

Voted best ‘Happy Hour in SF’ – two-for-one everything until 9pm daily.

Located in the historic Castro gay district, Beaux is one of newer gay venues. This bar & nightclub hosts various weekly events, from Manimal Fridays to Big Top Sundays which feature the stars from RuPaul’s Drag Race show.

While relatively new, Beaux is located on the site of The Castro’s first gay bar, the Missouri Mule which opened in 1963, so the atmosphere is a perfect mix of old and new SF gay nightlife.

The Castro’s long-running gay neighbourhood bar for over 20 years. The EDGE is known for its friendly staff, well-priced drinks, cruisey atmosphere, fun themed parties.

Everyone is welcome here. Check The EDGE’s website for details about their weekly events, drink deals and more.

Gay bar in San Francisco since 1989. The Lone Star Saloon has a rich history of humble beginnings, wreckage and a monumental rebirth.

Its recognisable logo has become somewhat of a cult bear icon. Owned by two of its former bartenders, Bruce and Charlie, The Lone Star continues to serve the local gay community – popular with gay bears and bikers.

Home to the USA’s longest-running queer burlesque show, The STUD has played host to many LGBT celebrities for 50+ years.

Located in SoMa district, this kitschy dive bar is great to enjoy a drink, sing karaoke or watch one of their famous off-beat drag shows.

Legendary LGBT bar in the SoMa leather district. SF Eagle welcomes everyone, from leather-clad bears and bikers, to the infamous San Fran twinks and rocking lesbians.

The bar has a huge outdoor seating area at the back. Weekly themes include karaoke nights, live music on Thursdays, and the popular beer bust for $12 on Sundays.

The Wild Side West has been serving the LGBT community in the Bay Area since 1962. The lesbian-popular bar has a pool table and TV screen showing sports.

There’s a beautiful lush garden with sculptures and artworks curated by local LGBTQ+ artists. Located in Bernal Heights.