LGBTQ-Friendly Venues in San Juan

A DIRECTORY OF LGBTQ-FRIENDLY ESTABLISHMENTS IN SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO

Our listings categorize these nightlife venues, including both bars and clubs, according to their respective neighborhood areas. This approach is taken because San Juan does not feature a singular, designated &8220;gayborhood.&8221; Consequently, we highly recommend exploring the different locales to fully experience the diverse array of bars and clubs on offer.

MOST PROXIMATE TO COQUI DEL MAR, AN LGBTQ-FRIENDLY HOTEL IN SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO:

HATO REY: This particular district features a greater number of bars frequented by local residents and typically attracts a more youthful clientele. Thursday nights, widely recognized as "college night," prove exceptionally popular here. Conveniently located next to each other are Amigos del Jangeo, El Cojo, Pal Frente, and the newest addition, Meet Macarena.

Amigos del Jangeo: This local queer bar, part of the main strip of gay venues, provides patrons with both a dance area and a pool table.

Atrévete Bar and Cafe: While primarily focused on women and the lesbian community, this establishment extends a warm invitation to all visitors. Its proprietors frequently host local queer artists and musicians, showcasing their talent. 

El Cojo: Functioning as both a local gay bar and a compact queer dance club, this venue is situated on the bustling strip of local establishments.

Meet Macarena: This establishment, the most recent LGBTQ hotspot and a prominent gay bar, functions as a hybrid venue, boasting a swimming pool, hosting jazz nights, and offering ample space for dancing. It is, furthermore, situated directly opposite El Cojo.

Pal Frente: This local gay bar is conveniently situated on the vibrant strip of community-focused establishments.

La Cantina: This establishment serves as a local LGBTQ Karaoke bar and restaurant, renowned for its reasonable pricing and notably relaxed ambiance.

LA PLACITA DEL MERCADO (though geographically located within Santurce, it maintains a unique character)

Chueca: This venue features outdoor street-side seating for enjoying drinks and tapas, alongside a compact yet exceptional bar area indoors. It typically attracts a varied clientele of both tourists and local residents.

El Techo: This chic and stylish rooftop bar, though not explicitly gay, possesses a notably queer-friendly ambiance.

OLD SAN JUAN

La Sombrilla Rosa: This establishment stands out as the essential queer bar to experience in Old San Juan. Rosa, its owner, is a dedicated advocate for the LGBTQ community.

El Cafetin: This Old San Juan bar, known for its queer-friendly atmosphere, is not overtly gay but definitely sparks curiosity. Its bartenders, whose sexual orientation may or may not be straight, are undeniably attractive and entertaining regardless.

Maralyn&8217;s (named in homage to Marilyn Monroe): This intimate cocktail bar is highly popular among the gay community.

Ostra Cosa: This beautiful, gay-owned restaurant, complete with a bar, is located in Old San Juan. Its proprietor is a strong advocate for the LGBTQ community.

LA PERLA

This particular neighborhood was historically recognized as perilous and generally best to be avoided. Presently, however, it has emerged as a vibrant hotspot, attracting both the gay community and general revelers alike. The area is characterized by numerous charming, smaller bars and animated street parties, drawing a remarkably diverse and lively crowd. It is important to note that this can still be a dangerous locality (as tragically exemplified by the death and incineration of a tourist in 2021); nonetheless, exercising respect and employing common sense should help you avoid any significant problems.

MIRAMAR

Watusi: This convivial local dive bar hosts live local music performances every Thursday. Additionally, several excellent restaurants and sophisticated cocktail bars, such as our personal favorite, Antillano, are conveniently located in its vicinity.

SANTURCE: (in proximity to Walmart)

Kweens: This establishment is considered the largest gay nightclub in Puerto Rico. Guests residing at Coqui del Mar are eligible for discounted or even free entry (be sure to request a wristband). Being a premier LGBTQ dance club, its close proximity to SX makes it convenient to visit both venues. It is also situated near La Placita.

El PURGATORIO: This establishment operates as an LGBTQ club, bar, and restaurant. It offers an enjoyable environment, primarily attracting local clientele, and features reasonably priced beverages. A quick refresher on your Spanish skills would certainly be beneficial!

SX, the club: This gay bar boasts gogo boys, male strippers, and a dedicated darkroom. Patrons are advised to keep a close watch on their wallets and cell phones while in the darkroom!

TOXIC: This vibrant gay nightclub and drag show venue in San Juan is conveniently within walking distance of other entertainment establishments.

XSteamWorks: This establishment is notable as the only gay bathhouse currently operating in Puerto Rico.

SANTURCE: (Situated further along Ponce de Leon Avenue)

Tia Marias: As one of the longest continuously operating gay bars, it invites patrons to enjoy karaoke or simply soak in its relaxed, local atmosphere.

Zal Si Puedes: (CURRENTLY CLOSED)

LadyBug: An enjoyable queer cocktail bar, featuring attractive bartenders, is conveniently situated within the San Jorge Hotel. Patrons are encouraged to follow their Instagram for details on current specials. 

Key Tourist Districts: Condado:

Oasis: Located in close proximity to the gay beach, this bar often sees significant activity on Sundays after the gay beach day, or on various other weeknights. Its Monday "black out night," commencing around 10:30 PM, is particularly popular, offering a chance for all to cheerfully declare "se fue la luz." It primarily attracts gay tourists, though a scattering of locals is also present.

The Atlantic, a beachfront bar and restaurant, is an integral part of the Tryst Hotel. On Sundays, they host an engaging drag brunch. Notably, this very location serves as the specific site for the Sunday gay beach gathering; while not exclusively gay throughout the rest of the week, from approximately noon to 6 PM every Sunday, the LGBTQ community establishes its presence and effectively takes over the area!

ESTABLISHMENTS PERMANENTLY CEASING OPERATIONS: (Primarily Attributable to the COVID-19 Pandemic)

BEAR TAVERN: 

CIRCO (will be reopening 2025)

The Bitch Bar

EL POLO NORTE

Zal si Puedes (reopened as LadyBug)

Wicked Lily (reopened as The Atlantic)